Falling in Love with Egypt during Our Christmas and New Year Holiday

It all started about three months before Christmas when I told my husband, “I want this year to be different. No snow, no routines — just something new for the kids and us.” I’d been scrolling for weeks, searching for somewhere warm, safe, and full of history. “What about Egypt?” I asked one evening, half-joking. He looked up, smiled, and said, “You know what? That actually sounds amazing.”
From that moment, I went deep into research mode — reading reviews, comparing tours, and trying to plan the perfect Egypt Christmas holiday for our family of five. With three kids (13, 10, and 2), I needed something that mixed adventure with relaxation.
Then I came across Memphis Tours. Their team was so responsive and friendly; they listened carefully and helped me choose the “Pyramids & The Nile at Christmas & New Year” trip from several great options. It just felt right.
By the time we landed in Cairo at the end of December, the kids were buzzing with excitement. We explored the Pyramids, cruised along the Nile, and celebrated New Year’s Eve under the stars in Aswan. It turned out to be the most unforgettable Egypt New Year holiday we’ve ever had.

 

Starting our Journey

 

Day 1 : Landing in Cairo: The Start of Our Family Adventure

 worked best for our budget and comfort — honestly, that made things so much easier. Everything was perfectly organized, so by the time we landed at Cairo International Airport, I already felt relaxed.
A friendly Memphis Tours representative was waiting right outside the arrivals hall, holding a sign with our name and the biggest smile. He helped us with the luggage and fast-tracked all the airport formalities, which was a blessing after a long flight with three kids.
Our driver took us straight to the Hilton Pyramids Golf Hotel, and the moment we checked in, I knew we’d made the right choice. The room had a beautiful view of the golf course, and in the distance, we could even spot the outline of the Great Pyramids — magical!
That evening, we decided to stay in and have dinner at the hotel’s restaurant. The staff recommended trying some light Egyptian-style grilled chicken and kebabs with rice and fresh salads — simple, flavorful, and exactly what we needed after a long flight. The kids loved it too, especially with a bit of warm pita bread on the side.
After dinner, we took a few photos by the pool, watched the sunset, and let the kids unwind before bed. As I tucked them in, my son whispered, “Mom, are we really going to see the pyramids tomorrow?” I smiled and said, “Yes, sweetheart — tomorrow’s the big day.”

 

Day 2 : Our Giza Adventure – From Camel Rides to Ancient Treasures

We started the day early with breakfast at the hotel before meeting our guide, Ahmed, in the lobby. He had the best sense of humor — the kids adored him, and even my husband was laughing the whole drive to the pyramids.
Our Giza Pyramids tour was honestly beyond anything we’d imagined. Seeing those giant stones up close felt unreal. The kids were amazed — they’d spent weeks watching videos and flipping through pictures of the pyramids before our trip, and now they were standing right there in front of them. We took what felt like a hundred photos, and Ahmed arranged a short camel and horse ride for us. My daughter couldn’t stop giggling, our son felt like a real explorer, and even the little one was waving at every camel he saw. My husband and I just kept smiling, soaking in every moment.
After that, we stopped for lunch at a local restaurant nearby and tried proper Egyptian food — fattah with rice and meat, some grilled chicken, and warm bread. It was simple, filling, and absolutely delicious.
Next, we headed to the Grand Egyptian Museum Giza, which had just opened part of its halls during the soft opening. Even though only a few galleries were open, it was absolutely breathtaking. The grand entrance alone, with the giant statue of Ramses II, left us speechless. Inside, we explored a few of the main halls where our guide told us fascinating stories about ancient Egypt — the kind of stories that kept even the kids hooked.
The children’s area was such a highlight! They got to play interactive games, touch replica artifacts, and even try a mini “archaeology dig.” My husband joined in too, and we all ended up laughing like kids ourselves. It was the perfect mix of fun and learning.
By the time we got back to the hotel, everyone was happily exhausted. The kids were still buzzing about the camels and the mummies, and we couldn’t stop talking about how amazing the Grand Egyptian Museum Giza was. As we packed for the next day, the excitement kicked in — tomorrow, we’d finally be heading south for our Nile Cruise adventure.
 

