Fun for Kids in Cairo

Q: We are debating whether to take our children - aged 8 and 12 - on a holiday to Cairo. While our interest would be in the historical sights, is there much to keep children occupied? - Bev Reynders

A: Cairo would not be everyone's choice for a family holiday. It's hot, busy and many of the the temples and museums are unlikely to hold their interest. However, with a bit of juggling and some sacrifices on your part, you could make such a holiday work. The children are bound to enjoy the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, especially if a horse or camel ride is included. While you may not want them with you when you visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, a great way to teach children about the history of Egypt is to take a barge ride through Dr. Ragab's Pharaonic Village. They get to sail down a network of canals in motorized barges where a cast of actors and actresses work to recreate ancient Egypt. There are also a number of amusement parks they can enjoy. Dream Park, a fantastic 60-hectare theme park, is one of the largest recreational facilities in the Middle East, while Sinbad theme park offers a variety of games for children and teenagers, including a flying carpet, slides, House of Ghosts, carousels, mirror house and merry-go-rounds. On very hot days you can take them to an indoor amusement parks such as Magic Galaxy. This playground features over 100 games where children can ride a moon buggy or falling star. The key to a family holiday in Cairo working out would be to have someone who can look after and keep the kids amused when the adults are doing their thing. (9 May 2010)