For those looking for a change from the mundane, the old and historical city of Cairo is a great escape that will be unforgettable. But now the choice needs to be made between going with one of those stress free pre arranged Cairo Tour packages, or to make the trip unique and flexible. Here are some things to think about that might help make that decision a little easier.
First, figure out the length of time that is available for the trip, who are the travel partners (if any), what are some of the must-see sights and activities, and what the budget looks like, or if there is a budget. This will provide a rough outline of expectations and the minimum information that needs to be taken into consideration.
For those that have a strict amount of time, going with a tour package might be a better way to go. Transportation is taken care of so there will not be any waiting on local transportation, the hotels are pre booked, and the itinerary can be viewed ahead of time, so the trip can be sight specific.
By planning the trip oneself though, the schedule is not as regimented allowing for more room to go off the beaten track, stop and take photos alone rather than in a group, and do activities that may not have been on the list but sound interesting. The downside is that by having a strict schedule and self-planning the trip, the likelihood that all the sights on the list will not be seen is higher, but so is the chance for more adventure.
The budget also plays a large role in whether or not to do a package deal or not. The deals will generally cost more, but the convenience may be priceless. There will not be any need to carry too much cash, only enough for the souvenirs and the odd tips for the guides, if they are not included.
For those on a tighter budget, there are always options of searching for cheaper hostels in the city or joining a hospitality exchange service. This is one way of getting to know the city and may also provide a chance to get to explore the city with a local, but it does eat into the time of going to the tourist sites that may be on the list.
Cairo is mainly known for the Pyramids of Giza that lie nearby. But there are also many other sights to visit such as the large fortress, Citadel, museums, mosques, and parks. Do not forget about the flea and street markets but make sure to brush up on the bargaining skills before hitting the streets.
Deciding to go with one of those Cairo tour packages or going without a set schedule will really depend on each individuals preference. Take the time to write out what the various expectations, budget, and time frame looks like, and go from there. Most importantly though, make the most out of the trip even when it seems like it is not going as planned.
First, figure out the length of time that is available for the trip, who are the travel partners (if any), what are some of the must-see sights and activities, and what the budget looks like, or if there is a budget. This will provide a rough outline of expectations and the minimum information that needs to be taken into consideration.
For those that have a strict amount of time, going with a tour package might be a better way to go. Transportation is taken care of so there will not be any waiting on local transportation, the hotels are pre booked, and the itinerary can be viewed ahead of time, so the trip can be sight specific.
By planning the trip oneself though, the schedule is not as regimented allowing for more room to go off the beaten track, stop and take photos alone rather than in a group, and do activities that may not have been on the list but sound interesting. The downside is that by having a strict schedule and self-planning the trip, the likelihood that all the sights on the list will not be seen is higher, but so is the chance for more adventure.
The budget also plays a large role in whether or not to do a package deal or not. The deals will generally cost more, but the convenience may be priceless. There will not be any need to carry too much cash, only enough for the souvenirs and the odd tips for the guides, if they are not included.
For those on a tighter budget, there are always options of searching for cheaper hostels in the city or joining a hospitality exchange service. This is one way of getting to know the city and may also provide a chance to get to explore the city with a local, but it does eat into the time of going to the tourist sites that may be on the list.
Cairo is mainly known for the Pyramids of Giza that lie nearby. But there are also many other sights to visit such as the large fortress, Citadel, museums, mosques, and parks. Do not forget about the flea and street markets but make sure to brush up on the bargaining skills before hitting the streets.
Deciding to go with one of those Cairo tour packages or going without a set schedule will really depend on each individuals preference. Take the time to write out what the various expectations, budget, and time frame looks like, and go from there. Most importantly though, make the most out of the trip even when it seems like it is not going as planned.
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