A Tour through Egypt with the Four Seasons

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano

Thanks to not one but four glamorous and crowd-pleasing Four Seasons hotels in Egypt, travelers are spoiled for choice when choosing luxury accommodations in this mesmerizing destination. Here, I break down the key elements of the four Four Seasons hotels — say that five times fast — from the serene Four Seasons Hotel Cairo to the beachside Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh.

Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza

First, Cairo. There are two hotels in the Egyptian capital, which are on opposite sides of the Nile (but, fun fact: you can spot the hotels from one another).

Opened in 2004, the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza is credited with putting Egypt luxury tourism on the world’s stage. Think of this as Cairo’s answer to a see-and-be-seen, ultra-buzzy grande dame, with a lively social hub for well-heeled Egyptians. Staying here means you’ll rub elbows with the who’s-who of Cairo, who are often spotted sipping tea and cocktails at the lobby bar, La Galerie, with views of the Nile.

Earlier this summer, the hotel debuted newly renovated rooms that further level up the experience — I'm talking three floors of ultra-fresh accommodations that strike the perfect balance of contemporary (floor-to-ceiling windows, airy living spaces) and authentic (local pottery, textile-inspired wallpaper).

The hotel offers guests a choice of two breathtaking views: one of the historic Citadel and city, and the other of the majestic Nile, with glimpses of the Pyramids on clear days. It’s worth noting that the accommodations start on the 5th floor, so all rooms offer great views (no disappointment here). The hotel is also currently in the process of renovating other rooms, upping the luxury quotient even further.

Who should stay: Guests looking to be in the center of the local scene, with sophisticated accommodations and luxurious dining.

Fora Perks:

• When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. I'll be pleased to give you more details.
  
  

Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence

Crossing to the other side of the Nile, the prestigious Embassy District is home to the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence. This hotel offers a quieter, more low-key retreat for those seeking an escape from the bustling Cairo scene — think of it as your own private hideaway in the sky.

Here, rooms are incredibly spacious, adorned with traditional Egyptian decor with a choice of views, either of the botanical gardens and the neighboring zoo or of the Nile. (Keep in mind, however, that not all rooms offer uninterrupted vistas, but I can guide you when booking.)

For those traveling with family, the outdoor pool is a hit, and just across the street, you'll discover a houseboat with six unique restaurants. From exquisite Lebanese cuisine to a Belgian restaurant with holographic chefs, there's something for everyone (literally).

Who should stay: Those who want to prioritize tranquility & privacy and appreciate traditional decor in the heart of Cairo.

Fora Perks:

• When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. I'll be pleased to give you more details.
  
  

Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano

Venture about two hours from Cairo and you’ll find the Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano, nestled in Egypt's second-largest city, on the country's north coast. Here, accommodations are expectedly luxurious, outfitted with serene pastel furnishings in yellow and baby blue, finished with marble bathrooms and balconies.

Reasons to visit? First, this coastal gem is a favorite among Egyptians seeking a seaside escape. While not traditionally a resort, the Four Seasons Alexandria cleverly introduced beachfront rooms that are exclusively open during the summer season, providing a true resort experience by the Mediterranean Sea. Second, Alexandria is home to the The Library of Alexandria, often referred to as the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The modern-day marvel pays homage to its ancient predecessor, the Great Library of Alexandria, which was one of the most renowned libraries of the ancient world.

Who should stay: Guests looking to relax on the Mediterranean and experience the city’s intellectual legacy.

Fora Perks:

• When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. I'll be pleased to give you more details.
  
  

Four Seasons Resort Sharm el Sheikh

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Sharm el Sheikh

Nestled on the shores of the Red Sea, the Four Seasons Resort Sharm el Sheikh is last on the list, but it might be my favorite. This showstopping property offers a veritable home-run experience thanks to its sublime location on Red Sea, beside a vibrant coral reef. The hotel recently expanded its offerings with the addition of 80 stunning new rooms, a state-of-the-art gym and a variety of enticing new restaurants.

Guests spend their days on exhilarating boat trips to explore the underwater wonders (some of the best diving and snorkeling around) or indulging in Cleopatra-approved spa treatments. Families are in for a treat with a fantastic kids' club, and the resort offers a plethora of activities, including tennis, squash and basketball courts. The culinary offerings are expectedly top-notch: don’t miss a meal at Yatai, with a menu inspired by Japanese street food.

Another reason I love this Four Seasons: direct flights to Sharm el Sheikh arrive not only from Cairo but also from various international cities (including London), making this resort a perfect addition to a far-flung cultural adventure. My advice? End your trip to Egypt with some sun and sand. Or, hang here to overcome jet lag for a few days before exploring the rest of the country.

Who should stay: Travelers, especially families, looking for a 10/10 coastal resort experience.

Fora Perks:

• When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. I'll be pleased to give you more details.