Middle East & Red Sea Travel Guide

The Middle East offers year round sunshine, excellent beaches and water sports combined with some interesting sightseeing and shopping.

Egypt offers a rare combination of international cities, ancient civilisations and natural beauty. It is also a haven for diving and water sports. The bustling capital, Cairo, is Africa's largest city and home to some of the world's greatest sites including the legendary Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the River Nile.

Luxor offers ancient monuments, hospitality and streets bustling with life. It is often described as an open air museum and sight seeing is a priority. See the Luxor Temple and the Karnak Temple. Visit the Valley of the Kings, Hatsheut's Temple and the Colossi of Memnon on the West Bank and sail back to your hotel by felucca down the Nile.

The year round tropical sun can reach temperatures in excess of one hundred degrees Fahrenheit in July and August. All hotels have air conditioning to cool the mid day heat. The warm water temperatures of the Red Sea coast also make it one of the world's prime diving spots. All of this and the fact that the majority of the locals speak English make for an ideal holiday destination.

Dubai is part of the United Arab Emirates and has some of the world's best duty free shopping, including and exciting gold souk. Superb sports facilities abound, including championship golf courses, lovely beaches, clear waters and fascinating culture.

Time

• Eqypt - GMT + 2 Hours
• Dubai - GMT + 4 Hours

Flying Time

• Approximately 5 - 7 Hours 30 Minutes

Passport Validity

• 6 Months left on passport from date of return

Visas

• A visa is required for entry into Egypt and can be paid for on arrival for £15 except on Sinai Penninsula when exeption visa is given free.