Egypt & Dubai
There’s no better compliment to Egypt than Dubai. Both amazing destinations in their own right, you will uncover their splendor on this exhilarating 20-night family adventure. Exploring the wonders of ancient Egypt makes for an incredible journey. The Nile valley has long been the lifeblood for the region. Your tour will take you from Luxor's famed Valleys of the Kings and Queens, up the Nile to see how it has sustained this fascinating civilization, and end with the iconic pyramids of Giza. In Dubai, experience Arab hospitality at its best and take in the incredibly modern city one day at a time.
Exploring the wonders of ancient Egypt makes for an incredible family journey. The Nile valley has long been the lifeblood for the region. Your tour will take you from Luxor's famed Valleys of the Kings and Queens, up the Nile to see how it has sustained this fascinating civilization, and end with the iconic pyramids of Giza. End your trip with a New Year's Eve bang in the city of Dubai.
Dec. 21-25:
Cairo | 4 nights | St. Regis Hotel Cairo
Dec. 25-27:
Luxor | 2 nights | Sofitel Luxor Winter Palace
Dec. 27-30:
Aswan | 3 nights | Sofitel Old Cataract
Dec. 30 - Jan. 3:
Dubai | 4 nights | 25 Hours Hotel
Jan. 3:
Departure
Egypt
- US passport holders require a tourist visa to enter Egypt on arrival. The single-entry visa will be provided.
UAE
- US passport holders require a tourist visa to enter the UAE on arrival. The single-entry visa is free-of-charge.
Egypt
In Cairo, December has mild temperatures. Average daytime temperatures are between 15°C and 20°C, while nighttime temperatures drop to around 9°C. There is little rainfall. In Luxor and Aswan, December is warmer than in the north. Daytime temperatures can reach about 23°C to 25°C, while nighttime temperatures are cooler, around 11°C to 14°C. Rainfall is uncommon.
UAE
The United Arab Emirates has a desert climate, with high temperatures and low rainfall year-round. In December, the UAE transitions from its hot summer to a milder winter. Average daytime temperatures are between 22°C and 26°C, with nighttime temperatures dropping to around 14°C to 18°C. December is one of the driest months in Dubai.
It is polite to adhere to and show respect for local customs with what you wear. Women should not wear strappy dresses, miniskirts, shorts, or low-necked dresses in public places. Modest dress is particularly important when visiting mosques, synagogues, and churches. Ladies should wear loose-fitting, non-see-through clothes and shoulders should be covered.
Pick-up Time: To be determined
Pick-up Place: Arrivals Terminal Cairo Airport
Land at Cairo's international airport where you will be greeted by your host at the arrivals terminal and transferred to your hotel for some time at leisure.
Booked by scenset.
Cairo is stunning, wild and possibly infuriating to some! The echoes of the calls to prayer five times a day are mingled with the never-ending, tuneless symphonies of traffic down dusty avenues. Cairo is a mega city with a constant buzz, home to approximately 22 million people. People there have exceptional humor and one of the most studied histories on earth. The energy in this city is one of a kind. It will leave you speechless in all the ways.
Depending on your time of arrival, enjoy a nighttime drive through Cairo's landmarks including Tahrir Square. Stop and stroll through Khan El Khalili Market for a tantalizing experience!
Booked by scenset.
We recommend dinner at a restaurant in Khan el Khalili Bazaar. Hidden away in the mysterious labyrinth of the bazaar, this amazing historic restaurant is a welcome respite from the crowds. The cafe opened in 1989 and is a tribute to a famous Egyptian writer who won a Nobel Prize for Literature in 1988. Today, it’s run by a large hotel group but the elegant arabesque surroundings transport you back to the days of Old Cairo.
Note: Depending on your time of arrival, we may recommend dinner at your hotel.
Why we love it for you: This is Cairo’s first “wow” five-star hotel, with 39 levels of luxury stacked above a Tokyo-style fifth-floor reception. It is opulent and serene with an impressive attention to detail. The design is also refreshingly scenset – from a moat edged with Moorish lanterns, to laser-cut filigree installations in the corridor to the pool.
