Egypt and Nile Cruise!

Including Abu Simbel & Red Sea Resort Stay
 November 3-14, 2009

This wonderful trip is a repeat of our fun group trips for the last 2 years in November…a great time to vacation in Egypt!  You’ll see so much of this fascinating country! We will have 3 night stays (total of 4 in Cairo) throughout the trip which makes for a much more pleasant way of traveling.  Also we are traveling at a nice time of year-the weather should be great in Egypt!
So much is included in this trip–from 3 nights on arrival in exotic Cairo, to the famous Abu Simbel (some companies make this optional-we include it!) and its’ famous temples, to cruising the Nile for 3 nights visiting more sights you have only read about up till now. Then also spend 3 nights of relaxing, shopping, snorkeling to see the beautiful colored fish in the Red Sea; go exploring, take a jeep adventure or partake in the many activities at one of the top beach areas on the Red Sea.  
We’ve also included a professional guide/Egyptologist to make your learning experience the best as you get to know this country and it’s great heritage from the ancient world, its’ culture, its’ Pyramids and wonderful temples and learn about its’ customs and traditions.  Come join us on a trip that you won’t soon forget, it’s a country like no other……you’ll love it!
Early sign-ups are a must for this great vacation (lots of singles are waiting for this trip)!

Price includes all of the following:

1. All transfers by motorcoach as listed in itinerary
2. All domestic air (3 flights) within Egypt!
1. Cairo to Abu Simbel
2. Abu Simbel to Aswan
3. Hurghada to Cairo
3. Services of local English speaking guides/Egyptologist (except in Hughada)
4. Accommodations for 10 nights moderate class hotels/cruise ship
1. 4 nights – Cairo Shepheard Hotel, Cairo (1 night is at end of tour)
2. 3 nights - Nile Cruise Aswan to Luxor – Presidential Cruise
3. 3 nights -Marriott Hurghada Beach Resort, sea view rooms 
5. 19 Meals Total (All meals on board our cruise ship)
1. 10 Breakfasts
2. 5 Lunches
3. 4 Dinners (including our farewell dinner)
6. Baggage handling and porterage
7. Land transfer Luxor to Hurgada arriving at the Marriott Hurgada Hotel
8. Singles Travel Company Representative
9. Roommate matching available
10. Other singles to travel and have fun with
11. Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor includes also
1. Kom Ombo
2. Edfu
3.  Esna
12. Sightseeing and activities as listed in itinerary:
1. Philae Temple, the Aswan’s High Dam and the granite quarries
2. In Kom Ombo visit the Temple of Sobek
3. Temple of Horus
4. Karnak Temples
5. Luxor’s West Bank Thebes-see the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens, Deir el Bahari
6. The Pyramids, Spinx, Egyptian Museum and Old Cairo, Khan El Khalili Bazaar
7. Vist Ben Ezra Synagogue, Al Moallaka Church, Abu Sergah Church, Citadel of Salah El Din
8. Special Egyptian Costume party on cruise

Available: Download Itinerary Now (PDF) (Acrobat Reader required - allow up to 20 seconds for file to download completely)

Itinerary
 Egypt is probably the world's oldest civilization having emerged from the Nile Valley around 3,100 years ago, historically. But Egypt is much more than Pyramids and monuments. It is also Red Sea scuba diving, hot night spots, luxury hotels and five star restaurants. It is romantic cruises down the Nile on festive river boats and a rich cultural experience. Egypt is a land bustling with life, sound, visual beauty and excitement. It links two continents, stretching across the northeastern corner of Africa and the southwestern edge of Asia. The country is approximately 626,000 square miles in size. Its longest distance north-south is 640 miles and widest distance east-west is about 775 miles. Egypt’s 62 million people live primarily in the Nile Valley, leaving the rest of the land sparsely populated. Cairo, the largest city in Egypt, is estimated to have a population of over 15 million people. And….a journey to Egypt is never complete without a cruise on the legendary Nile.

Day 1, Tues. Nov 3                 Depart USA
You’ll depart on an overnight flight for your exciting vacation to the land of the Pharoahs and Pyramids!

