Planning a visit to the Valley of the King? Here are the tips to help you enjoy your time there.

Some travelers have always wondered if Cairo is better than Luxor, and the answer to this question depends on one’s interests. But Luxor’s history and charm make it really stand out. Being home to the Valley of the King, this city is definitely worth exploring. The archeological site is known to be one of the most striking destinations in Luxor. It is known for being home to some of the most iconic tombs of Ancient Egypt’s kings. History lovers will definitely enjoy spending time in one of the most significant archeological sites in the country. But even travelers who are not into history will have an unforgettable trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site. But touring this part of Luxor can be challenging, especially for first-time visitors. Here are the tips for visiting the Valley of the King in Luxor, Egypt.

10. It Is Best To Explore The Valley Of The Kings Between October And April

Summer is the hottest season, and in Egypt, being in the Northern Hemisphere, the heat can be unbearable. This is why it is advisable to visit the tombs from October to April. At this time of the year, the temperatures are cooler but warm enough for vacationers to enjoy spending time at the tombs. And please note that this is when many visitors flock to Egypt, and since the Valley of the Kings is one of the major tourist attractions, it can get crowded, especially the Ramses VI and Tutankhamun, which are the most visited tombs.

9. Tour The Valley Of the King As Early In The Day As Possible

If visiting the Valley of the King, it is advisable to get there as early as possible. Being thereby at least 8:00 am will be the best thing to do. During this time, vacationers will probably have the beautiful tombs to themselves, allowing them to take in the gorgeous scenery and take some epic pictures. The site starts getting crowded at around 10:00 am, so by noon, travelers will find it hard to enjoy exploring the stunning sites because the narrow passages can get congested.

8. Vacationers Can Only Take Pictures Using Their Phones, But Need A Permit To Capture The ‘Special Tombs’

Tourists are allowed to take photos with their cell phones but without flash. However, not all phones will snap the best photos because it is very dark inside the tombs. For clear photos, it comes with iPhone 11 Pro. Vacationers should also note that they are not allowed to take photos of the ‘special tombs,’ including Nefertari, Seti, and Tutankhamun unless they have a permit. The tour guides in these tombs check to ensure everyone taking pictures has permission to do so.

7. Paying Some Extra Cash To Get Inside Tutankhamun Is Worth It

Tutankhamun’s treasures were taken to the Egyptian Museum, but it is still a place worth spending time at, and not just because it has the body of the pharaoh, it is also incredibly stunning. Ever since it was discovered by archaeologist Howard Carter, the tomb has been open to the public and has become a must-see attraction that guarantees memorable experiences to vacationers willing to pay the extra fees. Travelers will find a handful of original objects, including Tutankhamun’s mummy, wall paintings of the burial chamber, and the king’s outer coffin, which is made of gilded wood.

6. The Tomb Of Ramses VI Is A Must-See During A Visit To The Valley Of The King

The Tomb of Ramses boasts some of the broadest corridors and a variety of decorations. It is one of the most fascinating discoveries made in ancient Egypt. The tomb’s key feature is the astronomical ceiling with an image of Goddess Nut, which travelers can see before they get to the burial chamber. At the burial chamber, one will enjoy marveling at the stunning ceiling and wall paintings. While many visitors focus their trips on the three tombs that require them to pay additional fees, this is the best tomb they can explore in the Valley of the Kings.

5. While Independent Travelers Can Get To The Valley Of The Kings By Their own Means, An Organized River Nile Tour Is The Best Way To Visit

The Valley of the King is located about 18 miles northwest of Luxor and can be reached by bus, taxi, or bike. While independent tourists can choose any of the available means, booking a tour is the best and most popular option for exploring the archaeological site. One can choose a guided tour or a private tour to have the most memorable trip in the Valley of the Kings. Each tomb has information, but tour guides offer detailed stories of Ancient Egypt’s Pharaohs and their tombs as well.

4. Other Than His Mummy And The Impressive Mural, Don’t Expect To See Much At King Tut’s Tomb

Unfortunately, almost all treasures of King Tut are now in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo; there isn’t much to see. The main things to see here include the body of King Tut, which is pretty impressive, and the beautiful mural. Other than that, there really isn’t much to see here. Another thing about this tomb is that vacationers aren’t allowed to take pictures. And anyone who wants to visit it must buy an extra ticket, separate from the one used to explore other tombs.