 

Day 3 – Aswan Day Tour & First Night on the Nile Cruise

 

We were up before sunrise, bags packed and full of excitement. After a quick breakfast, we headed to the airport for our short flight to Aswan. The moment we stepped off the plane, we could feel the difference — warm sunshine, clear blue skies, and the calm flow of the Nile beneath us. It felt like we’d landed in another world, quieter and slower, the kind of place where time seems to pause.
When we arrived at the dock, our beautiful home for the next few days — the MS Salacia Nile Cruise — was waiting for us. The crew greeted us with cool hibiscus juice and the warmest smiles. The kids were instantly excited, running around to explore every corner — from the cozy cabins to the big open deck where they could see the river stretching endlessly. My husband and I couldn’t stop taking photos; everything looked so peaceful, like a perfect postcard come to life.
We got to the cruise just before lunchtime, so we went to our cabin, unpacked a little, and took a short rest before heading to the restaurant. Lunch was a true Egyptian experience — Hawawshi, grilled veggies, and soft baladi bread with tahini and pickles. The kids hesitated at first but ended up loving it, especially when the chef told them stories about traditional Egyptian food. My husband was fascinated by how every dish came with a bit of history.
After lunch, we started our Aswan day tour. Our first stop was the High Dam — massive and impressive. The kids were amazed when the guide explained how it controls the Nile’s flooding. Next, we visited the Unfinished Obelisk, and it was mind-blowing to imagine how ancient Egyptians carved something that huge using only simple tools.
But the highlight of the day was definitely the Temple of Philae. We took a small boat across the Nile to reach the island, and the kids couldn’t stop laughing, waving at passing boats, and pointing at birds flying low over the water. When we arrived, it felt magical — the temple rising out of the river, surrounded by palm trees and sunlight. Inside, we explored the tall columns and saw carvings of the goddess Isis. The kids kept asking questions about the drawings on the walls, and my daughter said it felt like being inside a “real-life adventure movie.”
By the time we got back to the cruise, the sun was setting, painting the Nile in shades of orange and pink. We decided to have a light dinner — just fruit and yogurt — since everyone was exhausted. The kids fell asleep almost instantly after such an exciting day. Later that night, my husband and I went up to the deck, sat under the stars with a cup of mint tea, and watched the river flow quietly. The air was soft and still, and for a little while, it was just us, the stars, and the Nile.

 

Day 4 – Kom Ombo, Edfu & New Year’s Eve on the Nile (31/12)

 

We woke up on the last morning of the year — December 31st — still a bit sleepy but full of happy holiday energy. Breakfast was a cozy Egyptian spread with warm foul, crispy taameya, fried potatoes, and a fresh salad. The smell alone made everyone smile. The kids ate quickly, laughing between bites and asking, “So, what’s next, Mom?” — the perfect start to our last day of the year on the Nile.
First stop was Kom Ombo Temple, dedicated to two gods — Sobek the crocodile god and Horus. The kids were fascinated by the crocodile carvings and the small statues in the nearby shop. We walked among the tall columns, took photos with the Nile in the background, and laughed when my son ran up the steps shouting, “Look, mummy!” My daughter smiled the entire time. We even snapped a family photo that became one of our favorites from the whole trip.
Next came Edfu Temple, and getting there felt like stepping into a storybook. The horse-drawn carriage ride through the quiet local streets was such a fun experience. The temple of Horus was massive and beautifully preserved — the kids tried to count the columns and kept pointing at the carvings of animals. Our guide shared simple stories about the gods, and the kids listened with wide eyes. Before leaving, we bought small souvenirs — colorful bracelets that the kids proudly wore for the rest of the trip.
We returned to the cruise in the afternoon for a late Egyptian lunch — grilled fish, rice, and light mezze. As we ate, the crew began decorating the ship for New Year’s Eve with fairy lights, lanterns, and flowers. The atmosphere already felt festive. After lunch, we went to our cabin to rest a little; the kids played quietly before dozing off early, completely worn out from all the fun and exploring.
That night, the cruise became a party on the water. The sundeck turned into the main stage: Nubian music and dance came first with colorful costumes and rhythmic drumming, then an Egyptian folkloric group performed traditional dances. The buffet was full of special dishes for the celebration — mezze plates, roast meat, festive sides, and sweet desserts. The crew had made a kid-friendly corner with little treats and music, so the children danced with the crew and laughed a lot.
At midnight, fireworks exploded over the Nile. The sky lit up and the river reflected all the colors — the kids were jumping and clapping, shouting “wow!” My husband and I hugged our children, then hugged each other, and watched the stars and the sparks on the water. None of us could believe we had just ended the year like this — on a boat, surrounded by music, family, and fireworks over the Nile. The kids kept saying how amazing it was, and later whispered that this New Year was the best ever. For us, choosing Egypt for New Year’s was the perfect decision.
 

