egypt

Egypt has, interestingly, been a magnet for tourists for centuries - as one of the world's earliest civilisations it attracted curious visitors from the start.

The unified kingdom of Egypt was established around 3000BC, and royal dynasties ruled for the next three millennia, until the Persians invaded in 341BC. They were followed in quick succession by in turn the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Arabs. Now, however, it is holidaymakers from around the world who come to this north-east corner of Africa to experience some of the wonders of Egypt.

The Pyramids of Giza are one of the original Wonders of the World, and the last to survive. Another Egyptian marvel is Luxor, which is known as the world's largest open air museum with its ancient and awe-inspiring temples and monuments. There are the temples and treasures at Abu Simbel, and the dam at Aswan - all locations that would thrill even the most jaded traveller.

Egypt has a population of some 78 million people, most of them Muslim. It tends to be very hot in summer, with mild, pleasant winters. The country has never had any difficulty in attracting visitors to gaze on its magical, mystical ancient monuments - these will never cease to fascinate and intrigue.

However, in recent years, there has been increasing development of the Red Sea area, and the result is a number of stunningly attractive resorts for the most discerning tourists.

Notable among these is El Gouna, a development of luxury hotels and apartments in an incredible setting which offers an all-in holiday experience. There are numerous shops, restaurants, lagoons, swimming pools, clubs, bars and casinos on site, and wonderful sports facilities including a diving school. The resort has several stunningly beautiful beaches and the opportunities for excursions to nearby places of interest, including desert safaris.

Sharm el Sheikh offers similar luxury and comfort, with its hotels ranging from the small and individual to the large international chains and numerous resort areas including Naama Bay, Nabq and Um El Sid.

The Sharm el Sheikh shopping mall,boutiques and markets have a tempting array of everything from designer goods to locally crafted pottery and there are also bars, cafes and restaurants to suit every taste.

The recently opened Soho Square complex in laid back Sharks Bay is well worth a visit and offers a fantastic selection of restaurants and bars, as welll as ice-skating and ten-pin bowling.

Again, the sports facilities are extremely varied. Diving, wind-surfing, riding (both horses and camels) tennis and golf are all available to visitors, and the beaches are quite superb with clear, sparkling seas.

The rsort of Hurghada developed around an old fishing village and now temps visitors with a great mixure of intreging local culture plus bar, restuarants and lively nightclubs.

Just to the south beautiful Makadi is reknowned for its superb sandy beaches, and the Sunrise Royal Makadi Resort is an invitingly modern, very family-friendly complex. Set on the beach-front, it has 5 restuarants and a Thomas Cook operated KidsWORLD children's clud amongst its many facilities.

The southernmost resort on the Red Sea is Marsa Alam. A particular attraction near here is the Elphinstone coral reef, which is a paradise for scuba divers. Guests at any of the Marsa Alam hotels also have the chance to go on desert safaris - if they can tear themselves away from the soft sandy beaches and the on-site leisure facilities. Neighbouring El Quesir is also relatively secluded and appeals to those who want to relax, unwind and enjoy the great diving of this part of the Red Sea.

• Marvel at the Pyramids of Giza, one of the most extraordinary structures man has ever made.
• Visit the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, where King Tutankhamen's burial treasures are among the exhibits.
• Divers will find some world-class reefs at the Ras Mohammad National Park.
• Check out the golf courses, as there are a number of superb courses in tourist regions.
• Don't miss a chance to meet Bedouin tribes on a desert safari.