3. Visiting The Temple Of Hatshepsut Is A Must On The Way To The Valley Of The Kings From Luxor

Located on the way to the Valley of the Kings from Luxor, the Temple of Hatshepsut is one of the must-stops; thanks for being so stunning. Also referred to as Djeser-Djeseru (Holy of Holies), it was built by Pharaoh Hatshepsut, one of the best pharaohs in Ancient Egypt, and dedicated it to the god Amun and herself. There is a series of terraces, which vacationers can get to by long ramps. Spare about two and a half hours to have the best experience of this temple before proceeding to explore tombs at the Valley of the Kings. It is one of the unique experiences one can only have in Egypt, making it well worth visiting.

2. Know Exactly How Much You’ll Need To Explore The Valley Of The Kings

If planning to visit the Valley of the King, vacationers should know how much exploring the tombs might cost them. The cost of the general ticket is 260 EGP, which is about $8 and gives access to three of the available tombs, except Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Tomb KV 9, which require one to purchase extra tickets to explore.

• The cost of a general ticket for exploring three tombs : $8
• The cost of entering Tutankhamun : about $10
• The cost of entering Seti I: $32
• The cost of entering Ramses V and Ramses VI (Tomb KV 9): About $3

1. Purchase A Luxor Pass To Have Access To The Archeological Sites On The West Bank And East Bank Of Luxor

Vacationers can save a lot of money by buying the Luxor Pass, which gives them access to all the archeological sites in Luxor’s West Bank and East Bank. There are two options to choose from; the Standard Luxor Pass and the Premium Luxor Pass. The standard pass allows tourists to enjoy all archeological sites on the West and East Bank, except two tombs; Nefertari and Seti I.

• The cost of the Standard Luxor Pass : $100 (adults) and $50 (under 30 years people with valid student IDs)

The Premium Luxor Pass gives access to all the archaeological sites on the West and East Bank, plus the tombs of Nefertari and Seti I.

• The cost of the Premium Luxor Pass : $200 for adults, $10 for under 30 students with valid Student IDs

There are many different components that go into planning a ski vacation, some of which require pleasing non-skiers in the group who enjoy such activities as tubing, snowshoeing or ice skating.

Contrary to popular belief, ski vacations are not just for avid skiers. In fact, ski vacations come in many different shapes and sizes. For seasoned skiers, a mountain getaway means plenty of time on the slopes, time for apres ski, perhaps a visit to the spa and early to bed in order to refresh for the next day of downhill excitement. However, for others in the group who don’t want to spend the entire time skiing, or not ski at all, the majority of ski resorts offer a wide variety of non-skiing activities, including tubing, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobile tours and more. Travelers can choose from the following four types of ski vacations:

The All American Ski Vacation

There are 480 ski resorts in the U.S. according to the National Ski Areas Association, a number that has remained relatively steady over the years. With so many ski resorts to choose from, skiers can customize their vacation to fit their specific needs.

Gunstock, New Hampshire

Gunstock is best known for its proximity to major populations of skiers and snowboarders, and for the breathtaking views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the White Mountains beyond. It’s a challenge to keep eyes on the trail ahead instead of the changing vista – especially with a snowcapped Mount Washington commanding the horizon. “Gunstock skis bigger than it looks,” is a common refrain heard from visitors. Gunstock is known for its exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, and families feel an added sense of safety with all trails funneling to a single, expansive base area. Another aspect that sets Gunstock apart is the classic feel of the resort experience. While Gunstock offers every modern convenience imaginable, including RFID lift access cards that can be reloaded online (go direct-to-lift with no need to stand in a ticket window line) and new EV charging stations for guests arriving in electric cars, Gunstock offers guests an authentic New England ski and ride experience.

Camelback Resort, Pennsylvania

Camelback, an iconic Pocono Mountain resort, features 14 lifts serving 39 trails ensuring efficient access to a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders. Among its newer additions are the Black Bear 6, introduced in 2022 as a high-speed, six-person enclosed lift. Enhancing the guest experience even further, the Black Bear 6 now features a digital screen at its front, displaying a trail map, lift updates and other essential ski information. These modern lifts and added amenities elevate the resort’s capacity to provide guests with a more enjoyable and seamless experience on the slopes. Camelback Resort boasts one of the largest snow tubing parks in the country, offering over 40 snow tubing lanes for daytime and nighttime fun. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodations at Camelback Lodge, an eight-story mountain modern-designed hotel with 453 guest suites, featuring many dining choices including ski-in/ski-out restaurants and fitness center.