Day 2, Wed. Nov 4                 Arrive Cairo
Upon arrival in Cairo, Egypt, (if you have purchased transfers) you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to our hotel. Time to get settled and then depending on your flight arrival time, start exploring before our get together tonight! 
Egypt's capital, is the largest city in Africa, and is a fascinating window into the contemporary as well as Pharaonic. It is a huge, vibrant city, one of the largest and liveliest cities in Africa and the Middle East.  Modern Cairo is filled with contradictions- in the shadow of skyscrapers donkeys pull carts through the streets and police sirens compete with the call of the muezzins. Although the modern bazaars are only a pale reflection of earlier worldwide trade, and the scent of spices mingles with diesel fumes, the city remains a crossroads of Africa, Europe, and Asia.  
Later, our welcome get-together will be at the hotel and then dinner is at leisure to get to know your fellow travelers.

Our Hotel:  Cairo Shepheard Hotel.  (3 nights).
The Shepheard Hotel is strategically located in the heart of the Garden City district in downtown Cairo, offering elegant and comfortable accommodation overlooking the River Nile. It's a well-known classical hotel, with a historical background that goes back to the year 1841.The hotel offers a number of restaurants and bars that include Middle and Far East as well as international cuisine. The hotel is about a ½ hour from the airport and not far from major attractions in Cairo.
The 200 air conditioned, traditionally decorated guestrooms feature richly patterned fabrics and dark wood furniture. Room amenities include, satellite television, direct-dial telephones and high-speed Internet access. Guests can take advantage of the gym, sauna and steam room at the fitness center. The front desk is open 24-hours a day and knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide tour advice and local information.

Day 3, Thurs. Nov 5               Cairo-Egyptian Museum, Pyramids & Sphinx  Tour             
Today we experience the fabulous Egyptian Museum, one of the most prominent in the world, offering remarkable insights into Egypt's ancient history from 5,000 years. The priceless antiquities include King Tut-Ankh-Amon's Treasures and it also includes the mummies of Egyptian pharoahs, sculptures and furniture.
After lunch, we proceed to Cheops' Pyramid and the Sphinx.  Built over 35 centuries ago, the towering pyramid stands majestically on a desert plateau with two slightly smaller pyramids erected to preserve their bodies and treasures for the afterlife. In front of the pyramids lies the Sphinx and it is carved out of a single block of stone. This big cat-like sculpture has been seen by millions of visitors and is one of the most majestic.  It was named by the Greeks because of its physical similarity to a mythical creature with a lion's body and woman's head who devoured passers-by unable to answer her riddle. Carved out of a limestone in front of the Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx is 50 meters long and 22 meters high.
Your tour also includes the bazaars – bargains galore! (B,L)    

Day 4, Fri. Nov 6                    Cairo-Old Cairo & Khan El Khalili Bazaar                        
After breakfast, we drive through Old Cairo to visit the ancient Ben Ezra Synagogue, Egypt's oldest synagogue; Al Moallaka Church, better known as the "Hanging Church", and the Abu Sergah Church dating back to the beginning of the 5th Century. Then proceed to the Citadel of Salah El Din. Built in 1183 AD, it houses many important monuments, including the great Mohammed Ali Mosque, constructed in 1830 AD. The tour also includes a visit to Khan El Khalili, one of Cairo’s most famous bazaars dating back to the late 14th century.   (B,L)
                                                                                    

Day 5, Sat. Nov 7                   Cairo//Abu Simbel//Aswan/Kom Ombo (Nile Cruise)          
Today we have an early (!) morning departure transfer to the airport for our flight to Abu Simbel, one of the most recognized monuments of ancient Egypt- the site of the magnificent Temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari.  An engineering marvel in the 60’s, the great temple was moved up the hillside to save it from flooding by the waters of Lake Nasser when Aswan’s High Dam was built. 
After our visit, we return back to the airport for our flight to Aswan.  Aswan, Egypt's sunniest southern city and an ancient frontier town located about 81 miles south of Luxor, has a distinctively African atmosphere.  Graced with the most beautiful setting on the Nile, the pace of life is slow and relaxing. In Aswan the Nile is at its most beautiful, flowing through amber desert and granite rocks, round emerald islands covered in palm groves and tropical plants.
On arrival in Aswan, we transfer to Presidential Cruise Ship, our floating hotel for the next 3 nights.
We also visit Aswan’s High Dam, Philae Temple and the granite quarries today.  Aswan’s High Dam was one of the most important achievements of the last century in Egypt.  It provides Egypt with water and electricity, and secures the country from the risk of the destructive inundation of the River Nile.   As a result of its construction, Lake Nasser was made, and it extends between Egypt and Sudan – making it the worlds’ largest man-made lake.  Because the raising waters caused damage and loss of so many of the Nubian monuments, great efforts were made by the Egyptian Government, aided by UNESCO and other countries, to save the most important monuments.
Tonight we sail to Kom Ombo and enjoy our first dinner on board our cruise ship!  (B,L,D)

