The Sphinx and the Pyramids, those impassive ancient wonders which have fascinated a constantly changing world for centuries, are being drafted into service to bring back the glory days of Egyptian tourism.

A joint drive between Six Continents Hotels and Egypt Air will bring their allure to tourists, with hotel stays starting at just $30 per night per person. The Pyramids Park Inter-Continental Resort, on the outskirts of Cairo with views towards the Giza Pyramids, is one of seven hotels offering exceptional value winter packages.

Making these even more attractive, special fares on Egypt Air’s in-bound flights are now available from travel agents. The winter deals are part of a combined initiative by Six Continents Hotels and the national carrier to correct negative perceptions of Egypt as a safe travel destination.

“As a result of world events over the last few months, tourism here has been hit hard by travel fears based purely on perception,” said Tamer Masoud, General Manager of the Pyramids Park Inter-Continental Resort. “European guests are having a wonderful time.”

Prague-based American freelance journalist, John Newstrom, said after a ten day stay at the hotel: “This was my first visit to Egypt and I will certainly come back. There is nothing to worry about. The people are very friendly and they want tourists to come here. Service at the hotel was great and Egypt has many things to see and experience.”

Transformed by a renovation programme, the resort, just a short drive from the Giza Pyramids and The Sphynx, makes excellent postcard material.

Nestled in 25-hectares of magnificent gardens with palm trees, pink flamingos and peacocks, its wide range of modern facilities include a brand new health club, as well as a fully-equipped business centre for those combining work with leisure.

All 470 rooms and suites overlook the hotel’s lush gardens, or Cairo’s largest open air swimming pool. Parents find it easy to relax, as the hotel has its own junior club offering supervised games, a playground with toys, mini pool, and a friendly zoo. Diners have a choice of nine restaurants and bars, including French, Italian and Lebanese cuisines, a tropical indoor outdoor café and island bar, as well as poolside barbeques which are a favourite with European visitors.

Many outdoor activities are close at hand. The hotel arranges sunset horseback rides in the Egyptian desert, two international amusement parks are minutes away, and 36-hole and 18-hole golf courses are also nearby.

Winter packages from Six Continents Hotels are also on offer at the Semiramis Inter-Continental Hotel, on the banks of the River Nile in Cairo, and on the Red Sea coast at the Hurghada Inter-Continental Resort & Casino, the Crowne Plaza Resort Sharm El Sheikh, the Holiday Inn Resort Sharm El Sheikh, the Holiday Inn Resort Safaga Palace, and the Holiday Inn Resort Amphoras Sharm El Sheikh.

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