Multi-Adventures Ski Vacation

It’s quite common for any ski vacation to include non-skiers or those who don’t want to spend their entire day on the slopes. Fortunately for these travelers, the vast majority of ski resorts offer a wide array of non-skiing activities.

Tamarack Resort, Idaho

Tamarack Resort is a blend of rustic charm and modern luxuries. Guests can escape to nature with the backdrop of the West Central Mountains, overlooking Lake Cascade, while not having to sacrifice the upscale amenities the resort offers. Tamarack features 1,530 acres of skiable terrain on 2,800 vertical feet. Discover 50 named runs featuring everything from open bowls, steeps, cornices and high-speed corduroy groomers to six named glades, natural tree-skiing areas, challenging backcountry and three terrain parks. In addition to world-class skiing, Tamarack’s Nordic trail system features nearly 20 miles of paths for classic or skate skis, snowshoes or fat bikes to wind through open meadows and woodlands while enjoying mountain-high views in every direction. The dog-friendly trails are groomed daily and are open every day from dawn to dusk. Guided ice-fishing adventures are available on nearby Lake Cascade, where anglers can fish for jumbo perch, bass, rainbow trout and other species.

Beyond the Borders Ski Vacation

Ski travelers often opt for downhill experiences outside of the States. Canada and Europe offer excellent ski resorts ranging from the sublime to local ski areas in smaller towns.

Banff Sunshine Village, Banff, Canada

Banff Sunshine Village, nestled 7,200 feet up in the Canadian Rockies, spans over 3,300 acres across three mountains: Goat’s Eye Mountain, Lookout Mountain and Mount Standish. With expansive terrain, excellent snow coverage and sweeping alpine vistas, it remains a top North American ski resort. Guests enjoy slopeside luxury at the Sunshine Mountain Lodge and vibrant après ski options for a seamless alpine experience. New to Banff Sunshine this season, Super Angel Luxury Express is set to soar skiers and riders up Lookout Mountain in luxury. Super Angel LX will be Banff Sunshine’s second heated chairlift out of its fleet of nine chairlifts, featuring a yellow protective bubble to keep skiers and snowboarders warm as they carve up Banff Sunshine Village.
Test Your Mettle Ski Vacation

The experienced skier is always looking for challenges that are above what they can get at their home ski resort. Whether it’s testing their mettle on slopes that once held Olympic skiers or glade skiing through wooded areas, these expert skiers crave downhill excitement.

Deer Valley Resort, Utah

Deer Valley Resort is a wonder to behold. With a vertical drop of 3,040 feet, 2,342 skiable acres, 930 acres of glade skiing and 122 runs, Deer Valley offers more than enough challenges for all levels of skiers and boarders. Only 36 miles from Salt Lake City, Deer Valley hosted the alpine slalom, freestyle aerials and freestyle moguls events during the 2002 Winter Olympics. The resort is home to numerous restaurants, including Cast & Cut Seafood Dining, where a bounty of sustainably sourced seafood is the anchor to your evening. Deer Valley invites you to ski with one of six Olympic snowsport athletes this winter. These highly successful athletes are available to ski with individuals, families and groups for exclusive half- and full-day memorable adventures at the resort. Deer Valley Creative Academy offers a fusion of culinary and crafting experiences that will ignite your senses. Indulge your love for food and libations with a diverse selection of cooking and wine pairing classes.

These expert-backed perks will make you want to book a family vacation ASAP.

Preparing for (and even taking) a trip with kids can be a bit of a chaotic experience ― so much so that it might even be tempting to wait to travel with them until they’re older.

But parenting experts — and many parents who have gone on trips with kids ― are quick to remind us that there are more perks than downsides for families to go on vacation together.

From helping children be more empathetic to nurturing their natural curiosity, travel has a profound impact on younger kids and can help them grow in ways that many of us overlook. We talked to some travel and parenting experts who weighed in on several ways traveling helps enrich a child’s life:

Traveling gives them a chance to learn as a family.

Traveling as a family can create a unique opportunity for bonding since you’re all experiencing something new together.

“In many ways, it may be the first time your child sees you, the parent, actively learning, adapting and even problem-solving in real time,” said Gia Gambaro Blount, a parent education and child development instructor in Los Angeles. “Unlike day-to-day routines, where your children often look to you for guidance, travel gives you the chance to learn alongside them.”

