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If you’re looking for a white sand beach holiday in Egypt  and considering booking in Soma Bay, then good for you – why? Because it’s still somewhat of a Red Sea hidden gem, which means YOU are one of the lucky ones in the know.  For those NOT in the know, Soma Bay is an up-and-coming luxury resort town about 45 minutes south from the popular beach city of Hurghada on Egypt’s mainland Red Sea Riviera . Soma Bay’s claim to fame is its enviable location on a peninsula jutting into the Red Sea, which means you get open sea with an extremely vibrant and thriving reef on one side, perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling; and the other side is a calm shallow bay with crystal-clear water and soft white sand; a nirvana for swimmers, sunbathers and kitesurfers.  So what’s the difference between Hurghada and Soma Bay? Hurghada is an actual city, so there’s the regular hectic local Egyptian life and hustle and bustle interspersed with hotels, restaurants and touristic activities. Taxis are needed to go from one part of Hurghada to another. Read more: Hurghada, Egypt: A Local Guide For First-Timers Soma Bay on the other hand is a quiet and gated resort town; a mix of private residences, 5 star hotels, beaches, and a handful of restaurants/bars. The only people who have access to Soma Bay are residents and visitors who’ve booked in one of Soma Bay’s hotels or have rented a beach villa or apartment there. All of Soma Bay can be explored by foot, golf cart or bike; no taxis needed. Go to Soma Bay if you want : a 5 star luxury hotel or rental experience; stunning beaches;  outstanding scuba diving and snorkeling; a quiet and safe destination where you can leave your hotel and explore via walking or golf cart; a slew of different activities for both kids and adults Don’t go to Soma Bay if you want: vibrant nightlife or a ‘city’ feel; backpacker hostels or budget hotels Quick Facts About Soma Bay It’s easily accessed from abroad via Hurghada International Airport, with most flights from Europe averaging 4 hours, and domestic flights from Cairo averaging 45 minutes It’s then about a 45-50 minute drive from Hurghada International Airport (45 km) Soma Bay is on the Ras Abo Soma peninsula surrounded on three sides by the Red Sea, with a backdrop of Egypt’s eastern mountains Soma Bay has five hotels: Kempinski, Sheraton, Cascades, Robinson and Breakers It’s known for some of the best scuba diving in Egypt There’s an 18 hole championship Gary Player signature golf course overlooking the sea It’s home to one of the best spas in the region, the Spa & Thalasso at Cascades Hotel Best Time To Go Soma Bay is a year-round destination, with almost 365 days of beach sunshine, even in the winter. Spring and fall are considered Soma Bay’s ‘high season’ -- it’s when the weather is at its most ideal (beach weather without soaring temperatures) with warm breezy nights. Summer is a great time to go too obviously because the water is nice and warm, but only if you can handle daily temperatures in the mid-to-high thirties (Celsius) or the nineties (Fahrenheit) and super-strong sun. During summer months, most people prefer to go to the beach in the morning or the later afternoon to avoid peak heat. Late December through to February is considered Soma Bay’s ‘winter’ – but we use that term loosely because the weather is still sunny and warm during the day, although cold at night. We’ve also seen many visitors even swim during the winter months, although the water then is a tad too chilly for us personally.  Getting There If you’re coming from abroad  (or even planning to fly domestically), then just fly into Hurghada International Airport, which is about a 45 minute car ride from Soma Bay. Once you land, it’s easy to either grab a taxi from outside the arrivals hall or pre-arrange with a car service (like London Cab  or ABC Taxi ) to pick you up. If you’re staying at a hotel, you can also easily arrange pre-arrival for your hotel to send a car to pick you up. If you’re coming from Cairo , then you have one of three options: a) drive, b) take a bus, or c) fly. Driving from Cairo is now a super-smooth trip thanks to the new Galala Road which allows you to bypass the scary two-way twisty mountain roads of Ain el Sokhna. It takes about 4.5-5 hours by car from the Cairo toll station to Soma Bay. If you’re coming by bus , then GoBus  has a bus stop at the Soma Bay Marina, with daily buses from Cairo. As for flying, the domestic flight from Cairo Airport to Hurghada International Airport takes about 45 minutes. Where To Stay in Soma Bay As we mentioned briefly above, Soma Bay itself (the private resort town) has 5 hotels and numerous rentals. But if you google ‘Soma Bay hotels’, you’ll find more than 5 hotels showing up in your search results. How come? Because there are also a handful of hotels outside the gates of Soma Bay, stretching south on the coast towards Safaga, but still name/list themselves as ‘Soma Bay’. Some of these hotels are very nice, but keep in mind you won’t have access to all the amenities and activities in Soma Bay proper like you would if you stayed in Soma Bay’s 5 official hotels. But let us break everything down further, and you can decide on where to stay based on your personal preferences. Hotels in Soma Bay: Kempinski  - 5 star beach and pool luxury all the way. They also have the best restaurants of all the hotels Cascades Golf Resort, Spa & Thalasso  - `5 star resort overlooking the golf course and home to the famous Thalasso spa Sheraton  - a great 5 star resort for families, with almost 1 km of gorgeous beachfront Robinson  - 4 star hotel ideal for German speakers  Breakers  - a 4 star diving and surfing lodge for those mainly interested in watersports and activities, adjacent to the Orca Scuba Diving Center Apartment and villa rentals in Soma Bay: If you’re looking for something larger or just more personal than a hotel room, then there are a lot of great rental homes you can book depending on your preferences. There are apartments, chalets and massive beach villas, and most feature great sea views. Renting a home in a residential neighborhood also means you get access to that neighborhood’s pool (and some of the homes even have their own private pool). Stayr  is the official vacation rental provider in Soma Bay, and they offer concierge service as well. Alternatively you can find a lot of great rental listings on Airbnb too.  Hotels outside of Soma Bay: As we mentioned above, there are a handful of really nice beach resorts nearby Soma Bay, but they won’t have access to all the extra activities, restaurants and amenities that the gated community of Soma Bay and its inner hotels have. But if you’re not planning to leave your resort anyway, then it doesn’t really matter. The best hotels near Soma Bay are: Steigenberger Resort Ras Soma Palm Royale Resort Soma Bay Solymar Soma Beach Main Areas & Points of Interest in Soma Bay So we’re just going to briefly explain the main areas and points of interest in Soma Bay, so you have an idea of the overall layout. Residential neighborhoods (where the home rentals are) The current finished residential neighborhoods are: Mesca, Baywest, Baycentral, Soma Breeze, Reef Town, Wadi Jebal, Golf Residences, Marina Residences Hotel Area  Next to the Soma Bay Marina, you’ll find a stretch of 4 adjacent beachfront hotels (Kempinski, Robinson, Sheraton and Breakers), stretching from the Marina all the way down to the jetty at the tip of the peninsula and connected via a promenade. The only hotel that isn’t directly on a beach is Cascades due to it being on the golf course, but it has its own beach accessible via shuttle bus.  Soma Bay Marina This is where you’ll find restaurants, coffeeshops, shisha, Cheers (an alcoholic beverage shop), the supermarket, pharmacy, fitness center, beauty salon, local shops and souvenirs and a medical center. This is also where boats and yachts dock. Play Park & Soma Splash Behind the Marina is the Play Park, fun for both kids and adults alike. Here they have the Soma Raceway for go-karts, paintball, footgolf and a kids’ playground. There's also a small waterpark called Soma Splash next to the Sheraton. Seaside Promenade Ideal for walking, bikes, scooters and golf carts. This path takes you from the Breakers Hotel next to the jetty all the way past the main hotel area to the Marina and onwards to Wyte Beach Club. If you don’t feel like walking it, there’s also a free shuttle that goes up and down the boardwalk.  The Jetty A 420m long jetty that allows you to walk above Soma Bay’s spectacular house reef. At the end of the jetty, there’s designated areas for both snorkeling and scuba diving, and the amount of sea life to be seen there is wild – dolphins, turtles, rays and barracudas are frequently spotted, and every now and then you can even spot Wally the whale shark! Orca Dive Club Soma Bay is one of the best spots in Egypt for scuba diving , and this diving center is ideal for both beginner and advanced divers alike; certified SSI and CMAS instructors offer diving and specialty courses in several different languages. The beautiful house reef is a mere minute’s walk away, and there are around 20 different dive sites by boat around Soma Bay. Orca Dive Club also has a beach bar to relax after a long day of diving. Wyte Beach Club It’s on a picture-perfect spot on the shallow bay, with crystal clear water and zero waves – ideal for swimming. They have umbrellas, sunbeds, beanbags and hammocks, and you can also rent canoes and other beach equipment. There’s also a beach bar and restaurant, and they offer shisha in the afternoons. On most weekends during the high season, they’ll have a DJ playing music throughout the day. 7BFT Kite House  This kitesurfing center was ranked one of the top three in the world. Soma Bay is ideal for kitesurfing with its flat water and 300 days of wind ( off-shore and side-shore winds ranging from 4 to 8 Bft). The 7BFT Kite House has training for beginners as well as advanced kiters and licenses up to ‘instructor’ level. Read more: 7 Best Kitesurfing Spots in Egypt Gary Player Signature Golf Course Designed by world-renowned Gary Player, this 18 hole championship golf course is right next to the sea. Spa & Thalasso At Cascades Hotel, they have the only spa on the Red Sea that uses thalasso-tonic seawater for therapy, as well as hundreds of other treatments for both mind and body. Even if you’re not a guest at Cascades, you can book the treatment of your choice and enjoy the spa’s wellbeing programs and amenities. How to get around Soma Bay Like we mentioned above, once you’re past the gates of Soma Bay and situated at your hotel or rental, getting around is pretty easy and there’s no need for taxis. If you do want to explore outside of your hotel/rental and don’t have a car, here are the best ways to get around Soma Bay: Walking:  if you’re staying in one of the hotels on the beach and want to reach the Marina or the jetty, it’s a pleasant walk on the boardwalk.  Free shuttle : there are free shuttles that will take you up and down the boardwalk.  Bike or scooter rental:  you’ll find at the Marina and down the boardwalk little kiosks that say ‘Hopper’ on them; there you can rent out regular bikes, e-bikes, and scooters either for a few hours or a few days.  Golf Cart rental:  Hopper also rents out golf carts, ideal for people who are staying in rentals in the residential areas and don’t have a car. There are designated golf cart paths all throughout Soma Bay.  Golf cart taxi services:  if you need just a ride from one place in Soma Bay to the other and don’t want to rent out anything, there are also provides golf cart taxi services. Best Things To Do in Soma Bay There are lots of things to do in Soma Bay, whether you’re active or just want a lazy vacation, with kids or flying solo. And luckily all are very easy to do!  Enjoy the beach, whether at your hotel or Wyte Beach Club Explore the jetty Scuba diving Snorkeling Boat trip (whether sunset boat trip or a snorkeling trip) Golf Desert safaris (provided by Alex Safari at the Marina) Tennis/Squash/Padel tennis Spend an afternoon at Utopia, a beach bar on nearby Tobia Island, completely surrounded by sea Horseback riding on the beach with Jasmine Stable Go-karting Take the kids to the water park Paintball Shisha at sunset overlooking the bay at SoBar Work out at the fitness studio Kitesurfing Windsurfing Windfoil Relax and decompress at the spa & thalasso Join the monthly full moon parties at the kite house Day trip to Luxor Dining & Nightlife Each hotel has their own roster of restaurants and beach bars, but if you’re looking for something outside of your hotel, then the Soma Bay Marina is where you’ll find most of your dining and nightlife options. Here’s the best restaurant/bars in the Marina: SoBar:  this restaurant and bar is one of the best and most dependable in Soma Bay, with beautiful views over the Marina and indoor/outdoor dining depending on your preference. Their rooftop terrace is great for sunset drinks, and on weekends they usually have a DJ. They also have a section for shisha and set up big screens for football matches and other big sporting events. During the high seasons, there’s a party or performer of some sort on the weekends as well. Kokomo:  this grill and smoked BBQ restaurant and bar serves serve fantastic dishes cooked over an open fire. Excellent pizza as well.  Bamboo Shoot : this pan-Asian restaurant is run and managed by the Kempinski, but you’ll find it at the Soma Bay Marina on Wednesday through to Saturday nights.  Baladina:  want to indulge in some local Egyptian food ? Baladina has an extensive menu of all the Egyptian classics, from breakfast to feteer to late night grills.  Other dining options in the Marina: Maison Thomas - a pizzeria Hola Tacos - Mexican Burger Factory - burgers and fried chicken sandwiches For coffee: Seven Fortune - coffeeshop Parting Local Tip Just to summarize everything we spoke about above – if you’re looking for a relaxing Red Sea vacation on a world-class beach, and want all the perks of staying in a luxury hotel or rental but also have the ability to leave the hotel and enjoy safe resort town life, then Soma Bay is 100% for you. You may also like: Sharm El Sheikh - A Travel Guide For First-Timers

Alexandria’s home to tons of restaurants (or cafes posing as restaurants if you want to get technical), but which places make the cut if you’re in the city for only a few days? If you’re in the market for good food and not necessarily a sea view (although two of the below have views), then stick to this list of locally-tried and locally-loved restaurants in Alexandria -- it has everything from popular favorites to hidden gems. You might also like: Sightseeing in Alexandria: 15 Best Things To See and Do 1. Greek Club (White and Blue Restaurant) Specialty: Greek and seafood Greek Club is by far one of the most well-known restaurants in Alexandria, and for good reason -- the view over the Alexandrian harbor is second to none. Its real name is the White and Blue Restaurant , but locals refer it to as the Greek Club. Its menu is a mix of seafood and a few choice Greek dishes, and they serve beer and wine to enjoy alongside the view. Reservations recommended for the outdoor terrace on weekends. Keep in mind it’s on the pricey side though. Address: Bahary, right next to Qaitbey Citadel 2. Mohamed Ahmed Specialty: fuul and falafel Mohamed Ahmed has been serving up some of Alex’s favorite fuul and falafel for over 60 years, since 1957 (not sure what we’re talking about? Check out 12 Local Egyptian Foods You Need To Try ). They also serve great egg dishes and cheese served in a variety of ways. Their restaurant is small and bare bones but gets the job done. Local tip: they're open 24/7, so it's never too early or too late to get your Mohamed Ahmed fix. Address: 17 Shokour St., off Saad Zaghloul St. 3. El Lol Specialty: seafood This place brings a whole new meaning to the word ‘fresh’. It’s a little family-run seafood shack on the beach where you can watch the fishermen bring in their haul of the day which will then be cooked and prepared for you while you sit looking out over the water. Because it’s not a ‘professional restaurant’, you might wait a little more than you’re used to for your food, but with a sea view like that, with a lighthouse in the background, what are you in a rush for? This place is on the outskirts of Alexandria, in the El Max area. Address: next to El Fanar, El Max 4. Chez Gaby Specialty: Italian A cozy taverna-style restaurant off of Fouad street, Chez Gaby au Ritrovo has been open since 1979 and they serve pizza, pasta and other Italian classics. They also serve wine and beer to enjoy with your meal. Photo credit: Baher Barsoum It’s a family-run business and you’ll find pizzas named after different family members and close family friends, which adds to its homey charm. They're closed on Mondays. Address: off of Fouad Street, close to the Alexandria Opera House 5. Farag Abou Khaled Photo credit: Egyptian Foodies Specialty: Alexandrian liver This place has two branches: the original branch is where you go for the more authentic street food experience, but keep in mind it's neither fancy nor sparkling clean -- you’ll basically be eating on haphazard tables and chairs on the sidewalk. Their newer branch is two blocks away and bigger/cleaner, but short on charm. But in either case, if liver, especially Alexandrian liver, is your jam then definitely don’t miss Farag Abou Khaled. They serve liver, kidney, makhasi (not sure how to translate that one into English), brain, tongue and an assortment of other meats either in a sandwich, grilled or on a platter. Address: 32 El Sayed Mohamed Karim Street, El Gomrok 6. Teatro Eskendria Speciality: homemade Egyptian food Teatro is not only a restaurant and cafe that serves up classic Egyptian favorites, from breakfast to feteer to tajines to casseroles, but it's also a cultural center and art space. Owned by a group of artists, you can find Teatro in an Italian-built building dating back to 1928. Besides being a dining destination, Teatro also houses a gallery and bookshop, and hosts exhibitions, live performances, film screenings and children's activities. Address: 25 Fouad Street, El Raml Station 7. Negro Specialty: seafood While the restaurant's name is an unfortunate choice, deciding to eat there is not. This place has been open since 1987 but only recently have people outside of Alexandrian locals started to recognize it for the hidden gem it is. Don't expect a menu or an array of seafood to choose from -- here the chefs cook their own specials of the day based on the fresh catch they have on hand. You'll usually be served a salad, seafood soup and a few surprise seafood dishes, followed by fruit salad for dessert. The restaurant itself is small (only a smattering of tables) and dimly-lit at night with candles. Opening hours: 5 pm - 3 am Address: 33 Amin Khairat el Ghandour, Sidi Bishr You might also like: Where To Stay In Alexandria: 7 Best Hotels In The Mediterranean City

