The Deir el-Bahari or Temple of Hatshepsut

The Deir el-Bahari is a complex of mortuary temples located on the west bank of the Nile. It is near the very famous Valley of the Kings near Luxor.

The very first monument to be built in the complex was that of the Pharaoh Nebhepetre Mentuhotep II, a ruler of the 11th dynasty. Subsequently Pharaoh Hatshepsut also built on the same site. The most important temple at the complex today is that of Hatshepsut.

The temple is colonnaded i.e. there are lots of columns joined placed at regular intervals and support the roof. The temple was designed by Senemut who was the royal architect during the reign of Hatshepsut. Some theories also suggest that he was her lover. Built into the cliff face and standing tall at around 97 feet, this temple is one of the extraordinary moneuments to be built in ancient Egypt.

There are three terraces and each terrace has reliefs that tell the tale of the birth of the first female Pharaoh of Egypt. Most of the statues have either been stolen or damaged, but whatever remains gives an idea of the grandeur and architectural beauty of the temple.

Overall, the location of the temple is what I feel is its major attraction. The gigantic rock wall behind the temple complex makes it a fantastic place to visit. Though there is nothing much to be seen inside, the facade itself is worth the visit. Do note that the temple faces the sun and as such the midday sun will be directed at you with no place to take shelter. So do carry lot of water and use sun protection.

Final word - Recommended because of the breathtaking location.

Towel origami or towel art in hotels

Towel origami or towel art is something you will find in most hotels across the globe. The towels are folded into different shapes ranging from birds and animals to different inanimate objects. Here are some towel art pieces done by the hotel staff in some of the hotels in Egypt.

Have you come across towel art during your stays in hotels?

 

The Mall of Arabia in Cairo

Mall of Arabia in Cairo is a huge shopping mall with a diverse selection of stores for all your shopping needs. It is called the largest mall in Cairo for a reason - it's huge and the mall is only half-way constructed. A must visit if you like shopping and eating out. You can do your shopping and grab your meal in one of the many restaurants in the open courtyard.

The mall has shops catering to fashion, electronics, cosmetics, jewellery, books, watches and accessories, home furnishings, gifts, luggage and bags, toys and a large Hyper market as well(Spinneys). Some of the cosmetic shops are L'occitane, Faces and Fortune. If fashion is what you are
after, you can choose from GAP, Salsa, Levi's, Zara, Tommy Hilfiger, U-Turn or Nike.

The mall is also an entertainment destination with 13 movie screens including high-impact silver screens. There is also an indoor play and entertainment area for children called as Billy Beez. There are loads of activities for kids and a Buzzy Cafe as well with a menu to suit the kids and adults alike.

One of the main attractions of the mall apart from the shopping is the musical dancing fountain. The fountain is located in the huge open area with restaurants on either side. You can have a lovely meal with family and friends in the evening while taking in the fountain show.

Address:
Mall of Arabia
6th of October City,
Juhaynah Square,
Cairo - Egypt
Phone: +202 38210500

Overall, its a modern happening mall with something for everyone's tastes. Do visit it. And if you like traditional markets more then head to the Khan el-Khalili market, which will transport you to an era back in time.