Travel: Spiritual tours to Egypt

Yahoo News

The Houston area is a departure city of choice for boutique spiritual tours to Egypt, a trend rising nationally as well, as one in four US travelers indicates an interest in taking a spiritual trip. A growing segment of the population is seeking to improve themselves, even on vacation, experiencing luxury and relaxation at the same time. This is making the specialty tour a top choice.

The Houston area has several examples of these tours coming from churches, Christian colleges and private groups. "We have been overwhelmed with the interest in Egypt as a destination," said Jennie Hedger of the Master of Liberal Arts Program at Houston Baptist University, which is sponsoring a trip to Egypt and The Sinai over the New Year. "A trip with a theme and a purpose makes all the difference for many travelers."

One of the main benefits of boutique travel is exclusive access to sacred places, at times when the public is not allowed. Depending on the group, tour leaders facilitate ceremonies and a deepening of spiritual values, while ensuring that each guest is pampered for the whole trip. This often includes 4 star hotels, Nile cruises, opportunities for worship or meditation, and daily activities such as a private visit to the King's Chamber in the Great Pyramid and a 5 course catered dinner on the grounds of Luxor Temple.