Cairo to Alexandria - best way to travel
 

We are planning a trip to the El Alamein War Cemetry and thought we should fly in to Cairo, spend several days and then go on to <BR>Alexandria - has anyone done this trip and if so would you recommend it? It would probably be around June/July is this a good time?

Taking the train is the best way to go from Cairo to Alexandria. Second class is clean, definitely more comfortable and cheaper than the bus. It is faster too, and it gets you right into the heart of Alexandria.

Trains in Egypt can be daunting. I would recommend getting a driver to take you to Alex. Then you have a driver for the trek to El Alamein which is about 150 miles into the desert from Alex. <BR> <BR>There are several memorials in El Alamein. The British cemetary is quite striking as the graves have bougainvillea which will be in bloom depending on the time you are there. There also is a large expanse of grass which is a sight in the desert. <BR> <BR>Of course the most striking scene is the row on row of graves of young soldiers - none appeared over the age of 25. <BR> <BR>There is a war museum also with period tanks. The interesting point there as you tour is the "advances" made in technology since El Alamein. The parachutes look like they came out of a bad dream but people jumped from planes and survived. <BR> <BR>The ride to El Alamein is rather unremarkable after you leave the beach district of Alex. <BR> <BR>June and July are VERY hot - this is a desert so it will be dusty and HOT traveling. Plan accordingly.

I have to disagree with Paula this time. Trains from Cairo to Alexndria are pretty good. You get comfortable seats, AC. And it is faster and definitely cheaper than a taxi. And they usually are on time, too. <BR>And from Alexandria to El Alamein a bus should do. In that case, and if you are willing to pay, a taxi might be a better alternative. Bear in mind that buses have AC, unlike most taxis. There are also service cars, cheaper than taxis, but also without AC, and not too safe.

Take the train - I just did in Dec and loved it. Book in First class after you see the rest you'll know why!