Earthblog

Cairo, Egypt - a cacophony of noise, a melee of vibrant colour, home to some of the world’s greatest historic treasures including the renowned pyramids.

In Cairo it often feels like this great city is an intriguing melting pot of age-old history and modern life. Cairo is a mass of people, traffic and animals with a skyline of ancient monuments and modern buildings punctuated by the timeless river Nile, which flows through the city simultaneously uniting and dividing it.

Most people stay in Cairo hotels for its proximity to the wonders of the ancient world, and there's no better base to see the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the excellent Egyptian Museum. This modern metropolis still oozes history, with hotels in Cairo close to the Coptic Churches, Ancient Mosques, and Saladin's grand Citadel. The Nile runs through the heart of the city, and there's no better way to watch the sun set than gliding past on a Felucca, a traditional Egyptian boat. But whether you choose hotels in Cairo on the banks of the Nile, or with unrivalled views of the Pyramids, make sure you check out the modern delights of Africa's largest city. Visit the new Residence Shopping Centre, the scenic Botanic Gardens, or cross the desert on horse-back.

Just walking around downtown and in the older residential parts inside the wall of the city where craftsmen work on the sidewalks outside their homes is also a real pleasure. It is easy to meet real Cairenes that are eager to discuss anything with you. Some of them try to lure you into their carpetshop; others are really interested and interesting to talk with.

If you are hungry make sure to try the most popular Egyptian dish, Koshray. Koshray is a traditional Egyptian meal that consists of a delectable combination of macaroni, spaghetti, rice, black lentils, chick peas, garlic sauce and a spicy tomato chili sauce, all topped with fried onions.

Cairo is a vibrant city of contrasts located on the banks of the Nile River. A holiday in Cairo offers an exciting mix of ancient and modern. In the bustling heart of the city you will find modern high rises and shopping malls and the elegant riverside Corniche which is lined with luxury hotels and restaurants. To the east of the city is the Citadel which features medieval palaces, minarets and mosques as well as the famous Kahn el Khalili Bazaar.

Cairo offers a variety of experiences; you can explore the ancient wonders of Giza and Memphis, sail the Nile in a traditional felucca, bargain for souvenirs at a bazaar or see the ancient treasures of Tutankhamun at the Egyptian Museum. By night, there are many theatres, restaurants and nightclubs to choose from and the Pyramids Sound and Light Show is a real highlight. A Cairo holiday is a truly unforgettable experience.

Cairo, historical and unique city, combinds old city and modern city. I enjoyed a lot travering around this city. One of the most surprising things for me, a Japanese traveler, is the price which is not fixed from taxi to a bottel of water. So I had to ask the price first and start negociating for discount. To me who traveled many countries, people in Cairo is the hardest negociator for free travelar. I was very tired. But still, Cairo is worth to go, I think, because of its historical heritage.