Why Egypt Will Always Hold a Piece of My Heart

Egypt has always lived in my imagination, ever since I was a kid. It was the land of ancient kings and desert mysteries—painted in vivid colors through the films I grew up with: The Mummy Returns, Gods of Egypt, The Prince of Egypt. Those stories weren’t just entertainment; they were the start of a lifelong fascination. I would sit there wide-eyed, wondering if I’d ever get to walk the same sands as those pharaohs once did.
And finally, I did.

Why Egypt Was Always on My Dream List

It’s not just about movies, though. Egypt is woven into the fabric of human history. You can’t flip through a history book without finding it on nearly every page—from the Pyramids of Giza to the Nile River that gave life to one of the world’s oldest civilizations. I’ve always believed Egypt helped shape the world as we know it today.

Its connection to religion also hits close to home. Stories from the Bible, like the Exodus, have always made me wonder what Egypt looked and felt like in those ancient times. And then there’s the mystery: the science, the engineering, the conspiracy theories—how did they build those pyramids?
The Pyramids are the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing—and once you see them in person, you understand why.

My First Glimpse of the Pyramids

When I finally saw the Pyramids of Giza, I froze. I felt like I’d stepped into a different world, like I was going to transform into some mythological avatar (cue dramatic movie soundtrack). Each block was taller than me. Each shadow told a story.

The wind was cold, brushing across my face, making the moment feel even more dramatic. I stood there, silently overwhelmed, taking it all in—my dream was real. I was in Africa, standing before these massive monuments I’d only ever seen in textbooks and films.

I even went inside one of the pyramids. If you’re claustrophobic like me, think twice—it’s incredibly narrow and the air is thin. But I had to at least try, even if I didn’t make it far. I wanted to say I felt it from the inside. I also took some secret photos (shh!) because I couldn’t leave without capturing this moment. This was more than just a vacation—it was a childhood dream fulfilled.

The Great Sphinx and That Camel Ride

Next up, the Sphinx. This guardian of the Pyramids—part lion, part human—was massive and just as mystical as I’d hoped. I rode a camel nearby, laughing at myself a little because it felt like something out of a movie scene. But that’s the thing about Egypt—everywhere you go, it feels like a movie. Except it’s real, and you’re living in it.

Walking Through Time

The Museum of Ancient Civilizations was like walking through time. From daily life tools and jewelry to the actual mummies of past pharaohs, I saw history with my own eyes. I imagined what life was like during their rule—what they feared, what they loved, how they led.

At the Grand Egyptian Museum, the biggest archaeological museum in the world, I saw even more. Tombs, statues, relics from the Roman Empire’s time in Alexandria—it was overwhelming in the best way. As someone who loves history, I had tears in my eyes more than once. Egypt makes you feel the weight of time.

Why I’ve Always Been Drawn to Egypt

Egypt isn’t just ancient structures and grand museums—it’s a living, breathing story. Sure, no country is perfect. Egypt has its flaws like everywhere else, but so many of my assumptions were shattered during my visit.

The Egyptian people? Warm. Curious. Resilient. They welcomed me like a long-lost friend. I saw joy, laughter, strength, and hospitality in every smile.

One lesson I’ll never forget: a country’s richness isn’t measured by how polished or modern it is—it’s in its people, its culture, its heart. That’s what stays with you.

How I Got There (and How You Can Too)

I wanted to save money, so instead of a direct flight, I took a connecting flight with Al Jazeera Airlines—Dubai to Kuwait, then Kuwait to Cairo. It was smooth and comfortable, with a short layover that let me stretch and explore the airport a little. I saved 500 AED just by choosing that route—money I used for hotel and food.

For fellow Filipinos wondering about visas: yes, we generally need a visa to visit Egypt. But if you’re a UAE resident like me, you can get a Visa on Arrival. It costs around $25 and is valid for 30 days. Just pay when you land, and they’ll stamp your passport. It’s super simple and hassle-free.

Final Thoughts

Egypt gave me something I didn’t even realize I needed—a deeper connection to the past, and a stronger sense of awe for the world we live in. I came back with more than just pictures; I brought home stories, memories, and a full heart.
If Egypt is on your bucket list, I say this: don’t wait. Go. Let it change you. Let it challenge your perspective. Let it fill you with wonder the way it did for me.
Egypt will forever be a part of my soul—and I’ll carry its magic with me, always.

Here are some of my photos from my trip to Egypt.