Thanks for the report, Zorro. I did a similar trip three weeks ago -- only I went there for a AONE4 ticket.

Sheraton Royal Gardens was absolutely fabulous, and the value for money was incredible. The restaurants are all part of the Trader Vic's chain (with affinity brands covering a Japanese restaurant and a Mexican bar), but the prices really set them apart. When I was there, Inaka-ya (the Japanese restaurant) had an absolutely amazing offer of all-you-can-eat sushi for under US$15. I haven't seen that bang-for-the-buck beaten anywhere on the planet.

The lack of custom at the hotel was indeed creepy, but the tourist season ends in April so I was expecting it. Also, it wouldn't have bothered me nearly as much if I wasn't travelling alone. So, if someone is planning to make a ticket run to CAI, bring someone along or try to match dates with another FTer!

...one more thing, if you can't generally afford personal guides on your trips, chances are that Cairo will be an exception to that rule. All services are very cheap for currency-rich foreigners, and local knowledge will really help you get the most out of all the sights Cairo has to offer.