For our first tour of Egypt in nearly a decade, we wanted to find accommodations fit for a pharaoh. Scroll down to appreciate the two swank hotels and one stunning river boat we’ve reserved.
A boutique hotel in the heart of Cairo
Our first hotel is lush, luxe and located right on the bank of the Nile.
Our all-gay Egypt tour is bookended with time in the country’s bustling capital, Cairo. After a day of touring this fascinating albeit chaotic city, you’ll love escaping to the quiet Kempinski Hotel. Located in the heart of the city, this boutique accommodation offers gorgeous views of the city, especially during sunset.
Aside from the indescribable views, you’ll love the hotel’s restrained interior design. Muted tones are punctuated with light natural colours, giving the entire space an air of elegance and timelessness. The bedrooms are especially charming with soft linens and fluffy pillows.
A few other highlights include the refreshing rooftop pool and the hotel’s wide range of spa treatments.
Finally, you’ll be spoiled for choice on where to enjoy your evening nightcap. While the rooftop bar offers the aforementioned sunset views, the Jazz Bar’s sophisticated atmosphere is undeniably appealing. Meanwhile, the Chocolate Lounge has an unpretentious, welcoming vibe.
Riding the Nile Cleopatra style
Queen C herself would be gob smacked by this gorgeous ship.
After a weekend savouring the sights, sounds and smells of Cairo, we’ll board the beautiful Steigenberger. This spacious ship has 76 cabins, meaning our tight-knit group of maximum 16 will expand considerably. However, our private Egyptologist will keep things intimate during exclusive tours and private experiences. We’ll also carve out space in the dining room specifically for our group during meals.
Speaking of meals—segue, segue, segue—aside from one special Nubian lunch, we’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard the ship. While options will always include international favourites, you’d be doing yourself a disfavour if you didn’t indulge in the chef’s Egyptian specialties.
Regarding The Steigenberger’s cabins, you’ll be relieved to hear each one is outfitted with individually controllable air-conditioning. They also include internet access, satellite TV and in-house video channels. Of course, the real highlight of the room is the private balconies.
When you’re ready to leave your quaint cabin, head to the sun deck to catch a few North African rays. On the terrace you’ll find ample lounge chairs, a glistening pool and shaded cocktail lounge.
One last luxe lodging
While we chose our final hotel for it’s convenient location, we didn’t sacrifice quality.
We admit we chose our final hotel largely for its convenient location—because it’s connected directly to Cairo Airport’s Terminal 3, you won’t need to wake up at an ungodly 4am to catch your flight home. However, that doesn’t mean we sacrificed comfort or luxury.
Le Méridien Cairo Airport is an upscale offering with an inviting, modern design. The guest rooms are bright and spacious, and complete with creature comforts like satellite TV, excellent wifi and inviting showers/tubs.
For anyone looking to burn off the baklava, the lengthy pool and well-equipped fitness centre are excellent.
Finally, if you prefer to dine at the hotel rather than venture into the heart of Cairo, Le Méridien has four delectable restaurants to choose from.
Interested in exploring The Gift of the Nile with us?
Our Egypt: Nile River Cruise & Cairo tour has room for 16 like-minded men (and/or women!). On this ancient adventure you’ll scratch the Pyramids of Giza off your bucket list, ride a camel through the desert, photograph the benevolent Sphinx and witness modern Egyptian life in Cairo’s chaotic Islamic Quarter. Book now to guarantee your place!
Photo Credits
All photos courtesy of Steigenberger Hotel & Resports, Kempinski Hotel and Le Méridien Hotels.
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