Rediscovering Egypt part 3
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Over the last few weeks I have attempted to outline my views on Egypt within the broader context of its current political and economic environment. As with virtually all countries that underwent significant change during the Arab Spring, Egypt is struggling to replicate the figures it saw pre-2011. The reasons are varied but whatever your explanation, the effects have been perpetuated by negative media portrayals that border on scare-mongering. Couple this with an inexperienced government and there is little wonder the country is struggling to recapture its former glory.
However, despite these problems, Egypt is fighting back. When asking why, there are some important facts to remember: number one is that as one of the most sophisticated tourist destinations in the world, Egypt already has the infrastructure in place to see it grow. Secondly, there are enough experienced industry professionals within the country to oversee a successful transition.
Egypt has all of the intrinsic factors in place to make it a successful destination and nowhere was this more evident than onboard Abercrombie & Kent’s Sun Sanctuary III.
Invited to sail from Aswan to Luxor with the luxury operator was an opportunity to see the Nile in its best possible light. It was an example of how successful operations are still running within Egypt and why there should still be confidence in the country’s tourism industry.
The Sanctuary Sunboat III holds 36 guests in 14 staterooms and two suites, all looked after by 24 members of staff. The food is brilliant, a mix of authentic Egyptian cuisine and more typical western fare with an Arabian twist. The style follows through into the ship’s decor which fuses both east and western influences.
Abercrombie & Kent has ownership of its own docking areas which adds to the luxury feel associated with the brand. There have been well noted security fears since the late 90s and at many of our stops there are armed guards visible on-land.
Operators like Abercrombie & Kent are taking security issues extremely seriously. The number of tourist enquiries to Egypt is back to pre-Spring levels but bookings are still some way off. To boost this, the company started a ‘safety net’ initiative which allows booked travellers the opportunity to postpone their trip for up to two years at no extra cost. This procedure can be implemented if the guest is at all uncomfortable with the situation within the country.
But where does this leave Egypt going forward?
Despite the negative tone of my past blog posts I am optimistic about the country’s future. A lot will depend on 30 June and what happens as a result of those demonstrations however the mood that resonates throughout Egypt is one which wants to see tourism back. The fact that the tourism industry seems more knowledgeable about the country’s economics however, is a big concern.
While on our tour of Egypt I never once felt that my safety was at risk. I was well looked after and was surprised at how good our access was to sites like the Pyramids. Considering the fact that the prices are as low as they’re likely to ever be, my advice would be keep an eye on the Egypt at the end of the month, and if all is well in the immediate aftermath, book your clients into the country as soon as possible. They’re unlikely to get an experience that comes anywhere near as close ever again.
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