Trip to Cairo

Cairo is the capital of Egypt and, with a total population in excess of 16 million people, one of the largest cities in both Africa and the Middle East (which regions it conveniently straddles). Situated on the River Nile, Cairo is famous for its own history—preserved in the fabulous medieval Islamic city and in Old Cairo—and for the ancient, Pharaonic history of Egypt as a whole. No trip to Cairo would be complete without a visit to the Giza Pyramids, to nearby Saqqara, or to the Egyptian Museum in the center of town. Though firmly attached to the past, Cairo is also home to a vibrant modern society.

Hiring a private boat, called a felucca, for a ride down the Nile is a great way to relax and enjoy a night under the stars. Public boats with loud Arabic music and a giggling crowd are also available. Cairo remains one of the best cities in the world to sample the traditional coffee house culture of the region. Places vary from just a small affair—plastic chairs and tables put out on the street—to more elaborate cafes especially in upscale and tourist areas. For many, the sheesha, or water pipe, is the main attraction of any visit to a coffee house. It is usually available in at least two varieties, mu´assal, pure tobacco, and tofâh, apple-flavored.

Built around a 19th-century palace on an island in the Nile River, the Marriott Cairo Hotel and Omar Khayyam Casino is approximately one mile from Cairo Tower and 15 miles from Cairo International Airport. This hotel is also half a mile from the Opera House, two miles from Cairo Zoo and the Egyptian Museum, three miles from Khan el Khalili Bazaar and the Coptic Museum, four miles from the American Embassy and Cairo Synagogue, five miles from Old Cairo, and eight miles from the Sphinx and Pyramids. The hotel is surrounded by the sights and sounds that makes Cairo the most popular destination in the Middle East for both business and leisure travellers and is a perfect base for exploring historic Cairo. The hotel amenities include the full health club and spa, outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, sports court, and 24-hour casino. For dining and refreshments, the hotel houses Egyptian Nights (pan-Arabian cuisine), Garden Promenade Cafe (barbecue), Harrys Pub, JWs Steakhouse, Omars Cafe, Piano Bar, Ristorante Tuscany, Roys Country Kitchen (24-hour buffets), Saraya Cafe, Marriott Bakery, Torii (Japanese cuisine), and Waves Snack Bar. The hotel also offers room service, valet laundry service, porter service, a concierge, currency exchange, babysitting, and parking for a fee. All rooms feature high-speed Internet access, voicemail, free local calls, air-conditioning, alarm clocks, coffeemakers, refrigerators, irons and ironing boards, hairdryers, bathroom amenities, free weekday newspapers, cable TV, and movies.

One of the most elegant restaurants in the district, this former villa offers a classy dining experience and a delicious Italian menu. The soft lighting, elegantly set tables and soft piano music create a warm and romantic ambiance. Diners sit on a cozy patio amidst the verdant green foliage, tended by courteous and prompt waiters. The menu specializes in Italian seafood dishes, and has won wide acclaim from locals and ex-pats alike. Prepare to splurge a bit on the main course, as many dishes (like the lobster) are sold by weight at market prices. Vegetarian pasta plates and even a few meat dishes are also served. Save room for the heavenly tiramisu.

The Giza Plateau—through which the river Nile once flowed—is today a desert. It is here that the Pharaohs from 2561-2450B.C.E. of the fourth dynasty in Egypt built three large and eight small pyramids. Located 20km from the modern city of Cairo, which the ancient Egyptians called 'kher neter' - the west, this plateau filled with pyramids still dominates the Cairo skyline. The most famous monuments in Egyptian history are found right here including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, Khafre, Menkaure, Shinx and other pyramids along with their temples, causeways and passages...all laid out like a well planned city.

A scenic Nile-side setting and tempting seafood bar make this upper deck restaurant one of the city's leading seafood dining experiences. Enjoy fantastic river views from the lively dining room while chefs prepare the fresh seafood you select from the piles of fish and shellfish lining the bar. Tables are neatly set, and service is prompt but never obtrusive. Head to the seafood bar to handpick your dinner. Don't get too carried away, as the bill adds up quickly. Shrimp, calimari, fish or shellfish are offered by the kilo, and you need only decide how you would like them prepared- grilled, sauteed, baked or fried. There are several gourmet sauces to choose from, as well as traditional ones like tahina.

The most famous site in Egypt, and the one that appears on almost every tour package, this is the oldest and largest of the pyramids on the Giza Plateau. Built by the IV Dynasty pharaoh Khufu (better known as Cheops) around B.C. 2570, this 140-meter-high monument contains an estimated 2.3 million blocks averaging 2.5 tons. Its purpose is controversial: Many believe it was the ancient burial chamber of the pharaoh and his queen, while others suggest it had astronomical functions. As no inscriptions or mummies were found inside, speculation continues. It is now illegal to climb the pyramid, but you can go inside. After a descent at a crouch, a steep ascending passage leads to the Grand Gallery and two chambers. The King's Chamber contains a lidless granite sarcophagus while the so-called Queens Chamber was found empty. A separate ticket is required to enter each pyramid and the Solar Boat Museum.

