By Rosemary D. Cora
Cairo
Egypt
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The city of Cairo, Egypt is one of the oldest cities in the world to visit. It is the capital of Egypt and is located in North Africa on the banks of the Nile River. Egypt, the Land of the Pharaohs and home to pyramids and temple ruins dating back over 5,000 years can be visited easily with arrangement s made through EsacapeWizard.com; click here to book your flight (www.escapewizard.com/flight.php). Staying in Cairo can be made easier by choosing from the many hotels in the city and EscapeWizard can make those arrangements for you (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl).

Cairo, with a population of over 17 million people, is the largest city in Africa. Its name in Arabic (Al-Quhirah) means “the Triumphant”.  Over the centuries, it has been governed by Pharaohs, Caliphs, Romans, Turkish khedives, British and French colonizers, and finally achieved self-government after WWII.  Cairo has many historic sites that will intrigue any tourist.  EscapeWizard.com can take you to this exciting city.

The modern city of Cairo was founded around 969 AD, as a result of an invasion by Muslims from Tunisia. However, today, Cairo is considered a hub of trade with Europe, Asia, and Africa. Let EscapeWizard.com take you to Cairo, one of the most frequented tourist destinations in Egypt and the perfect place from which to explore the rest of Egypt , such as day trips to the Valleys of the Kings and Queens, Luxor, Aswan, or Alexandria with the help of arrangements made through EscapeWizard.com.

The Pyramids are one of the most popular attractions of Cairo. Egyptian pharaohs began the projects of building their pyramids immediately they ascended the throne for two reasons. First, Egyptian religion was focused on the afterlife, rather than on the present day, hence the pyramids. The second reason for the early start on their tombs was that the building of such an edifice could take as long as 20 years.

There are some hundred pyramids strung along the western bank of the Nile, the most famous one being the Great Pyramid of Giza. It is one of the oldest, largest, and best preserved of all the pyramids in Egypt, consisting of 2 million limestone blocks, and taking about 20 years to construct. Two smaller pyramids are its immediate neighbors, and it is guarded by The Sphinx.  After visiting the Great Pyramid, it is always fun to enjoy camel and camel-cart rides around the area.

The Museums in Cairo are plentiful, but the most visited is the Cairo Museum, which contains the largest and the finest collection of Egyptian and Graeco-Roman artifacts in the world. While there are other museums to visit in Cairo, this one could take you weeks to explore. 

The Citadel and The Cairo Tower are great places to spend an entire day. The Citadel is home to museums, mosques and other sites. This is a wonderful place to have a bird’s eye view of the entire city.  Also, not to be missed is the Cairo Tower, located on an island in the Nile and providing fascinating views of the city. Feeling hungry?, there is a revolving restaurant at the top of the tower.

Mosques are an important part of life in Egypt and those in Cairo are no exception. The An-Nasir Mohammed Mosque dates back to the early 14th century and stands adorned with exquisite Mameluke architecture. Barquqiya Mosque El-Azhar Mosque, another architectural beauty forms one of the leading educational centers of the Islamic World. Other major mosques include the Ibn Tulun Mosque, Cairo’s 2nd largest mosque... A trip to these and other beautiful mosques should not be overlooked and one can always be arranged through Escape Wizard.com

On the other hand, Egypt is also the home to millions of Coptic Christians, who despite recent events, generally seem to be at peace with their Muslim neighbors. For those interested in exploring this vital Christian community’s way of life in a majority Islamic state, EscapeWizard.com can provide details.

Though Cairo is a historical city, it does not mean that Cairo lacks a pulsating nightlife. Whether you want to dance to the beats of jazz or rock, love to try your luck at the casino or are simply content with sipping your drink, Cairo will not disappoint you. Those interested in theater, the National Cultural Center holds opera and ballet performances, while the Cultural Palace Sector woos visitors with its cultural shows. If you are game for folk performances and circus, the State Theatre is the place to head.

Visiting Cairo is never complete without a trip to the Khan al-Khalili bazaar, which is one of the largest markets in the world. A tourist can find an amazing variety of things to bring back home. Remember, it is always good manners to bargain when you can in Egypt.
Hotels in Cairo
By Chrystyne Jackson
Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa
El Remaya Square-Pyramids, Cairo, Egypt
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A visit to Egypt brings to mind adventure. Make your visit extra special by staying at Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel and Spa. This beautiful location boasts 633 rooms and suites, most with spectacular view of the great Pyramids. Guests can make use of the express check-in and check-out service.

Rooms at Le Méridien are large, and designed with comfort and taste. They are available in smoking or non-smoking preference.  Guests can make use of the laundry or dry cleaning service. There is also on site currency exchange available.

The hotel has an on site spa with tanning beds and massage treatments. If shopping is on the agenda visit the Shopping Arcade, jewelry shop, florist and gift shop. For a personal touch up there is a beauty salon at your convenience. Your exercise needs can be met at the health and fitness center. In season, guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, complete with cabana rentals. For those who enjoy golf, there is a golf course nearby. If you are traveling with children, there is a child’s pool and playground. Or you can take advantage of the hotel’s babysitting service. Dining selections include the 24-hour Latest Recipe Restaurant, which serve international buffets and a la carte items, Laredo Tex Mex, serving Mexican cuisine from 6 p.m. until 1 a.m., the Citrus Pool Bar, which features light snacks, or the Harris Café and Pastry Shop, open from 7 a.m. until 1 a.m. and also serving light snacks. The Sphinx and the Giza Pyramid are within walking distance. The hotel is just 20 minutes from Cairo’s city center.

Make your visit to Cairo memorable with a stay at Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel and Spa. EscapeWizard.com can assist with booking your hotel reservations. Just click on this link (www.escapewizard.com/hotels.php?flag=htl) to get started today.