Egypt expected to prove popular this year

Egypt will still be a "hot tourist destination" this year, according to a report by industry research company RNCOS.

The study reveals that 2008 was a strong year for the country, with visitor arrivals rising by 19 per cent to around 13 million and income from tourism increasing by 23 per cent to around $11.6 billion (£8 billion).

RNCOS predicts that this success will continue this year, partly as a result of the country's ancient tourist attractions and promotional initiatives being launched by the government.

There is an "enduring fascination", particularly in Europe and the US, with symbols of Egypt's ancient history such as the pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor, according to the research firm.

Popular leisure activities such as cruising down the Nile or scuba diving in Sharm el Sheikh are also expected to continue drawing visitors to Egypt.

According to the most recent holiday costs report from the Post Office, Egypt will not be the only country in Africa to prove attractive to tourists this year.

South Africa was described as an "unbeatable option" for long-haul travellers owing to the value of its currency, while Kenya is reportedly an "attractive prospect" owing to flight and hotel discounts.

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