I have wanted to visit North Africa for a while now. One of my readers, Kunal, approached me to write a guest post about planning a vacation to Egypt and this is the result. Thanks Kunal.

Traveling is often associated with sky high overseas airfares and enough unexpected fees to make you think twice about making the trip. However, there's one travel destination that won't break the bank and takes you to the ultimate in exotic adventure. Egypt is one of the best places to get more bang from your buck, and offers a unique vacation rich in history and culture.

For best bargain Egypt travel deals, you want to book a package to include your round trip airfare from New York to Cairo, domestic air or ground travel in Egypt, all hotels, tour guide and entrance fees, most meals and a three to seven night Nile cruise. The cruise is all-inclusive of three meals a day, on-board entertainment and covers the admission tickets to the Nile's top attractions. Visit Valley of the Kings, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor and the scenic banks of Aswan, all complete with a licensed Egyptologist at your side. In addition, cheap flights to Abu Simbel are available, and you will save the most money by booking them when you get there from your tour guide leader.

When selecting the best bargain travel Egypt package, you may opt for the four star hotel and cruise ships to shave some extra expenses from your tab. The four star hotels in Cairo are clean and packed with amenities such as a currency exchange service, multiple dining options and good security at the doors. However, it is not recommended that you settle for any less than a four star property, as the hotel rating system in Africa is not as stringent as that in the United States.

Dining in Cairo can be expensive, so be sure to choose a hotel plan that includes a buffet room. Some of the top four star hotels in Cairo include The Oasis, Sofitel Le Sphinx and many of the international chains located near Heliopolis Airport. In addition, for a grander stay at a slightly higher rate, try the Ramses Hilton, Mena House or the Semiramis Intercontinental for an average of ten percent more on your total cost.

Additional expenses for your fantastic Egypt getaway may include one or more evening meals in Cairo, any alcoholic beverages or services on the cruise ship, and a $10 per person, per day tip to the cruise ship staff and your tour leader on the ground. Also consider a seven night Nile cruise. Overall, an Egypt vacation is a fraction of what you would spend for an equal amount of time in Europe, and the sights and sounds of this magnificent place will keep you coming back for more.