St. Regis Hotel Cairo
2 Deluxe Rooms (requested interconnected)
1 Double Deluxe Room
1 Single Deluxe Room
- Breakfast included
Booked by scenset.
Delve into the ancient history of Egypt by visiting the famous Egyptian Museum and the Pyramids of Giza.
With an expert guide, explore the endless wealth of the Egyptian Museum, a destination on its own merit. This museum is one of the world’s most important collections of ancient artifacts. Inside the great domed building, the glittering treasures of Tutankhamun and other great pharaohs lie alongside the grave goods, mummies, jewelry, eating bowls and toys of Egyptians whose names are lost to history.
Booked by scenset.
This restaurant is reminiscent of an Arabian palace. This is the place to immerse yourself in the full works of Egyptian cuisine. Choose from an impressive selection of mezze—both hot and cold. For main courses you'll have a choice of grilled meats, stuffed pigeon, and slow-cooked meat stews.
In the afternoon, visit the Great Pyramid of Giza, Khafre, and Menkaure, and the Great Sphinx of Giza with an expert local guide who will walk you through this ancient history.
Booked by scenset.
St. Regis Hotel Cairo
2 Deluxe Rooms (requested interconnected)
1 Double Deluxe Room
1 Single Deluxe Room
- Breakfast included
Booked by a travel agent.
Spend the day with your expert guide as you visit Cairo's distinct neighborhoods and try its various dishes.
Your local guide will take you on a tour of Cairo, exploring the historic neighborhoods, the market of Khan El Khalili and the bustling streets of Zamalek.
Booked by scenset.
You must stop by this famous café in the Khan El Khalili bazaar. The area has dozens of cafés, but this is the oldest, best known, and most frequented by locals. Here you can sip a Turkish coffee or mint tea; fresh juice; karkadeh, a hibiscus drink served hot or cold; and sahleb, a warm milk-based drink sprinkled with coconut and nuts. You can also have your shoes shined or smoke a shisha (water pipe).
- The El-Fishawy cafe first opened its doors in 1797 – one year before Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Egypt.
- During the early 20th century the cafe was noted for its intellectuals and writers, especially during Ramadan, among them the 20th-century Nobel-Laureate Naguib Mahfouz. A former monarch of Egypt also frequented it.
Booked by scenset.
In the evening, get a taste of Cairo's best dishes, both in famous restaurants and on the streets!
Booked by scenset.
Enjoy a special Christmas Eve dinner in Cairo. Details to follow!
Booked by scenset.
St. Regis Hotel Cairo
2 Deluxe Rooms (requested interconnected)
1 Double Deluxe Room
1 Single Deluxe Room
- Breakfast included
Booked by a guest.
Greeting by your host at your hotel and private transfer to the Cairo airport for your flight to Luxor.
Booked by scenset.
Fly from Cairo to Luxor. Flight schedules will be available 11 months out.
Booked by scenset.
Arrival at Luxor airport where you will be greeted at the arrivals terminal and transferred to your hotel.
Booked by scenset.
Luxor is like no other place on earth. Successor to the ancient city of Thebes, which served as Ancient Egypt’s capital for most of the Middle Kingdom (2055-1650 BC) and New Kingdom (1550-1077 BC), Luxor is situated at the very heart of mankind’s most antique past, embedded in five thousand years of Egyptian history.
With your private guide, visit the Karnak Temple Complex. This vast complex is one of the largest religious sites in the world, comprising several temples, pylons, obelisks, and the famous Hypostyle Hall. The Temple of Amun-Ra is a prominent highlight within Karnak.
Booked by scenset.
Explore Luxor Temple. Situated on the east bank of the Nile, Luxor Temple is an impressive ancient temple dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. It is known for its colossal statues, elegant colonnades, and magnificent entrance.
Booked by scenset.
