Monday 29 August 2011

Egypt






“Denial ain't just a river in Egypt.”
EGYPT, a country with a estimated 80 million people.. When I first arrived in Cairo I could not believe my eyes! It was around 10am and there were people everywhere. Walking on the streets, hanging out of buildings and jammed into cars! I have never been to a city so heavily populated, it was definitely a huge shock... 

 

My trip around Egypt was organised through Contiki, comprising of an 8 day jam packed journey visiting Cairo, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Edfu, Luxor, Hurghada and doing a trip with a couple of friends to Alexandria.


Egypt was amazing, from the Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza only located 30mins outside of Cairo to the temples in Abu Simbel, every destination held a jaw dropping attraction which never did disappoint. Sailing on a traditional Felucca & enjoy shopping in the bazaar, then returning to the luxury cruise ship as we floated down the Nile! The trip was absolutely perfect.


If I had to choose a highlight however, it would have to be the optional trip to Abu Simbel. Built in 1265 BCE, originally carved from the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II as a lasting monument to himself and his queen Nefertari. However the tombs were relocated in 1968 high above the Aswan High Dam to avoid being submerged during the creation of Lake Nasser.


This fantastic archeological site is completely overwhelming and I strongly recommend everyone in the WHOLE world to go visit the temple of Abu Simbel at your earliest convenience, you will not be disappointed!!  

Tuesday 16 August 2011

Greece

Time to go on holiday?
Don’t know where to go?
Well then, just go to every single place I have been...
Greece

Known to some as "Hellas", situated in Southeastern Europe surrounded by Albania, the Republic of Macedonia, Bulgaria and Turkey. A fantastic place to holiday, especially if island hoping is your thing! You may be thinking, "Isn't Greece a little bit of a volatile place to travel to right now?" Well, YES the country is facing a few minor issues (debt crisis) and YES they do seem to be teetering on the brink of bankruptcy, BUT that shouldn’t stop you exploring the 227 inhabited islands of Greece. My suggestion is to go south starting your holiday in Santorini.  
Santorini 
Officially known as Thira, around 200km southeast from Greece's mainland, and a member of the Cyclades group of islands. Hosting many memorial landmarks including the town of Fira, The volcano Palia (old) and Nea (new) Kameni and Perissa beach. HOWEVER if you decide to lash out, and stay in a 5 star resort, you may just decide to not even bother to leave the resort. This experience can most definitely be achieved at Aressana Spa Hotel and Suites. Centrally located in the original part of Fira, between the Greek Orthodox cathedral and the unique Museum of Prehistoric Thera, it is in walking distance of restaurants, boutiques, galleries and the exciting nightlife. A resort this luxurious, you may get a little side tracked and decide a Volcano isn't the be all and end all!

 

Aressana Spa Hotel and Suites

 

 

ARESSANA website 

 

Perissa beach