Fascinating Tales from Egypt
Egypt is a fascinating destination with some of the most intriguing historical sites on earth. The Pyramids of Giza, ancient civilizations, and many intriguing stories, all exist in Egypt. Let us know more about this country. TravelJingles in a conversation with H.E. Mr. Wael Hamed, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to India.
From nourishing agricultural soil to serving as a transportation route, the river Nile plays a vital role in the ancient Egyptian civilization. Tell us about the three must-visit places in Egypt.
As we examine the map, it becomes apparent that Egypt is indeed ‘the gift of the Nile’, as the Greek historian Herodotus said. The Nile played a major role in shaping the Egyptian civilization over millennia, and still serves as the main artery of life for Egypt. Therefore, it is not surprising that most must-visit places in Egypt are on the banks of the Nile. Cairo, the capital, lies at the point where the Nile branches into the Delta, and is the melting pot of various civilizations. It brings together the Pharaonic, Christian, Islamic and modern aspects of Egypt’s culture and civilization, in a magnificent and unique way. Not only the site of the Pyramids and the Sphinx, Cairo will also soon host the Grand Egyptian Museum, documenting and showcasing the marvels of the Pharaonic civilization. It is also the site of some of the country’s oldest and most magnificent mosques and churches, as well as modern landscapes. Further to the south of Cairo, Luxor is called ‘the world’s largest open museum’ where the Luxor Temple, one of the most stunning temple in Egypt, is the main attraction. Very near to Luxor, Aswan is one of Egypt’s most picturesque cities, with lush greenery located in the middle of the desert. But away from the Nile, and especially in the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt also features some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and magnificent coral reefs. Sharm El-Sheikh stands out as an excellent destination for water sports, snorkelling, and many other water sports and activities.
Ful Wa T’ameya is a popular and delicious Egyptian street food. Tell us about the gastronomy of the country. Do we also get Indian food in the country?
Whether it’s about festivals, celebrations or activities, Egyptians love food. As an agrarian society, vegetables play a major role in our cuisine. Indeed, ‘Ful’ and ‘Tameyya’ are very popular street foods. The first is basically Fava beans that are spiced and cooked with many additives that make it a very versatile dish, while the second is also made of dried Fava beans, but fried and eaten with salad. Also ‘Koshary’ is very popular, and it’s prepared with rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas, combined altogether with sauces giving it a very distinct taste. Other vegetables, like zucchini and eggplant are main ingredients in several dishes, and are often stuffed with rice to become ‘Mahshy’. Also, Egypt is a delight for fish lovers, especially because it has coasts on both the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, giving it a very rich marine life. Indian food is also very common in Egypt, especially due to the similarity of ingredients in both cuisines.
From ancient temples and tombs, to a luxurious hotel by the river Nile. From beach weddings to desert weddings. Egypt offers all. What makes the country a destination for the weddings?
Any marrying couple surely desire a unique destination to make their wedding memorable, and Egypt provides this, like no other country. Luxury hotels, many of them at the footsteps of the Pyramids, as well as ancient temples and breath-taking sceneries, is what Egypt promises as a wedding destination. It is true that not many Indian weddings have taken place in Egypt, but more people are now becoming aware of the wedding locations in the country, and we have indeed seen an increasing appetite for Egypt’s in this sector.
The shape of the potential, Egyptian Pyramids is said to have been inspired by the Sun’s rays. Comment.
Just like the Nile, the sun plays an important role in the Egyptian culture. The Sun god ‘Ra’ was considered to be the father of all gods during the second Pharaonic dynasty, and is depicted as a Pharaoh with the Sun as his crown. And also ‘Aton’, the main god in the 18th dynasty, is a Sun god depicted as the Sun disc with extended arms as its rays of light giving life to the people. These rays come together to shape a triangle that remind us of the Pyramids. But the Pyramids date back long before this dynasty. For example, Pyramid of ‘Djoser’ was built during the third dynasty in the 27th century BC (more than 4800 years ago) and the Great ‘Cheops’ Pyramid in Giza was built during the fourth dynasty (more than 4600 years ago). In fact, there are many theories on how and why the Pyramids were built, and how the ancient Egyptians put these huge bricks together and arrange them in such precise way. It is enigmatic, and researchers are still coming up with new theories on how this was done.
Egypt Airlines has commenced a direct flight between New Delhi and Cairo. Are there any new visa facilities for the tourists visiting the country? Comment.
The first-time air connection between New Delhi and Cairo started in August 2023, and flies four times a week. I expect it to play a conducive role in enhancing tourism between Egypt and India. And because Cairo airport is a hub bringing together many flights to Europe, Africa, and North America, it is usually buzzing with transit passengers who want to catch up with other flights. To these kind of transit passengers, Egypt is offering the possibility of having four days to visit the country without obtaining the visa in advance. Of course, four days will not be enough to appreciate Egypt’s diversity, but it will be an appetizer that I am sure will bring more tourists to the country.
Which is your favourite travelled destination in the world and why (except for Egypt)?
I find India a very interesting place to visit because it offers diversity, beautiful nature, culinary experiences, and great hospitality. I totally believe that it is worthwhile visiting India as I have personally been to various places which I found unique and breath-taking. India is a place that has a character of its own. It is indeed very intriguing for tourists, and is rewarding in many ways.
Are there any similarities between India and Egypt?
The connection between these two countries goes back to many centuries. In fact millennia. The people from both the countries are hospitable and welcoming. Another common factor is the sense of patriotism, a sense of pride, which is the same with the Egyptians. India and Egypt have a great ability to socialize and the history of both the countries comes with layers of civilizations.