 

Day 5 – Luxor Day Tour: Hello, 2025!

That morning felt different — calm, bright, and full of promise. From our cabin window, the Nile shimmered in soft golden light, and the sound of birds filled the air. I stood there for a moment, watching the river flow and thinking, what a beautiful way to begin a new year. The kids were already wide awake, pressing their faces to the glass and shouting, “Look! It’s all shiny!” Their laughter filled the room, and just like that, we were all in the best mood to start the day.
After breakfast, we set out to explore Luxor’s West Bank — one of the most fascinating parts of Egypt. Our first stop was the Valley of the Kings, the ancient burial ground of the pharaohs. Standing there surrounded by golden hills and desert silence felt surreal. The kids were amazed when our guide explained that more than sixty royal tombs were hidden beneath our feet. We entered a few tombs, and the colorful paintings on the walls looked as if they’d been painted yesterday. My son kept shining his flashlight at the hieroglyphs, trying to find hidden symbols, while our daughter whispered, “It feels like a secret world.”
Next, we visited the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari — carved beautifully into the cliffs. The grand terraces and long ramps made it look like something straight out of a movie. The kids ran up the wide steps, pretending to be “little pharaohs,” while I took photos of them with the temple rising behind them and the desert stretching endlessly around. Our guide told the story of Queen Hatshepsut — the powerful woman who ruled Egypt — and I could see our daughter listening closely, her eyes wide with admiration.
Before heading back, we stopped by the Colossi of Memnon — two enormous statues standing guard over the ancient Theban plain. The kids loved taking funny photos there, trying to mimic the statues’ serious faces. We even managed to get a perfect family picture with both giants in the background — definitely one for the frame.
Back on the cruise, lunch was extra fun — it was International Day! Everyone got to pick their favorite cuisine. My husband went straight for Chinese noodles, the kids, of course, picked Italian pizza, and I tried a bit of everything. After lunch, the pool was calling! The kids couldn’t wait to jump in, and even Joey joined with his little floaties. He laughed so hard we couldn’t stop smiling. I swam with them for a while, while my husband discovered the cruise had a gym — and decided it was finally time for a workout.
By evening, everyone was calm and happy. Dinner was light and cozy, and before long the kids were sound asleep, exhausted from swimming and playing all day. We ended our first night of 2025 feeling peaceful, grateful, and excited for whatever the new year in Egypt would bring.

 

Day 6 – Exploring Karnak & Luxor Temples, Then Return to Cairo

 

Our last morning on the Nile cruise began with a delicious traditional Egyptian breakfast of fresh feteer (layered pastry) drizzled with honey, a sweet treat everyone loved — especially the kids, who couldn’t get enough of it. After breakfast, we disembarked and met our Egyptologist guide for one final adventure in Luxor.
We started at the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple, a vast open-air museum that tells the story of ancient Thebes. Walking through its monumental columns and intricately carved walls was like stepping into a history book. The kids were fascinated by the Great Hypostyle Hall, weaving between the towering pillars and pretending to be young pharaohs in a hidden temple. They also circled the sacred scarab statue, making wishes and laughing as they followed the local tradition for good luck.
Next, we explored the magnificent Luxor Temple, linked to Karnak by the ancient Avenue of Sphinxes. Beneath the enormous statues of Ramses II, we paused for family photos — the kids loved posing beside the colossal figures and tracing the ancient hieroglyphs with curiosity.
By afternoon, we headed to Luxor Airport for our flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, we checked into the Triumph Luxury Hotel, our final stop. The rooms were modern and comfortable, and the children happily spent the evening by the hotel pool, splashing around and chatting about their favorite memories from the Nile cruise.

