Luxury Tours

As its name suggests, this trip is far more than just a traditional journey through the Nile Valley. It's as much about people as it is about places. After a couple of days in Cairo we meet our Bedouin friends and head directly south, to explore the massive Western Desert and the oasis towns of Farafra, Dakhla and Al Kharga. For many centuries Bedouin traders travelled through this region with their camel caravans, and our Bedouin companions were themselves traders until fairly recently, journeying regularly along the famous 'Darb Al Arabeen', or '40 day camel road' that links Khartoum (Sudan), with southern Egypt. In their company we experience the awesome beauty of the desert, camping out for a few nights, including one night in a traditional Bedouin camp - and exploring our surroundings by jeep and on foot. It's a fabulous experience! Reaching Aswan we meet our Nubian friends. Taller and darker than their northern Egyptian 'brothers' they are a ...

Red Sea, White Desert, blue skies and the green banks of the Nile, a land of both colour and contrasts. Not only does Egypt have one of the world’s richest heritages and mysteriously lost civilisations, it is also home to a thriving, developing modern culture. With camping under desert stars in the Sahara, snorkelling the coral reefs, wandering between the pillars of Karnak and cruising on a felucca, this tour encompasses the very best highlights of Egypt. Allow yourself to dip your toe into the wonders of the Ancient World and prepare yourself for the memories of a lifetime.

HIGHLIGHTS: Vancouver - Whistler - Quesnel - Jasper - Kamloops - Vancouver

A dramatic journey with four days of rail travel through the dramatic scenery of Canada's West on three of Rocky Mountaineer's routes including the Whistler Sea to Sky Climb. This vacation includes two nights in Jasper and a Jasper Highlights tour.

Experience Egypt this September with the Egypt experts. This fully escorted 17-day tour, staying in five star luxury accommodation throughout, is a small group departure visiting an archaeological wonderland. Egypt is the land of the pyramids and pharaohs, mysterious tombs and temples, and more than 5,000 years of fascinating history. It is one of the most spectacular sightseeing destinations in the world. Join us on the inaugural Bench International fully escorted tour!

Escorted by Martin Edwards, Bench International Sales Director, who has been a regular visitor to Egypt over the past 10 years: 'I am very excited to have the opportunity to host Bench International's inaugural escorted tour. Having visited 100's of the hotels and cruise boats available in Egypt, I have been lucky enough to handpick my favourites and create this 17-day itinerary. There is nothing quite like waking up at the Mena House Oberoi Hotel in a Pyramid View Room or coming face to face with the iconic Sphinx. This tour also includes a relaxing cruise along the River Nile and cruising up to Abu Simbel on the shores of the lesser-known Lake Nasser. Whether you're a repeat visitor like myself, or are wishing to explore Egypt for the very first time, join me and we can explore Egypt together'.

Travelling in the company of our local expert Egyptologist, this tour takes in all the major sites in Cairo we will experience the wonders of the Pyramids at Giza, the history of the Mediterranean city Alexandria, named after 'Alexander the Great', cruise for five days along the River Nile, combined with a three night cruise on tranquil Lake Nasser. Our time in Upper Egypt ends with a visit to Abu Simbel and concludes in Cairo at the famous Egyptian museum with its amazing array of antiquities. This exclusive tour offers a comprehensive insight to Egypt's historical wonders.

Tuesday 04 September 2012 - Day 1: Sydney - Abu Dhabi Depart Sydney International airport on Etihad Airlines. Etihad EY455 / Depart Sydney at 21h50 and arrive in Abu Dhabi at 06h40 (5th September). Connect with Etihad EY653 / Depart Abu Dhabi at 10h05 and arrive in Cairo at 11h55.

