Even though Cairo and Giza are officially two distinct governorates, the fact that they are both very large, branched, and adhere to one another across the Nile helped in the evolution of Greater Cairo.

Cairo proudly stands where East meets West, combining the mystery of the one with the sophistication of the other. It is a city of contrasts; a place where donkey carts jockey with latest-model Mercedes Benz pass along the crowded streets, and where a thousand minarets adorn the skyline alongside a sea of skyscrapers.

It is the most populated city on the African continent and the heart of the Arab world with a population of 16,000,000. With its "thousand minarets", picturesque oriental bazaars, plush Nile-side hotels, apartment blocks, and gracious residential areas, Cairo, is also a rare blend of a long past throbbing with life, and a vibrant, modern present.

How could we start with something other than the Great Giza Pyramids? The Great Pyramid dated at 2,650 BC, King Cheops' pyramid is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Getting inside the Pyramids is quite an experience - claustrophobic to some - yet many do get in just to brag that they have. Young visitors are fond of Solar Boat Museum lying next to the Pyramids.

The Giza Plateau also incorporates the mortuary Pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure that along with the Sphinx, form the most entertaining way of learning a little of Egypt's ancient history.

Do go way, way around the back of the pyramids, approaching them from the southwest to view an unbelievably majestic view of the three Pyramids and Sphinx. Sunset and moonlight are the best times to go.

Many Pyramid fans prefer the smaller, older, and more isolated step-Pyramids of Saqqara and Abu Sir. Saqqara is the frequently visited one.