New version of an older movie focuses new attention on Egypt
IAN STALKER
The big screen is expected to provide a boost for Egyptian tourism.
The just-released remake of the movie Death on the Nile — which is based on the Agatha Christie novel of the same name — has a weighty cast and is generating considerable attention for the country that is home to a staggering number of reminders of the Pharaonic era.
Those visiting Egypt can “go back in time,” Uniworld Boutique River Cruises CEO Ellen Bettridge said during a recent company webinar on Egypt and Uniworld’s Splendors of Egypt & The Nile program.
Uniworld has two vessels — the Sphinx and the River Tosca — on the Nile, with Bettridge saying passengers will be in the equivalent of a “floating boutique hotel” from which they can see “mesmerizing” landscapes.
Bettridge also said Uniworld clients will see “iconic” attractions in Cairo, home to the Sphinx and the Pyramids and other reminders of thousands of years of Egyptian history.
The webinar also featured Egyptologist Hani Kamona — who works with Uniworld and who Bettridge praised as an “incredible storyteller” — telling viewers that “every part of Egypt is a highlight.”
Cruise passengers will see the city of Luxor, which Kamona labelled an “open-air museum.”
But Kamona added that not all activities will revolve around archeological sites, noting that while in Aswan they can visit the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel, in which Christie wrote Death on the Nile. Those visitors may see the actual chair and desk Christie used while writing the novel, he continued.
Sally Mikhail of GMTOURS — which sends clients to Egypt — agrees that Death on the Nile will “for sure” heighten interest in Egypt.
“A Nile cruise is the best and most enjoyable way to visit all cities and sites from Luxor to Aswan or vice-versa. It’s the easiest way to avoid packing and unpacking in each city. It’s the best way If you are looking for a holiday that covers a number of different destinations, luxurious accommodations and a new destination every day,” she added.
Mikhail said those on a cruise a should definitely visit the Valley of the Kings on Luxor’s West Bank, where they can “discover vivid paintings, observe glorious hieroglyphics and try to comprehend the historical importance of these tombs, where rulers lay with treasures, furniture, food and even pets, waiting to enter the next world.
“Whether it’s Queen Hatshepsut, the longest-reigning female ruler of Egypt, or Ramses II and his wife Nefertari, your knowledge of Egyptian kings and queens will significantly improve while on a Nile cruise.”
Mikhail said sailing on a luxurious cruise is a particularly easy and pleasant way to travel in Egypt. “After the full day of sightseeing simply unwind, enjoy a cool river breeze from the comfort of your cabin or on the top of The Nile Cruise Deck, maybe have a drink or use the luxury pool or maybe watch local farmers tend to plantations of date palms. Enjoy the rest of the day with your full board meals and great entertainment, including the famous Galabiya Party, in which passengers get to dress as local Egyptians or historical Pharoahs and Egyptian queens.
“A Nile Cruise include all meals and daily excursions, wth all transfers and entrance fees to the sites. It’s the best way to journey through 5,000 years of history.
“You can extend your journey to connection with a Lake Nasser Cruise to view the amazing and unforgettable Abu Simbel Temple,” Mikhail adds.