Wednesday 05 September 2012 Day 2: Abu Dhabi - Cairo On arrival at Cairo International Airport at 11h55 you will be met and assisted through immigration and customs. Transfer by air-conditioned deluxe vehicle to your hotel. Enjoy a welcome Dinner at the Mena House Oberoi Hotel this evening. This palatial hotel in the shadow of the Great Pyramids in Cairo has enchanted guests since 1869. Located in forty acres of jasmine scented gardens, Mena House Oberoi has played host to kings and emperors, Heads of State and celebrities. Its royal history is reflected in luxurious interiors that are embellished with exquisite antiques, handcrafted furniture and rich textiles. A variety of international as well as Egyptian cuisine is on offer at the excellent restaurants and bars in the hotel. Garden Section Pyramid View - each room offers a breathtaking view of the Pyramids, the Palace and the lush gardens. There is a choice of either a king-size bed or twin beds. Every room is appointed with wooden flooring, a dining table, a stunning armoire and a large balcony. Accommodation: 2 nights at the Mena House Oberoi Hotel including breakfast - Garden Section Pyramid View. (D)

Thursday 06 September 2012 Day 3: Cairo Buffet breakfast in Hotel. Meet your Egyptologist guide in the hotel lobby and start your guided tour to visit Pyramids, Sphinx, Memphis and Sakkara. Memphis: The oldest capital of Egypt, was built by King Menes, and lays 24 kms southwest of Cairo. The colossal statue of Ramses II is exhibited in the museum. This is the most beautiful representation of Ramses II. Sakkara: Is the oldest Ancient Egyptian cemetery. It lies on a desert plateau, southwest of Cairo. Above rises the Step-Pyramid and mortuary compound, built by the engineer lmhotep for King Zoser. You may stop at the Carpet Factory. Lunch at Andria BBQ Chicken. Giza Pyramids: Continue by visiting the Great pyramids and Sphinx. The Pyramids of Giza is considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The Pyramids are, of course, truly awe-inspiring, some of them going back nearly 5,000 years. Nearby is the mysterious Sphinx, carved from a single block of stone. Enjoy a magnificent shopping experience at Bazaar and Papyrus. Transfer back to hotel. Meet your tour coordinator in the hotel lobby start your tour to the Sound and Light show at Giza Pyramids. Narrated by the enigmatic Sphinx, the show will lead you on a fascinating tour through the history of the Pyramids. An unforgettable experience! Transfer back to hotel. (BL)

Friday 07 September 2012 Day 4: Cairo - Alexandria Buffet breakfast in Hotel and checkout. Meet your tour coordinator and transfer from Cairo to Alexandria by a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle, it is just a couple of hours driving from Cairo. Lunch at Fish market (At own expense). Fort Qaitbey (The Citadel of Qaitbey): The island of Pharos was a major port having two huge harbour's. The Fort was built in the 1480's by Sultan Qaitbey, Parts of the remains of the lighthouse can be seen in the construction of the old fort. One of the seven wonders of the ancient World. Transfer by air-conditioned deluxe vehicle to the Hotel. The Sheraton Montazah Hotel is ideally located in Alexandria, the shinning pearl of the Mediterranean Sea. This hotel is the perfect starting point to enjoy Alexandria's magnificent beaches and radiating cultural and tourist attractions. Recently renovated this hotel offers guest rooms - as well as a swimming pool - with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and exquisite Montazah Gardens. The Sheraton Montazah Hotel is only 1km from the Montazah Palace and Gardens, 7km from the Royal Jewellery Museum, and 15 kms away from Nozha International Airport. Accommodation: 2 nights at the Sheraton Montazah including breakfast - Standard Room. (B)

Saturday 08 September 2012 Day 5: Alexandria Buffet breakfast at Hotel. Meet your tour coordinator and your Egyptologist guide in the hotel lobby and start your guided tour to visit. El-Montaza: This area along the coast about 15 miles east of Alexandria's old district along the Corniche, Here also is the magnificent Montaza Palace. This area used to belong to the Mohamed Ali family that ruled Egypt from the mid 19th century until 1952. The Revival of the Ancient Library of Alexandria: The design concept is a simple circle inclined towards the sea, partly submerged in a pool of water, the image of the Egyptian sun, that in contemporary terms will illuminate the world and human civilization. The revival of the Ancient Library of Alexandria Project aims at building a universal modern public library to be a center of culture, science and academic research. The Roman Theatre (Kom Al-Dikka): Over 30 years of excavation have uncovered many Roman remains including this well-preserved theatre with galleries, sections of mosaic-flooring, and marble seats for up to 800 spectators. The theatre at one point may have been roofed over to serve as an Odeon for musical performances. Inscriptions suggest that it was sometimes also used for wrestling contests. Lunch at a local restaurant. The Catacombs of Kom El-Shouqafa: These tombs were tunnelled into the bedrock in the age of the Antonine emperors (2nd century A.D.) for a single wealthy family still practicing the ancient religion. These tombs represent the last existing major construction for the sake of the old Egyptian religion. Pompey's Pillar: An approximately 25m red Aswan granite column with a circumference of 9m, was constructed in honour of the Emperor Diocletain. It was once a magnificent structure rivalling the Soma and the Caesareum. (BL)