 

Day 7 – Farewell, Egypt

 

Our final morning in Cairo began with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel — a warm spread of feteer, honey, and fresh fruit, enjoyed as sunlight poured through the windows. We lingered over coffee, trying to hold on to the feeling of Egypt a little longer.
With a few hours before our flight, we set out for some last-minute shopping — the perfect way to end such a magical journey. The kids picked out tiny alabaster statues shaped like ancient gods and giggled while choosing colorful scarab beetles for their friends back home. We admired the delicate papyrus paintings, each telling a story from ancient times, and couldn’t resist a few shimmering handmade jewelry pieces as keepsakes. Every item we bought seemed to carry a piece of Egypt’s soul — its artistry, its warmth, its timeless beauty.
As we headed to Cairo International Airport, the city’s golden skyline faded behind us. Saying goodbye was harder than we expected. Egypt had given us more than just a holiday — it gave us stories to tell, laughter to share, and a deeper sense of wonder as a family. We left with hearts full, already dreaming of returning one day to this land where history, kindness, and adventure meet at every turn
 

 

Accommodation & Cruise Experience

Looking back, I couldn’t have chosen better — and I’m so glad I didn’t have to. Memphis Tours truly made everything effortless, helping us find the perfect balance between comfort, experience, and budget. Every hotel and cruise felt tailor-made for our little family, and it showed in every smile, every view, every detail.

• Hilton Pyramids Golf Hotel, Cairo – A serene five-star escape overlooking the lush golf course. Our room was spacious and bright, with a balcony that caught the evening breeze and views that calmed the city noise. The breakfast buffet was a dream — fresh pastries, local dishes, and cheerful chefs who always offered something special for the kids.
• MS Salacia Nile Cruise – Elegant yet relaxed, with beautifully designed cabins featuring large windows that framed the Nile like a moving painting. We loved watching the river drift by from bed in the mornings. The onboard dining was exceptional — a mix of Egyptian and international flavors, always served with a smile, and the kids still talk about the chocolate desserts after dinner.
• Triumph Luxury Hotel, Cairo – The perfect ending to our trip. Our suite was modern and comfortable, with soft lighting, cozy beds, and plenty of space for the kids to play. The restaurant offered both local and international favorites, and we enjoyed our last breakfast of feteer, honey, and fresh fruit before flying home.

Every place felt like home — safe, comfortable, and thoughtfully arranged. 

 

Practical Travel Tips for Egypt

 Little Things That Make a Big Difference
Here are a few things I learned along the way — and wish I’d known before going:

• Best Time to Visit: From October to April, Egypt enjoys pleasant sunshine and cooler evenings — perfect for sightseeing and Nile cruising.
• What to Pack: Bring light, breathable clothes, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for temple walks. A scarf or shawl is handy for visiting mosques, and a light jacket for cooler Nile nights.
• Hydration & Health: Always carry bottled water and stay hydrated. I felt completely safe throughout the trip, thanks to the seamless organization by Memphis Tours — they truly take care of every detail.
• Money Tips: Keep small Egyptian pound notes for tips and local markets; it makes transactions easier and shows appreciation.
• Local Etiquette: Egyptians are incredibly friendly and family-oriented. A simple “shukran” (thank you) or warm smile goes a long way. Dress modestly in religious sites to show respect for local customs.
• Photography Tip: Bring extra batteries and memory cards — every corner of Egypt deserves a photo!
• Plan Ahead: Take time to read reviews, compare options, and plan your trip in advance. Preparing early helps you find the perfect itinerary, hotels, and cruises that fit your family’s needs and budget. The more you plan ahead, the smoother — and more magical — your Egyptian adventure will be.

 

A Few Things We Missed (and Can’t Wait to Try) 

If there’s one thing we wished for, it was more time in Luxor. My family and I fell in love with the city’s timeless charm, and we all agreed that an extra night would have been perfect. We especially wanted to take a hot air balloon ride — after seeing photos of colourful balloons floating above the temples and the Nile at sunrise, we were absolutely mesmerised.
Next time, it’s definitely going straight onto our bucket list. There’s something magical about the thought of watching Luxor’s temples, fields, and the golden desert from above — a breathtaking view we promised ourselves not to miss when we return

 

Why I’d Choose Memphis Tours Again

As our journey came to an end, we were pleasantly surprised to discover that Memphis Tours has a Loyalty Rewards Program — something we hadn’t even known about before! It offers special discounts and perks for returning travellers, which felt like a lovely “thank you” after such a memorable trip.
Knowing that makes me even more excited to start planning our next adventure — maybe another trip to Egypt or Jordan with its magical Petra, or one of the many incredible destinations Memphis Tours offers all over the world.
If you’re dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime journey filled with history, culture, and family memories, I honestly can’t recommend Memphis Tours enough. They don’t just plan trips — they create experiences you’ll want to relive again and again.