Opened in 1988, the Opera House complex is a stunning jewel of postmodernist architecture incorporating Islamic and Pharaonic motifs. There are two opera halls, one of which is strictly jacket-and-tie while the other is a little more laid back. The complex also offers an open-air theatre and an amphitheatre for summer performances. There is always something going on here, usually more than one event per night, so it is advisable to call ahead or check local newspapers for a schedule. International music, ballet and opera troupes perform here throughout the year and tickets cost a fraction of what one would pay to see the same performance elsewhere.

The best Thai restaurant in Egypt, this family-run establishment features dishes prepared by Thai chefs using authentic ingredients. The word's out, so reservations are recommended. The friendly staff are meticulous at draping white tablecloths and laying cutlery, preferring simplicity to clutter (unlike many restaurants of its kind). The mouth-watering scent of coconut curry wafting from its kitchen leaves an unmistakable impression on its customers. Ah yes, the food. The extensive menu includes noodles, meat and seafood dishes seasoned with garlic, coconut and spices. Start with crispy spring rolls, dim sum or tom yum (hot & spicy soup). Pahd Thai, the benchmark of all Thai restaurants, is prepared in an unusual way (no bean sprouts), but still works. Order several dishes and steamed rice to share, but be sure to specify if you want them hot and spicy as the chefs use chilis sparingly to appeal to local palates. The dessert menu includes delicious lychees in syrup and home-made coconut ice cream topped with peanuts. Alcohol is served.

The Mastaba of Mereruka is one of the largest in Saqqara with about 30 chambers. Excavated in 1893, by J. de Morgan, it is the tomb and funerary temple of Mereruka, Vizier to Pharaoh Teti of the VI Dynasty. Mereruka was also married to the pharaoh's daughter, Hert-Watet-Khet, who was a priestess of the cow goddess, Hathor. Mereruka, his wife, and their son, were all buried in this mastaba. The murals, depicting Mereruka and his family, are interesting and well preserved. Well worth a look.

The trademark fish tank in the foyer is absent, but don't be misled to believe this is anything less than an authentic Japanese restaurant. Great food and service has won it a dedicated following. Sit at Western-style dining tables or remove your shoes and kneel on mats at traditional Japanese tables. A tiny lady in a red kimono gives prompt and courteous service, and can explain all the dishes. Regulars rave about the various sushi dishes, which come with hot wasabi and ginger. The tempura is fried in light sesame oil and served with a delicious dipping sauce. Entrees run from EGP20-40, while starters cost under EGP10. And don't forget the sake!

One of Egypt's oldest and largest mosques, it is also one of the most unusual owing to its heavy Iraqi influence. Constructed in the late 9th century AD on the orders of a rebellious Abbasid governor, its landmark helical minaret is believed to have been inspired by the giant minaret at Samarra. Be sure to climb to the top of the minaret for an awe-inspiring view of modern and ancient Cairo.

Cairo has changed dramatically in the last 50 years, but this tiny bistro tucked away in a small alley, gives diners a chance to experience a bygone era. Stained glass windows and fine woodwork are just some of the details that lend this popular little bistro its charm. Old world waiters in flowing galabiyyas serve satisfied customers at the dozen booths lining the narrow room, leaving regulars to order for themselves at the Bogart-approved bar. The Franco-Egyptian menu includes a variety of hot and cold mezze, all masterfully prepared. Even the hommus and taboulah are outstanding. The succulent veal medallions, gratuitously showered in tarragon and mushrooms, is always a good call. Leave room for homemade mahalabiyya (rice pudding) or creme caramel. Please note that this restaurant is shut during the month of August and Ramadan.

The Sphinxes are the most mystical creatures of ancient Egypt. By far the most famous Sphinx is that of Giza, however, this is far from being the only sphinx in Egypt. In fact, there are scores of Sphinxes all over the country. The Alabaster Sphinx is an impressive structure 8m long and 4m tall. This Sphinx is particularly special because it is made from alabaster - a material rarely used for construction. Alabaster is mythically associated, mythically speaking with the sun and solar powers. Well worth a visit.

Stunning views and an elegant atmosphere await those who venture 30 floors up for live music and cocktails. The interior is tastefully decorated in modern decor with the best tables set against windows overlooking the city. Book a windowside table for a fabulous sunset and watch the city lights come to life. A vibraphone player entertains in the evenings, followed by live jazz and pop at 10pm. Prices are high, but most people come for the atmosphere not the food. Steak and seafood dishes are on the menu, with entrees averaging EGP50. The bar is fully stocked and heavenly cocktails are served at appropriately lofty prices.

One of Egypt's oldest and largest mosques, it is also one of the most unusual owing to its heavy Iraqi influence. Constructed in the late 9th century AD on the orders of a rebellious Abbasid governor, its landmark helical minaret is believed to have been inspired by the giant minaret at Samarra. Be sure to climb to the top of the minaret for an awe-inspiring view of modern and ancient Cairo.

One of the most elegant restaurants in the district, this former villa offers a classy dining experience and a delicious Italian menu. The soft lighting, elegantly set tables and soft piano music create a warm and romantic ambiance. Diners sit on a cozy patio amidst the verdant green foliage, tended by courteous and prompt waiters. The menu specializes in Italian seafood dishes, and has won wide acclaim from locals and ex-pats alike. Prepare to splurge a bit on the main course, as many dishes (like the lobster) are sold by weight at market prices. Vegetarian pasta plates and even a few meat dishes are also served. Save room for the heavenly tiramisu.