Sunday 09 September 2012 Day 6: Alexandria - Cairo Breakfast at hotel followed by check out. Meet your coordinator and your tour guide to start your guided tour to visit El-Alamein on the way back to Cairo. Al Alamein Military Cemeteries: El Alamein is most notable as the place where the Allied forces of WW II gained a decisive victory of the Axis forces. Today, the village located about 66 miles west of Alexandria is mostly a port facility for shipping oil. However, it was once described by Churchill as having the best climate in the world. There are several hotels and a beach resort nearby (Hotel Atic). There is also a war museum with collectibles from the Battle of El Alamein and other North African battles. The only historical interest in this village would be related to WW II, and includes an Italian and German military cemeteries on Tell El-Eisa Hill just outside of town. Lunch at a Local restaurant. Transfer back to Cairo. Built around a stunning landscaped atrium, Fairmont Towers Heliopolis, Cairo offers visitors to Cairo the ultimate in luxury and service. The hotel is located five minutes away from Cairo International Airport. Ideally suited to the business traveller, this quiet leafy suburb provides respite from and easy access to the bustling centre of Cairo and its plethora of tourist attractions. Landscaped gardens, indoor plants, fountains, rivers, water passages, wooden pontoons, stone pillars, sand walls, and sun louvers for guaranteed ventilation and natural lighting are just a few examples of the elements of the universe and the states of change. Accommodation: 1 night at Fairmont Towers Cairo Hotel including breakfast - Standard Room. (BL)

Monday 10 September 2012 Day 7: Cairo - Luxor (Nile Cruise) This morning you will be met and transferred to Cairo Domestic Airport to board your short flight to Luxor. Flight from Cairo to Luxor. On arrival at Luxor Airport you will be met and transferred to your Luxury Nile Cruise for embarkation. The Sonesta Nile Goddess Cruise is an elegant Nile Cruise, which features deluxe accommodation with broad panoramic views, bathrooms with full-size bathtubs and all modern conveniences. Enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool, experience the exciting nightlife in the ship's discotheque or a relaxing massage treatment at the spa. Embark on board Cruise. Lunch: Lunch onboard. Visit the temple of Karnak and temple of Luxor. Karnak Temple: Built over a period of two millennia by generations of Pharaohs, the 62 acre Temple of Karnak was dedicated to the God Amun. It could take days to explore all of the numerous pylons, obelisks and smaller temples within. Luxor Temple: Proceed to the Temple of Luxor, once connected to Karnak via the Avenue of Human-headed Sphinxes, almost 3 kilometres in length. Afternoon tea. Belly dance show. Dinner: Dinner onboard. Accommodation: 4 nights on board the Sonesta Nile Goddess Cruise including all meals and sightseeing. (BLD)

Tuesday 11 September 2012 Day 8: Luxor - Edfu (Nile Cruise) Breakfast on board. Drive to the West Bank. Visit the Necropolis of Thebes, Valley of Kings, the temple of Queen Hatshepsut and Colossi of Memnon. Valley of the Kings: Begin your day with a visit to the West Bank of Luxor to explore the Valley of the Kings, a vast City of the Dead where magnificent tombs were carved into the desert rocks, decorated richly, and filled with treasures for the afterlife by generations of Pharaohs. Proceed to visit Valley of Queens. On the way back to the river Nile, your road passes by the famed Colossi of Memnon, known in Ancient Greek times for their haunting voices at dawn. Sail to Edfu via Esna and Lunch Buffet. Afternoon Tea. Cocktail Party. Dinner onboard. (BLD)

Wednesday 12 September 2012 Day 9: Edfu - Kom Ombo (Nile Cruise) Breakfast on board. Edfu Temple: This morning, explore the largest and most completely preserved Pharaonic - albeit Greek-built - temple in Egypt, the extraordinary Temple of Horus at Edfu. Sail to Kom Ombo. Buffet lunch onboard. Afternoon tea. Kom Ombo Temple: Visit the Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the crocodile-god Sobek. The temple stands at a bend in the Nile where in ancient times sacred crocodiles basked in the sun on the riverbank. Dinner: Dinner onboard. Galabya Party. (BLD)