Maadi is home to quite a few restaurants and cafes (Road 9 is just about ready to burst at the seams with them), but how many of them can you actually have a laid-back beer or a glass of wine at while having lunch or dinner? So if you’ve had a long day at work and want to eat, unwind and avoid chaotic cafes or seedy bars, these Maadi destinations are for you. 1. Estro Cuisine: Italian Also known as the ‘Sicilian Rooftop’, this restobar is found on the 9th floor of the Royal Maadi Hotel on Road 18. Opened by the same owners of Frank &Co, Maadi’s favorite tapas bar (below), Estro delivers the same quality but this time in the form of Italian favorites. Local tip: go right before sunset, the views are awesome. Reservations needed. 2. Bua Khao (now called Sala Thai) Cuisine: Thai Owned and spearheaded by a Thai family for the past 20 years, this award-winning little restaurant is hidden off of one of the many midans of Maadi. Bua Khao's menu is large but not too large, with straightforward and sensible Thai dish descriptions instead of the generic “fish soup” menu entries found in many of Cairo’s other Asian restaurants. Beer and wine are served as well. As of 2023 they changed their name to 'Sala Thai' (although everything else remained the same), but they'll always be Bua Khao to us <3 3. Frank & Co Cuisine: International As mentioned above, Frank & Co has the same owners as Estro, so it makes sense that they’re right next to each other on Road 18 (albeit Frank & Co is street level while Estro is a rooftop). Frank & Co opened a few years back as a much-needed tapas bar in Maadi, and has both indoor and outdoor seating. 4. Tipsy Camel Cuisine: international This sports bar in Maadi is the perfect place to go if you want to watch a match or play some pool but also grab a post-work meal and drink. They have numerous screens, a pool table, babyfoot, an outdoor terrace and all the bar food you'd expect -- pizza, burgers, wings, tacos and more. 5. Kokio Cuisine: Korean Ah, Kokio, the king of fried chicken (sorry KFC). This little Korean restaurant is known by all those Maadi-savvy (and chicken-savvy) for having literally some of the best fried chicken in the country. They have original, spicy, soy (flavored with onion, garlic and crushed red pepper), garlic fried, onion fried, and you can order half a chicken or full chicken (or chicken tenders). You can also wash down all that fried goodness with beer. 6. Villa Belle Epoque Cuisine: International This converted villa-turned- boutique hotel is hidden down one of Maadi’s little leafy streets, making it the perfect spot for dinner and drinks away from crowds. Villa Belle Epoque ’s restaurant serves its meals next to their small pool, surrounded by trees and flowers. Note: They have an extensive food menu, but don't serve alcohol. You are however allowed to bring your own liquor bottles or wine with you, which they'll then serve you. 7. Tawlet Yvonne Cuisine: Lebanese In a corner courtyard nestled away from the honks of the streets is Tawlet Yvonne, a little restaurant and cafe that celebrates home-cooked Lebanese food. They have an extensive menu of Lebanese classics, as well as shisha and local Egyptian wine, beer and arak. 8. Bistro Paris Cuisine: French/international Above Tawlet Yvonne and Caribou Coffee on the same leafy street in Maadi is Bistro Paris, a restobar with a small but to the point menu, as well as local wine, beer and cocktails. Undoubtedly Bistro Paris' claim to fame is its outdoor balcony, which is open as early as 9 am every morning if you want a shady outdoor spot to have breakfast, or somewhere ambient to have dinner & drinks at night. 9. Lan Yuan Cuisine: Chinese Lan Yuan has been open for the past 25 years at least, so what does that tell you about its staying power? It’s small and cozy and has all the Chinese staples you’d expect, for reasonable prices as well -- and the food is good. They also have a full (local) bar so while some people go for dinner and a drink, some just go for a quiet drink. 10. Gaya Cuisine: Korean Gaya is known for being one of the best Korean restaurants in Cairo as a whole, not just Maadi. They've been open for over 20 years, and have a massive menu of Korean dishes (unlike Kokio which just sticks mainly to Korean fried chicken). Gaya also has a 'grill on the table' option, where you can cook up your bulgogi (grilled beef) or other meats of your choice yourself. Beer is served. 11. The Rec Room Cuisine: Asian The Rec Room is known mainly for its late nights, upscale speakeasy vibe and music, but if you go earlier on in the evening before the crowds start coming it, you'll find a pleasant spot for dinner and drinks. Their menu is contemporary Asian and they have great signature drinks. 12. Swiss Cottage Cuisine: Swiss Swiss Cottage is a Maadi staple during winter and the Christmas season when they deck themselves out in holiday cheer. But their fondue, raclette, and 'cook your own meat' are just as good year-round. They don't serve alcohol themselves but you can bring your own bottle and pay a corkage fee. Reservations recommended because the restaurant only has a few tables and fills up during dinner. You might also like: 10 Best Breakfast, Brunch and Bakeries in Maadi

Cairo is full to the brim with restaurants , cafes, ahwas, malls and cinemas, which is where we locals spend 95% of our going out leisure time. But there’s actually a lot more to Cairo than just food, coffee and blockbuster movies -- you just need to know the right places to look. So if you’re in the mood to go down a more cultural route for your next night out, these nine venues might have just what you’re looking for. 1. Zawya Arthouse Cinema Location: Downtown Go for: independent films and other movies not aired in Egypt’s mainstream cinemas Zawya opened its doors in 2014 in Cairo’s historic Cinema Odeon and is touted as Egypt’s first ‘arthouse cinema’. Different than the rest of Egypt’s cinemas which are heavy on Hollywood and Sobky movies, Zawya prides itself on airing independent films, both Egyptian and international, alongside documentaries, short films and experimental work, most of which never see the light of day in Egypt’s mainstream cinemas. Besides regular screenings, Zawya also helps promote local and Arab filmmakers through events, discussions and masterclasses. Make sure you also check out their film festivals and ‘spotlight’ artist events (for example, they recently had a night dedicated to Youssef Chahine’s short films). 2. Room Art Space & Cafe Location: Garden City & New Cairo Go for: live music (jazz, tribute bands, folkloric music), karaoke, open mic nights This cafe and performance art venue “offers professionals and aspiring artists -as well as lovers of the arts- a space to create, collaborate, perform and share ideas over freshly brewed coffee.” Room have almost daily live events, varying from stand-up comedy to live music to film screenings in both English and Arabic. 3. Darb 1718 Location: Old Cairo (behind the Hanging Church and Amr Ibn Aas mosque) Go for: artisanal workshops and live events Founded in 2008, this non-profit organization is a contemporary art and culture center in the heart of Old Cairo. Darb 1718 offers art exhibition spaces, theater, dance and concert stages, an outdoor cinema, gardens and rooftops and even an artist residency to accommodate international artists. Artisanal workshops offered: pottery, leather wallet making, Arabic calligraphy, vintage photo album making, sketching, mosaics, film editing, soap making and much more. 4. Cairo Opera House Location: Zamalek Go for: live performances Undoubtedly the most famous on the list, the Cairo Opera House has been the bastion of cultural events in the capital for decades now. It has several different halls and theatres for all sorts of performances, and in any given month you’ll find a packed schedule: choir, ballet, opera, flamenco, ensemble groups, folkloric music, orchestra, Egyptian modern dance, instrumental soloists, poetry and much more. Check their website for their full schedule. 5. Townhouse Gallery Location: Downtown Go for: art exhibitions and Rawabet Theatre Probably the most popular gallery and visual art space in Cairo, Townhouse is a non-profit organization that strives (and succeeds) to be more than just a standard gallery. Besides hosting visual art, they also have Townhouse Library and Rawabet Theatre, a space for independent performing artists of all disciplines, as well as international residencies for artists, writers and filmmakers. Most recently Townhouse also opened SAWA Shop, where you can buy Egyptian handicrafts and old books, magazines and art publications. 6. El Sawy Culture Wheel (El Sakia) Location: Zamalek Go for: live performances & puppet theatre A Zamalek staple for over 15 years, this performing arts space right on the Nile has been the launching pad for some of Egypt’s favorite contemporary bands when they were first starting out. Their monthly calendar is almost always full with musical performances, poetry, theatre, seminars and their famous puppet theatre. 7. Makan (Egyptian Center for Culture & Arts) Location: Garden City Go for: Traditional and folkloric Egyptian music Makan’s main mission is to preserve the traditional Egyptian folk music that has been marginalized over the years due to the predominance of commercialized international music and its influence on contemporary Egyptian artists. Makan is now one of the few spaces in Egypt where you can attend a ‘Zar’; a folkloric performance with rhythmic dance and drumming, which is in essence a complex healing ritual led by women, but which has been shunned by mainstream Egyptian culture for supposedly being an exorcism ritual. It’s at the risk of dying out completely, which is what makes having a place like Makan so important. They also have Sufi music, ‘mawawil’ (rural songs from the Nile Delta), Nubian and Sudanese heritage music and a medley of other talented Egyptian performers. 8. Wekalet el Ghouri Arts Center Location: Old Cairo Go for: the tanoura show Every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday Wekalet el Ghouri Art Centre is host to the famous whirling dervish show -- also known as the tanoura show, or the Sufi dancing show. A great option for tourists (and locals!) to really get immersed in the Old Cairo feel (Wekalet el Ghouri is in the Khan el Khalili and Moez street area). The show is about two hours long, and high energy from start to finish. The show starts at 7 pm, and tickets are first come, first served (starting 6 pm). There’s usually a crowd so make sure you get there early. 9. MASQ - Maq'ad of Sultan Qaitbay Location: City of the Dead Go for: art exhibitions, concerts, bazaars, walking tours exploring City of the Dead MASQ is a cultural hub based in a renovated 15th century Mamluk monument, the maq'ad of Sultan Qaitbay, in Cairo's City of the Dead. The City of the Dead is a medieval Muslim necropolis in Old Cairo, also known as the Desert of the Mamluks, and what makes this necropolis so interesting is that besides the centuries-old architecture and tombs, a modern-day community lives and works among the dead. MASQ holds regular events to promote the heritage of this little-understood area as well benefit and develop the struggling neighborhood community. You might also like: Vintage Cairo - 17 of the Oldest Restaurants, Cafes & Bars in the City

The neighborhood of Downtown Cairo isn’t known for its upscale nightlife scene, but it IS known for something which may be even more up your alley: it’s the home to numerous baladi bars, historic bars and rooftop bars. Wait. What exactly is a baladi bar? Good question. A baladi bar is essentially a hole-in-the-wall, Egyptian version of a dive bar, popular with Egyptian locals ( baladi translates to ‘my country’, but is also used to refer to something local or national – Egypt’s beloved local pita bread for example is called eish baladi or baladi bread). Baladi bars tend to be on the shabby side, and not a place you would necessarily want to eat. But the drinks are cheap and cold, and they’re a great place to feel like a real local. Downtown Cairo also is known for its historic bars, which are decades old and have seen a lion’s share of modern Cairo (and even national) history. Downtown also has several rooftop bars which are a far cry from the fancier rooftop bars elsewhere in Cairo (here’s a list of our favorite Cairo rooftop bars ). You may also like : 10 Best Restaurants in Downtown Cairo But without further ado, let’s dive right into Downtown Cairo’s dive bars (bad pun unintended). Historic Bars (Psst, you can read more about Cairo's oldest restaurants and bars here ) . Cafe Riche Probably the most famous restaurant and bar in Downtown Cairo, Cafe Riche has quite a history. It was founded in 1908 and is known for being a beloved meeting place of historical revolutionaries, intellectuals and prominent figures in modern Egyptian history. A few examples: it was here where members of the Egyptian resistance planned the 1919 revolution against the British; where an assassin lay in wait to attempt (and fail) to kill the last Coptic Prime Minister, Youssef Wahba Pacha; where King Farouk first saw his second wife, Nariman Sadek; where beloved singer Umm Kalthoum performed in 1923; and where Gamal Abdel Nasser planned the 1952 revolution. Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz was a regular patron as well -- his novel Karnak Cafe is based on Cafe Riche, its customers and their stories. Relics of these people and times in history still adorn Cafe Riche’s walls until now. Estoril Built in 1959 by a Greek couple in a passageway between two buildings in Downtown, this restaurant and bar was named after the town of Estoril in Portugal, where the couple had their honeymoon. Similar to other vintage resto-bars in Downtown, Estoril was a popular meeting place for political activists, writers, artists and intellectuals. One wall is dedicated to local art while the other is full of memorabilia and clippings of articles and other old press about Estoril in its heyday. Estoril’s menu now is not much to write home about, but it remains a popular spot to have a beer and chat with the bartender about years past. Le Grillon Founded in 1941 and originally a restaurant and beer garden, Le Grillon was famous for being the spot where Cairo’s well-heeled would gather for drinks and a meal before and after national icon Umm Kalthoum’s performances in the nearby Qasr el Nil Theatre (and even during the intermission). In the 50s, Le Grillon was popular with all the biggest names in Egyptian cinema: Roshdy Abaza, Sabah, Amina Rizk, Samia Gamal, Nadia Lotfy and more. This vintage restaurant has even witnessed some unforgettable scenes that had nothing to do with the movies, like when Fareed el Atrash had a heart attack there and the waitstaff had to rush him to the hospital, or how Abdelwahab was so specific about how his fruit was washed that he had the waiters bring him a pitcher of water to the table so he could wash the fruit himself. Today it’s more shabby than chic, and we wouldn’t recommend eating there. But it’s still a good spot to go for a drink and a shisha in their closed terrace. Greek Club Located above the patisserie Groppi on Talaat Harb Square, the Greek Club when it first opened in 1906 was just that: a Greeks-only club where members could gather for dinner, drinks and live music. It opened to the public in the 1950s, when Egyptians and visitors of all nationalities could enjoy its terrace, vaulted ceilings and Greek specialties. Today it’s still popular as a Downtown bar, especially its open-air terrace, and while it doesn’t feel particularly Greek anymore, they still take a stab at it with the menu and blue and white checked tablecloths. Baladi Bars Horreya Founded in 1936 over the remains of Ahmed Orabi, an Egyptian officer who led a mutiny in 1879 against the Anglo-French loyalist Khedive Tewfik, El Horreya is one of the most famous cafes and bars in Downtown Cairo. It has a distinct ‘cafeteria’-ish look, with bright lights, high ceilings and scattered tables. It’s open from the afternoon until 2 am, and was popular throughout the years with artists, poets, intellectuals, foreigners and expats and students from the nearby American University (their new campus is now in New Cairo). People go there for an affordable beer, to play chess or backgammon or just to chat. Carol Carol started off as a French bistro in the 1960s, but over the years it deteriorated until it was a seedy baladi bar. A few years back though it was completely renovated, so while it’s still a baladi bar, it’s now what we’d consider a NICE baladi bar lol. They have a long wooden bar that goes well with their narrow space, and offer a range of tapas dishes to go with your beer. Le Bistro This restaurant and bar is a good choice in Downtown Cairo if you want to have a drink with your meal, but want to avoid the subpar food of Cafe Riche or Estoril. Their menu is full of meat, chicken and fish dishes as well as an extensive appetizer list if you want to go for something lighter with your drink. There’s also a DJ on Thursday nights. Cap D’Or Not to be confused with the famous Cap D’Or bar in Alexandria (also known as Sheikh Ali), this Downtown Cairo Cap D’or is another extremely old baladi bar – it opened over 100 years ago in 1908! It’s still frequented mainly by locals for the beers and free termis (lupin beans) and other random bar snacks. Other (rather downtrodden) baladi bars of note: Stella Bar Le Comte Bar Rooftop Baladi Bars Odeon Odeon’s a 24/7 rooftop bar (on top of the shabby Odeon Hotel) and has been a Downtown Cairo staple for decades now. Popular with Cairo’s artistic and cinematic crowd, as well as foreigners, it’s always an interesting mix of people. The view may not be able to compete with the Nile or the Pyramids , but it has its own quirky charm. They serve local alcohol and shisha, as well as a few dubious food offerings (stick to something safe, like fries). Carlton On top of the dated 3 star Carlton Hotel is a surprisingly nice and breezy rooftop. The hotel has been open since 1935 and definitely hasn’t taken any steps into the 21st century (the interiors seem stuck somewhere in the 1980s), but the rooftop is simple and straightforward. They serve local beer and wine and shisha, and at night you can see the High Court of Justice building lit up. Happy City Atop another shabby hotel in Downtown of the same name, the Happy City rooftop bar is actually more well known than the hotel itself (although to be fair, the bar's real name is Wadi el Melouk, but no local calls it that. Being a baladi bar, it’s cheap and cheerful, and popular on weekends or nights with football matches. Happy drinking! You may also like: 7 Best Bars, Pubs & Restobars in Zamalek

