Justin's Egyptian Odyssey
As someone who loves uncovering the world’s most captivating destinations, I’m thrilled to take you on a journey this month to the awe-inspiring land of Egypt. Whether you’re dreaming of standing beneath the towering pyramids, cruising the majestic Nile, or exploring ancient temples steeped in history, Egypt offers experiences that touch the soul and ignite the imagination. The start of my special journey began with Cairo's St. Regis Hotels and Resorts. It set the tone for an elegant and luxurious trip. There we met Walla, our Egyptologist, who truly defined the next ten days with his deep knowledge, passion for storytelling, and warm personality making the trip exceptional and unforgettable.
The Heart of Egypt’s History in Cairo
We started with three packed days exploring Cairo and its surrounding treasures. One of the biggest highlights was getting a sneak peek of the highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), scheduled to open in July. With over 100,000 ancient pieces and a billion-dollar investment behind it, this will be the largest museum in the world. We explored Memphis, the ancient capital, and saw remarkable sites including the statue of Rameses II, the Alabaster Sphinx, and the necropolis of Saqqara. I stood in front of the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza, dating back to 2500 BC, and the sight was every bit as striking as you would expect. We even rode camels through the desert with the pyramids rising behind us, creating a moment that felt almost unreal. Cairo was the ideal place to begin exploring Egypt. The city offered a remarkable mix of deep history and unforgettable experiences that set the stage for the journey ahead.
Crusing Down the Nile
From Luxor to Aswan, sailing the Nile was the perfect way to experience the heart of Egypt. At Karnak and Luxor Temples, the scale and beauty were overwhelming. The colors inside the Temple of Hathor are still visible after thousands of years. We also ventured through the Valley of Kings. Walla brought the ancient spirit to life and made sure didn’t just see these places but felt them. One of the most heartfelt parts of the journey came in Aswan, where we visited a Nubian village. We danced, laughed, and visited a local’s home. The colors, the warmth, the energy, it was all so genuine. Connecting with cultures is always one of my favorite parts of travel, and this day was a perfect example of why.
Reflections on the Nile
Relaxing on the sun deck as the lush Nile River landscape drifted by, I watched everyday life unfold, farmers tending their fields, children playing along the banks, and felt the incredible weight of walking where ancient civilizations once walked, in places I had only seen in history books. One of the most unexpected and entertaining moments came when local "pirates" pulled up alongside our ship in small boats, tossing merchandise up for us to browse and buy. It was a lively, spontaneous experience that brought everyone out on deck with smiles and laughter. Add in breathtaking sunsets, authentic onboard entertainment, and cuisine crafted with care and passion, and it became an unforgettable journey that stays with me long after returning home.
If Egypt has ever been on your list, VIP would love to take you on your journey! From private access to ancient tombs to the soon-to-open Grand Egyptian Museum, the country is alive with energy, beauty, and stories waiting to be uncovered. There is no words you read that can replace what it feels like to stand in front of the Great Pyramid or share joy with a local in Aswan. Trust VIP to take you on a whole new journey to discover Egypt. Reach out to us HERE to begin planning the adventure of a lifetime.
