I remember feeling overly exhausted in all aspects of life when the beginning of 2021 came. After the previous year was left was such devestation and tragedy, I wanted to start 2021 afresh with hope and life still in front of me. I never knew what was in store for 2021, but I knew in my heart and soul that I had to go on an adventure come May for my birthday. My love for travel is evident, and I was trying to figure out the most feasible place I could go that wasn't heavily Covid restricted.
CC: Me in front of the Pyramids of Giza
I was watching endless videos of Israel and came across Lost LeBlanc's video The Bible brought me HERE --I remember thinking and watching in amazement on how I MUST go to Egypt! I continued watching more videos about the country and discovered Doug Barnard's travels there and came to the realization that I was going to Egypt for my birthday. It's so amazing how God works--prior to my return from my study abroad, I had the opportunity to be a buddy to an exchange student at my uni. I sought the opportunity to get to learn more about another person and there culture. I was assigned to a girl from Cairo, Egypt named Asmaa. I never thought in a million years it would have been someone from Egypt--getting to know her was special. You're probably wondering how this coincides?--My mom had told me to reach out to Asmaa and ask her if traveling to Egypt was okay with Covid still being so prevalent everywhere. Asmaa confirmed that everything was fine and coming now would be the perfect time. One week later I booked the flights. Asmaa even had her husband's friend Bob who is a tour guide take care of us and planned out our whole itinerary. Who would have thought that fast forward 4 years later after meeting Asmaa, she would be the reason that everything worked out seamlessly. God is so good at how he orchestrates our lives.
My first stay was in Cairo, Egypt's capital and it was absolutely beautiful. I just couldn't believe that I was there. I've watched countless documentaries, series and read so much in the Bible about Egypt since I was a little girl--it honestly felt like a dream. It was ordained by God that I was here at this time. I stayed at the fun and vibrant Sofitel Hotel--and when I say beautiful, I mean stunning. The views, the food and the staff were so kind and it was in the heart of the city right on the Nile river. During our stay in Cairo, we visited the Egyptian Museum and saw so many ancient artifacts dating back centuries ago and visited the Pyramids of Giza while enjoying a cool camel ride and securing some fire camera shots. It was definitely a surreal moment for me.
CC: The front of the Egyptian Museum
CC: The Pharoah Akhenaten statue
CC: Ancient artifact of the ancient Egyptians in a boat
When it came to the food, I never really knew what to expect. However, a connect took us to a local spot and the food was so delicious. We enjoyed lamb, chicken + salad, eggplant and the yummy Egyptian bread.
With the city's population of over 21,000,000... getting to walk the streets of Cairo and being in the hustle and bustle of the local's everyday lives was an exuberant experience that I won't forget. You can even feel the high impact of energy all around you. From the beautifully intricate mosque's to the grand historic churches all throughout the city, the infrastructure was something I've never seen before. Being that this was my first time in a predominantly Muslim country, it was a meaningful opportunity to be immersed in their culture and understanding the ways of life. Hearing the call to prayer and witnessing how serious they take their religion was alluring and beautiful. It challenges me to pray more and spend more time in the Lord's presense.
CC: a beautiful Church on the left and on the far right is the Mosque of Muhammad Ali
CC: Inside the Mosque of Muhammad Ali
I decided to beat the the city life for a more secluded scenery-- and that is the coastal city of Hurghada; right on the Red Sea. This place reminded me of somewhere in Mexico, with it's breathtaking views and beachy vibes. From the palm tree's to the clear royal blue waters... this is a hidden gem in Egypt. We stayed at Fort Arabesque which was a cool hotel and we almost had the whole place to ourselves. We encountered a lot of Romanian tourists and Europeans. Fun fact is that some European families take holiday/vacation to this city. While our time here was short, it was enjoyable and calm. When I come back, I would love to stay for a week and just relax!
CC: Red Sea views
CC: Fort Arabesque at night
CC: Outside my room @ Fort Arabesque
Our last city that we got to see was the infamous Luxor! This is the place known for the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut + more. We had the great opportunity to stay at the Hilton Luxor (this hotel, exceeded my expectation) I felt as if we had the entire hotel to ourselves. The breakfast, lunch and dinner options were delicious and extremely affordable. Being on the banks of the Nile felt as if I was in a book of the past. The complete calmness and serenity in the air was unmatched. During the night, overlooking the Nile River was extraordinary!! :) If you want to escape the city and experience a slow pace of Egyptian life, Luxor will definitely be it! I would stay for a whole month if I could--it was just so peaceful.
CC: Ancient Egyptian artifact
CC: Me @ Luxor Temple @ the Valley of the Kings
CC: Poolside at the Hilton Luxor
Another unforgettable experience was getting to do the Hot air balloon ride! I would have never imagined that I would be hundreds of feet high in the air--but it's definitely something I highly recommend when visiting. You don't want to miss this experience... even if you're afraid of heights. It's best to book online, and your tour guide will pick you up at your hotel. They provide you with coffee, tea and cookies while you enjoy your 5-7 minute boat ride across the river bank.
CC: Video clip of my heart air balloon ride.
After my unbelievable time in Luxor, we headed back to Cairo for one last day before it was time to go home. Our last night we stayed in an Airbnb overlooking the pyramids which seemed unreal. Ehab, who hosted us provided my family and friend with excellent hospitality. I learned that Egyptian people are some of the most friendliest, caring and funniest people in the world who love their culture and love when foreigners come to visit. We felt like family.
CC: Me in on top of my Airbnb right in front of the Pyramids of Giza
CC: CC: Me in on top of my Airbnb right in front of the Pyramids of Giza
My time in Egypt was a dream come true. From boat rides on the Nile, to camel rides by the Pyramids--this trip will be something I will hold with me forever. I can't wait to come back and explore more cities and see all the new infrastructure to come. Traveling is a freeing experience, it allows you to get out of your comfort zone and see how just alike we all are. I hope this piece inspires you to get out and try something new whether it's seeing a new country for the first time or trying new food. The world is diverse, beautiful and growing--get out there and learn something!
XOXO--Brit
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
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