Photo credit: El Gouna Directory While it’s true that Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera is home to some amazing coastal cities, towns and beaches, we have to confess: El Gouna is one of our personal favorites. Sharm El Sheikh and El Gouna’s neighbor Hurghada might be way more famous and popular with tourists (and for good reason), but El Gouna has a special place in our hearts (we are totally aware that other people will fight us to the death over which Red Sea Riviera destination is best, but at the end of the day, they’re all amazing so no point arguing over apples and oranges). You might like: 8 Best Egyptian Beach Holiday Destinations Some quick facts about El Gouna It’s a resort town spanning over 10 km of pristine Red Sea coast, with lagoons throughout It’s 25 km from the city of Hurghada (for our full Hurghada guide, head here ). It’s a 4 hour flight from most European cities and around a 4 hour drive from Cairo The architecture throughout is inspired by traditional Egyptian homes in the countryside and Upper Egypt It was the first destination in the Middle East and Africa to receive the Global Green Award, which is given by the UN to cities making substantial efforts, progress and improvements in the field of environmental sustainability Best Time To Go El Gouna is technically a year-round destination, but it really depends on your personal preferences. Spring and fall are El Gouna’s ‘high season’ -- it’s when the weather is at its most ideal (beach weather without soaring temperatures), so that’s when you’ll find Gouna at its busiest. Considering it’s a coastal resort town, summer is a great time to go too obviously, but only if you can handle daily temperatures in the mid-to-high thirties (Celsius) or the nineties (Fahrenheit) and super-strong sun. The great thing about El Gouna is that it never gets too crowded -- with the exception of public holidays and certain annual events like the Gouna Film Festival or the Sandbox music festival. How To Get There If you’re coming from abroad (or even planning to fly domestically), then just fly into Hurghada International Airport, which is about a half an hour car ride from Gouna. Once you land, it’s easy to either grab a taxi from outside the arrivals hall or call a car service to pick you up (like London Cab, Budget or ABC Taxi, more info about both below). If you’re staying at a hotel, you can also easily arrange pre-arrival for your hotel to send a car to pick you up. If you’re coming from Cairo , then you have one of three options: a) drive, b) take a bus, or c) fly. Driving from Cairo is now a super-smooth trip thanks to the new Galala Road which allows you to bypass the scary two-way twisty mountain roads of Ain el Sokhna. It takes about 3.5 hours from the Cairo toll station to the Hurghada toll station (which is right before El Gouna), and about 4 hours from central Cairo. If you’re coming by bus , then GoBus offers over 15 buses daily between Cairo and El Gouna (they drop you off at their bus stop in Downtown El Gouna). They offer different types of buses according to what kind of ticket you buy (for example, the Elite Plus bus has individual LCD screens for each seat). You can find more info on: https://go-bus.com/en As for flying, the trip from Cairo to Hurghada takes about 45 minutes. Where To Stay Abu Tig Marina The two main areas in El Gouna are Abu Tig Marina and Downtown -- that’s where most of the restaurants, nightlife, shops and beach bars/pool clubs are. You’ll find a handful of hotels in both areas, but the bigger resorts have their own real estate and beachfront in El Gouna. The rest of the town is mainly residential, divided into different neighborhoods on lagoons. Ok, cool. But still, where should you stay? This totally depends on personal preference. Here are your options: A big resort hotel like Movenpick , Sheraton or Steigenberger (pros: they have lots of activities for both adults and kids, and have pools, beachfront and restaurants, meaning you don’t have to leave your resort unless you want to). A hotel on Abu Tig Marina (pros: being in walking distance of the marina’s restaurants and nightlife. The hotels range from 3 star to 5 star, and the ones that don’t have a pool or beachfront are given access to Moods and Marina Beach on the marina). A hotel in Downtown (pros: you’re close to the restaurants and cafes of Downtown, and yet are simultaneously on a lagoon). An exclusive, private (but pricey) boutique hotel like La Maison Bleue or Casa Cook An apartment/villa rental , either through a broker or Airbnb (pros: it’s your own place and some have private pools). Apartments Each option has its advantages, but it depends on your personal circumstances. And we can say with confidence, that there’s no *bad* place to stay in Gouna. To book a hotel , you can go to: www.hotels.elgouna.com For a rental , we recommend Airbnb. Getting Around/Transportation in El Gouna The thing we love about Gouna is that there’s enough space to never feel crowded, but at the same time it’s contained so that things are never too far from anything else. If you don’t have a car in Gouna, that won’t pose a problem whatsoever. You can either get around by tuktuk, a car service or shuttle bus (or bike if you’re the athletic type, good for you!). Tuktuks Tuktuks take up to 3 people, and you can either order one by phone from the Gouna hotline (16550) or you can ask your hotel reception to do this for you, and they arrive at wherever you are in about 10 minutes or less. There are also tuktuk stands in Downtown and at the Marina where you can hop in the first available one. Car service If you’re more than three people or just prefer cars to tuktuks, then you can call Budget, Gouna’s limousine service. You can either request a car ASAP or book one for a later time. Budget limo service: +20122 734 0166 Shuttle Bus (within El Gouna) If you’re staying at one of El Gouna’s bigger hotels or in the West Golf neighborhood, there’s 5 different shuttle bus lines that ferry guests between the hotels and Downtown. Ask your hotel reception for timing and bus stop details. Transportation to/from Hurghada If you’re heading to/from Hurghada airport or anywhere else in Hurghada, there’s easy ways back and forth. One is London Cab, a roomy and comfortable way of getting from the airport to your accommodation or vice versa. You can book them through their website or their app. If London Cab seems too pricey, then ABC Taxi is a personal favorite of ours. They’re metered taxis based in Hurghada but you can order them from El Gouna. You can request one right away or book one for later, and they’re cheaper than Budget car service for going between El Gouna and Hurghada. There are also other similar private taxi services that serve Gouna from Hurghada, but ABC Taxi is the one we use the most personally. ABC Taxi: +20100 222 8294 You can also take the GoBus from Downtown Gouna to their stop in Hurghada (doesn’t go to the airport). Things To Do There’s tons of fun activities in both El Gouna and nearby Hurghada, and as is the recurrent theme here, it really depends on your preferences. Beaches/pools where you can spend the day: Moods Beach Zouni Beach Mangroovy The Clubhouse Club 88 Smokery Beach Makani Beach Club Zeytouna Beach Island Marina Beach DuPort Pool Club Water sports: Diving Snorkeling Kitesurfing Windsurfing Sliders the cable park Water-skiing/waterboarding Boat trips: Day excursion island boat trip, eg. Giftun Islands (Mahmya/Orange Bay) or Tawila Island (more details at: Red Sea Islands Perfect for a Boat Trip ) Catamaran Glass bottom boat Sailing Fishing Diving/snorkeling Daytime party boat (returns to the marina at sunset) Chartered mini-yachts for weekends or specified amount of days Regular sports: Tennis Squash Horseback riding Golf Go-karting Mini-golf Biking For more details , read 25 Fun Things To Do In Hurghada and El Gouna . Where To Eat El Gouna has a ton of great restaurants serving all different kinds of cuisines. One of our personal favorite things about this coastal town is that all the restaurants are small local affairs owned by Gouna residents of all nationalities -- you won’t find Mcdonald’s or Pizza Hut here (they do have a Nathan’s though for some reason). You’ll find the majority of the restaurants in either Downtown or the Marina, with the exceptions being hotel restaurants. Best places for breakfast: Malu’s Deli Seventh Star The Bagel Tree For our favorite breakfast spots, read this: 8 Best Breakfast Places in El Gouna Best places for lunch/dinner: Saigon Zia Amelia Pier 88 Our full list of the 7 Best Restaurants in El Gouna . Restaurants with an open sea view: Smokery El Bahr Morgan’s Beach Bistro El Sayadin Nightlife Ok, so you swam, tanned, ate… now time to party a little. The most popular night spots in Gouna are: The Tap South (live music and DJs in a casual pub atmosphere on the marina) Pier 88 on weekends after 10 pm Villa Coconut (early in the evening it's ambient music for dinner and drinks, but then a DJ starts around 10/11 pm until 2 am) Aurora (the main club in Gouna) Barten (a cocktail bar on Abu Tig Marina) Duport on select nights Rush Sports Bar In Downtown they also have shisha cafes that serve alcohol open until 3 am. Leaving It’s just as straightforward as arriving. If you came by GoBus, then you board your return bus at the same stop in Downtown where they dropped you off. If you came by plane and need to go to Hurghada Airport, either Budget limousine or ABC Taxis can take you. Looking for more local guides? Check out: Hurghada, Egypt: A Local Guide For First-Timers Soma Bay, Egypt - A Travel Guide For First Timers Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt: A Detailed Guide For First-Timers Khan El Khalili: An Egyptian Local’s Guide Egypt's Red Sea Riviera: Where To Stay North Coast, Egypt - A Complete Travel Guide For First-Timers Aswan, Egypt: A Local's City Guide

The Sage Experience It’s an exciting time in Cairo not just for the booming restaurant scene , but for catering experiences as well. Long gone are the days of your standard cookie-cutter catered dinners or events, where each caterer was identical to the next and the food and overall experience was fine but forgettable. Not anymore! Some of Cairo’s best caterers are really pulling out the stops when it comes to not just the diversity and taste of their culinary creations, but also the full experience and ambience as well. They realize that the ideal catering experience is not just about what you eat, but what you see and feel as well. We’re a long way from the stale mini-sandwiches, mediocre buffets and bored-looking servers that we associated with catering when we were growing up in Cairo, that’s for sure! Whether you need a caterer for an unforgettable life event like a wedding, or a more high-octane corporate event, or something small and intimate like a dinner at home or even just a date night, these are the seven best caterers that Cairo has to offer.  1. The Sage Experience If you’re looking for the top award-winning catering service in Cairo, look no further than The Sage Experience. They were the 2023 recipient of the ‘Experiential Dining Business’ award by Egypt’s Entrepreneur Awards (EEA), so it’ll come as no surprise that The Sage Experience is not just about top-notch food, but a world-class 360 dining experience as well. Only the very best for your guests! The Sage Experience was first launched by Amr Barghash and Ahmed El Meligy in 2020 as a way to bring that restaurant dining experience we love and missed during quarantine to your home. The food and ambience provided were such a hit that The Sage Experience soon started expanding from seated dinners at home to catered culinary events of all types and sizes – we’re talking everything from important corporate events, private celebrity dinners (hello, Backstreet Boys!), romantic date nights for two, unforgettable dinner parties, 5,000+ attendee events, you name it! And as their name suggests, when you choose The Sage Experience as your caterer, you’re not just getting food – you’re getting a whole experience that will leave you and your guests buzzing for the foreseeable future.  You can check out The Sage Experience’s stunning culinary events here: The Sage Experience Or you can call them directly at: +201156956555 2. The Cookery Co. We love a strong women-led company, and three like-minded Egyptian women banded together in 2016 to establish The Cookery Co., which started off as a simple home catering service for limited numbers but then grew into one of Cairo’s most popular and expansive caterers today.  They not only cater, but offer gorgeous tablescapes and grazing stations that are Instagram moments in and of themselves. We’re talking everything from Garden of Eden themed grazing tables to live Mexican taco stations to exquisite seated dinners. You can work with The Cookery Co.’s team to customize every detail of your event, from the menu to the decor to the lighting and seating. They cater everything from corporate events to weddings to even fondue nights! A quick idea of some of the different international menus they offer (and that you can tweak): buffet, finger food, seated dinners, weddings, coffee break, ‘fork & bowl’, Asian nights and kids’ menu. To see their beautiful setups and menus: The Cookery Co. Or you can call them directly at: 01102106568 - 01144200044 3. Avec Karim If you’re looking for a more avant garde, haute gastronomic experience than your standard catering service, look no further than Avec Karim. From weddings to events at places like The Grand Egyptian Museum  or Paris Fashion Week to lunches at the Pyramids , Avec Karim can pull it off with high flair. If you’re looking for more private dinners, there is also Privé by Avec Karim. Avec Karim catering is headed by Chef Karim Abdel Rahman, an École Ducasse official partner and ambassador who was culinary-trained abroad in Switzerland and France, and even had the opportunity to work as a chef for Guy Savoy, a 3 Michelin star restaurant in Paris. So if you’re looking for that Michelin star feel for your event in Cairo, look no further than Avec Karim.  For more info: Avec Karim  and Avec Karim Priv é 4. Tamr Jannah If for your event you want something more classic and leaning towards Egyptian and Middle Eastern cuisine, Tamr Jannah has been in the catering business for almost 20 years. Their menus: events, mini events, ‘3azoumas’, family meals, finger foods and frozen foods. For more info and to see their menus: Tamr Jannah 5. Crave Catering Who isn’t familiar with everyone’s comfort food restaurant, Crave? Yup the long-loved restaurant Crave has its own catering arm. They do everything from weddings to corporate catering to beach BBQs and more.  For more info: Crave Catering 6. Trés Bon Another old-school beloved restaurant in Cairo, originally opening its doors in Korba in 1994, then expanding into several more branches as well as catering. For more info: Tres Bon  or their hotline 19947 7. Sett El Biet If you’re looking for old-school Egyptian and oriental food, and a lot of it, then Sett el Biet is for you. They specialize in buffets filled with the classics like grilled kofta, kobeiba, vine leaves, chicken pane, different types of mahshi, macaroni bechamel, roasted turkey, kabsa and more. For more info: Sett El Bie t Happy eating!

Looking for a place to sip a coffee and work, but far, far away from your desk? Or maybe you want to read a book and decompress by yourself - even better. Zamalek in general is an ideal neighborhood for just that; most of its cafes are small and cozy and away from the hustle and bustle of the usual crowds. Below we put together a list of our favorite Zamalek cafes: some shine because of their aesthetics, others because of their food and/or coffee, and some because they allow you to be outdoors and still relax, which is no easy feat in Cairo. Note: Zamalek is home to other big coffee shop chains like Beano’s, Starbucks and Costa Coffee, but for our list we stuck to our favorite less-franchisey cafes. So next time you’re on the island with your laptop or your book and not sure where to go, head to one of these chill cafes. Granita Opening hours: 7 am - 10 pm Nestled next to the All Saints Cathedral in Zamalek is Granita, a "concept cafeteria" that's a nod to the 'grand cafes' of Egypt back in the 1930s and 1940s - think Groppi and other vintage cosmopolitan cafes . They have both an indoor and outdoor area perfect for sunny brunches, work meetings and or just enjoying a coffee and pastry solo. They offer breakfast, sandwiches, salads, pienirli (Greek pizzas), appetizers, main plates and homemade desserts. For more info: Granita Cake Cafe Opening hours: 8 am - 11 pm Cake Cafe has now become a Cairo phenomenon, with multiple branches in Sheikh Zayed, 6 October, New Cairo and even Hacienda on the North Coast . But it all started in Zamalek in 2013 when a tiny cafe with a few sidewalk tables opened next to Gezira Club - the start of Cake Cafe. Fast forward over 10 years later and it’s still a Zamalek favorite for those looking for a spot to have coffee, dessert, work, or even bring their dog (more dog-friendly spots, please!). Besides the cakes and desserts they’re named for, they also have breakfast, sandwiches, flatbread and pizzas & pasta. For more info: Cake Cafe Holm Cafe Opening hours: 8 am - 11 pm Close by to Cake Cafe but even smaller, is Holm, which touts itself as your “neighborhood potluck cafe” (we’re not particularly sure what that means). Holm has one little outdoor table, and inside there’s comfy couches and chairs to work or sip your coffee as well. Their menu has baked goods, desserts, sandwiches, salads and of course coffee and juices galore. Its second floor is particularly pleasant, with windows overlooking trees and flowers (and the occasional passing car, this is still Cairo after all). For more info: Holm Cafe L’Aroma Opening hours: 9 am - 1 am Ah, the OG of Zamalek cafes to work in. We don’t remember exactly how long L’Aroma has been around for exactly, but it’s definitely the oldest on this list. For years L’Aroma has served up coffee and a workspace for all the companies and media agencies in its vicinity. It’s comfortable and spaced out enough that you can have a meeting or be on a call without feeling like you’re announcing everything on a megaphone to the coffee shop at large. L’Aroma has also gained in popularity since its inception, with a citywide presence now outside of Zamalek. For more info: L’Aroma Antique Khana Opening hours: 9 am - 1 am Tucked away from sight on the second floor of a residential building, Antique Khana is a hidden gem in Zamalek unless you’re one of the wise ones in the know (and if you are, come work with us lol). It’s a beautifully decorated cafe/restaurant with a nod to all that is nostalgic and vintage. It’s run by a family that loves music, books, antiques and the good ol’ days, and it reflects in Antique Khana. Besides their coffee and drink menu, they have a wide range of breakfast, lunch and dinner options - everything from pasta to salmon teriyaki. For more info: Antique Khana 30 North Opening hours: 8 am - midnight This is a good option for all those who are looking to sit outdoors without having to battle it out for the limited outdoor seating at places like Cake Cafe or Holm. 30 North is in the Iconia courtyard (the building that used to be the AUC dorms), and ¾ of it is open air (with a small indoor section as well). In the winter they provide heaters for the outside area. Besides 30 North’s own menu (which excels especially in coffee and breakfast), adjacent in the courtyard is Chicken & Ribs and Butcher’s Burger, alongside Stavola gelato . Local tip: not all the outdoor tables have electric outlet access, so make sure your laptop is charged or try to nab a table next to an outlet. For more info: 30 North Amor Perfecto Opening hours: 7:30 am - 11:30 am This one is for all the coffee aficionados out there. Amor Perfecto is a branch of a Colombian specialty coffee shop based in Bogota that has been winning awards since 1997, and they’ve started to spread globally. They especially pride themselves on their baristas who will help you pick your cup of specialty joe based on your personal coffee preferences. The specialty coffee there is definitely the star of the show, and you can buy the coffee beans as well. Don’t go if you’re hungry though; they have a few desserts to go alongside the coffee but not much beyond that. For more info: Amor Perfecto Sip Opening hours: 8 am - 11 pm This cafe hails all the way from Lebanon, and is known for their specialty coffee. Sip’s Zamalek branch is close to the Marriott (that area seems to be good real estate for cafes), and has not only outdoor seating but also great indoor aesthetics. Besides your standard coffee menu, Sip has a range of house blends and they also sell coffee by the 200gm bag (with beans from Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Ethiopia). You can also buy a bag of their house blend. Their food menu has the expected cafe fare of breakfast, sandwiches, salads and desserts. For more info: Sip You might also like: 7 Best Nile View Restaurants in Cairo