Our Cruise Line: Presidential Cruises (3 nights)
Presidential Nile Cruises has done everything to give you the utmost in comfort and to ensure the best conditions for entertainment, giving you the possibility to enjoy and discover over 5,000 years of great civilization, the picturesque Egyptian country life, the calm and the grand beauty of the Nile. A modern style and a refined Old-World decoration of leather and wood, invite total relaxation during a voyage that remains the richest in unforgettable memories.
For guest appreciating their comfort, twin-bed cabins offer a quiet, pleasant, and spacious "shelter". Each cabin is linked through the reception to international lines, has a 24 hr. "room service" and is equipped with two radio programs.
For "night owls", a piano bar, also open at noon, provides in the evening a variety of animation programs.  For your entertainment a TV lounge with a selection of video tapes and games are at your disposal.


Day 6, Sun. Nov 8                   Kom Ombo/Edfu/Esna (Nile Cruise)                        
After breakfast on board, we have a morning visit to the Temple of Sobek with its beautiful murals and exceptional view of the River Nile.  The temple is unique because it is a double temple, dedicated to Sobek the crocodile god, and Horus the falcon-headed god. The two temples are combined in one with each side having its own gateways and chapels. Sobek is associated with the wicked god Seth, the enemy of Horus.  In the Horus myth the allies of Seth made their escape by changing themselves into crocodiles.
Continue on to Edfu, located on the west bank of the River Nile between Esna and Aswan, to visit the Temple of Horus (237 B.C.), one of the most completely preserved in Egypt.
We sail to Esna for overnight. 
Tonight, enjoy a very special costume party "native Egyptian and Pharaonic style."  Prizes are awarded for the winners, depending on their creativity and our group had a fun time with this last year! (B,L,D)                                                  

Day 7, Mon. Nov 9                 Esna/Luxor (Nile Cruise)                                                      
Sailing to Luxor, this afternoon we visit the fascinating Luxor and world famous Karnak Temples, a holy city of pylons, hypostyle halls, colossal statues, shrines and obelisks built over centuries and dedicated to the God Amon-Ra, his consort Mut, and their son Khonsu.          
Luxor is a city in Upper (southern) Egypt and the capital of the Al Uqsur governorate with a population of approximately 200,000. It is the site of the ancient Egyptian city of Thebes and it is known as the "world's greatest open air museum" because the ruins of the temple complexes at Karnak and Luxor are within the modern city. The number and preservation of the monuments in the Luxor area are unlike anywhere else in the world.   Immediately opposite, across the Nile River, lie the monuments, temples and tombs on the West Bank Necropolis, which include the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens.
Overnight is on board our cruise ship in Luxor.  (B,L,D)                                                                                         

Day 8, Tues. Nov 10               Luxor/Hurghada                                                             
We disembark our cruise ship this morning be begin the next portion of our Egyptian journey!
We cross the Nile to Luxor's West Bank -- "Thebes."  Sightseeing includes the Valley of the Kings where some 64 of Egypt's Pharaohs had their palatial resting places hewed into the sheer rock; the Valley of the Queens, the still mind-boggling Deir el Bahari, an architectural tour de force built against the sheer Theban cliff range; and the colossi of Memnon.
We then head to Hurghada, a popular Red Sea resort city and tourist destination, for 3 nights of relaxation, fun and activities! Transfer to the Marriott Hurghada Resort.  This evening enjoy a leisurely dinner with friends from the group and start exploring this active town. (B)