Thursday 13 September 2012 Day 10: Kom Ombo - Aswan (Nile Cruise) Sail to Aswan. Breakfast on board. High Dam: This morning, your Egyptologist guide will escort you to visit the Aswan High Dam, Egypt's contemporary example of building on a monumental scale. Philae Temple: Take a short motorboat ride to visit the romantic and majestic Philae Temple on the Island of Agilka. Unfinished Obelisk: Next we proceed to the Granite Quarries, which supplied the ancient Egyptians with most of the hard stone used in pyramids and temples, and still hold a huge unfinished obelisk. Lunch: Buffet lunch will be served on board. Agha Khan Mausoleum: Sail by felucca around Kitchener's Island and the Agha Khan Mausoleum. Afternoon tea. Dinner onboard. Nubian Folkloric Show. (BLD)

Friday 14 September 2012 Day 11: Aswan - Lake Nasser (Lake Nasser Cruise) Breakfast on board & disembarkation. Meet your tour coordinator and transfer to your Lake Nasser cruise for Embarkation. The Eugenie was proudly named to evoke an historic event in Egypt's recent past: the grand opening of the Suez Canal in 1869, attended by the crown heads of Europe including the Empress Eugenie of France. The completion of the Suez Canal marked Egypt's passage into modernity, and a new era of international trade and interaction. Likewise the Eugenie, the first ship to sail Lake Nasser, launched a new era of tourism, offering travellers fresh vistas of Egypt's natural beauty and archaeological treasures. Lake Nasser extended the boundaries of Egypt's touristic possibilities, while the Eugenie reminds us of this ancient country's endless capacity for renewal. The M.S. Eugenie was constructed in 1993 in the style of a turn-of-the-century Nile steamship. It is 74 meters long, with just 52 cabins for maximal comfort, and two luxurious suites. Each cabin has an ensuite bathroom with shower, washbasin, w.c. and hairdryer. The Eugenie's facilities include a sauna, steam bath, exercise equipment, sun decks, a swimming pool, air-conditioning and state-of-the-art water filtration systems. Lunch onboard. Visit the Kalabsha temple, Beit El Wali and the Kiosk of Kertassi. Afternoon Tea. Dinner onboard. Accommodation: 3 nights on board the MS Eugenie Lake Nasser Cruise including all meals and sightseeing - Standard Cabin. (BLD)

Saturday 15 September 2012 Day 12: Lake Nasser (Lake Nasser Cruise) Breakfast on board. Sailing to Wadi El Seboua and cocktail while passing the Tropic of Cancer. Lunch onboard. Visit to Wadi El Seboua, the temples of Dakka, and Meharakka. Dinner onboard. (BLD)

Sunday 16 September 2012 Day 13: Lake Nasser (Lake Nasser Cruise) & Abu Simbel Breakfast on board. Visit the temples of Amada and Derr as well as the tomb of Penout. Visit the citadel of Kasr Ibrim. (Tour is conducted from the ship's sundeck as entrance to the site is not permitted). Sailing to Abu Simbel. Lunch on board. Visit Abu Simbel: The two temples of Ramses II at Abu Simbel are each fronted by colossal statues up to 20 metres high, and are famed as the most impressive monuments remaining of Ancient Egypt in modern times. Recently the temples were threatened by the waters of Lake Nasser, and with the help of a UNESCO campaign they were cut into blocks, raised piece-by-piece, and reassembled in a new position higher up the hillside. Candlelight dinner on board and overnight. (BLD)

