We have some exciting news! The New York Times has selected Egypt for the number 17 spot on the annual list, “52 Places to Go in 2020.” Travel journalist Seth Sherwood writes, “the Egyptians are building like the pharaohs to finish the massive and much-anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum in time for its scheduled gala opening later this year.” The launch of this new, exciting museum is reason enough to visit Egypt in 2020–– the vast trove will exhibit 100,000 artifacts––but this long-awaited event is not the only reason to travel in the coming year to the city of a thousand minarets.
Sherwood explains that “visiting Cairo will be easier than ever, courtesy of the new Sphinx International Airport and hotels like the 366-room St. Regis Cairo, set to open in June.” Egypt is undoubtedly a hot destination in the new decade––it was also mentioned as a top place to travel in 2020 by Forbes, The Independent, BBC Travel, and National Geographic.
Ideal for the most discriminating traveler, The St. Regis Cairo will inevitably introduce a new level of luxury to the bustling capital city. The lavish hotel will feature 366 rooms and suites, ten restaurants, a 10,000-square-foot spa, and of course, the brand’s signature 24-hour butler service. Accommodations promise elegance, stellar service, sweeping views of the Nile and Old Cairo. Stay at The St. Regis Cairo, said to be a 6-Star hotel, and experience the opulent side of Egypt. Certain Egypt luxury tours may offer The St. Regis Cairo as a hotel option. Inquire when booking.
The recently opened National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC), the first museum dedicated to the civilization of Egypt from prehistory to modern day is another draw. Located in Fustat, an ancient city in Cairo, the building consists of the large core, six thematic galleries, and the Gallery of Royal Mummies, as well as temporary exhibits.
Also recommended by Sherwood, the Necropolis of Saqqara is an impressive archaeological site showcasing the most extensive collection of Egyptian tombs from antiquity. Serving as the burial ground for the ancient city of Memphis, this UNESCO World Heritage Site on the west bank of the Nile just 20 miles from Cairo houses the famed Step Pyramid of Djoser, among other pyramids.
Most Egypt tour packages will dedicate some time to Cairo. Spending several days in downtown brings plenty of opportunities to see the many mosques, churches, and cultural sites. You’ll also be surrounded by delicious Egyptian food like the national dish, Koshari, a mixture of rice, lentils, pasta, onions, and spices, as well as the souks, perfect for picking up souvenirs. That’s one more reason why Egypt selected for the New York Times “52 Places to Go in 2020”
Not a city person? Egypt explodes with history and culture, stunning landscapes, and dreamy beaches. The country’s other jewels such as Sharm El Sheikh, a vacation spot beloved for its sandy beaches and coral reefs, Hurghada, a coastal resort town hugging the Red Sea, as well as Aswan, Abu Simbel, and Luxor, offer unique adventures miles away from the busyness of Cairo. These are all great reasons why Egypt selected for the New York Times “52 Places to Go in 2020”
A gateway from Northern Africa to the Middle East, Egypt can easily be combined with a trip to Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey, and other countries in the region. A custom itinerary may work depending on your interests.
Is this the year you’ll visit Egypt? Take a look at some of our best Egypt Tours in 2020.