Our Hotel: Marriott Hurghada Beach Resort, Sea view rooms (3 nights)
Located on the shore of the Red Sea with its own private beach and private island, Marriott Hurghada Beach Resort is approximately five miles from Hurghada International Airport. It is appointed with amenities that ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay. Safety measurements include electronic door lock, life safety systems, smoke detector and sprinklers.
Resort amenities include the two swimming pools (main one heated in winter), discotheque, health club, two lighted tennis courts, two air-conditioned squash courts, private beach and private island.
For dining and refreshments, the hotel houses the Italian restaurant, patio cafe, pool bar and grill, main restaurant (serving buffet breakfast, a la carte menu, and buffet dinner), and Internet cafe. Room service is available 24 hours a day.          All rooms feature high-speed Internet access, bottled water (fee), minibars, coffeemakers, irons/ ironing boards, hairdryers, bathroom amenities, trouser pressers, safes, and individual climate control. All rooms and suites are overlooking the crystal blue water of the Red Sea.

Hurghada, a popular Red Sea resort and tourist destination, is our home for 3 nights of relaxation, fun and activities!

Day 9, Wed. Nov 11               Hurghada at Leisure                                                                              
The entire day is at leisure to relax or explore or partake in the many activities of this area. Your host will help coordinate activities together if you wish or the choice is yours of how you spend your day.  Enjoy!
Hurghada was founded in the early 20th century, and until a few years ago, remained a small fishing village. It has now gone on to become one of the foremost tourist resorts of the Red Sea coast.  Many activities are available from horse and camel riding, desert safaris and nearby antiquities attractions and it includes an international center for aquatic sports. If it takes place in or on the water you can do it here: windsurfing, sailing, deep-sea fishing, swimming, but, above all, snorkeling and diving (instructors and rentals are available at the dive centers). The unique underwater gardens offshore are some of the finest in the world, justifiably famous amongst divers. The warm waters here are ideal for many varieties of rare fish and coral reefs, which may also be observed through glass bottom boats. While in Hurghada, don't miss the museum and aquarium, with their complete collections of flora and fauna of the Red Sea. (B)
                      
Day 10, Thurs. Nov 12                       Hurghada at Leisure                                                                               
After our breakfast the entire day is at leisure to do as much or as little as you want to with the group! Go snorkeling or perhaps take a day trip to Giftun Island for snorkeling and a fish barbecue, or view the Red Sea from a submarine! Day-trips or safaris to explore the Red Sea or mountains by camel or jeep are available-explore, shop, or relax, it’s your choice! (B)                                          

Day 11, Fri. Nov 13                Fly Hurghada To Cairo                                                                                     
This morning we transfer to Hurghada Airport for our short flight to Cairo, where you will be met on arrival and transferred to the Shepheard hotel. Enjoy our groups farewell dinner tonight….yes, it is time to think about heading home after our wonderful Egyptian vacation.  (B,D)
Our Hotel:  Shepheard Hotel (1 night)

Day 12, Sat. Nov 14               Depart Cairo                                                                  
Last minute good-byes to the group and new friends as you’re transferred (if you have purchased transfers) to Cairo International Airport in time for your departure flights home!    (B)

 Egypt & The Nile…………you’ll love this trip!

 Price—Early deposits are a must as this is one of our most popular trips & times to visit Egypt. 
$1999.00         Land only, per person, double occupancy. (Includes 3 air flights within the itinerary & famous Abu Simbel!)
$ 499 .00         Want a room & cabin to yourself?  Add this price to above double rate.
(Very limited availability!!!)

