Holy Lands Cruise - Egypt

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Our 12-night Holy Lands cruise certainly did not disappoint as each destination offered something new and exciting. 

Through the particular cruise line we cruised with, and the itinerary we were on, it was possible to book an overnight tour of Egypt with an overnight stay in a hotel in Cairo.  This would be an excellent choice for those who want to see as much as possible over two days.

Port Said, Egypt:  Gateway to the Suez Canal.  The tour we elected to take included the Great Pyramids and a cruise on the Nile that included lunch and live entertainment.  The ride to Giza (outside of Cairo and site of the pyramids) was a long 2 ½ to 3 hours in duration in both directions.  We could see cargo ships in the near distance as we rode on the highway that paralleled the Suez Canal.  We can see the poverty of the farmers and villages.  Homes of people that were in shambles.  Incomplete and covered with palm leaves or other vegetation. Small dusty villages with small stores and gas stations.   It is said that the Egyptians do not need to pay property taxes until their homes are completely built.

We had onboard our bus an armed security agent as our escort, as well as armed guards on jeeps driving in and around our convoy of buses.  Anyone who might have any plans to harm us probably would not stand a chance.  This has been a protocol that has been instituted for years.  Even before the recent political uprisings.

Giza, and the Great Pyramids:  The pyramids are located in the Sahara Desert outside the city of Cairo.   The temperatures at the pyramids were a sweltering hot, but dry, 110-115 degrees Fahrenheit. Although hot, it did not feel too bad as it is a dry heat and there is usually a breeze.

It is exciting to be able to see these magnificent man-made wonders.  It is fun to say that you were there.

At the pyramids is a great opportunity to take a camel ride.  Be sure to take the ride from a camel herdsman/handler suggested by your tour guide, or you can be setting yourself for a very expensive scam.  Instead of $3 for a short trip for a panoramic picture of the three large pyramids, it can cost you ten times or more than that.  If you would like the young man to take a picture of you while you are on the camel, be sure to ask if he wants a tip for doing so – usually a dollar.  If not, you may not get your camera back without paying $50 for it. 

Pick-pockets are everywhere - as there are in most countries that are economically challenged.  So watch your valuables.  Better yet, leave everything on the bus but a few dollars for the plastic or wood souvenirs being peddled by the people.  One can take a walk into the second or largest pyramid for about $6 at the time of travel.  The ceiling is very low, and one must walk bent over for about a 15 minute walk toget to a large empty room that once contained the mummy and all of its earthly possessions  It is said to be very warm in the pyramid and oxygen levels low, and you are not allowed to take pictures once you get to the main chamber.  So think twice if you have back or breathing problems.

Cairo, Egypt:    The city of Cairo was very dirty, with the exception of the tourist area.  Incomplete buildings, trash thrown all over the place.   Dogs, cats and animals laying all over the place.  It was fun to watch the people go about their daily activities.  Sheep farmers with their herd on the side of the road and on the sidewalk waiting for customers.  Carriages holding watermelons, grains, and vegetables lining the streets.

The lunch cruise on the Nile was good and an opportunity to enjoy the music and dance of this area.  It was located in the more affluent/ tourist part of Cairo.  A buffet lunch was served, and we were entertained by Egyptian folklore dancers, singers and musicians.

After a long day, we returned by to the ship to be greeting by various officers of the ship, and waiters offering cold washcloths, and cold juice and water.  It was so nice to be home again, but to a surprise.  The cruise line had brought aboard a troupe of Egyptian folklore dancers to entertain everyone who was on the ship at the time and to give those who elected to stay on the ship a taste of Egypt.

Alexandria, Egypt.  After the pyramids and Cairo, this area just didn’t seem to offer much in comparison.  We did not venture out or take a tour.  The main highlight for this port is the library.  It was a holy day, and the museum was closed on the day we arrived.  We were still tired from our long day, yesterday.  The port area itself was beautiful, clean, and offered a few vendors to shop from for last minute Egyptian souvenirs.  This area was well secured.

Considering the recent boycott of Egypt, due to political civil disturbances, we felt very safe and secure.  It was understood that there was a risk of our tours being cancelled, and if things were really bad, we would not go to Egypt or that city at all.  It was stressed that people should not venture out on their own, as they do not know the area, the people, or the language and can find themselves in great danger.

Tourism is very important to the Egyptians, and they will do everything that they can to ensure your safety and security.  Again, I cannot stress enough how safe we felt and how well we were taken care of by the tour company and the cruise line.

Check out our pictures on our Facebook page by clicking here.  Then go to photos>>albums.

For more information on exciting trips to Egypt, please contact Cruise Planners - Cruise Pros Plus.  We offer excelelnt service, and offer tips and suggestions that can enhance your total experience.  All at no additional cost to you.  Toll Free:  1-888-948-8747  940-453-8904