Family travel is fantastic in Egypt because there are so many luxury hotels and resorts to choose from, many of which cater to families travelling with young children. The hotels are often well facilitated, with children’s play areas, pools, baby changing rooms, and even babysitting services for parents who need a night off. Getting around Egypt is also very easy and there are a number of sights and attractions that are suitable for kids including the Pyramids of Giza and the Luxor Temple. Food is tasty and mostly mild, so there are flavours and dishes to suit all palates, even the fussiest of young eaters! Not only will children of all ages find the history of Egypt fascinating but there are also many beaches to choose from – many with luxury resorts – so the whole family will be able to find the perfect places to relax.
Egyptian cuisine can be defined by its heavy use of legumes and vegetables and various herbs and spices. Egyptian food is always well seasoned and full of flavour but rarely spicy / hot. Dishes to try include Ful wa Ta’meya (fava beans with falafel), Kofta Kebab, Sugoq wa Kibdah Iskandarani (Alexandrian sausages and liver) and Hawawshi (Egyptian meat pie). Street food is also fantastic here so you’ll be able to find some tasty treats when you’re travelling around – some great street eats are Diet bread, Kushari (macaroni and lentils), Mahshi (peppers stuffed with rice) and various sandwich options. Hotels and resorts will also offer more continental / international menus, fine dining as well as buffet options to suit the whole family.
Egypt is the most populated country in the Arab world, with more than 71 million people living in the country. Of those, the majority are Sunni Muslims and the local cultures is very much tied in with their strong religious beliefs. In traditional dress, women wear a black dress over their clothes with a veil to cover their face whenever they go out in public and you may see some men wearing a gallibaya (long shirt) and kaftan.