Whether it’s discovering new foods, hearing different languages or exploring unfamiliar places, everyone is having these novel experiences at the same time. You’ll also be able to troubleshoot together as a family if hiccups arise.

It gives them the ability to roll without routines.

Breakfast, lunchtime, snacks, naps, dinner, bedtime ― routines are great for keeping the days running smoothly. But traveling gives kids a chance to experience spontaneity and learn to be flexible.

“Traveling often means changes in sleep, eating and daily rhythms, and that’s OK,” Blount said.

Letting go of some of that structure can allow you and your child to embrace the adventure and unpredictability of travel.

“The routines will still be there when you get home, but the shared experiences and lessons learned from navigating the surprises of a trip together will stay with your family long after you return,” Blount said.

And sometimes, it’s in those unplanned moments where the real magic happens.

“Foods that may be unfamiliar, different languages, and environments that may present them with novel sounds, smells and sights can also provide kids with a chance to strengthen their ability to adapt and embrace change,” said Michelle Felder, a licensed clinical social worker, parenting coach and founder of Parenting Pathfinders.

Traveling expands kids’ worldview.

When kids have a chance to travel, they are given opportunities to experience different cultures, traditions and lifestyles.

“It can be powerful for them to be able to spend time with people who may look different than them, speak other languages, live in different environments or have different customs than they do. But that may play, laugh, hope, love and value their family or community just like they do,” Felder said.

Taking trips can help kids recognize that the world is interconnected and offer them a step toward building empathy and embracing diversity.

It gives them a chance to fully immerse themselves in a new place.

“Traveling with children is a fully immersive experience that activates all the senses in a way nothing else can,” Blount said.

Your child may have a love for animals, but there is nothing like the ability to immerse oneself in a place that interests them firsthand.

“You can read books or watch documentaries about safaris, but it’s never the same as feeling the heat of the sun on your skin, smelling the earth after rain or getting goosebumps when you see a wild animal right in front of you,” Blount said. “These experiences shape a child’s worldview, expanding their understanding and perspective in ways that last a lifetime.”

It fosters a sense of curiosity.

Sticking a toe in the ocean when they live in a landlocked place, taking a train when their city doesn’t have much public transit ― a vacation inspires children to ask so many questions and dig deeper into how things are done differently around the world than in their hometown.

“Traveling has the power to ignite a child’s curiosity and provide them with opportunities to learn new things through real-life experiences,” Felder said. “Whether they’re visiting historical landmarks, interacting with locals or exploring nature, these moments expose kids to different perspectives, information and ideas, which can naturally spark their curiosity and prompt them to ask new questions.”

Traveling inspires kids to make a positive mark on the world.

“Traveling can help kids become more aware of the different experiences that people have and can shed light on how they could help to make the world a better place,” Felder said. “It may be through exposure to new people and places that a child becomes inspired to care for the environment, fight for social justice, or somehow become an active agent of change in the world.”

Whether it’s wanting to find ways to use less plastic to protect the ocean or raising funds for disaster relief, children who travel may return home with a newfound inspiration to help make the world a better place.

It gives them the opportunity to live in the moment.

With video games, sports and every streaming service at their fingertips, kids are used to being constantly entertained. But travel gives them the ability to scale back and fully immerse themselves in the moment.

“I’ve seen kids who were glued to their phones suddenly ditch screens to chase crabs or learn to fish from an old man in a tiny coastal town,” said Wayne Kask, a travel expert and the founder and CEO of Always on the Shore.

Kask also recalled an instance where he saw a young girl find entertainment in a small patch of rocky shore on a beach: “Most people avoided it, sticking to the soft sands, but she spent hours there, turning over rocks, finding shells and quietly observing little marine creatures. She was in her element, completely engrossed in a world that others didn’t bother to look at.”

It gives them organizational skills.

When taking a trip, kids learn everything from how to create and manage a schedule to packing for trips and organizing their belongings in a hotel.

“My children have been taught how to properly pack for a trip depending upon the destination, create a list, and most importantly, manage what they are bringing on the trip itself,” said Vanessa Gordon, the publisher of East End Taste magazine and a frequent family traveler.

Traveling boosts kids’ confidence and resilience.

