The Giza Plateau, home to Egypt’s largest pyramids and the Sphinx, needs little introduction. But few visitors are aware of just how much else there is to see beyond the main highlights. While exploring the pyramids should be your top priority, consider coming back for a second visit. Walking around the plateau, you can find …
So many aspects of the Giza Plateau are shrouded in mystery. The 4th Dynasty pyramids represent the apex of Egyptian engineering. But they were built quite early on in Egypt’s history. For the next few thousand years, no successive Egyptian dynasty would ever be able to match them. The question of how the 4th Dynasty Egyptians …
Giza: The Mysteries of The Pyramids & The Sphinx Read More »
In between Djoser’s Step Pyramid and the Great Pyramid of Giza, a king named Sneferu made a name for himself as Egypt’s greatest ever pyramid builder. Snefuru, who took the throne in 2575 BC, is credited with two large pyramids at Dahshur, a site just south of Saqqara. One of them is the Red Pyramid, …
Dahshur & Memphis: Entering the Bent Pyramid of Sneferu Read More »
Saqqara is, without a doubt, one of the most fascinating and important archaeological sites on the entire planet. But being just a short drive away from the Giza Plateau – arguably the world’s most famous attraction – means that it doesn’t quite get the attention it deserves. Though many visit Saqqara as part of a half-day …
It’s widely regarded as the world’s very first pyramid. And, for that matter, the first-ever major stone structure. And now, over 4600 years after its construction, Saqqara’s Step Pyramid continues to make headlines. For the first time in 14 years, the subterranean labyrinth beneath the pyramid has just opened up to the general public. Having …
Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital, is a city with ancient roots but one that’s also in the midst of some major transitions. After the end of the Soviet era and the tough times that followed, Georgia’s creative scene has been slowly blossoming in recent years. Musically, the city is becoming an Eastern European counterpart to the clubbing …
Hiking from Sanahin to Haghpat is one of northern Armenia’s most popular day treks. I set off on a crisp, clear autumn day, and was surprised to find myself completely alone throughout the entire journey. Except, of course, at the UNESCO World Heritage monasteries themselves, which are increasingly gaining in popularity. Sanahin and Haghpat Monasteries …
Not even five minutes had passed since stepping off the minibus from Yerevan, and I’d already struck a deal for a trip around town with a local taxi driver. My main objective for visiting Alaverdi was a hike the following day from Sanahin to Haghpat, two UNESCO World Heritage sites. But why not kill some …
Exploring the Debed Canyon: Akhtala & Odzun Monasteries Read More »
Lake Sevan and Dilijan are some of Armenia’s most popular weekend getaways. But what about visiting both in a single day? If relaxation is your goal, then don’t bother. But if you’re hoping to get a glimpse of the region’s gorgeous scenery and visit a few impressive monasteries, one full day is plenty. And if …
Gyumri, Armenia’s second city, is absent from most travelers’ itineraries. Admittedly, it wasn’t on mine until I realized I had an extra free day in the country. But I’m glad that I went, as a walk around Gyumri is like stepping back into the 19th century. In this Gyumri guide, we’ll go over the top …
A Day in Gyumri: A Guide to Armenia’s Second City Read More »