If you’re visiting Cairo, then chances are you have plans to visit the Pyramids of Giza (as you should!). The Great Pyramid of Giza is the last standing Ancient Wonder of the World and definitely is a highlight of any trip to Egypt – it is absolutely not overhyped or overrated, as so many travel destinations now are in our Instagram-obsessed world. Read more: Visiting the Pyramids of Giza – A Local’s Guide To Everything You Need To Know But you know what is UNDERhyped and UNDERrated? The pyramids at Dahshur! To the extent that most visitors coming to Egypt have never even heard of them, which is a crying shame because the Bent Pyramid especially is one of the coolest-looking pyramids in the world. But before we get ourselves all hot and bothered, let’s quickly break down what exactly IS Dahshur, why exactly you should visit, and everything else you need to know about this hidden gem in Egypt. So what is Dahshur? Dahshur is an Ancient Egyptian royal necropolis in the desert on the outskirts of greater Cairo, and home to several pyramids, two of which (the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid) are even older than the Pyramids of Giza. Is it worth visiting Dahshur if I’ve already seen the Pyramids of Giza? If you’re not super tight on time in Cairo, then the answer is definitely yes! Visiting Dahshur will actually give you more insight into how exactly the Pyramids of Giza were made and the transition from the step pyramid shape (like Djoser’s pyramid at Saqqara ) to the smooth-sided shape of the Giza Pyramids. Pharaoh Sneferu (the father of Khufu, the pharaoh of the Great Pyramid) first attempted a smooth-sided pyramid at Dahshur but failed, resulting in the Bent Pyramid (more info below). He then got it right with the Red Pyramid, leading his son to use his engineering know-how to later build the greatest pyramid the world has ever seen, in Giza. Also because Dahshur is off the beaten path, the necropolis is much less crowded than the Giza pyramids, and there are no touts (just a couple of security guys who will offer to take your picture). Plus the entrance ticket is a quarter of the price of the Giza Pyramids! What can I see in Dahshur? The Bent Pyramid Built 2613–2589 BC (so over 4,600 years ago!) by Sneferu, archaeologists believe that the Bent Pyramid represents a transitional form between the step pyramid and smooth-sided pyramid. The ‘bent’ appearance is due to its base having a 54 degree inclination, but the top section having a narrower 43 degree angle. There are different theories as to why it was built this way: one was that as the builders reached the top, the top section started to show instability, so they narrowed the angle. Another theory is that they anticipated Sneferu’s death approaching, so they wanted to finish his pyramid as soon as possible. A third theory is that they were trying to avoid the same colossal disaster that occured with Sneferu’s first pyramid, the Meidum pyramid in Beni Suef, which collapsed mid-construction. The Red Pyramid The Red Pyramid is believed to be the first successful attempt at creating a smooth-sided pyramid in Egypt, and was Pharaoh Sneferu’s third pyramid (after the Bent Pyramid & Meidum Pyramid). It’s also the third biggest pyramid in Egypt, after the Khufu and Khafre pyramids at the Giza Plateau. The Red Pyramid received its moniker due to its reddish hue, although it wasn’t always red. The entire pyramid used to be encased in white limestone, which you can still see at the base. The white limestone was actually stripped from the pyramid in the Middle Ages (can you believe it?) to construct buildings in Cairo. The layer underneath was red limestone, which you can see until today. The Black Pyramid This pyramid, while technically ruined, is still definitely worth seeing when you head to Dahshur, just because it looks so different and vaguely creepy. The Black Pyramid is believed to be the first pyramid in Egypt that was intended to house both the pharaoh and his queens. It was built by Pharaoh Amenemhat III in the Middle Kingdom, so around 3,800 years ago. It’s called the Black Pyramid due to is “dark, decaying appearance”. It collapsed partially due to it being made out of mudbrick instead of traditional stone (although it was encased in limestone), and partially due to its low elevation allowing Nile water to seep into the walls, ending with the structure cracking and sinking into the clay ground. Can you enter the Dahshur pyramids? Inside the Bent Pyramid. Photo credit: earthtrekkers.com Yep, you can enter the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid, for no extra price (unlike the Giza Pyramids, where you have to buy an extra ticket to go in them). To be fair though, there’s not much to see in them and it’s not recommended if a) you’re claustrophobic, b) not in the best shape or get winded easily, c) have back or knee problems, or d) you’re afraid of bats :D To enter either pyramid, you climb up long (and sometimes steep) stairs to get to the entrance. Then it’s a series of very low tunnels (as in, you’re completely hunched over) to get to the lower pyramid chamber. There are also high wooden staircases to take you to upper chambers. All in all, it’s a workout and not easy on the back or legs by any means. The adventure element is fun, but don’t expect to see treasures at the end of it – the pyramid chambers are all just empty rooms (save a few bats, lol). How to get to Dahshur While Dahshur isn’t far from Downtown Cairo (maybe an hour’s drive), getting there isn’t very straightforward so here’s where our local experience on the ground will come in handy. Because like we said before, Dahshur is off the beaten track and not known to most visitors – the main people there were part of tour groups who came via tour bus, which obviously is the most straightforward way of going about it. If you’re interested in going solo though and not part of a tour group, then here’s some important things to keep in mind: If you’re going with an Uber or using GPS to get there, it gets really tricky because the GPS will want to take you there via the quickest route (Fayoum Road), but it doesn’t realize that that route will cut through the Dahshur military base (which you obviously can’t go through). So then it’ll force you to take a really long circuitous route through questionable neighborhoods and roads. So basically what we’re saying is that it’s best if you hire a car & driver for a day who actually knows how to get there and doesn’t need to depend on GPS (the best way there is through the Saqqara Road). Or hire a tour guide who will be able to give directions to the driver. Basically just someone who knows where they’re going lol. Once you arrive at Dahshur, it’s best to have some kind of vehicle with you because it’s a trek through the desert from the entrance to the Red Pyramid, then to the Bent Pyramid after that, and so on and so forth. With a car or tour bus, you just drive from spot to spot and then can walk around and take pictures as much as you like. If you do end up going with an Uber driver, make sure you hold on to him there because it’s extreeeeemely difficult to get another Uber or even a regular taxi on the way back. Dahshur is desert surrounded by agricultural land, so it’s not like the Pyramids of Giza which are right on a bustling Cairo road. Dahshur Opening Hours: 8 am to 5 pm (they close earlier in Ramadan, so make sure to double check – it’ll probably close by 3 pm then but Egyptian opening hours can change with the wind) Dahshur ticket prices: Non Egyptian ticket: 150 EGP (75 EGP for students) Egyptian ticket: 10 EGP (5 EGP for students) Car ticket: 10 EGP And now a few parting local tips about Dahshur: If you’re not going with a guide, there’s no signage there with explanations of the pyramids, so it’s best to read up before you go to really get a feel for how interesting Dahshur is There aren’t any restaurants or cafes inside the necropolis, so make sure to bring your own water and/or snacks There are very few shaded areas (unless you’re inside the pyramid, that is) so make sure you’re equipped with sunblock and a hat if you’re sensitive to the sun There aren’t any bathrooms, so emptying your bladder before heading to Dahshur is always a good idea If anyone offers to take your picture or to show you different spots in the necropolis, they’re looking for a tip. Feel free to just say no thanks and keep it moving, they’re not pushy like the touts at the Giza Pyramids It’s a good idea to also visit the Saqqara necropolis (where the Step Pyramid of Djoser and other cool tombs are) because it’s close by and along with Memphis (the remnants of the Ancient Egyptian capital), make a really fun day trip. Read more: Saqqara, Egypt - A Local's Guide to Visiting the Step Pyramid of Djoser & the Saqqara Tombs You may also like: Top 10 Things To Do in Cairo, Egypt

Mayrig If you’ve ever decided to go eat or grab a coffee at Arkan Plaza in Sheikh Zayed, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This commercial center on the west side of Cairo is full to the brim with dozens of restaurants, cafes, restobars, shops and booths – and what seems to be something new opening every day.  You might also like: 5 Best Restaurants in Park St., Sheikh Zayed So if you find yourself in Arkan Plaza and are unsure of what’s a hit and what you can miss, here are ten of the best restaurants and cafes there (in no particular order). We also listed at the end of the article other restaurants and cafes that you'll find there that didn't make the list, for discovery's sake!  1. Mayrig This Armenian restaurant (yes, Armenian - the first Armenian restaurant in Egypt!) is on the rooftop of the Crowne Plaza Hotel in the Arkan extension. If you’re not familiar with Armenian food, you should probably give it a try if you’re a fan of Lebanese or Turkish food – it has a lot of overlap with the two other cuisines, but with its own flair.  Mayrig has indoor and outdoor dining, with heaters available in the winter. Alcohol and shisha are also served, and they’re open daily from noon until midnight. Mayrig’s menu . 2. Willow's First and foremost, Willow’s is known for being one of the best breakfast places in town (read more: 30 Best Breakfast Spots in Cairo ). Second of all, their decor is all that is comfy and cozy. Thirdly, their all-day menu is massive, so there’s something for everyone – a great family spot. For more info, pictures and menu: Willow’s IG 3. Carlo’s Carlo’s is always a great option when you’re a group of people and everyone wants something different. Instead of standing in the middle of Arkan and arguing over eating sushi or eating hawawshi, just head to Carlo’s where their extensive menu includes Egyptian and international classics from all over the globe – and they’ve consistently done it all well for decades now, back since Carlo’s flagship restaurant in Zamalek led the charge as one of the best restaurants in Cairo . They also serve shisha and alcohol, and have plenty of screens for football matches. Be warned though – on match nights, it’s both crowded and noisy and reservations are needed. Carlo’s menu .  4. Gigi Right across from Carlo’s is Gigi, the place to go if you’re craving burgers, pizza, tons of appetizers and other good comfort food. They have indoor and outdoor seating, a big bar, and lots of cold beer on tap.  Gigi is a nice weekend day spot as well as a ‘drink and burger after work’ kind of place, but it gets crowded quickly so reservations are recommended. 5. Granita Granita is a "concept cafeteria" that's a nod to the 'grand cafes' of Egypt back in the 1930s and 1940s - think   Groppi and other vintage cosmopolitan cafes . They have both an indoor and outdoor area perfect for sunny brunches, work meetings and or just enjoying a coffee and pastry solo. They offer breakfast, sandwiches, salads, pienirli (Greek pizzas), appetizers, main plates and homemade desserts. Granita’s menu .  6. Casa Talia In the mood for something tasty but not quite sure what it is exactly you want? Casa Talia’s large and eclectic menu will sort you out. Aside from their breakfast and brunch menu, they have your usual pastas, burgers, pizzas etc., plus unexpected menu items like bao buns, Turkish pide, sandos and robata-grilled appetizers. Massive dessert menu as well! Casa Talia’s menu .  7. Crimson Arkan If you’re looking for a rooftop date vibe even though you’re in the middle of a commercial center, then Crimson is the place for you. Set above and away from all the hordes of other restaurants and cafes in Arkan, it’s easy to forget you’re essentially in a mall and not on a chic urban rooftop away from the hustle and bustle. Crimson of course is known for its Zamalek branch with sweeping Nile views , but they share the same ambient atmosphere, elevated international menu, and large cocktail list. 8. Koffee Kulture One of the breakfast and coffee stars of Arkan Plaza. Koffee Kulture's menu features all sorts of omelettes, eggs Benedict, tortilla egg wraps, sandwiches, bagels, open-faced sourdough loaves, a bakery, and a ton of coffee options. Even if you stop by later in the day, they have an all-day menu for all your favorite brunch items. Koffee Kulture’s menu . Read more: 30 Best Breakfast Spots in Cairo 9. Al Beiruti This Lebanese resto-cafe has already made its mark in Beirut and Dubai, so it makes sense that Cairenes love it as well. It’s a mix of indoor and outdoor as well as a full-fledged restaurant but with a casual Lebanese cafe feel – think tawla, shisha and Lebanese mezzeh.  Al Beiruti’s menu . 10. Bittersweet   Looking to elevate your morning coffee? Look no further than pairing an espresso with Bittersweet's insane O'Smores. If that shot of caffeine and sugar won't wake you up, probably nothing much will! (They also have other 'normal' breakfast selections for those who don't want to be wired for the rest of the day). Bittersweet doesn’t just do coffee breakfast though – they’re also known for their pizzas and pastas. Other restaurants in Arkan Plaza: Odoriko Caracas Lucida Crave Charwood's JJ's Texas Longhorn BBQ Chicken & Ribs Butcher's Burger Tres Bon Coco Le Relais de l'Entrecôte Ralph's German Bakery Maison de Paris Tiger's Diner Mistiqa Darjeela Lee Loo in the City Clams and Claws Baladina Garnell Gracias Latin Kitchen Tabali Qahwa Hareer La Scala Maze Restobar Mista Other cafes in Arkan Plaza: Aubaine Blooms and Beans Moishi Ladurée Lychee Specialty Būn NAF Coffee Berry Starbucks Seven Fortunes Chouchou Twenty Grams You might also like: 12 Best Bars, Pubs and Resto-bars in Sheikh Zayed and 6 October

Who doesn’t love to sit outside with a drink when the weather is nice, especially when you’re high up enough above the city to catch a breeze? Cairo may be congested and chaotic at ground level, but up on a rooftop it’s a completely different story. You may also like: 7 Best Nile View Restaurants in Cairo So in no particular order, we give you some of our favorite rooftop bars in Cairo. Estro Location: Maadi Also known as the ‘Sicilian Rooftop’, this restobar is found on the 9th floor of the Royal Maadi Hotel. Opened by the same owners of Frank &Co, Maadi’s favorite tapas bar, Estro offers up Italian food with a view (especially if you go before sunset). Reservations needed. Local tip: on especially clear days, you can see three different pyramid necropolises: the Pyramids of Giza , the Step Pyramid of Saqqara , and the Bent Pyramid at Dahshur . Address: Royal Maadi Hotel, Road 18, Maadi Crimson Location: Zamalek Opening hours: 8 am - 2 am This chic rooftop restobar resides on top of the Riverside building on a quiet Nile-facing street on the upscale island of Zamalek . Its open terrace overlooks the Nile, with an impressive bar and beautiful interior design. They have great food and creative cocktails, but we warn you -- this place is not cheap! Reservations recommended for weekends. Address: 16 Kamal Al Tawil, Zamalek Sachi Park St. Location: Sheikh Zayed The original Sachi in Heliopolis has been a staple of Cairo fine dining and nightlife for over a decade now, so it was only a matter of time before they brought their famous Mediterranean fusion, sushi menu and cocktail list to the west of the Cairo. And that they did, with the added benefit of Sachi Park St. having an open-air rooftop alongside their indoor dining area. Reservations needed, you can call them on 01278666185. Carlton Hotel Rooftop Location: Downtown Opening hours: 5 pm - 2 am On top of the dated 3 star Carlton Hotel in Downtown Cairo is a surprisingly nice and breezy rooftop. The hotel has been open since 1935 and definitely hasn’t taken any steps into the 21st century (the interiors seem stuck somewhere in the 1980s), but the rooftop is simple and straightforward. They serve local beer and wine and shisha, and at night you can see the High Court of Justice building lit up. Address: 21 26th July St., Downtown Rooftop Zamalek Photo credit: Leila Tapozada Location: Zamalek Opening hours: Noon - 1 am Literally called Rooftop Zamalek, this bar sits on top of a shabby 1 star hotel in, you guessed it, Zamalek. This place is the absolute opposite of fancy, but has fantastic Nile views (although they recently put up some annoying netting on one side to apparently stop bottles from falling on the Russian consulate below, lol). Try to go during the day or before sunset to nab one of the netting-free Nile view tables before it gets crowded. Address: 21 Mahmoud Sidky, Zamalek Miss Li Lee's Location : Sheikh Zayed Opening hours: 1 pm - 3 am On top of the Crowne Plaza Hotel (the one adjacent to Arkan Plaza ) is their rooftop restaurant and bar, Miss Li Lee's. They have a large menu of pan-Asian dishes (everything from dim sum to Thai curries to tandoori grills to sushi), and a large drinks menu of both local and imported wine and spirits. They're open late and have live music on the weekend. Address: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Kempinski Roof Location: Garden City Opening hours: 6 pm - 2 am On the Kempinski’s 11th floor roof is their pool, surrounded by a few tables that offer awesome panoramic views of the Nile. While only hotel guests can use the pool, anyone can have a drink, shisha or sandwiches and small plates off their rooftop menu. Note: if you're not a guest at the hotel, the roof is only accessible after 6 pm. For more of our favorite hotels in Cairo, head here . Address: 12 Ahmed Ragheb, Qasr El Nil, Garden City Odeon Palace Bar Location: Downtown Opening hours: 24/7 The only 24/7 rooftop bar on this list, Odeon has been a Downtown Cairo staple for decades now. Popular with Cairo’s artistic and cinematic crowd, as well as foreigners, it’s always an interesting mix of people. The view may not be able to compete with the Nile or Pyramids, and it's much dingier than some of the other places on this list, but it has its own quirky charm. They serve local alcohol and shisha, as well as a few dubious food offerings (stick to something safe, like fries). Address: 29 Street 21, Downtown Lucida Location: Sheikh Zayed Opening hours: 8 pm - 1 am (open earlier on weekends) If you're looking for upscale dinner and drinks on a rooftop surrounded by incredible decor, then Lucida is the place for you. On weekend nights it's more of a music and party spot, so make sure to book a weeknight if you want to enjoy your dinner and the rooftop weather. Address: Arkan Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Looking for more nightlife inspiration? Check out our favorite bars, pubs and clubs in Cairo .

