In a way, it was a visit that was a half century overdue. Ever since King Tutankhamun’s artifacts graced New York in the late 1970s, I’ve been captivated by the mystique of ancient Egypt. From Steve Martin’s SNL hit “King Tut” to my 1st-grade teacher encouraging us to create human-sized murals of ourselves as ancient Egyptians – complete with personalized cartouches – ancient Egypt has conjured images of intrigue, intellect and mystery. And so, the allure of the Historia cruise on the Nile became more than a mere adventure; it was a pilgrimage to the epicenter of my fascination.
As the Historia (self described as “the boutique hotel cruise”) set sail along the Nile, I couldn’t help but marvel at the fact that I was living a dream decades in the making. The ship’s luxurious accommodations and truly creative and delectable cuisine only heightened the sense of wonder. The rooftop lounge and pool became our personal vantage point for an ever-changing landscape that mirrored the enchanting tales that had fueled my fascination with Egypt.
Exploring the temples of Luxor and Karnak felt like stepping into the pages of an secret library book with dreamlike illustrations – it was hard to conceive what we were seeing was real. The ancient Egyptian civilization’s strides in medicine and surgery, the mesmerizing art, and hieroglyphics were no longer distant concepts but tangible relics. Inside the tombs, the paintings and carvings stirred a profound connection, bridging the gap between my childhood musings and the reality unfolding before me.
Evenings on the Historia were magical, resonating with the beats of local music that echoed through the Nile’s gentle currents. The live music at lunch and dinner added an authentic layer to the experience, making me feel not just like a spectator but a participant in Egypt’s vibrant cultural narrative.
Our time at the end of the trip in Cairo truly was a “grand finale” felt like the culmination of a lifelong quest. The Four Seasons Cairo provided a luxurious and modern base for our explorations, giving us options to enjoy upscale dining, a hookah lounges and super cool spots for sipping cocktails. Our days were filled with the most incredible sightseeing which included sauntering by the iconic pyramids on camel back (not to mention getting to actually climb up into the center to observe the Pharaoh’s tomb) the bustling old quarter, and encounters with the Sphinx. The markets beckoned, and my search for the perfect Cleopatra eye makeup became a delightful quest, blending the modern with the timeless allure of ancient beauty rituals.
As we explored Cairo’s markets, the scent of essential oils and the sight of translucent alabaster pottery brought back memories of my childhood fascination. The historical sites, from synagogues to mosques and Coptic churches, resonated with the diverse tapestry of Egypt’s cultural heritage. In that moment, I felt a deep connection, realizing that my obsession with ancient Egypt had evolved into a profound appreciation for its enduring legacy.
A word on the value of an expert guide:
Guiding us through this journey of discovery was a preeminent Egyptologist, deeply involved in excavations in Giza. His insights transformed each site into a living testament to Egypt’s rich history. This became especially evident at the Museum of Cairo, where our guide’s prolific knowledge illuminated the most recently excavated mummies and relics of everyday life in ancient Egypt. Having such a deeply knowledgable guide allowed us to appreciate the exhibits on a profound level, connecting with the past through the eyes of someone actively contributing to Egypt’s archaeological story.
A word on building cultural bridges:
In a region often marked by conflicts, our journey became a powerful reminder of the shared human heritage that transcends borders. More than just the historical and cultural reminders of our connection, it was the conversations we had with our guides, our drivers and everyone we came into contact with that reaffirmed my feeling that travel truly fosters tolerance. Those we interacted with in Cairo’s markets and cultural sites became bridges, connecting us to the diverse tapestry of Egyptian history and serving as a testament to the potential for understanding and harmony in a world too often divided. The timeless treasures we encountered echoed a universal story, reminding us that, beyond the headlines, there is a communal history that unites us all.
This was one of those trips where we felt truly sad to board our flight home. Our journey traced the footsteps of a lifelong fascination and Egypt had transformed from a distant dream to a tangible, immersive adventure, leaving an indelible mark on my heart and soul. It’s a trip we’d recommend for any adventurous soul with a love of culture and antiquity.
Rebecca Alesia 