If you are looking for an escape from the cold and dark days of a British winter, then think about heading to Cairo because that is a very good time to head for the Egyptian capital. 

Cairo is a mixture of a modern bustling city and the really ancient areas. Reckless drivers (be very careful crossing roads) and crowded noisy streets juxtapose with the sight of a felucca sailing quietly along the waters of the Nile.

Ten million tourists visit Cairo each year to visit its most famous attraction – the Great Pyramid of Giza, the only surviving wonder of the ancient world.

Flights from the UK to Cairo take between four to five hours, making it a medium haul destination, so a long weekend is the minimum break that is practicable; there are plenty of good holiday deals and cheap flights around.

To make your weekend cost less, you can fly in the summer months but beware that it will be extremely hot; even the Egyptians escape the summer heat.

Flights to Cairo depart from London Heathrow and the best choices are either British Airways or Egyptair, who both operate direct flights.  Other European carriers will fly you to Cairo but will make a stop en-route adding hours to your flight.  If you want to spend a few hours or a couple of days in Rome, Amsterdam or Paris, then this may be the option for you.