The vast grandeur and beauty of this ancient land is evident in the lofty heights of Mt Sinai, the silent depths of the Red Sea, the ancient tombs of Luxor and the open expanses of the Siwa Oasis. In a land where time is measured by dynasties, and distance by the setting sun, it is best to travel slowly, and lose yourself in the infinite expanse of sand and sea.
STEP PYRAMID
Everyone knows about the Pyramids of Giza, but did you know about the other pyramids? While the majority of tourists are fending off camel drivers and souvenir touts, savvy travellers are exploring the earlier monuments at both Saqqara and Dahshur. Of particular interest is the Step Pyramid of Zoser, which is regarded by archaeologists as the oldest pyramid in the world. Also not to be missed is the Red Pyramid, believed to be the first true pyramid, and the inspiration for the Great Pyramid at Giza.
STEP PYRAMIDRED SEA
Egypt is more than sun, sand, pyramids and the Nile - the Red Sea is regarded as one of the premier scuba-diving destinations in the world. Whether you've logged hundreds of dives or you're looking to get certified, don't miss Egypt's remarkable underwater world. One highlight in particular is the Thistlegorm, a huge wreck discovered by Jacques Cousteau. After descending to 30m and penetrating the cargo hold, you'll find yourself among a living museum of World War Two memorabilia, including motorcycles, jeeps and tanks.MOUNT SINAI
Even if you're not normally an early riser, do not miss the sunrise from the top of Mt Sinai. Truth be told, you're going to have to climb through the night if you want to be at the summit in time for the first rays of sunshine. But there are few mountains in the world that can top Sinai in terms of significance, especially since the peak is sacred to Jews, Christians and Muslims alike.DAHAB
If you're looking for a slice of Thailand in the Middle East, there is no better place to kick back and slow things down a bit than Dahab. Although it has expanded beyond its humble origins as a beachside hippy colony, Dahab is still ruled by independent travellers. Whether you're looking to dive the Red Sea, trek through the interior or spend most of your days smoking sheesha by the sea, chances are you're going to get stuck here for longer than you planned.PYRAMIDS OF GIZA
Although they're Egypt's most iconic images, nothing can prepare you for the sense of awe and wonderment you'll feel when you first lay eyes on the pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Towering over both the urban sprawl of Giza and the desert plains beyond, these ancient monuments are at the top of every traveller's itinerary, and they never fail to amaze. Bring lots of water, an empty memory card and a lot of patience! Although you'll have to fend off lots of touts to enjoy this ancient funerary complex in peace, no trip to Egypt is complete without a visit to Giza.This is an edited extract from 'Egypt',by Matthew D Firestone et al. Lonely Planet, 2010. For more information: visit http://www.lonelyplanet.com
Source: Bangkok Post [April 21, 2010]