Monday 17 September 2012 Day 14: Lake Nasser - Cairo Breakfast on board and disembarkation. Meet your tour coordinator and transfer Abu Simbel airport to board your flight to Cairo. Flight from Abu Simbel to Cairo. On arrival at Cairo Airport you will be met and transferred to your Hotel. On the banks of the famed Nile River, the city of Cairo - 'The Triumphant' - in Arabic, is the centre of Egyptian culture and commerce. Here, civilizations have met for centuries, and Cairo today offers a rich diversity of contrasts. Modern architecture and ancient mosques. Urban sparkle and restful natural beauty. Business and leisure. And there's no better way to experience the majesty of the city and its history than through the gracious hospitality of Fairmont Nile City, Cairo. Like the city itself, Fairmont Nile City offers a delightful series of contrasts. Equipped with the most advanced design and technology to serve the needs of the discerning traveller, the hotel is also intimately attuned to its surroundings. With sweeping panoramas of the Nile River, and views of the Pyramids in the distance, Cairo's natural beauty and ancient history are always in sight. Added to this panoply of wonders are special features such as culinary adventures at the city's finest restaurants, a chance to bask in the sunshine or under the stars at our unique rooftop poolside sky bar, and truly indulgent, full-service treatments at our Willow Stream Spa - all ensuring that each and every visit to Fairmont Nile City, Cairo is certain to be an experience that is memorable and utterly magnificent. Accommodation: 2 nights Fairmont Nile City Cairo Hotel including breakfast Ð Standard Room. (B)

Tuesday 18 September 2012 Day 15: Cairo Buffet breakfast in Hotel. Meet your tour coordinator and your Egyptologist guide in the hotel lobby and start your guided tour to visit The Egyptian Museum and Citadel and Khan El Khalili Bazaar including lunch. Egyptian Museum: A splendid museum, filled with Egypt's great archaeological glories. Its chief attraction is the treasure from Tutankhamun's tomb, including the celebrated golden mask of Tutankhamun. Lunch at a local restaurant. Citadel: Afternoon, take a fascinating tour of Islamic Cairo, including the beautiful and graceful Mohamed Ali Mosque and the ancient Citadel, a spectacular medieval fortress perched on a hill above the city. Originally built by Salah El-Din in 1176 to fortify the city against the Crusaders, the Citadel was modified and enlarged over the centuries by subsequent rulers and today is a complex of three mosques and four museums. Khan El-Khalili Bazaar: Proceed to take a brief tour of the fascinating Khan El-Khalili Bazaar - the largest bazaar in the Middle East. Originally founded as a watering stop for caravanserai in the 14th century, the bazaar has now grown to vast proportions. Through the narrow streets you will find workshops and stalls selling all manner of things from woodwork, glassware and leather goods to perfumes, fabrics and Pharaonic curiosities. (BL)

Wednesday 19 September 2012 Day 16: Cairo - Abu Dhabi Buffet breakfast at your hotel and check out. Meet your tour coordinator and transfer to Cairo International airport for your onward flight. (B) Etihad Airlines. Etihad EY654 / Depart Cairo at 13h20 and arrive in Abu Dhabi at 19h00. Connect with Etihad EY454 / Depart Abu Dhabi at 22h00.

Thursday 20 September 2012 Day 17: Abu Dhabi - Sydney Arrive into Sydney International Airport at 18h10.

As its name suggests, this trip is far more than just a traditional journey through the Nile Valley. It's as much about people as it is about places. After a couple of days in Cairo we meet our Bedouin friends and head directly south, to explore the massive Western Desert and the oasis towns of Farafra, Dakhla and Al Kharga. For many centuries Bedouin traders travelled through this region with their camel caravans, and our Bedouin companions were themselves traders until fairly recently, journeying regularly along the famous 'Darb Al Arabeen', or '40 day camel road' that links Khartoum (Sudan), with southern Egypt. In their company we experience the awesome beauty of the desert, camping out for a few nights, including one night in a traditional Bedouin camp - and exploring our surroundings by jeep and on foot. It's a fabulous experience! Reaching Aswan we meet our Nubian friends. Taller and darker than their northern Egyptian 'brothers' they are a ...

Red Sea, White Desert, blue skies and the green banks of the Nile, a land of both colour and contrasts. Not only does Egypt have one of the world’s richest heritages and mysteriously lost civilisations, it is also home to a thriving, developing modern culture. With camping under desert stars in the Sahara, snorkelling the coral reefs, wandering between the pillars of Karnak and cruising on a felucca, this tour encompasses the very best highlights of Egypt. Allow yourself to dip your toe into the wonders of the Ancient World and prepare yourself for the memories of a lifetime.

HIGHLIGHTS: Vancouver - Whistler - Quesnel - Jasper - Kamloops - Vancouver

A dramatic journey with four days of rail travel through the dramatic scenery of Canada's West on three of Rocky Mountaineer's routes including the Whistler Sea to Sky Climb. This vacation includes two nights in Jasper and a Jasper Highlights tour.