The Middle East is a vast and fascinating area of the world, and if you hope to study abroad in the Middle East, the first thing you will have to do is pick a destination. One that you may want to consider for your adventure is Egypt. In fact, some people would say that it is even the best place in the world for study abroad programs.
Study Abroad Programs in Egypt
There are lots of things that you can study in Egypt that may fit in with your current degree. Things such as international relations, Arabic, Egyptian history, and so on, are all courses that are respected all over the world. Do make sure that your university is properly accredited however. Consider, for instance, the Arava Institute of Environmental Studies, where you can take part in research and classes on the environment. Some of their most popular courses include sustainable development, water management, and environmental law.
You could also consider the American University in Cairo, which is, unsurprisingly, a popular study abroad location. Here, you can study undergraduate programs in areas such as Middle East studies, computer engineering, Egyptology, and accounting to name but a few. Alternatively, there Assiut University just south of Cairo. This university offers both graduate and undergraduate programs in technology, science, and art. It also has a library with some 4,000 reference books. Furthermore, they have built an Olympic Village with a swimming compound and indoor arena.
Transportation in Egypt
If you are in Egypt, you will need to know how to get around. Some things of interest include:
- That there are 5,000 miles of railroad to explore. In fact, Egyptian Railways is the oldest company of its kind on the continent, and rail travel is convenient and fast.
- Ferries travel across the Nile River, enabling you to visit both Egypt and neighboring countries.
- Bus travel is also available, although not overly comfortable. Expect crowded buses, but it is a very cool experience to tick off your bucket list.
- Taxis are available just about everywhere and quite affordable. Make sure the meter works, however, or the driver might try to rip you off.
- If you have a driver’s license, you can consider hiring a car. But be careful of the traffic!
Some Locations to Visit
If you do choose this country as your destination, do not miss the opportunity to visit the Valley of the Kings. This wonder of human engineering and site of tremendous historical importance is simply not to be missed. Do also visit Abu Simbel if you can, where you can find two carved temples inside a mountain, done under the direction of Pharaoh Ramses II. The reality is that, no matter where you go in Egypt, you will be able to experience history, culture, and fantastic architecture as well.
Other spots that are not to be missed include:
- The Great Sphinx of Giza, one of mankind’s oldest structures.
- Saqqara, the City of the Dead, which is an ancient burial ground and home to the oldest step pyramid.
- Siwa Oasis, a 50 mile long stretch of water.
- Aswan, Egypt’s third largest city with fantastic markets and amazing traditional musical performances at night.
- The Egyptian Museum in Cairo where all things Egypt can be seen.