When thinking of Egypt and pyramids, most people automatically think of the Giza Pyramids. But what most people fail to realize is that they’re not the sole pyramids in Egypt, and not even the oldest! Read more: 9 Different Egyptian Pyramids (That AREN’T The Giza Pyramids!) That You Need To See One of the things that makes the Pyramids of Giza so fascinating is their sheer size, plus the neighboring Great Sphinx. But not too far from the Giza Plateau is the necropolis of Saqqara, which is home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest pyramid in the world (and also the oldest complete stone building in the world, by the way), as well as a fascinating array of smaller pyramids and Old Kingdom and New Kingdom tombs. Wait, what exactly is Saqqara? Saqqara (also spelled Sakkara) was the royal necropolis of Ancient Egypt’s Old Kingdom capital, Memphis. The remains of the necropolis today include the Step Pyramid of Djoser (aka Zoser), smaller pyramids, tombs and other Ancient Egyptian monuments. Outside of the necropolis that’s sectioned off for sightseeing, Saqqara is still an active archaeological dig site, with almost yearly discoveries. Is Saqqara worth visiting while in Cairo? If you have the time, then definitely. For several reasons: The Step Pyramid of Djoser is the oldest pyramid in Egypt, and is considered the initial prototype for the smooth-sided pyramids of Giza (you can see more of that evolution with the Bent Pyramid of Dahshur) Saqqara actually has more to see than the Giza Plateau, between the different pyramids, mastaba tombs, Serapeum, etc. Continue reading down below for a more detailed guide to what you can see in Saqqara Saqqara isn’t far at all from Downtown Cairo, around an hour maybe. Paired with the Dahshur Pyramids and maybe the remnants of Memphis, it’s a really nice half-day trip that’s easily put together by any tour agency if you don’t want to do it solo Saqqara is much emptier and quieter than the Giza Pyramids. You can wander around the site without any annoying touts and vendors, and there are actually plaques to describe what you’re looking at it, which is a rarity in Egypt What to See in Saqqara Mastaba Tomb of Ti Like we said above, Saqqara is divided into both a tourist site open to visitors and an active dig site. You won’t be able to explore the dig site for obvious reasons, but there’s still TONS to see. Local tip: not all of the following are always open to the public, sometimes they’re closed for restoration or are on rotation. Unfortunately the only way to find out what’s open and what’s not is to actually go, lol. So here are the main spots in the necropolis, and they’re all a very quick drive away from each other by car, or you can hoof it but beware all the sand and sun: Main Saqqara Site #1: Step Pyramid of Djoser Complex Ok so first off, you’ll hit the Step Pyramid of Djoser Complex. There’s lots to see and explain, but we’ll only get briefly into the main points or else we’ll be here all day. The main things to see there once you walk in are: i) Colonnaded Entrance of the Djoser Step Pyramid Complex You’ll enter the complex through here (same as ancient days, by the way). The colonnade is 20 pairs of columns with 24 small chambers between each, which are thought to maybe represent the nomes of Upper and Lower Egypt, and may have once held statues of the pharaoh or the gods. ii) The Step Pyramid of Djoser This beauty is the oldest Egyptian pyramid to date – it was built c. 2670–2650 BC, so it’s about 4,700 years old, if you can believe that. The architect was Djoser’s vizier Imhotep, thought of now as the founding father of Egyptian pyramids, and the design is six mastabas of decreasing size atop one another. Mastabas were how pharaohs and other Egyptian royalty and VIPs were buried before the invention of the pyramids -- mastabas were rectangular, flat-roofed tombs. You can enter the Step Pyramid with an extra ticket. You’ll enter through the Southern Passage, where you’ll walk down a stone corridor ( local tip: it’s nowhere near as narrow or steep as the Giza & Dahshur Pyramids, so if you want to go inside a pyramid with the least amount of claustrophobia/physical exertion, this is the one to enter). At the end of the corridor you’ll reach a railing where you can look down and see the burial chamber where Djoser was laid to rest, deep in the belly of the pyramid. Note: the Northern Passage into the Step Pyramid is not currently open to the public, which is a bummer because it leads to tunnels with some fascinating tiling, engraving and wall imagery. iii) South Tomb The South Tomb is a good place to see what you’re missing within the Northern Passage of the Step Pyramid. Because this tomb is too small to actually hold Djoser’s body, Egyptologists have several theories about the function of the tomb: one is to house the pharaoh’s ka in the afterlife, and a second theory is that this is where the pharaoh’s organs were kept in canopic jars (although future pharaohs were always buried with their canopic jars in the same burial chamber, so it’s a mystery). In either case, the South Tomb has a 30m tunnel that descends into a pink granite burial chamber. It then leads into further chambers that have blue tiling (like the non-accessible Northern passage of the Step Pyramid) as well as wall decoration. Note: you need to buy an extra ticket to enter the South Tomb. iv) Serdab The serdab is a small, enclosed chamber from the Old Kingdom that houses a statue of the deceased (in this case, Djoser) with just a small hole in the wall. It’s believed this statue was for the Pharaoh’s ka, and the sealed off space allowed the soul protection within its walls. You can peek into the hole and see what’s left of Djoser’s statue. Like we said above, there’s loads more to see at the Step Pyramid Complex so make sure to read up on the nitty-gritty before you go. There’s also signage there if you’re not going with a guide. Saqqara Main Site #2: Pyramid of Unas & Old Kingdom Mastaba Tombs While the Pyramid of Unas is not much to look at externally anymore, it’s what’s inside the collapsed pyramid that makes it so interesting. It’s the smallest remaining pyramid of the Old Kingdom, but notable due to the discovery of the ‘Pyramids Texts’ inscribed inside on its walls. The Pyramids Texts were funerary texts and spells for the pharaoh’s afterlife, which would later become the basis of the Book of the Dead. Nearby the Pyramid of Unas are other Old Kingdom mastaba tombs such as: Tomb of Mehu, a royal vizier Tomb of Ti, known for its wall depictions of daily life in the Old Kingdom, including scenes of farming, boat-building and poultry-fattening Tomb of Niankh-Khnum and Khnumhotelp, an unusual ‘double tomb’ mastaba. It’s not common to find a tomb for two people, so it’s theorized that these two men were brothers, and perhaps twins (one theory is that they were actually conjoined twins) Tomb of Irukaptah, also known as Tomb of the Butchers Tomb of Irukaptah (Tomb of the Butchers) Saqqara Main Site #3: Pyramid of Teti & Tomb of Mereruka Inside the Pyramid of Teti This pyramid doesn’t even really resemble a pyramid anymore – you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s a sandy hill. But it is in fact the remains of the Pyramid of Teti, and underneath the rubble is worth seeing too – it’s the second known pyramid to have Pyramid Texts on its walls. Tomb of Mereruka Nearby the Pyramid of Teti is the Tomb of Mereruka, the biggest and most elaborate tomb of all the non-royals buried in Saqqara. It has 33 chambers in total, with wall paintings and a life-like statue of the vizier Mereruka himself. (Note: going inside the Tomb of Mereruka needs an extra ticket). There are also other Old Kingdoms tombs near the Pyramid of Teti worth visiting, like the Tomb of Kagemni. Saqqara Main Site #4: Horemheb Necropolis (Tombs of the Nobles & New Kingdom Tombs) and the Bubastieion This site is for the “newer” tombs of the New Kingdom (and by newer, we’re talking 3,000+ years old lol). Although during the New Kingdom the Ancient Egyptian capital was at Thebes (now modern-day Luxor ) and the pharaohs were buried in the Valley of the Kings there, the generals were still buried in Saqqara. Horemheb was a general during the time of Tutankhamun and built his tomb in Saqqara, but then became pharaoh after King Tut died childless. Mummified cat found in the Bubastieion, now in the Louvre The Bubastieion (or Bubasteum) was a temple dedicated to Bastet, the cat goddess. It’s a cat necropolis where over 100 cat mummies were discovered and thousands of cat bones found. 5 lion mummies were also found there. Saqqara Main Site #5: Serapeum Apis bull sarcophagus So we covered the feline necropolis, but did you know there’s also a burial ground for bulls in Saqqara? It’s true, the Serapeum was for a sacred Ancient Egyptian bull called the Apis, and more than 60 bulls were found to be buried there, with 24 sarcophagi still remaining at the site. How to Get to Saqqara The most direct and hassle-free way of getting to Saqqara is arranging with a local tour company for them to pick you up and take you there (you can also add on whatever sights you’d like, for example the Dahshur Pyramids or Memphis. You can also include the Pyramids of Giza and have one big Pyramids day). You can also go solo, via Uber or taxi, but these are our local tips: The Saqqara necropolis is off the beaten track a bit and in agricultural land, so it’s not always straightforward to get to and sometimes the GPS will lead you astray. It’s better to make sure your driver knows how to get there without relying on GPS The Saqqara necropolis is pretty big and ideally would need a car to drive you from one main site to the other; it’s doable on foot but ultimately a big hassle It’s almost impossible to get an Uber back from Saqqara, so if you go with an Uber or taxi, make sure that they wait for you to finish and you can leave with them Saqqara Opening Hours 8 am - 5 pm (closes earlier during the month of Ramadan) Saqqara Ticket Prices Standard Entrance to Saqqara Necropolis Ticket: Non-Egyptian ticket: 450 EGP Non-Egyptian student ticket: 230 EGP Egyptian ticket: 30 EGP Egyptian student ticket: 10 EGP Local tip: this ticket includes the Step Pyramid of Djoser complex, Unas and Teti Pyramids and the tombs of Kagemni, Nikauisesi, Ankhmahor, Nefereshemptah, Ptahhotep, Ti, Idut, Unasankh and Iynefert – but keep in mind the tombs are sometimes on rotation so you’re not guaranteed these will be the same tombs open on the day you go. Entry into the Step Pyramid via the Southern Passage Ticket: Non-Egyptian ticket: 220 EGP Non-Egyptian student ticket: 110 EGP Egyptian ticket: 40 EGP Egyptian student ticket: 20 EGP South Tomb in Step Pyramid Complex Ticket: Non-Egyptian ticket: 240 EGP Non-Egyptian student ticket: 120 EGP Egyptian ticket: 40 EGP Egyptian student ticket: 20 EGP Nobles Tombs & New Kingdom Tombs in Horemheb necropolis and the Bubastieion Ticket: Non-Egyptian ticket: 330 EGP Non-Egyptian student ticket: 170 EGP Egyptian ticket: 20 EGP Egyptian student ticket: 10 EGP General Local Tips About Visiting Saqqara: As you can probably tell by now there’s a ton to see, so if you’re interested in visiting all the sites and entering all the tombs, this will take the better part of half a day. If you want to visit as part of a larger Giza Pyramids + Saqqara + Dahshur tour, you’ll have to streamline your Saqqara visit There aren’t any restaurants or cafes there, so make sure to bring your own snacks/water (there are a few touts selling water & sodas, but for exorbitant touristic prices) The sun is strong, so make sure to bring sunscreen and a hat if you’re sensitive to the sun Saqqara is a great spot to be able to see in the distance the rest of the pyramid fields: Giza, Dahsur & Abu Sir Pyramids Happy exploring and enjoy! You might also like: Dahshur Pyramids – A Local’s Guide to the Bent Pyramid, Red Pyramid & Black Pyramid

If you’re planning to go to Siwa Oasis, then our first piece of local advice is – leave all your previous accommodation experiences back at home, because Siwa is completely different than anywhere else you’ve ever been. There are no cookie-cutter hotels, no modern & techy apartments, no IKEA-furnished B&Bs… and that’s a good thing! Siwa is the place you go to get away from it all, and considering it’s literally in the middle of the Great Sand Sea of the Sahara, expecting to find the easy amenities of a Four Seasons (or even a Holiday Inn lol) probably won’t happen. Siwa is all about disconnecting from your daily grind and reconnecting with nature, about preserving local tradition and heritage, and about slow and laidback living. Read more: Where to Go in Egypt - 10 Best Egyptian Destinations & Cities Most accommodation options in Siwa won’t have regular electricity, the rooms won’t be modern, and lots might not even have hot water. Buuuuut they WILL probably give you an unforgettable stay (in a good way!). So without further ado, here are our favorite places to stay in Siwa Oasis. We divided them into budget categories for you to make an easier choice. Cheap: less than $30 a night Affordable: less than $60 a night Moderate to expensive: $60 - $200 a night: Very expensive: $300+ a night Cheap: Mountain Camp Ali Khaled Underneath Dakrour Mountain is Mountain Camp Ali Khaled, a good budget option if you don’t want to spend too much on accommodation but still want an overall enjoyable experience. Here you have the option of staying in a ‘tent’, which is more of a canvas hut of sorts with two twin mattresses and communal bathrooms, or a bare bones room with its own bathroom. Needless to say, the rooms aren’t fancy in the slightest, but they do have ACs. The cool part about Mountain Camp Ali Khaled is that they have both a natural hot spring and cold spring on the property that you can swim in, and at night they hold bonfires with music, singing and dancing. Local tip: bring insect repellent because the flies can get wild there. Affordable: Taghaghien Island Resort Located on an island in Siwa Lake, Taghaghien Island Resort is the place for amazing sunsets and overall outstanding 360 degree views. It’s connected to the shores of Siwa Lake by a 2km road, and is about 13 km from what’s considered downtown Siwa, so it’s pretty secluded. The resort has 30 basic style bungalows (heads up: no ACs), a restaurant & bar and a rooftop to watch the sunsets from above. There’s also a natural cold spring. Local tip: the resort only has electricity from sunset to sunrise, so make sure to charge everything you need while sleeping! Albabenshal Lodge A heritage hotel amidst the ruins of the 13th century Shali Fortress, Albabenshal renovated ancient Siwan homes to create 14 guest rooms connected by fortress alleyways, staying true to the traditional Siwan methods of building. Their main terrace and restaurant have a view of central Shali and the sea of palm trees beyond. Double and triple rooms are available (with private bathrooms), and the rooms are created and designed in authentic Siwan style. Local tip: Because it’s next to the market, it can be noisy during the day, so it’s a good option if you plan to spend most of the day exploring Siwa, but not the best option if you want to disconnect at the lodge during daytime hours. No ACs available for the hotter months. Moderate to Expensive: Taziry Taziry, which means ‘full moon’ in Siwan, is a 30 room ecovillage on the shores of Siwa Lake, underneath the Red Mountain. There’s no electricity at night, so they light up the space with candles and oil lamps. There’s a natural swimming pool and a terrace overlooking the lake and mountain. Solar panels are used to provide hot water for the bathrooms, but bear in mind they’re not always consistent. Their restaurant serves Siwan/Amazigh/North African cuisine as prepared by their Moroccan chef. Local tip: because there’s no electricity at night and it gets very dark, a flashlight might be a good idea if you like to walk around. Talist A family-owned ecolodge and farm, Talist is where to go if you want somewhere quiet and away from the bustle of central Siwa. Because they run on solar energy, electricity isn’t always available and there are no power outlets (except for USB sockets) in the rooms; you can charge your phones and other devices at the restaurant. The owners make their meals sourced from their own farm and other local ingredients, so it’s a great place to eat. Talist has 11 bungalows of various sizes, ranging from doubles to family-sized, and a natural pool and terrace overlooking the mountain and lake. Local tip: there are no ACs or heaters. Al Nyhaya Love camping but not the hassle of it? Well then, glamping might just be for you (ICYMI: glamping means ‘glamorous camping’). Al Nyhaya (meaning ‘the end’ in Arabic) is a glamp site in the Great Sand Sea 30 minutes outside of Siwa Oasis. Because it’s in the desert, it’s extremely private and you’ll feel like you're at the ends of the earth (thus the name). The tents are Bell tents which can fit two people easily. They have comfortable mattresses, mosquito netting and double layers to keep you warm during the desert nights and cool during the warm days. There’s also the option of a traditional Bedouin tent. You might think that because it’s glamping, the nightly price tag would be cheap, but nope - this is one of the pricier options on the list! Local tip: this is the place to stay if you want to experience sleeping in the Great Sand Sea but with more amenities, but not a good choice if you care about reaching the rest of Siwa easily. Very Expensive: Adrère Amellal This is the place to go if you want a high-end experience in Siwa, but still with that rustic, at-one-with-nature vibe. This hidden-away, primitive and yet still luxurious boutique hotel underneath the White Mountain is an ecolodge with traditional kershif buildings that blend into the landscape. There’s no electricity, so Adrère Amellal comes alive at night with candles and lanterns. Visited by celebrities and royalty, Adrère Amellal is not by any means cheap, but its 5 star service and dining will still have you feeling the luxury even in the most primitive of settings. Read more: 7 Boutique Hotels in Egypt for a More Unique, Personalized Stay You may also like: 10 Most Unforgettable Things to Do in Siwa Oasis

If you’re staying in El Gouna , or just going for the day from Hurghada (they're about 30 minutes apart), there’s good news and bad news when it comes to eating -- the good news is, there are tons of restaurants to choose from in El Gouna. The bad news? There’s tons of restaurants to choose from. If you’re not a local or recurring visitor, it can be hard to discern which eating establishments are worthy of both your stomach and your wallet -- so as locals, let us help you. You might also like: 10 Best Restaurants in Cairo For Locals and Tourists Alike Now, let us proceed: 1. Saigon Location: Abu Tig Marina, El Gouna Cuisine: Vietnamese In our humble opinion, Saigon is the very best restaurant not only in El Gouna, but in the larger surrounding Hurghada area as well. Saigon's pho This restaurant on the marina in Gouna has been open and run for over 15 years by a Vietnamese lady who still heads the kitchen until now. The food is consistently awesome, and even if Vietnamese food isn’t necessarily your jam, their menu is full of of more classic pan-Asian items as well. Local tip: they don't accept credit cards, so make sure to have cash on you. 2. Zia Amelia Location: Downtown, El Gouna Cuisine: Italian Another El Gouna favorite since it opened over a decade ago, Zia Amelia’s owner hails from Napoli and their menu is bursting at the seams with Italian classics and freshly-made pastas. They have an in-house pizzeria (Forno Di Amelia) as well where you can pick up a pizza to go. The restaurant itself is warm and welcoming, with an inner air-conditioned section for hot days as well as candlelit tables outside for when you want to enjoy the weather. Their staff is always prompt and knowledgeable about the extensive menu as well. PS: if you’re an animal lover like us, there’s also a few cute resident cats that fall asleep randomly on different chairs in the outdoor area. 3. Chicha Location: Downtown El Gouna Cuisine: Latin Right across from Zia Amelia in Downtown Gouna is Chicha, a fun, bohemian-vibed Latin American restaurant offering a wide range of Peruvian, Mexican and Spanish dishes. They pride themselves on taking their inspiration from traditional dishes and giving them their modern spin. The star of Chicha's menu are their tacos, but they also have a wide range of other tapas-style dishes that are made for ordering many of and sharing (or don't share, that's up to you, lol). They also have a bunch of great cocktails. 4. El Bahr Location: Kite Center Road, El Gouna Cuisine: Seafood It would be counterintuitive to be a beach town and not have a great seafood restaurant, so luckily El Bahr is there to lead the charge. Away from the hustle and bustle of Abu Tig Marina and Downtown Gouna, El Bahr is right on the beach (as it should be!), where you'll see the sky peppered with bright kites from the kitesurfers cruising the water on breezy days. As for the menu, besides their appetizers, soups and salads, it's all really about whatever catches your eye from their fresh seafood display. You choose the fish you want, and tell them how you would like it cooked (grilled, fried, salted, in a casserole, etc). They also have fresh shrimp, crab, lobster, calamari, you name it. 5. MerBey Location: Mosaique Hotel, El Gouna Cuisine: Lebanese On a boardwalk tucked away in front of Mosaique Hotel, you'll find Merbey. Because of its more secluded location, this Lebanese restaurant is a hidden gem in Gouna. With its waterfront dining (with both indoor and outdoor seating), MerBey is a great choice if you want a charming spot away from the crowds of the main marina and Downtown. While their vast menu covers all the Lebanese classics we know and love, they take particular pride in their varieties of hummus as well as their grilled platters. They're open for breakfast and also serve shisha. 6. Chuchichäschtli - Swiss House Location: Downtown, El Gouna Cuisine: Swiss First things first, please don't ask us how to pronounce the restaurant's name. Chuchichäschtli apparently translates into 'kitchen cupboard' in Swiss German, but it's no wonder why everyone else calls it Swiss House (to the extent that it's now the main name over their door!). Unpronounceable names aside, Swiss House has been serving excellent fondue and other classic Swiss comfort dishes for well over a decade now. And they are by bar one of the most popular restaurants come Christmas and winter -- they go all out with the decorations, and who doesn't want to warm their body and soul with some hot melted cheese? Even if fondue isn't your thing (weird choice on your part, but ok), Swiss House also offers seared beef fillet that you cook yourself over a hot stone. Also great for chilly nights. 7. Pier 88 Location: Abu Tig Marina, El Gouna Cuisine: International You can't talk about great restaurants in El Gouna without talking about one of its OGs, Pier 88 (by the way, not only is Pier 88 one of our favorite restaurants in Gouna, but in Cairo too ). The original El Gouna restaurant is literally ‘on’ the water in the Abu Tig Marina -- it’s a stationary floating restaurant/bar. They serve great steaks, seafood, pasta, salads and cocktails -- and starting 9 pm on weekends, the music picks up and it becomes a favorite ‘night spot’. Looking for activities to do in Hurghada and El Gouna ? Read 25 Fun Things To Do In Hurghada & El Gouna . Want a detailed guide for El Gouna? Read our extensive local's guide right here . You might also like: 8 Best Breakfast Places in El Gouna

