Over the centuries, the Persians were replaced by Greeks, Romans and Byzantines, until the Arabs came to rule in the seventh century, bringing with them their religion – Islam – and their language. The Mamluks and Ottomans both took turns in controlling Egypt until the 19th Century when the French and English decided that, as everyone else had had a go, they might as well give it a try.

The country acquired partial independence in 1922 and the UK handed back full sovereignty after World War II. For many years, even after the Aswan High Dam managed to control the great Nile, Egypt struggled to cope with modernisation and its increasing population, but investment in communications, physical infrastructure, economic reform and tourism have now returned Egypt to its rightful place as one of the most exciting countries in the world to visit or live.

Combining the thoroughly modern hotels, resorts, bars and clubs with sights, smells and sounds that have changed little in thousands of years, Egypt is a thoroughly unique and diverse destination. In addition to being the birthplace of civilisation, it’s also believed to be the world’s oldest holiday spot, as Romans, Greeks, emperors and kings all visited Egypt purely for entertainment.

If you’re not already chomping at the bit to visit or have read through all this and let it drift over your head, then let’s make it sound bite-sized: “From partying and parascending to the Pyramids…a princely property paradise.” Not too bad, hey?