Q&A Dalia Mansour, Inspiring Vacations’ Egypt tour guide

Q A & We meet Dalia Mansour, Inspiring Vacations’ Egypt guide

NAME DALIA MANSOUR

OCCUPATION TOUR LEADER & EGYPTOLOGIST

COUNTRY EGYPT

Could you tell us about your background? I’m from Cairo and I’ve lived here my entire life. I’ve been a tour guide since 2008, and I chose to be a guide as it’s one of the most rewarding ways to see the world, learn and share my country’s culture and history, as well as share my love of travel with people.

What’s your favourite thing about being a tour guide? My favourite thing about being a tour guide is being a part of someone’s happiest holiday memories. From my point of view, being a tour guide is not just a job, it’s a passion.

Which Egyptian attraction do you never tire of showing visitors? I never tire of showing people the Pyramids – I like to watch their faces when they see them for the first time.

Dalia’s insider tips:

MUST SEE There are many lesser-known attractions in Egypt, such as Dendera Temple 60km north of Luxor, Wadi Al-Hitan in the western desert, the cave church in Garbage City or the Tomb of the Nobles in Aswan.

MUST EAT You can’t leave Egypt without trying our traditional dish koshari, and the best place to get it from is Abu Tarek in Cairo. It’s a mix of lentils, pasta, rice, tomato sauce, fried onions and chickpeas, sometimes with chilli – perfect for vegans and vegetarians.

MUST DRINK Tea with fresh mint, and cold hibiscus tea.

MUST BUY As Egypt is home to many ancient monuments and cultural treasures, there are numerous souvenirs related to the country such as papyrus scrolls, mini pyramids, cartouches (the oval shape that contains your name in hieroglyphics) and galabya (a traditional garment).

TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS? Do as the Egyptians do – learn about the country’s culture, engage with locals, eat traditional food, learn some Arabic words and dress modestly.

LOVE CAIRO? Watch our Egypt videos

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