The Royal Savoy Hotel in Sharm. Photo credit: Diana De Lorenzi Aside from Cairo and maybe Luxor , Sharm el Sheikh is one of the most famous destinations in Egypt , and has been for decades – and it has nothing to do with the Pyramids or Ancient Egypt , but is all about that idyllic beach life. Sharm el Sheikh on Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula (or just Sharm as we locals call it) is mainly known for its year-round warm Red Sea beaches and spectacular diving and snorkeling. While in years past it was known to be a nightlife hub, it’s now more of a resort destination – we’re talking dozens upon dozens of all-inclusive, fully-serviced beach resorts and hotels where you can kick back and enjoy that Egyptian sun and sea, even when it’s freezing back in your hometown. ( Local tip: if you’re looking for a Red Sea destination that has a bit more action outside the resorts than Sharm, then check out Hurghada or El Gouna ). But don’t think Sharm being a resort destination means you’re just going to be sitting by some pool the whole time, no sir! Sharm el Sheikh is packed full of things to do, and here are some of the best things to do in Sharm: 1. Experience some of the best scuba diving in the world. And that’s not us being biased. PADI, the world-renowned scuba diving experts, released their annual 10 best dive sites in the world and Sharm el Sheikh and its adjacent Ras Mohamed National Park constantly rank high on the list. Sharm’s Red Sea diving offers everything from wreck dives to shark dives to an insane abundance of vibrant marine life. Read more: 7 Best Diving Spots in Egypt’s Red Sea For Divers of All Levels 2. Snorkel year-round in Sharm’s warm waters. If diving is too time intensive or maybe the concept makes you wary, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on seeing Sharm’s gorgeous aquatic offerings. Boats can easily take you to the best snorkeling spots, where you end up seeing almost as much as divers do (you might even be able to see and swim with a dolphin or turtle if lucky). There are also a ton of easily-accessible shore reefs, and lots of resorts have jetties from the beach that you can walk along until you reach the deeper waters where an abundance of fish are. Even when the water in the winter is a tad too cold for bathing suits, just rent a wetsuit from your resort’s activities hub and you’ll be good to go. 3. Boat trip to White Island. Around 10 km from Sharm el Sheikh, in the protected Ras Mohamed marine park we mentioned above, is a white sandbar island called (for obvious reasons) White Island. This plateau is where the waters from the Gulf of Suez meet the waters of the Gulf of Aqaba in the Red Sea, and sitting on the island you can see Africa to your left and Asia to your right. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing and you can easily reach it by boat from Sharm or Ras Mohamed. Read more: 7 Red Sea Islands in Egypt Perfect For a Boat Day Trip 4. Relax at serviced beaches. Sometimes a beach holiday is just that - a holiday, meant for not moving from your sun lounger with the exception of getting up to cool off every now and then in the sea or pool. Sharm is chock-full of resorts that have fully serviced beaches, meaning everything from umbrellas, towels, food, drinks and entertainment is brought right to you while you recline on the beach. Read more: 9 Best Egyptian Beach Holiday Destinations 5. Enjoy your resort’s activities and amenities. Besides just relaxing by the beach or pool, the great thing about Sharm El Sheikh’s resorts and hotels is that they usually have a plethora of different activities and facilities for you to try; everything from water parks to spas to various sports to daytime excursions. There’s also a lot of great activities for kids and animation teams to keep the vibe lively. 6. Day trip or camping in Ras Mohamed National Park. Like we mentioned above, Ras Mohamed National Park is adjacent to Sharm el Sheikh and is a natural protectorate with spectacular diving and snorkeling. You can either spend the day there or stay at a camp on the beach in the park’s designated camping area. Read more: Camping in Egypt - 8 Beautiful and Remote Places to Camp 7. Al Sahaba Mosque If you’re interested in seeing a different side of Sharm el Sheikh besides the beach and resort life, then check out Al Sahaba Mosque at the Old Market. This mosque looks like something straight out of One Thousand and One Nights, both inside and out. It’s open to visitors but women have to be relatively covered to enter (no beachwear or skimpy outfits). If you’re not interested in going inside, it’s also beautiful at night when it’s lit up from the exterior. Read more: 10 Most Beautiful Mosques in Egypt 8. Heavenly Cathedral If Al Sahaba is Sharm’s most beautiful mosque, then the Heavenly Cathedral is Sharm’s most stunning church. While it’s not as impressive from the outside as the Sahaba Mosque, its interior is a different story. Its frescoes, murals and artwork led it to be considered one of the most beautiful churches in the world upon its completion in 2010. Read more: 9 Egyptian Churches, Cathedrals & Monasteries You Need to Visit At Least Once 9. Go on a desert safari If you’re itching for some desert adventure, then a desert safari is the best way to do it. You have the option for going dirt biking in the desert, driving a quad/ATV or even camel riding if you want to go old school. Your hotel can arrange it for you, but if you find their prices too steep, there are a ton of travel companies in Sharm that offer all sorts of different desert safaris. 10. Day trip to St. Catherine’s Monastery About 2.5 hours from Sharm el Sheikh is St. Catherine’s Monastery at the foot of Mount Sinai , or as called in Egyptian Arabic, “Gebel Moussa” (Moses’ Mountain). It’s here that the three Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity and Islam), believe that Moses encountered the Burning Bush and received the 10 Commandments. St. Catherine’s Monastery was founded in the 6th century and is the oldest Christian monastery in the world still used for its original function. It’s open to visitors 5 days a week. And if you’re feeling adventurous, St. Catherine’s is also the starting point of a 4 km hike you can do up to the summit of Mt. Moses (guides needed). Read more: 7 Most Beautiful Coptic Orthodox Monasteries in Egypt 11. Evening activities & nightlife at Soho Square Bored of your resort at night? Then head over to Soho Square, where you’ll find a plethora of restaurants, bars, cafes and activities like bowling, ice skating (yep, in Sharm of all places lol), a kids arcade and a dancing fountain. Local tip: The promenade in Naama Bay (about 15 minutes from Soho Square) used to be a really popular nightlife spot in Sharm el Sheikh (and to be fair, is still home to myriad restaurants, shisha cafes and bars), but has become more shady as of late, with shop hawkers and restaurant touts hassling people to sit at their venue or buy from their store. It's worth checking out at least once if you're interested, but overall Naama Bay isn't as pleasant as Soho Square (where everyone leaves you alone lol). 12. Have a drink at Farsha You know how some places are simply screaming for an Instagram moment? Well Farsha Mountain Lodge (also known as Farsha Cafe) is one of those places. This restaurant/bar/cafe sits on a cliff overlooking the Faraana Reef Beach in the Ras Um Sid area of Sharm, and the aesthetics plus the view are simply spectacular and not like anything else you’d see elsewhere in the world. Read more: 12 Places to Go for the Most Beautiful Views in Egypt You may also like: 10 Best Things to Do in Marsa Alam, Egypt

Most people who visit Alexandria tend to spend around 2 days, whether it’s a weekend trip for Cairenes who are eye-starved for a little Mediterranean Sea, or tourists who dedicate a couple of days out of their larger Egypt itinerary. In either case, two days is enough to see a good chunk of Alexandria if you’re smart about it. And while it’s easy enough to find online the best things to do and see in Alex , we took it a step further and arranged everything geographically so that you won’t be wasting time jumping from one end of the city to the other and back again. You'll also find our favorite Alexandria hotel recommendations here . So if you’re ready and able, let’s be on our way. DAY 1 Breakfast Mohamed Ahmed's falafel We recommend starting off the day bright and early at Mohamed Ahmed for some fuul and falafel. Not quite sure what fuul is? Check out our article 12 Local Egyptian Foods You Need To Try . Mohamed Ahmed is a city staple and open 24/7, so don’t worry about showing up too early. Roman Amphitheatre (duration: less than half an hour) About a 15 minute walk away from Mohamed Ahmed are the ruins of the Roman amphitheatre (also known as Kom el Dikka), which date back to the 4th century AD and was used not only in the Roman era for performances, but the Byzantine and early Islamic eras as well, for public assemblies and summits. There are also the nearby ruins of Roman baths and Villa of the Birds. Pompey’s Pillar & the Serapeum (duration: less than half an hour) Hop in a cab or Uber to Pompey’s pillar, about 10-15 minutes away. This pillar actually had nothing to do with Pompey himself, but was built for the Roman emperor Diocletian, who provided food for the starving city when Alexandria was under siege. The Serapeum, which today is just ruins except for the pillar, used to be Alexandria’s acropolis dedicated to Serapis, Alexandria’s patron god. Legend has it that when Christianity gained strength in Alexandria, they destroyed the Serapeum and other symbols of paganism, around 400 AD. Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa (duration: an hour) A 7 minute walk away from Pompey’s Pillar are the catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, which translates to ‘mound of shards’. Dating back to the 2nd century AD, these catacombs are a rare mix of Egyptian, Greek and Roman architecture and monuments and are considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. Citadel of Qaitbey (duration: less than an hour) Hop into another Uber and make your way north towards the Mediterranean to the Citadel of Qaitbey, about 20 minutes away. This medieval Islamic fort has stood sentry on the western coast of Alexandria since 1480, built by the Mamluk sultan Qaitbey to protect the Mediterranean port. But before this spot of Alexandrian real estate was associated with the citadel, it housed something even more famous -- the world-renowned Lighthouse of Alexandria, Pharos, one of the seven ancient wonders of the world. The lighthouse was destroyed by an earthquake in 1303 and Qaitbey used its rubble 150 years later to build the citadel. Local tip: en route to the Citadel, you can stop and see Alexandria's largest mosque, the Abu Al Abbas Al Mursi mosque -- which is also one of Egypt's most beautiful mosques . Lunch Right next to the Citadel is the Greek Club; by far one of the most well-known restaurants in Alexandria, and for good reason -- the view over the Alexandrian harbor is second to none. Its real name is the White and Blue Restaurant, but locals refer it to as the Greek Club. Its menu is a mix of seafood and a few choice Greek dishes, and they serve beer and wine to enjoy alongside the view. Reservations recommended for the outdoor terrace on weekends. For more must-try Alexandrian restaurants, head here . Cavafy Museum/Alexandria National Museum (duration: less than an hour) Alexandria National Museum. Photo credit: Xinhua News If you still have time after lunch before the museums close (around 4:30-5 pm), then you can head to Fouad Street (El Horeya street on Google Maps) and take a quick look at either the Cavafy Museum or the Alexandria National Museum, both on Fouad Street. The Cavafy Museum is dedicated to Greek-Alexandrian poet Constantine Cavafy, who was one of the most prominent poets of the 1920s and 1930s. The Alexandria National Museum is dedicated to the city’s history, with exhibits divided chronologically: pharaonic, Greek, Roman, Christian, Islamic and modern. There’s also a section for underwater monuments (some monuments still exist till present day in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Alex!). Explore Fouad Street When you finish the museums (or if you didn’t manage to see them before closing hours), you can explore Alexandria’s most famous street. Although you’ll find it under ‘El Horeya Road’ on Google Maps (Fouad Street’s new name after the 1952 revolution), locals still refer to it as Fouad Street, named after the former Egyptian king. Fouad Street is a dated piece of Alexandria’s belle epoque, when the city was comprised of harmonious Egyptian, Italian, Greek, French, Armenian, Muslim, Christian and Jewish communities. The architecture, art, shops and even food are a unique melting pot of all the diverse communities, all of whom were Alexandrian first and foremost. It's also home to the Opera House of Alexandria (the Sayed Darwish Theater). Dinner at Fouad Street If you’re hungry, Fouad Street offers a variety of different options, from cozy tavernas like Chez Gaby, to street food pizza at Focacceria or an international food hall at L Passage. Have a drink at a historic bar Cap D'Or While Alexandria isn’t known for its nightlife, there are a few places definitely worth going and have a drink at. Read more: 15 Bars & Nightspots in Alexandria, Egypt There are two especially famous historic bars, Spitfire and Cap D’Or (also known as Sheikh Ali). Spitfire’s been open since 1883, and is a small and basic bar with decades of paraphernalia layering the walls. Cap D’Or/Sheikh Ali has been open for almost 120 years and is also another no-frills establishment, and definitely an experience. DAY 2 Breakfast/Coffee We’re starting off the day in Montazah, and there are several restaurants and cafes there. Zanilli’s is right on the sea but the food is hit and miss, so stick to coffee and something small if you end up there. Montazah (duration: anything from 15 minutes to 1.5 hours) Montazah Palace and its royal gardens have been turned into Montazah Park, situated on the Mediterranean Sea on the eastern side of Alexandria. It was the former summer palace and residence of the Egyptian monarchy; the Salamlik palace was first built as a hunting lodge in 1892 by Khedive Abbas II, then its sister palace Haramlik was added in 1932 by King Fuad. The palaces now aren’t open to the public, but when you pay the park entry fee you can explore the gardens, see the palace exterior, enjoy the sea views and have something to eat or drink at the restaurants and cafes in the park. There’s also a little island accessible by bridge. Royal Jewelry Museum (duration: 1-1.5 hours) A diamond hairpiece that says 'Fawzia' in Arabic. Princess Fawzia was the sister of Egyptian King Farouk and later become Queen of Iran About a 20 minute Uber or cab right from Montazah is the Royal Jewelry Museum, which lives in the former palace of Princess Fatma El Zahraa, built in 1919-1923. The palace is an architectural gem in and of itself, and the royal jewelry collection houses more than 11,000 pieces, some dating back to the rule of Mohammed Ali Pasha, who became Khedive of Egypt in 1805. Besides jewelry, the museum also has on display centuries-old coins, golden clocks, watches, portraits of the royal family in golden frames, dazzling crowns and King Farouk’s walking stick in ebony and gold. Lunch Casino Al Shatby About a 10 minute car ride away is the Casino El Shatby, a once-famous casino that was founded in 1907. Its casino days are over however, and it’s now home to several different restaurants with amazing sea views: Branzino (seafood), Crave (international), Murano (Egyptian/Italian fusion) and Na3 Na3 (Lebanese). Bibliotheca Alexandrina (duration: 1-3 hours) A 15 minute walk away (and a good way to experience Alexandria’s beloved Corniche) is the new Library of Alexandria. The original was an ancient wonder of the world, but was sadly destroyed in the Roman conquest of Alexandria around 2,000 years ago. In 2002 the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina was built as a nod to the ancient library and to recapture the spirit of knowledge and learning. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina has a main library, six specialized libraries, four museums, permanent and temporary exhibitions, a planetarium, an exploratorium, twelve academic research centers and four art galleries. Local tip: the main library is open from 10 am until 7 pm every day except Saturday, when it closes at 2 pm. Fridays are closed all day. Rooftop at the Windsor Palace A pleasant seaside walk from the library to the historical Windsor Palace Hotel (built in 1906) will take you about 20 minutes, and you can stop en route and see the famous Cecil and Le Metropole hotels, both also over 100 years old (for more historical hotels in Egypt, head here ). The Windsor Palace (owned by the Paradise Inn group now) is a bit dated but they have beautiful views on their 6th floor restaurant/cafe terrace and their 7th floor ‘club’. We don’t recommend eating there but it’s a great place to get an aperitif before dinner. Dinner Santa Lucia There are choices galore in this area, considering you’re in what’s considered ‘Downtown’ Alexandria -- and a short walk from the restaurants of Fouad Street as well, so see what strikes your fancy. Some favorites: Santa Lucia or Abou El Sid if you haven’t tried it in Cairo. Drinks at Calithea If you haven’t gotten your fill of very old bars, then walk over to Calithea which is close to the water. Styled after a Greek tavern, Calithea has been open since 1937. While they serve food, most people opt to drink a beer or wine there instead. So there you have it! Some of the best that Alexandria has to offer, condensed into two action-packed days. You might also like: Choosing a Nile Cruise in Egypt - Your Ultimate Guide

Summer is no joke in Cairo; the city seems to almost bake in the heat and we all daydream about throwing ourselves in the nearest cool body of water. Some locals flee the city for the North Coast’s bluer pastures (Egypt’s Mediterranean beaches are some of the best in the world - read more about our world-class beaches here ), but what about those who don’t have the option of heading to the beach? Well, that’s where pools come in. If you’re lucky enough to live or be staying in a compound with a great pool, then what are you reading this for? Go swimming! But if you don’t have access to a pool, or want one in a higher-end setting where someone will bring you a cocktail while you tan, well we have you covered. But first, a few important notes: Note #1: Our favorite day-use hotel of all time, the Marriott Mena House, has cancelled their day-use option :( So if you want to swim in this historical hotel by the Pyramids , you’ll have to stay overnight (I guess there are worse things in the world). Note #2: Obviously most hotels in Cairo have pools, but we only included the ones we personally liked best. For example, we love the Cairo Marriott in Zamalek as a hotel but are not fond of their pool. Now with no further ado, let’s go swimming. Sofitel Gezirah Location: Zamalek Their indoor/outdoor pool isn’t large, but has beautiful views over the Nile. Be sure to check if they have a day use offer currently ongoing, which includes a discount on the spa as well as dining and drinks. Day-use includes: double room, pool access, gym access Day-use hours: 10 am to 6 pm For more info: 02 2737 3737 The Westin Cairo Golf Resort & Spa Location: New Cairo Large pool overlooking the serene greenery of the golf course. They also serve shisha pool-side. Day-use includes: double room & pool access Day-use hours: 10 am to 6 pm For more info: 02 2322 8000 Semiramis Intercontinental Location: Garden City Nile views from the pool, anyone? Day-use includes: double room & pool access Day-use hours: 10 am to 7 pm For more info: 02 2798 8000 JW Marriott Location: New Cairo A good spot to bring your kids, because they have their own man-made ‘beach’ and waterpark (plus a normal pool). Local tip: avoid going on weekends and public holidays because it gets CROWDED. Day-use includes: either a double room or poolside cabana, plus access to all of their pools Day-use hours: 11 am to 7 pm For more info: 02 2411 5588 Steigenberger Pyramids Location: Alexandria Desert Road What better view from a pool than the Pyramids? The Steigenberger is just minutes away from the Pyramids of Giza as well as the Grand Egyptian Museum . Day-use includes: room and pool access For more info: 02 33772555 Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Location: New Cairo Big pool and part of the Marriott Bonvoy group, so they have the same set-up as JW Marriott in the sense that you can either get a room or a poolside cabana. A much less crowded version of the JW Marriott though (no man-made beach or waterpark). Day-use includes: either a double room or poolside cabana Day-use hours: 11 am to 7 pm For more info: 02 2406 3333 Mövenpick Media City Location: 6th of October City A good choice for those who live in the western part of Cairo. It’s also a good spot for kids - they have four pools and water slides. Day-use includes: room and access to all pools Day-use hours: 11 am to 7 pm For more info: 02 3855 5001 You might also like: 7 Best Hotels in Cairo, As Told By Someone Who’s Actually Been To All of Them