“When kids face new environments, whether it’s navigating unfamiliar streets or engaging in activities like hiking or kayaking, they learn to adapt,” said Duncan Greenfield-Turk, CEO of Global Travel Moments.

Navigating new cities, reading maps and ordering food in markets gives kids a sense of pride and achievement.

“They realize they can roll with changes, and that confidence follows them home,” said Lucia Polla, a travel expert who runs Viva La Vita, a blog about the hidden treasures of southern Spain.

With travel, Polla has witnessed children become more resilient and willing to take risks.

“They start to understand people from all walks of life,” she added.

These experiences push kids outside their comfort zones and help them realize they can handle new challenges. This also enables them to strengthen their problem-solving skills and boost their resilience.

As the old saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” And when it comes to staying safe while driving, that is certainly true. From obeying the speed limit to being extra cautious in bad weather, there are many things drivers can do to reduce their risk of being involved in an accident.

However, even the most safety-conscious driver cannot always avoid accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021 there were 6,452,000 reported motor vehicle accidents in the United States only. This statistic includes everything from minor fender-benders to major collisions that resulted in fatalities.

And while You can’t eliminate the risk of being involved in an accident, there are things you can do to minimize your chances of being involved in a serious or fatal accident. Here are the six most important tips to keep in follow:

Understand The Law

One of the best ways to reduce your risk of being involved in a car accident is to familiarize yourself with the laws governing driving. Every state has its own set of rules and regulations, so it’s important that you know and understand the laws in your state. In addition, there are also federal laws that apply to all drivers in the United States. As noted by experienced car accident attorneys from Joye Law Firm, the most preventable accidents are caused by drivers who disobey the law due to carelessness or ignorance. Not only will following the law help you avoid making common mistakes that could put you and others in danger, but it will also prevent you from being held liable if you do happen to be involved in an accident.

Maintain Your Vehicle

Another important way to reduce your risk of being involved in an accident is to make sure your vehicle is always properly maintained. This means regularly checking things like your tires, brakes, and lights to ensure they are in good working condition. It’s also important to stay up-to-date on all scheduled maintenance for your vehicle. By keeping your car in good condition, you can help avoid breakdowns and other problems that could lead to an accident. Just keep in mind that even if you maintain your vehicle perfectly, there’s always the chance that something could go wrong. That’s why it’s important to be prepared for anything by carrying an emergency kit in your car at all times.

Be a Defensive Driver

One of the best ways to avoid being involved in an accident is to practice defensive driving. This means being aware of your surroundings and driving in a way that anticipates the actions of other drivers. For example, if you see a driver swerving in and out of their lane, it’s best to give them a wide berth. And if you’re approaching an intersection, be sure to look both ways before proceeding, even if you have the right of way. By being a defensive driver, you can help avoid accidents by being prepared for the actions of other drivers.

Avoid Distractions

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in the United States. And while handheld devices like cell phones are often to blame, many other things can distract drivers. Eating, drinking, adjusting the radio, and even talking to passengers can all take a driver’s attention away from the road. That’s why it’s important to avoid distractions whenever possible. If you need to do something that will take your attention away from driving, pull over to a safe location first. By avoiding distractions, you can help ensure you’re always paying attention to the road and what’s happening around you.

Never Drive Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is one of the most dangerous things you can do. Not only does it impair your ability to drive, but it also puts you at a higher risk of being involved in an accident. Even if you feel like you’re fine to drive, keep in mind that your reflexes, judgment, and coordination are all impaired when you’re under the influence, even after a small amount of alcohol. So if you’re going to be drinking, make sure to have a designated driver or take public transportation. And if you’re taking medication that could affect your driving, be sure to check with your doctor first to see if it’s safe for you to operate a vehicle.

Drive the Speed Limit

Speed LImit is set for a reason. It’s the fastest speed at which you can safely travel under ideal conditions. But of course, road conditions are rarely ideal. That’s why it’s important to always drive below the speed limit, especially when the roads are wet or icy, visibility is poor, or there’s heavy traffic. By driving the speed limit, you can help ensure you have enough time to react to any potential hazards on the road. And if you ever get involved in an accident, driving the speed limit can help reduce the severity of the collision. It will also help you avoid getting a ticket, which can lead to points on your license and increased insurance rates.

Even though car travel is relatively safe, there are always risks involved. By following these tips, you can help ensure your safety on the road. Just remember to always drive responsibly and be prepared for anything and you will increase your chances of arriving at your destination safely.