Egypt and the Nile November 12 to 26 2008

Egypt is probably the world's oldest civilization - emerging from the Nile Valley around 3100BC. Early Greeks, Romans and others came just for fun, and to see the wonders of some of mankind's earliest triumphs. Egypt is built around the Nile Valley, - the very fertile thin area on either side of the river where 90% of the population settled. Cairo, the capital city, separates Lower Egypt (everything north of Cairo) from Upper Egypt (everything to the south). With 72,000,000 inhabitants, modern Egypt represents one quarter of the population of the Arab world. The Cairo itself is home to about 16 million people. Though the majority of Egyptians are Muslims, there are over 12 million Christians living in Egypt today. Even today, legends of the Ancient Egyptians recall names like Ramses and Cleopatra, Tutankhamun and Nefertiti, which echo through the art and literature of the world's cultures. From their advanced knowledge of astronomy, mathematics and mummification to the beauty of their manuscripts, jewellery and monuments, the Great Pharaohs left a vast and sophisticated legacy of mythology, arts and sciences over the course of 5,000 years, that still touch our modern lives. The great enduring symbols and masterpieces of Ancient Egypt were all part of an elaborate preparation for the journey which began after death. Most mummies were found in the Valley of the Kings, home to Tutankhamun's famous tomb, carved deep into the remote limestone hills, designed to be inaccessible to robbers. Unfortunately, some robbers persevered, lusting for gold and Lapiz Lazuli encrusted treasures. The Pyramids, the Sphinx, the Nile-shades of Rudolf Valentino and Agatha Christie-but more than that: Egypt, one of the world's superb tourist destinations. Ancient history, rich mythology, mysterious hieroglyphics combined with warm, dry weather, superb hospitality, and a leisurely pace make a great two-week holiday with a small group. Explore Cairo, Giza, Memphis and Sakkara; stay in beautiful old hotels in Luxor and Aswan, cruise the Nile on the Oberoi Philae (a truly memorable experience) and wonder at the engineering marvel of Abu Simbel.

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Weather : for November in degrees Fahrenheit Place Average High Average Low Highest ever Lowest ever Humidity Humidity Rain per month Rainy days Co Co Co Co % 8.00am % 2.00pm in. 0.1+in Aswan 31 17 42 6 46 26 0 0 Cairo 26 14 38 6 68 38 0.1 1

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