Where in the World Would You Like To Go Back To? A Blog Series

We are excited to introduce our 2024 blog series, featuring interviews with Brightsun staff on their most treasured travel destination.

Ayda

Which travel destination do you find yourself craving to go back to when you’ve been to so many?

Egypt

Why is it that after exploring so many destinations, you find yourself wanting to go back to this specific destination? Is it nostalgia, a sense of comfort, familiarity, or something else?

It's a mix of everything, really. Egypt, to me, is like a home where I never settled for more than three months at a time. It's witnessed both the happiest hellos and the toughest goodbyes. Being Palestinian, home is a bit of a puzzle; you can't just swing by and catch up with everyone. While families are off on typical summer vacations, my version involves heading back to the nearest thing to home, which happens to be Egypt—where some of my family live, and others make it a meeting point.

I practically grew up there, and I get the culture and vibe better than my actual birthplace, Bulgaria. Cairo, in its chaotic charm, somehow comes closest to that feeling. It's a bit of everything – the memories, the ease, and that sense of 'I belong here' that keeps pulling me back.

Can you recount a specific moment or experience from this place that truly stands out?

There are so many great memories, but one that always stands out is from a special trip I took with my cousins and friends to the Red Sea in Gouna. It was a 5-day trip, and the day that left the most lasting impression was the snorkeling and diving day. Every year, we'd hop on a yacht, venture into the deep waters of the Red Sea, fish, feast on our catch, tan, swim, snorkel, and dive. It was a day filled with special moments, running from dusk till dawn. The post-midnight hours were probably my favourite time – we'd crank up the music, dance all night, and a highlight was the night snorkeling.  Those nights still bring a smile to my face.

Over the years, places can evolve and change. How have you witnessed the transformation of this destination you frequently revisit? How does this evolution affect your connection to the place?

Cairo, the Egyptian capital is a huge city, ever-changing and evolving, though not always seen in the most positive light. It has definitely affected my connection to Cairo. When I was younger, I had the privilege to stay there for three months at a time, and the older I got, the more I felt that staying for that much time is simply overwhelming. You see, when you visit a place for a short period, you see all the best aspects of it. As I grew older it made me sad to think that I can’t spend 3 months at a time there but I know from experience that short and sweet it always the answer.  

What are your favourite things to do, see, places to eat, other highlights at this destination?

One of my favourite things to do when I'm visiting Egypt is to go to the Red Sea. It's my peaceful place. The Red Sea is not in season during July and August, so it's much quieter than the North Coast. Most people can't handle the scorching heat there, but I love it. It's also less crowded unlike the North Coast and has much more chill and relaxed vibes. My favourite thing to do there is take a yacht, go to the middle of the sea, snorkel, have the fishermen catch some fish, and feast on that. It's definitely an experience like no other. The freshest fish you will ever have in your life.

Even when you've covered substantial ground, there's often a desire for more exploration. How do you balance returning to a familiar place with your drive to discover new destinations?

To be honest, my travel style is all about going back to the familiar places I know and love. There's something about revisiting those places that feels like nourishment for my soul. I crave the comfort and familiarity they offer, especially in a city as fast-paced as Cairo. Amidst all the chaos, it's like life slows down, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of somewhere like London.

Luckily, Egypt has so much to offer, and there are countless places I've yet to explore, like Luxor and Siwa. I don't really plan anything in advance, I take it day by day. There's a certain joy in the spontaneity of it all, allowing the city to guide me and uncover its hidden gems. It's a different kind of adventure, one that's more about soaking in the present moment and embracing the serendipity of life in this vibrant and dynamic place.

While well-known tourist destinations often attract attention, there are hidden gems that hold a special place in our hearts. Could you reveal one such hidden gem in your favourite travel destination and explain its allure?

Mahmya Island in Hurghada is a real hidden gem. If you're up for it, a snorkeling tour there is like diving into a whole other world with clear waters and colourful reefs.

Now, if you find yourself in Cairo, you've got to check out Zamalek. It's like this not-so-hidden secret where the old and new mix and mingle effortlessly. Walking around feels like you've stepped back in time, somewhere between the 1930s and 1950s—the golden age of cinema in Old Cairo. Zamalek's got this cool vibe, keeping the past alive while still rocking that modern feel. It's a spot that's got a bit of everything and definitely worth a visit.

What are the specific spots you would experience all over again at this destination and why?

Chill vibes of North Coast, especially the Almaza Bay beaches. It's the perfect escape from Cairo's craziness—just pure relaxation by the sea. And the Gouna in the Red Sea is a must-do again. The marine life and laid-back vibe there are unbeatable. For me, it's all about getting away from the city hustle.

What would an ideal itinerary for this destination look like for you / what you would recommend to others?

There are two itinerary options I have put together with Egypt highlights. I personally have not experienced days 5 – 8 on them but it’s been recommended by family and friends.

Option A -
Where to Stay – Marriot Mena house, offering the most spectacular view of the pyramids
Day 1: Cairo: Heliopolis & Khan El-Khalili bazaar
Day 2: Cairo: Pyramids of Giza & Egyptian Museum & Zamalek
Day 3: Cairo: Dahshur, Memphis & Saqqara, Fly to Aswan
Day 4: Aswan
Day 5: Abu Simbel
Day 6: Drive to Luxor, with visits to Kom Ombo, Edfu, & Esna
Day 7: West Bank of Luxor
Day 8: East Bank of Luxor and Back to Cairo

Option B -
Where to stay: La Maison Bleue El Gouna
Day 1: Cairo: Heliopolis & Khan El-Khalili bazaar
Day 2: Cairo: Pyramids of Giza & Egyptian Museum & Zamalek
Day 3: Fly to Hurghada , Red Sea
Day 4: Take a tour of the Red Sea: go diving and snorkeling exploring the corals.
Day 5: Chill by the beach every day until you get bored (the beaches do provide activities, which I personally never do as I love to just chill out) and then in the evening, enjoy the El Gouna Marina