Why we love it for you: The Winter Palace Sofitel Luxor is a majestic and iconic hotel located in Luxor, Egypt. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a unique destination. With its stunning architecture, adorned with classic columns and elegant balconies, the hotel exudes a timeless charm. Its opulent interior, featuring lavish furnishings and exquisite details, transports guests to a bygone era of luxury. Set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens and overlooking the Nile River, the Winter Palace Sofitel Luxor offers a captivating and serene atmosphere for an unforgettable stay. Its rich history as a former royal residence and its proximity to ancient Egyptian wonders make it truly special, immersing guests in the fascinating heritage of Luxor.
Sofitel Luxor Winter Palace
2 Classic Rooms with Nile view
1 Triple Superior Room with Garden view
- Breakfast included
Booked by scenset.
Rise early to view the massive temple complex of Luxor from a hot air balloon.
Booked by scenset.
Located on the west bank of the Nile, the Valley of the Kings is an archaeological site that served as the burial place for many pharaohs of the New Kingdom. Visitors can explore elaborately decorated tombs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun.
Booked by scenset.
For ancient Egyptian artifacts, the Luxor Museum is a must-visit. It houses a remarkable collection of statues, reliefs, jewelry, and other artifacts, including items from the tomb of Tutankhamun.
Booked by scenset.
Embarking on a Nile River cruise from Luxor allows you to experience the breathtaking scenery along the river while visiting temples and historical sites such as Edfu Temple and Kom Ombo Temple.
Booked by scenset.
Sofitel Luxor Winter Palace
2 Classic Rooms with Nile view
1 Triple Superior Room with Garden view
- Breakfast included
Booked by scenset.
Private transfer to the airport for your flight to Aswan.
Booked by scenset.
Fly from Luxor to Aswan. Flight schedules will be available 11 months out.
Booked by scenset.
Arrival at Aswan and private transfer to your hotel.
Booked by scenset.
On the northern end of the First Cataract, marking ancient Egypt's southern frontier, Aswan has always been of great strategic importance. In ancient times it was a garrison town for the military campaigns against Nubia; its quarries provided the granite used for so many sculptures and obelisks. The river is wide, languorous and beautiful here, flowing gently down from Lake Nasser around dramatic black-granite boulders and palm-studded islands. Colorful Nubian villages run down to the water and stand out against the backdrop of the west bank's desert escarpment.
Enjoy the amenities of your hotel and relax at leisure. The hotel boasts numerous restaurants and bars, as well as a BBQ/picnic area. On site, it has an outdoor pool, an indoor heated pool (adult only), and a fitness centre open 24/7.
Head over to the Spa for an invigorating massage, or a traditional Hammam. You can also use their Jacuzzi/Whirlpool bath, Thermal Spa or Turkish Steambath.
Enjoy a leisurely sail on a traditional felucca boat along the Nile River. This serene experience allows you to take in the beautiful scenery, including the lush riverbanks, sand dunes, and nearby islands. It's a perfect way to relax and soak up the peaceful ambiance of Aswan.
Booked by scenset.
Why we love it for you: Step into the legendary site where a king once entertained and a famous author sipped cocktails. Located in the Nubian Desert on the banks of the Nile, opposite Elephantine Island, the majestic hotel sits on a pink granite cliff overlooking the world's longest river.
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract
2 Double Luxury Rooms
1 Triple Luxury Room
- Breakfast included
Booked by scenset.
During your time in Aswan, a local guide will take you on tours and excursions depending on your interest.
A visit to the Abu Simbel Temples is a must. These magnificent rock-cut temples were built by Pharaoh Ramses II and are renowned for their colossal statues and intricate carvings. The temples were relocated in a massive UNESCO-led operation to save them from being submerged by the waters of Lake Nasser.
Booked by scenset.
Situated on an island in the Nile River, Philae Temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis. This beautiful temple complex was also relocated due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The site showcases stunning architecture, reliefs, and hieroglyphics, and can be accessed by a short boat ride.
Booked by scenset.
The Aswan High Dam, an engineering marvel, was constructed to control the flooding of the Nile River and provide hydroelectric power. Visiting the dam offers an opportunity to witness the impressive scale of this structure and learn about its impact on Egypt's development.
Booked by scenset.
