Walk like an Egyptian

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(Image courtesy of CR Genkaku)

With world-famous water sports including unsurpassed scuba-diving and snorkelling, impressive new conference facilities, government-sponsored hospitality training programmes and more culture than you can shake a stick at, Lucy Taylor realises Egypt is far more than just ancient history.

Egypt has long been famed for its natural beauty and rich history, but as traveller needs have changed over the past decade, with tourists demanding that their holiday tick more than just the culture box, the country had to take a long hard look at what else it had to offer. And finally, this effort is paying off.

Topping ‘best destination' lists, breaking its previous tourist records, the country has gone from strength to strength this year - and there is more to come.

Picking up the pace

A recent surge in the number of visitors to the country has allowed for rapid growth in the travel and tourism sector - and according to Egyptian Tourism Federation (ETF) chairman Ahmed El-Nahas, the past couple of years have been particularly positive.

"We've seen a major increase in tourist arrivals in Egypt over the last two years," he says. "In 2006, we had over nine million tourists visit Egypt. The plan was an annual increase of 1 million, which was surpassed in 2007 when the arrival figures reached 11 million tourists."

"The Ministry of Tourism and the Egyptian Tourist Authority's efforts will hopefully reap 14 million tourist arrivals by the end of 2008," he adds.

This sizeable goal is looking increasingly achievable, as more and more international tourists - and consequently hotel groups and companies - succumb to Egypt's diverse appeal.

"Egypt is blessed with an ancient civilization dating back to the days of the pharaohs," points out El-Nahas. "It benefits from historic sites from that era as well as those from the Ottoman empire and Islamic rule in addition to many other influences."

"Its geographic location is ideal - at a key point where east meets west, making it easily accessible from most countries," he adds. "The location also means that Egypt has a coastline on two seas, the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, catering for tourists all year round."

But it is not only tourists who are making the most of the seaside locations; hotel groups are expanding their presence in the region at an incredible rate.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) vice president commercial, Middle East and Africa Tom Rowntree says the company has noticed a general strengthening of Egypt's tourism market.

"The investments that the Ministry of Tourism and associated bodies have made in terms of building up the tourist attractions, from the pyramids to the beach resorts, has resulted in an emergence of destinations," he comments. "And with so many options, there's something for everyone.

"Its history needs no introduction - it's an ideal place for those looking for a cultural experience. Then for diving and water sports, even cruises, it's fantastic."

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