Daily TribuneWhether it’s sipping mint tea while watching the world go by or exploring the ancient wonders that tell stories of a civilization long gone, Egypt is a place where time feels suspended.
The author wears an abaya while her companions wear galabeyas which are traditional flowing tunics.
photographs by Jocelyn Dimaculangan for the daily tribune
The author.
A Mosque.
Silent tales of the hieroglyphs.
The Sphinx.
From the Sphinx’s enigmatic gaze to the hieroglyphs’ silent tales, Egypt is a land of immense beauty and mystery.
We’ve all seen the Pyramids of Giza in books and online images, but nothing compares to the experience of standing in front of this impressive wonder of the ancient world.
When I traveled to Egypt with my high school friends, our moment of seeing the Great Pyramid became even more special when we wore the traditional attire of Egyptians.
Our luggage was left behind because of our delayed departure from Manila, so we had to go shopping for clothes at around midnight. Fortunately, our hotel had a clothes shop, and they opened it just for us. Our guide patiently demonstrated the traditional way of tying the head scarf.
He also helped my companions pick their galabeyas, loose-fitting traditional garments worn by Egyptian men.
I opted for a long-sleeved dress adorned with intricate embroidery, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of Egyptian artisans.
Upon visiting the pyramid complex, you will notice the tagline #BuiltForEternity prominently displayed. Indeed, for thousands of years, these limestone monoliths have stood as a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the ancient Egyptians.
Serving as a silent witness to the rise and fall of the Egyptian empire is the enigmatic Sphinx, which faces east towards the rising sun. With its imposing lion’s body and human head, The Great Sphinx of Giza stands as a sentinel guarding the sacred pyramids from the sands of time.
If you can’t get enough of these ancient wonders, head to the 9 Pyramids Lounge restaurant, which is the perfect spot for lunch. It has a cozy Arabian sitting area that offers breathtaking views of the iconic Pyramids of Giza. As you savor traditional Egyptian dishes, such as freshly grilled kebabs, you’ll experience authentic flavors that reflect Egypt’s rich culinary heritage. The serene atmosphere enhances your meal, allowing you to soak in the magnificent scenery while enjoying dishes like falafel. Dining here, with the mighty Pyramids as your backdrop, is an unforgettable experience that is one for the books.
Every night, a light and sound show brings the history of the pyramids to life. The Sphinx narrates tales of pharaohs in a booming voice that gives you goosebumps. The show captures the essence of an era where gods and pharaohs reigned supreme, making ancient Egyptian mythology feel vividly alive.
One of the highlights of the show is when they flood the pyramids with powerful beams of light, showcasing their imposing facades in all their glory. Watching the pyramids illuminated against the night sky feels like stepping back in time, where ancient rituals and monumental achievements were part of daily life.
I picked a hotel located right in front of the pyramids, allowing us to hear the narration and see the laser lights that added a dramatic flair to the nightly show.
Every morning, we could appreciate the mystical beauty of the pyramids and the Sphinx while enjoying breakfast at the rooftop deck of our hotel.
While staying inside the Giza necropolis, I felt an undeniable connection to the past. Whether it’s sipping mint tea while watching the world go by or exploring the ancient wonders that tell stories of a civilization long gone, Egypt is a place where time feels suspended.
During our trip to the land of the Pharaohs, one of my favorite moments took place when we were seated at a café located across Al-Hussein Mosque. Amid the noisy sellers hawking their wares and the blaring of afternoon prayers, there is a certain stillness in this little corner of the Khan El Khalili Bazaar. This stillness is what I’ll always remember as timeless, eternal Egypt.