The Nubian Museum, showcasing the rich culture and history of the Nubian people, and the Unfinished Obelisk, an abandoned ancient granite obelisk that provides insights into ancient Egyptian stone-cutting techniques.
Additionally, exploring the local markets, wandering through the streets of Aswan, and interacting with the friendly local community can offer an authentic cultural experience. Don't forget to try traditional Nubian cuisine and shop for local handicrafts as well.
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract
2 Double Luxury Rooms
1 Triple Luxury Room
- Breakfast included
Booked by scenset.
Greeting at your hotel in Aswan and private transfer to the Aswan airport for your early morning flight to Dubai via Cairo.
Booked by scenset.
Fly from Aswan to Dubai via Cairo. Flight schedules will be available 11 months out.
Not included in the package.
Arrival at Dubai and private transfer to your hotel.
Booked by scenset.
Your vacation will take you to a world of Arabian hospitality, ancient traditions and unbeatable adventure, all set amidst the glistening city of Dubai. Your time in the UAE will be spent exploring the city, meeting the locals, trying Emirati food and bringing in the New Year with family!
Why we love it for you: Guests of the 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central can experience how the ancient traditions of the Bedouins are brought back to a modern life. Overlooking the Museum of the Future, near Dubai International Financial Centre, the hotel boasts 434 rooms and suites in addition to flexible events and co-working space. A total of five characterful restaurants and bars take guests on a culinary trip around the world.
25Hours Hotel Dubai
2 Double Medium Bedouin Rooms
1 Triple Glamping Room
- Breakfast included
Booked by scenset
Spend your time in Dubai experiencing the culture, meeting people and enjoying the city! It's a wonderful city with so much to do. You can enjoy Dubai at your leisure.
Take a deeper look at Old Dubai with a local guide who will walk you through the Bastakia area and around Dubai Creek, explaining local customs and traditions, as well as the role of cultural tolerance in the UAE.
You can also spend some time in the Dubai Museum, which is a really interesting way to learn about the history of Dubai.
End your cultural exploration with a sunset ride down the Creek as the sky turns pink and the call to prayer echoes across the city; it's a favourite experience in Dubai!
If you want to experience some nature in Dubai, start your day with breakfast and then head to Dubai Miracle Garden; world's largest natural flower garden, featuring over 50 million flowers and 250 million plants.
Dubai Safari Park is home to around 3,000 animals, with 78 species of mammals – including 10 different carnivores and 17 primates – 50 types of reptiles, 111 kinds of birds plus amphibians and invertebrates, all living on the 119-hectare site.
Activities and pricing for NYE will be released around October, so we will book something amazing for you when we have more details!
Brunch is fantastic and is definitely what all locals do at the weekends - they can get quite rowdy, but definitely a fun experience! If you’d like to give it a go, most brunches happen on a Friday but Nikki Beach and Bla Bla do a Saturday brunch.
Bubbalicious is also a good champagne brunch (although I’ve never been), as is Saffron on the Palm which is really fun.
I had my first ever brunch at Yalumba (and my leaving brunch when I left Dubai) here and always had a great time.
For young residents, most head to Lock, Stock & Barrel!
You may wish to hit some of these beach bars:
- DRIFT is at the One&Only Royal Mirage (so not far to go) and offers exclusive beach and pool club vibes; serving exquisite Mediterranean cuisine and chic drinks on the shores of the Arabian Gulf
- White Beach Club at Atlantis on The Palm is a great place for sunbathing and city views. It has a boho-chic, Mediterranean vibe
- Nikki Beach does a Saturday brunch so you can expect lots of party-goers for your birthday!
- Bla Bla is one of the newest beach clubs in Dubai and situated in JBR close to the world's largest ferries wheel; Ain Dubai. They do a pool brunch on a Saturday so you can expect party goers!
We can make reservations for you, just let me know!
25Hours Hotel Dubai
2 Double Medium Bedouin Rooms
1 Triple Glamping Room
- Breakfast included
Booked by scenset
Greeting by your host and private transfer to the Dubai Airport for your flight home.
Booked by scenset.
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