Air Flights  We can assist with air flights in and out of Cairo or you can check online for some great fares. Last year many flew on the same flight so please provide your flight information as soon as you book it and we’ll try and coordinate flights again.  
Airport Transfers  Roundtrip airport transfers to/from the airport for your international flights on day of tours only-
$20 each way ($40 roundtrip).  Prices are different for transfers on non-tour days.
Travel Insurance is highly recommended and an informational packet will be sent to you with your deposit receipt. Please consider the purchase of travel insurance carefully as it is well worth it if you need it while traveling in Egypt.
Price does not include items of a personal nature, airfare, passport or Egyptian visa, meals not specified in itinerary, tips to drivers, guides, and cruise ship personnel, phone calls, airport transfers, etc.
Passports are required for U.S.citizens to enter Egypt and your passport must not expire within 6 months after the trip date.  Non-U.S. citizens-check with your respective consulate for passport and visa requirements for your entry into Egypt.
A Visa is required for U.S. citizens to enter Egypt (as well as a valid U.S. passport).  You can do this with an online visa service or obtain the Visa at the airport. To obtain your visa at the airport-it is easy:  The visa is a stamp (like a postage stamp) that you buy (approx. $20-25 U.S.) from the visa office located right before the immigration booth at the Cairo airport. Stick the stamp on any empty page on your passport, then stand in line to get your passport stamped by the immigration office.
Health Requirements:  Currently there are no required immunizations/shots needed for this trip but you must check with your medical provider for any recommended immunizations or precautions for travel to Egypt.  You can also check the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/travel or call them at (404) 639-3534.
Activity Level: Please be aware this is an adventure trip; activities require such things as a lot of walking, early morning flight, convenience facilities not always at your level of expectation, and schedules that are regulated by the local tour operators/cruise lines and government so you need to be flexible and be able to accommodate to your wonderful surroundings easily.

Fine Print—Egypt and Nile Cruise, November 3-14, 2009
Your payment for a reservation on this trip constitutes consent and acknowledgement of all the provisions in this Fine Print listed below and in the Singles Travel Company General Terms and Conditions.  Please make sure you read both of these important pieces of information and call us with any questions.  Any increase in the price of the tour by our tour operator due to fuel surcharges or further devaluation of the dollar, will be passed on to the traveler.  
Payments preferred by check or credit cards are accepted.  Make checks payable to Travel Advisors of Los Gatos.
Deposit of $200.00 is due with your reservation. Early deposits are a must! Final payment is due 75 days prior to departure date.
Cancellation Fees and Refunds     All cancellations must be in writing.  You’ll receive a full refund of your deposit minus a $50 administrative fee if you cancel 91 days or more from the departure date of the trip.  No refunds at 90 days prior or within 90 days of departure date or on unused portions of the tour.  Cancellation fees also apply to additional accommodations reserved prior to and after the tour booked with the tour operator of the trip.   After airline tickets are issued, airline cancellations are per the airline’s policy.
Travel/Trip Cancellation insurance is highly recommended-please consider the purchase it carefully as it covers a lot of important and unforeseeable issues that may arise before and during your trip-i.e.  illness with you or a family member prior to or during your trip, lost luggage, medical problems that may arise during your trip, also, if needed, it includes important assistance while you are overseas (see insurance pamplet we will send you with your deposit for the trip).
Important Information from our Tour Operator:
Our local Egyptian tour operator staff will advise you of your daily activity schedule along with pick-up times. Internal air and cruise schedules are at the discretion of the airline and cruise line, and may be altered or changed. Be prepared for slight delays, changes (especially in regards to local flights), and traffic congestion. Refer to the Ship Lobby Bulletin Board for the final daily cruise itinerary schedule.

Some Interesting Facts Regarding Egypt:
OFFICIAL NAME: Arab Republic of Egypt         CAPITAL: Cairo - Pop: 15,892,400 (Metro Area), 7,937,700 (city proper)
POPULATION: 76,117,421 (July 2004)                AREA: 386,660 square miles           ELECTRICITY: 220/240 volts AC, 50Hz
LOCATION: In northern Africa; east of Libya, north of Sudan, west of the Red Sea, and south of the Mediterranean Sea
LANGUAGE: Arabic is the official language. English and French are widely spoken
RELIGION: Islam is the predominant religion. All types of Christianity are also represented
CURRENCY: The Egyptian Pound (L.E.) = 100 piastres (pt). Bank notes are issued in denominations of: 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 1. Piastres coins: 25, 10, 5. Local banks deal with foreign currency and travelers checks.
TIME: GMT + 2 (GMT + 3 from May to September).  Egypt observes daylight saving time during the summer months.
HIGHEST MOUNTAIN: Mount Saint Catherine, 8,652 feet, LONGEST RIVER: Nile, world’s longest river, 4,160 miles; part crossing Egypt, from Sudan to Mediterranean, 650 miles, LARGEST LAKE: Lake Nasser (an artificial lake), about 2,300 square miles.

Download full Terms and Conditions (PDF)

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