Cairo is a sprawling city, with its fair share of traffic (to put it politely). So it makes all the sense in the world to try to stick to the neighborhood you live in/work in when it comes to kicking back with a drink after a long day - after all, you’re trying to de-stress, not add to it by being stuck in traffic for an hour and a half. The western suburb of Sheikh Zayed and (6th of October City as a whole) is about half an hour from central Cairo (Downtown & Zamalek), and has recently started to have a hood amount of both casual pubs and upscale restobars. Below we list some of our personal favorites, in no particular order. Read also: 12 Chill Places in Maadi to Get Dinner & Drinks Read also: 9 Best Restaurant & Bars for Dinner & Drinks in New Cairo Read also: Nightlife in Heliopolis, Cairo: 10 Best Restaurants, Bars and Pubs Cairo Jazz Club 610 The sister venue of Cairo’s longest-lasting and most beloved bar/club, Cairo Jazz Club in Agouza. ‘610’ is how we locals usually refer to the 6 October venue, and what’s great about it is that not only do they have an indoor section for live music, DJs and a happening bar, but a large outdoor terrace where you can enjoy a boozy brunch or dinner as well. Location: El Guezira Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Call to reserve: 01008111330 Sachi Park St. The original Sachi in Heliopolis has been a staple of Cairo fine dining and nightlife for over a decade now (for more Heliopolis night spots, head here ). So it was only a matter of time before they brought their famous Mediterranean fusion, sushi menu and cocktail list to the west of the Cairo - which they did with Sachi Park St. Both indoor and outdoor dining available. Location:  Park Street, El Bostan, Sheikh Zayed Call:   01278666185 Clstr 11 Touted as Cairo's first "bar-hopping experience", Clstr 11 is a big courtyard in Guezira Plaza that has multiple adjacent bars and restobars all sharing the same communal courtyard space. Two of Cairo's most renowned nightlife spots, L'Aubergine and Pub 28, opened branches there, as well as other venues like Zouni, Ouzeri, Sotto, Casa de Farida and Chestnut. The pros are that there are a lot of different choices of where to get a drink and a nice communal feeling, but the con is that the places all start to feel sort of the same. Nice and calm during the day, pretty crowded on weekend nights. Pier 88 Pyramid Hills In the mood for Italian food and wine? Pier 88 rarely lets us down, whether it’s the original El Gouna branch, the Nile-side Zamalek branch or Pier 88 Pyramids Hills in 6 October. Cheap this lounge and restobar is not, but we’re still fans. They offer brunch on weekends from 1 pm (and have a great outdoor section if you want some sun) and dinner and drinks on weekdays and weekends from 7 pm onwards. Location: Pyramid Hills compound Call to reserve : 01208111130 Izakaya Cairo’s first Nikkei restaurant. What’s Nikkei, you ask? It’s Japanese-Peruvian fusion, born from the migrant Japanese community living in Peru and over decades adding their touch to traditional Peruvian dishes. It’s become so beloved and recognized that not only does this fusion have its own name -Nikkei- but it’s actually spread half a world away, all the way to Egypt, thanks to Izakaya. It’s also a beautiful place to chill and have a cocktail. Location: Palm Hills compound, Sheikh Zayed Call to reserve: 0 1271116223 Gigi This place is far more casual than its two predecessors on this list, in terms of both food and setting. Gigi is a place to kick back with a burger, beer and friends, whether in their inside section or outdoor patio. Location: Arkan Plaza & Golf Central Call to reserve: 02 37966344 Read more: 10 Best Restaurants & Cafes in Arkan Plaza Carlo’s What started as a favorite restaurant on Zamalek’s famous Le Pacha 1901 boat, home to several of Cairo’s very best restaurants , became its own breakaway star (the Justin Timberlake of Le Pacha restaurants if you will). The Carlo's in Arkan is a great place for a drink, some good mezze, a shisha, and to watch a football match. Location: Arkan Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Call to reserve: 01122208881 The Tap West Cairo's favorite modern pub. The Tap is known and loved for its live music nights, wings, pub food and laid-back setting. Check out their social media for a heads up on their all-you-can-eat-wings days and happy hours. Location: Galleria 40, Sheikh Zayed Call to reserve: 0 1060000867 Crimson This famous Zamalek restobar opened a second branch in Arkan Plaza, on a rooftop of sorts, with both indoor and outdoor dining, as well as a seated bar. They have the same menu upscale international dishes and an array of cocktails. Location: Arkan Plaza Call to reserve: 01222174270 Esca Cueva Perched atop the New Giza plateau, this design award-winning restaurant and bar serves upscale international food and drinks from 4 pm until 2 am. If you're just going to enjoy the view and food, then try to book a dining slot before 10 pm, when a resident DJ takes over and the restaurant turns into more of a nightspot. Reservations needed (local tip: they're notoriously annoying about answering their reservation line, fingers crossed they get it sorted out soon). For more info: Esca Cueva IG The Smokery Palm Hills Overlooking the golf course in Palm Hills, The Smokery offers an international menu as well as sushi. This indoor/outdoor space offers both high tables for a more cocktail bar feel for night, and lower tables for those in the mood to eat and drink overlooking the view. Location: Palm Hills compound Call to reserve: 01211270078 Mayrig On the joint rooftop of the Crowne Plaza Hotel and the commercial Arkan Plaza, is Egypt's first Armenian restaurant (with lots of Lebanese flair). Mayrig, which means 'little mother' in Armenian, first opened its doors in Beirut, Lebanon and went on to be a smash hit with other Mayrigs opening in Saudi Arabia, Armenia, Maldives and most recently, Egypt. You can order a drink from their bar and enjoy their extensive menu, all with a refreshing breeze that comes from being on a rooftop in Cairo. They're also open for lunch from 1 pm. Location: Crowne Plaza, Sheikh Zayed You might also like: 7 Best Bars, Pubs, Clubs and Other Nightlife Spots in Cairo

Ah, the 90s in Cairo. The good ol’ days of escalope pane in the club and when McDonalds, Pizza Hut and Chili’s were all sparkly and new. While some food icons of the 90s have since died out in Cairo, you might be surprised to find out that a lot of our favorite restaurants from 20+ years ago are actually still alive and kicking. Are they still good? Well, that’s up for you to decide. But in case you feel like taking your stomach for a walk down memory lane, here are some of Cairo’s 90s classics that are still open until today. Read more: Vintage Cairo - 17 of the Oldest Restaurants, Bars & Cafes in the City Disclaimer: in the list below we only included the restaurants that are *homegrown*, before you start asking where KFC’s at. 1. Cortigiano Founded: 1993 Everyone’s favorite restaurant to go to with their parents from back in the day is not only still operational, but also opening new branches. Right now they’re currently in Dokki (this branch is the real OG), City Stars, Maadi, Helio, Nasr City and New Cairo. Cortigiano’s FB page is here . 2. La Casetta Founded: 1985 Who doesn’t remember La Casetta’s pizza? Forget Chicago deep dish, La Casetta’s deep dish was a whole other heavy-as-hell-but-worth-it story. Their current branches are in Dokki, Heliopolis and Nasr City. La Casetta’s FB page is here . 3. Felfela Founded: 1959 Felfela might be a 90s favorite, but that doesn’t mean it opened in the 90s. It’s now over 50 years old and still going strong *knock on wood and all that*. While our 90s favorite Felfelas were the Haram branch (the Felfela Village) and the famous Downtown branch, today you can also find Felfela in Moqattam and there’s also Felfela Express. Their website is here . 4. Andrea Mariouteya Founded: 1958 The Andrea Mariouteya of the 90s should not at all be confused with the cheap knock-off Andreas of today, like the one on the Maadi Corniche. The original classic might be known for the ‘Mariouteya’ in its name, but its new home is now in New Giza. Andrea Mariouteya’s FB page is here . 5. Swiss Restaurants (Le Chantilly, La Chesa, Le Chalet, Le Chateau) Founded: 1976 Ah, the good ol’ Swiss Restaurant group, delivering happiness in steak and cheese form throughout the 90s. Le Chantilly was the darling of the Heliopolis crowd, La Chesa was a Downtown staple, and Le Chalet and Le Chateau were the go-tos for familial outings for those living on the west side of Cairo (and I say familial because we millennials couldn’t really afford going without our parents). The Swiss Restaurants’ FB page is here . 6. Peking Founded: 1962 Did you know that Peking was established in 1962? Sure, it seems like it’s been around forever, but not 50 years forever! Our favorite 90s Chinese restaurant is still going strong, albeit with a lot more competition than back in the day. Their vegetable spring rolls will always have an oily but fond place in our heart though, because those are ~memories~. Peking’s FB page is here . 7. Didos Aldente Founded: 1993 Do you guys remember when Didos opened in Zamalek and a large plate of Arrabbiata pasta was for 7 EGP? *Sob* the good old days indeed. Didos’ FB page is here . 8. Pizza King When you think of Pizza King, one thing and one thing only probably comes to mind: buy one get one free. While it definitely wasn’t the best pizza (Pizza Hut and Domino’s were our 90s heroes), their BOGO offer made it our number one choice when we were a lot of mouths to feed with little funds. Pizza King’s FB page is here . 9. Maison Thomas Founded: 1922 Wait hold up, did any of you know that Maison Thomas is almost 100 years old?! We sure didn’t, and were shocked to say the least when we read their founding date on their FB page. Listen, no matter how many new and shiny pizza spots open in Cairo, Thomas will always be one of our first loves. Maison Thomas’ FB page is here . 10. Lucille’s Founded: 1995 Back in the day before Road 9 in Maadi was the commercial sh*tshow it is now, it used to be a quiet, tree-lined street with only a few restaurants to its name. Lucille’s was one of them -- but actually, its original name was Lucille’s Mermaid Columbus, but they dropped the second part of its name partly due to confusion with the Italian restaurant Mermaid (below), also found on Road 9 in the 90s. And lo and behold, Lucille’s is no longer just a Maadi landmark -- they now have another branch in New Cairo. Lucille’s FB page is here . 11. Mo’men Founded: 1988 Before fast food sandwich places in Cairo were a dime a dozen, there was Mo’men. What started as just one Mo’men restaurant run by three brothers back in the late 80s now has over a dozen branches which serve over 9.5 million customers a year. Mo’men’s FB page is here . 12. Semsema Founded: 1980 Long live the shawerma in a “kaizer” roll. Most people now just order from Semsema, but back in the day you couldn’t find a spot to park in front of it from the moment it opened its doors up until 2 am. Semsema’s FB page is here . 13. Bon Appetit Founded: 1983 All hail the Champion (the sandwich, that is). It was the OG fried chicken sandwich. Bon Appetit’s FB page is here . 14. Rossini Founded: 1993 If you grew up in Heliopolis in the 90s, then you’ll probably remember Rossini as the fancy Italian/seafood restaurant and piano bar for older people dressed up and sipping wine. The good news is that Rossini has just revamped itself and stepped into the 21st century with an awesome new bar and contemporary interior design. Rossini's FB page is here . 15. My Queen Founded: 1984 What started off as almost a food truck of sorts in Gameat el Dawal with extremely sketchy hygiene but a pretty good chicken madghoot sandwich has now become an actual chain with numerous branches. My Queen's FB page is here . 16. Cook Door Founded: 1988 The Super Crunchy Chicken, Viagra sandwich and Friskies fries were good back then and they’re still good now. Cook Door's FB page is here . 17. Wimpy Founded: 1970s (the Egypt branch) Wimpy was a fast food favorite throughout the 80s and 90s in Egypt until it abruptly shut down in 1998 for reasons unknown. Fast forward more than 20 years later to 2021, and to the nation's collective joy, Wimpy comes back with a vengeance (plus a new look & and even an app!). They now have branches all over Cairo, and their burgers and chicken sandwiches are good enough to compete with the big boys dominating the fast food scene (you know who we're talking about). And yes yes, technically Wimpy is not *really* Egyptian (it was founded in the US and now its headquarters are in South Africa) but it's Egyptian in our hearts and minds. Wimpy's FB page is here . 18. El Tabei El Domyati Founded: 1926 Alongside Maison Thomas, El Tabei remains a generational Cairo food institution. It was founded almost 100 years ago, and started serving the falafel/taameya we love so much back in 1939. El Tabei' FB page is here . 19. Chicken Tikka Founded: 1972 Chicken Tikka might be an Americana restaurant, thus Kuwaiti owned, but Chicken Tikka’s very first branch in the world opened right here in Cairo in 1972, so we can’t help but consider it homegrown. Plus, the puri bread. Come on now. That stuff ran in the veins of Egyptians back in the 90s. Chicken Tikka's FB page is here . 20. Abou Shakra Founded: 1947 Another loooong time classic, Abou Shakra was a family destination back in the 90s for whenever we wanted something fresh off the grill (and wanted our parents pay for it). Abou Shakra’s FB page is here . 21. Abou Haidar Just like Semsema has the hearts and souls of shawerma lovers on the west side of Cairo, Abou Haidar was and still is a cult shawerma classic in Korba. Abou Haidar’s FB page is here . You might also like: 14 Egyptian Dessert Shops and Patisseries More Than 50 Years Old

Anyone who’s had a meal overlooking the Nile in Cairo will tell you it’s something you have to do, and as often as possible. Leaving the crowded streets far behind and just looking out at the serene Nile water with its feluccas, windsurfers and twinkling lights at night -- well, it's practically therapy for your eyes as well as your mood. It’s as highly recommended as having the Pyramids of Giza as your dining view. As in - REALLY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Read more: 7 Best Restaurants with Pyramids Views So if you’re looking to have lunch, dinner or just a drink while overlooking the Nile, the world’s longest river, then this is the list for you. Local note: we chose the best restaurants in terms of not only view, but food and ambience as well. You can find good Nile views in places like Biota (Zamalek), Platform (Maadi) and the Revolving Restaurant (Grand Hotel), but we personally don’t like those places because of their subpar food and/or atmosphere and we always want to be 100% honest with our readers when it comes to our recommendations. So here are our personal local Nile view restaurant favorites: Zoe Cuisine: Greek Location: First Nile Boat, Giza The First Nile Boat in Giza is run by the Four Seasons First Residence (right across the street) and is home to five different restaurants, each serving up a different cuisine and spectacular Nile views. Zoe is a Greek taverna on the upper deck of the boat, with a retractable roof to let in the sunlight and river breezes when the weather is nice. Breakfast is available on weekends from 10:00 am. Zoe’s menu . Bar Promenade Cuisine: International Location: Sofitel Gezirah, Zamalek The Sofitel Gezirah is one of our favorite hotels in Cairo mainly for its inimitable location: smack on the tip of the Nile island of Zamalek. Most of their restaurants have an outdoor area right on the water, and a great place to enjoy it is their Bar Promenade. The water is so close you can touch it, and you can order drinks and shisha. If you’re hungry, you can order off nearby La Madeleine’s menu (the hotel’s international cafe which has all your basic staples: salads, appetizers, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, main dishes, etc). Alternatively, if you want more of a proper sit-down dinner, you can sit at Kebabgy, the grills restaurant (which also made our list of our favorite open air restaurants ) or La Palmeraie, Sofitel’s Moroccan restaurant. Both have fantastic Nile views as well. Crimson Cuisine: International Location: Zamalek Crimson is an open-air rooftop restaurant and bar in Zamalek and has some of the best Nile views in the city. It's a great spot to go get dinner and drinks, or just a beer or cocktail at the bar. Their cocktail list is impressive as well, but expensive! Although to be fair, almost all of the entries on this list are on the pricey side - we woke up one day and Cairo was expensive, but that’s a story for a different day lol. Crimson’s food is good as well, landing them also on our list of best Cairo restaurants for locals and tourists alike . La Zisa Cuisine: Italian Location: St. Regis, Nile Corniche The St. Regis is one of Cairo’s newer hotels and it’s right on the Nile Corniche, allowing great views for most of its restaurants. Our personal favorite there is La Zisa, an airy and light Italian restaurant which has ‘Mamma Mia Brunch’ every Friday, and a la carte dining the rest of the time. Their menu has all the Italian classics you’d expect, and they offer something called ‘Tavolozze’, which is where you can order smaller dishes to be shared family style, instead of being just stuck with one main course. La Zisa’s menu. Cafe Frais Cuisine: Egyptian & International Location: Novotel Cairo El Borg, Zamalek On top of the Novotel right next to the Cairo Tower in Zamalek is their rooftop restaurant Cafe Frais. You can also see clear across the Nile and Qasr el Nil Bridge to the Cairo Museum and Tahrir Square. The restaurant serves a wide selection of Egyptian dishes as well as your usual international fare. Local tip: Novotel is a dry hotel though, so Cafe Frais doesn’t serve alcohol. Cafe Frais’ menu . Pane Vino Cuisine: Italian Location: Semiramis Intercontinental, Garden City This Italian restaurant in the Semiramis actually has a little-known outdoor terrace that overlooks the Nile, complete with shisha, on the 2nd floor of the hotel so you’re above the cacophony of the Corniche but still close to the water. The menu is full of Italian classics by their resident Italian chef, and they have an extensive wine list from all over the world. They also have TV screens for matches and offer shisha. The indoor section of the restaurant is a bit more upscale-looking, but without shisha. Pane Vino’s menu . Gingko Cuisine: Asian and intercontinental Location: Fairmont Nile City, Nile Corniche The Fairmont's resident terrace restaurant and bar is Gingko, for those days when you want to enjoy a breeze, a drink and a sunset dinner overlooking the Nile. On weekends they also offer champagne breakfasts, to start your day off right with a breakfast of champions alongside a little bubbly. Gingko's menu. You might also like: 9 Best Rooftop Bars in Cairo

We’ve said over and over how underrated Egypt’s spectacular beaches are , and even then we were talking about our coastal beaches. One of Egypt’s best-kept secrets is actually its Red Sea islands, and we’re almost hesitant to talk about them, that’s how pristine and under the radar they are! Egypt actually has 521 islands off the Red Sea coast, of varying size and location. Most are uninhabited and just specks on the map, but we’re here to shed light on the perfect islands to visit for a day trip of sun, fun, swimming, snorkeling and other beach activities. These islands are usually just an hour or so off the coast, and boat trips are readily available. The boats usually leave the marina in the morning and return before sunset, and it’s a great way to spend the day if you’re in the Red Sea area. You might also like: 8 Best Egyptian Beach Holiday Destinations Giftun Islands Location: Hurghada These two islands are Giftun El Kabeer (Big Giftun) and Giftun el Sagheer (Little Giftun), but Big Giftun is the one where the real action is at because it’s home to beach havens Mahmya and Orange Bay. These daytime destinations offer beach restaurants, bars and water activities as well as bathrooms and showers for those who’ve spent a long day diving or snorkeling and want to kick back and relax. You might also like: Hurghada, Egypt: A Local's Guide For First-Timers Tawila Location: El Gouna Located 24 km off the coast of El Gouna, Tawila Island is an island popular with kitesurfers and those looking to spend the day on a pristine white sand beach. They've also recently opened a hotel there, but if you're going for a day trip via boat, you'll need to bring your own food, drinks and equipment (but please make sure to leave the beaches as pristine as you found them!). White Island Location: Ras Mohamed National Park Around 10 km from Sharm el Sheikh, in the protected Ras Mohamed marine park, is a white sandbar island called (for obvious reasons) White Island. This plateau is where the waters from the Gulf of Suez meet the waters of the Gulf of Aqaba in the Red Sea, and sitting on the island you can see Africa to your left and Asia to your right. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing and you can easily reach it by boat from Sharm or Ras Mohamed. Read more: 12 Best Things to Do in Sharm El Sheikh Bayoud Photo credit: Omar Refaat Location: El Gouna Bayoud is a sandbank about 2 km from the shores of El Gouna, so while it’s not technically an island in the literal sense, it serves the exact same purpose when it comes to Red Sea day trips. Because it's so close to the Gouna shore, any small motor boat or catamaran or mini yacht can anchor in Bayoud; it's common to see people boat hopping and socializing between the anchored boats. Others who are looking to get away from it all can sit and sunbathe in the warm shallow water around the sandbank and swim in the crystal clear water. People usually bring their music, food and drinks and spend a day on and off the boat. Read more: El Gouna - A Local's Guide Qulaan Islands Location: Wadi El Gemal National Park Qulaan Islands are an archipelago of four islands in a protected bay in the Wadi El Gemal National Park in Egypt’s Deep South, less than an hour away from Marsa Alam. These empty, remote islands are known for their mangrove trees and ecosystem built around the mangroves; marine life flourishes under the trees and it’s a great bird-watching spot. You can take a boat from the Hamata marina and spend a few hours picnicking, swimming and snorkeling on the islands. Read more: 10 Best Things to Do in Marsa Alam Gubal Island Location: El Gouna Close to Tawila Island is Gubal Island, a popular snorkeling and diving spot due to the Straits of Gubal. The Straits of Gubal is where the water from the Gulf of Suez meets the Red Sea, leading to lots of nutrient-rich currents over shallow areas, which attracts tons of marine life. Besides the underwater action, Gubal also has pristine white beaches where you can set up BBQs and beach activities for the day. Shadwan Location: Northeast of El Gouna One of the largest islands in the Red Sea, Shadwan used to be an Egyptian military base and was the target of an Israeli heliborne raid in 1970. Most buildings were demolished except the Shadwan Lighthouse, which was built in 1889, and until today the island remains empty save for divers, fishers and other Red Sea Riviera tourists. You might also like: Red Sea Riviera - Where To Stay

Egypt’s Red Sea has been making waves (horrible dad joke unintended) for decades now as one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world. Know what else Egypt is one of the best at, that not a lot of people know about? Kitesurfing! Unexpected by visitors, but true. Not only are Egypt’s Red Sea conditions ideal for kitesurfing/kiteboarding almost year-round, but Egypt is recognized internationally by kitesurfing experts to be one of the best kitesurfing spots in the world . And who are we to argue with the experts? It’s true though, Egypt has a multitude of professional kite centers dotted up and down its coasts, with all the ideal wind and water conditions, equipment, amenities and agreeable weather that any kitesurfer of any level (yes even beginners) could want. So let’s take a quick look at the best kitesurfing/kiteboarding spots in Egypt: El Gouna El Gouna is a Red Sea resort town spanning over 10 km of pristine Red Sea coast, with lagoons throughout, and their architecture is inspired by traditional Egyptian homes in the countryside and Upper Egypt. It’s a town equally as popular with Egyptians as it is with tourists. Read more: El Gouna, Egypt - A Local’s Guide El Gouna has several kitesurfing schools and centers, on large flat lagoons with steady on-shore wind. The water temperature is around 29 degrees celsius during summer months and drops to 20 degrees in winter, meaning you can kitesurf year-round. The kitesurf centers also have adjacent beach bars, great for something to eat or drink after a long kitesurfing session. Ras Sudr Photo credit: iksurfmag.com Ras Sudr (pronounced Ras Sedr) is the first Red Sea Riviera destination you’ll hit when you cross over from mainland Egypt to the Sinai Peninsula. It’s a small stretch of coast on the Gulf of Suez inlet of the Red Sea, and only recently began to rise in popularity due to its ideal kitesurfing conditions. The average wind speed is 16 knots to 25 knots, even going up to 30 knots in September when it’s at its windiest. The overall conditions are at their best from March through to November (so basically spring through to fall), with the water being flat shallow lagoons. Ras Sudr is still pretty underdeveloped, but you’ll find a handful of beach hotels to stay at. Most people spend their days at the various kite centers which also double up as restaurants/beach bars. A few of the popular kite centers/beach restaurants are Soul, Matarma Bay and Fly. Blue Lagoon in Dahab Photo credit: iksurfmag.com Dahab is a small bohemian town on the Sinai Peninsula and is popular for its diving and seaside promenade, full of local and quirkily-named restaurants and shops. The Blue Lagoon is a beautiful but remote beach camp spot north of Dahab. It's very bare bones -- huts on the beach and no electricity, so perfect for unplugging after a long day of kitesurfing. What makes Dahab a great kitesurfing spot is that there’s constant wind - it’s on the Gulf of Aqaba, which works as a wind funnel down the coast until it opens up into the Red Sea. Blue Lagoon especially is great for kitesurfers because of its expanse of shallow, calm water. The kite centers in Dahab can easily arrange to transport you and your equipment (rented or otherwise) to Blue Lagoon or any other more remote kiteboarding site. Red Sea Islands off of Hurghada Hurghada was named one of Trip Advisor’s Top 10 Most Popular Destinations , and for good reason. The beaches and beach resorts there are fantastic, and there’s activities galore. One activity that’s been picking up in popularity is kitesurfing, and there are several Red Sea islands off Hurghada that offer the exact water and wind conditions that kiteboarders need. Boat trips and kiting trips are easily arranged from the Hurghada marina. Popular kitesurfing islands are Tawila, Geisum and Abu Minqar. Read more: 7 Red Sea Islands Perfect For A Boat Day Trip Read more: Hurghada, Egypt - A Local Guide For First-Timers Soma Bay Photo credit: 7BFT Kite House Soma Bay A peninsula jutting into the Red Sea, Soma Bay is south of Hurghada and technically part of the Safaga area (below), but it’s deserving of its own ranking on this list. Because it’s surrounded by the sea on three sides, Soma Bay is famous for its water sports, especially kitesurfing and windsurfing, due to its steady winds (more than 300 days of wind a year!) and its bay of warm, shallow water. Tobia Island off the coast of Soma Bay is also a popular kitesurfing spot. Soma Bay is home to only a handful of beach resorts, so it’s a good place to go if you want to avoid the crowds found in other popular Red Sea Riviera destinations (Hurghada, Sharm el Sheikh, etc). There are multiple kitesurf centers dotted around the resorts offering everything from lessons for beginners to rental equipment for the more experienced. Read more: Soma Bay, Egypt - Travel Guide For First-Timers Safaga Photo credit: Ion Club Safaga Like we said above, Soma Bay is technically a part of the larger Safaga area, but locals usually refer to Soma Bay as the peninsula and then the southern Red Sea coast underneath it as Safaga. A small port town, Safaga differs dramatically from the rest of the mainland Red Sea Riviera destinations -- while most of them are modern towns completely dedicated to tourism, Safaga as a port town has existed for over 2,000 years, dating back to the Ptolemaic days when it was called Philotera. Safaga these days is known mainly for its diving, kitesurfing and other water sports. (Although it’s also starting to garner recognition for its natural therapy , like its black sand treatments). Safaga’s beaches and kite centers cater to all kitesurfing levels, and like Soma Bay, Tobia island off the coast is a popular morning spot due to its ideal wind conditions. Wadi Lahami The most remote destination on this list, Wadi Lahami is a small village in what’s known as the Deep South of Egypt. It’s sandwiched between mountains and the Red Sea, surrounded by nature, and the closest city to it is Marsa Alam, about 180 km to the north, and the small town of Hamata is about 10 km north. Read more: 10 Best Things to Do in Marsa Alam Wadi Lahami is essentially an ecolodge/camp and diving center, but is also a perfect place for kitesurfers who are looking to get away from it all. They have a kite center right on the beach, in front of a sandy bottom lagoon. You can swim year-long, and only from November to April do you need a thin wetsuit; the water is so warm the rest of the year that you can kite in your normal swimsuit. After kiting is over, you can grab something to drink at the kite center’s beach bar, and your accommodation options are either tents, royal tents, or deluxe chalets. You May Also Like: 7 Extreme Adventure Experiences in Egypt for Adrenaline Junkies

Founded over 2,000 years ago, Alexandria is an even older city than Cairo , which is what makes this seaside city so special; it’s an ancient modern city (yes this is an oxymoron, but it’s true). Read: Sightseeing in Alexandria: 15 Best Things To See and Do And while obviously Alexandria’s hotels today aren’t ancient, many are significant in modern Egyptian history, which adds an extra element of intrigue to what would otherwise be a regular hotel stay. Here are our favorite Alex hotels: Steigenberger Cecil Star rating: 4 stars Founded in 1929, the Cecil Hotel was originally a ‘romantic’ colonial-style hotel opened by a Jewish French-Egyptian family, the Metzgers. It was extremely popular in its heyday and hosted everyone from Umm Kalthoum to Josephine Baker and Al Capone. During World War II, it was used as headquarters for British Intelligence. Monty Bar, named after Field Marshal Montgomery who would frequent the Cecil's bar Now managed by the international hotel chain Steigenberger, the Cecil has an enviable location near the Alexandrian harbor and is walking distance from the National Museum of Alexandria and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Steigenberger Cecil's website . Four Seasons Alexandria at San Stefano Star rating: 5 stars If you’re looking for seaside luxury in Alexandria, then the Four Seasons is the place for you. Besides the awesome sea views, they have a private sandy beach for people who want to experience swimming in the Mediterranean. Like you’d expect from a Four Seasons, they have an outdoor infinity pool and an indoor heated pool for the colder months (Alexandria, unlike the rest of Egypt, is known for its rain in winter). They also have a two-storey spa and nine different restaurants and bars. Four Seasons Alexandria's website . Paradise Inn Le Metropole Star rating: 4 stars Even though the hotel Le Metropole was built in 1902 by Greek and Italian architects, the history regarding the piece of land where the hotel was built is *much* older. Like, around 2,000 years older! Cleopatra, the last pharaoh of Ancient Egypt who probably needs no introduction, built the Caesareum of Alexandria, a temple to honor her lover Julius Caesar. After her suicide, Roman emperor Augustus turned the Caesareum into his own cult temple, and brought over two obelisks from Heliopolis to adorn the exterior. Even though it was Augustus who had brought them over, they became known as ‘Cleopatra’s Needles’. The hotel that was built where the obelisks once stood is none other than Le Metropole, and instead of the Caesareum, there’s now a statue of Saad Zaghloul, a nationalist leader. The hotel today is dated but still carries a lot of its original turn of the 20th century charm, as well as original paintings and antiques. They have a rooftop restaurant with awesome sea views. Paradise Inn Le Metropole's website. Hilton Alexandria Corniche Star rating: 5 stars Like its name suggests, the Hilton Alexandria Corniche is right on the famous Alexandria coastal street. Similar to the Four Seasons, it has its own private beach ideal for summer months. Besides the beach, it has a rooftop view with great sea views, plus five different restaurants. Its location is also ideally central and walkable to several different attractions like the National Museum. Hilton Alexandria Corniche's website . Paradise Inn Windsor Palace Star rating: 4 stars Founded in 1906, the Windsor Palace was in quite the enviable location back 100 years ago -- it was close to the Ramleh train station and Alexandria’s old port harbor, as well as the shopping district and seaside promenades. Since it was right on the Mediterranean Sea, it was definitely more of a ‘resort hotel’ back in the day than it is now. Like Le Metropole, the current hotel that stands today has seen much better days, but holds on to its original paintings, antiques and choice furnishings, to give modern guests a feel of what the hotel was like back in its golden days. They’re also known for their rooftop restaurant and bar with panoramic sea views. Paradise Inn Windsor Palace's website . Hilton Alexandria Green Plaza Star rating: 5 stars Our second Hilton entry on the list. More of a business hotel than a resort one, the Hilton Alexandria Green Plaza was voted ‘Egypt’s Leading Conference Hotel’, so it’s a good choice if you’re in town on business. They have an outdoor and indoor pool, seven restaurants and bars, and are adjacent to a large mall with over 300 stores plus a cinema. Hilton Alexandria Green Plaza's website . Helnan Palestine Star rating: 5 stars This hotel, located in the former royal palace grounds of El Montaza, was built in 6 months in 1964 under orders from President Gamal Abdel Nasser. He wanted to build a hotel specifically to house all the Arab royalty, heads of state and dignitaries who were flying to Alexandria to attend the second ever Arab League Summit, and needless to say, he wanted to provide the very best in luxury, comfort and views; he handpicked the location of the hotel himself. It was at this summit that they formally approved the establishment of the Palestinian Liberation Organization (hence the name of the hotel). For the 2002 opening of the new Library of Alexandria, or Bibliotheca Alexandrina, presidents, royalty and celebrities flew in to attend and stayed at the Helnan Palestine, including Jacques Chirac, Sofia the Queen of Spain, and Rania the Queen of Jordan. Helnan Palestine's website . You might also like: 7 Must-Try Restaurants in Alexandria

Because Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, most non-Egyptians are unaware that Egypt has some of the oldest and most historically significant churches , cathedrals and monasteries in this part of the world. You don’t need to be Egyptian or even Christian to appreciate the history of these centuries-old places of worship, or the beauty of the more modern ones. While many of these churches can be found in Coptic Cairo (here's our full guide to Coptic Cairo ), some are in more… remote places (Sinai mountains, anyone?). But whatever the destination, each of these churches, cathedrals and monasteries should be visited at least once. 1. The “Cave Church” - Monastery of St. Simon the Tanner Location: Moqattam, Cairo Established: 1975 This awesome cave church (or technically, ‘churches’ -- the St. Simon monastery complex has seven churches) is unlike anything else we have in Egypt. Carved into the Moqattam Hills, the main monastery hall can hold over 20,000 people and was named after the Coptic Saint Simon, who, according to legend, moved the Moqattam mountain in 979 AD as proof of the strength of his beliefs. The cave church was built by the Zabbaleen community of Cairo’s Garbage City, and today is not only a religious spot but an educational center, kindergarten and school for the deaf. 2. St. Catherine’s Monastery Location: Mount Sinai, Sinai Peninsula Established: 6th century AD Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site (for other Egyptian heritage sites, head here ), the Orthodox Saint Catherine Monastery is the oldest Christian monastery in the world still used for its original function. Interior of St. Catherine's According to UNESCO: “Its walls and buildings are of great significance to studies of Byzantine architecture and the Monastery houses outstanding collections of early Christian manuscripts and icons. The rugged mountainous landscape, containing numerous archaeological and religious sites and monuments, forms a perfect backdrop to the Monastery.” St. Catherine's Monastery is at the foot of Mt. Sinai , where it's believed by the Abrahamic religions that Moses found the Burning Bush and received the 10 Commandments. 3. Wadi Natrun Monasteries Location: Wadi Natrun Valley, northwest of Cairo Established: 4th century AD More than 1600 years ago, Saint Macarius of Egypt decided to build his monastery in the Natrun valley, known for its large alkali lakes. This attracted the attention of other Christian monks and hermits, who then decided to settle in Natrun as well, establishing four large early Christian developments. The four Wadi Natrun Coptic monasteries that are still active to this day are: The Monastery of Saint Macarius The Monastery of Saint Bishoy The Paromeos Monastery The Syrian Monastery All of the four can be seen and visited until today free of charge, but leaving a donation is always helpful in preserving these historic sites. 4. The Heavenly Cathedral Location: Sharm el Sheikh Established: 2010 This modern church was considered by some one of the most beautiful in the world upon its completion over ten years ago, and is now an unexpected must-see for many Sharm el Sheikh visitors. The exterior is simple, but the interior took a team of 19 people two years to create. There are frescoes and murals, and the walls depict Biblical scenes such as The Creation and Exodus, and on the ceiling there’s St. John’s vision of The Apocalypse. 5. The “Hanging Church” - Coptic Church of St. Virgin Mary Location: Coptic Cairo Established: 690 AD One of the most famous churches in Egypt, The Hanging Church is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Historic Cairo . It got the name of ‘Hanging Church’ (or ‘Suspended Church’ in Arabic, ‘El Moallaqa’) because of its location above a Roman fortress gatehouse. When it was first built the pillars of the gatehouse would have been easily seen, creating the ‘hanging’ effect of the church, but now are buried due to the rise of the ground over the past 1300 years. The church is believed to be the first basilica style church built in Egypt, and houses 110 icons, most made of ebony and some inlaid with ivory, the oldest and holiest dating back to the 8th century. 6. Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral Location: Alexandria Established: the current cathedral is recent, but it’s said to stand on the site of a church built by St. Mark himself in 60 AD. This cathedral is of importance to Coptic Christians because it’s the historical seat of the Pope of Alexandria, head of the Coptic Orthodox Church. St. Mark the Evangelist was the author of the second Gospel and arrived in Alexandria in 60 AD, when he built his church (where the current cathedral now stands). In his seven year stint in Alexandria, he converted many to Christianity and is considered the founder of the Church of Alexandria and the first Bishop of Alexandria. He was buried under the church he founded. The current cathedral was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times since the death of St. Mark. 7. St. Anthony’s Monastery Location: Red Sea mountains, near Hurghada Established: 356 AD St. Anthony was one of the most famous “Desert Fathers”, a group of Christian monks who lived in the Eastern Egyptian desert in the 3rd century. He was roaming the desert when he came across an oasis surrounded by trees, and it was in this spot that he was later buried and his monastery built a few years later. Today St. Anthony’s Monastery is the oldest inhabited Christian monastery in the world and is home to paintings dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries, as well as 1,700 ancient documents. 8. Church of St. George (Mar Girgis) Location: Coptic Cairo Established: 10th century One of the few round churches built in Egypt, St. George’s is built on top of an ancient Roman Tower that connects to the monastery below. The interior of the church is known for its stained glass and rich woodwork. St. George’s is one of the only still-active churches in the Coptic Cairo area, and is considered the principle Greek Orthodox church in Egypt. Visitors of all religions are welcome any time, except to the monastery, which is closed to the public. 9. Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church (Abu Serga) Location: Coptic Cairo Established: 4th century The Abu Serga church is believed to be built on the spot where the Holy Family (Joseph, Mary, and infant Jesus Christ) stopped and rested towards the end of their journey to Egypt. The spot is now the crypt of the church, 10 meters deep. It’s also believed that they might have lived here while Joseph was working at the Babylon fortress in what is now modern-day Coptic Cairo -- the fortress’ enclosure today includes the Coptic Museum and a few churches, like the previously mentioned Hanging Church and Mar Girgis. Abu Serga is also of importance because it’s where many patriarchs of the Coptic Church were elected, the first being Patriarch Isaac in in 681 AD. Want more beautiful religious sites in Egypt? Check out the 10 most beautiful mosques in Egypt .