T8191

Hmmm ... our previous HNL hotel (The Pacific Beach) has been extensively refurbished and is now totally non-smoking. Won't be going there again!

... but it was reasonably priced, at the west end of "The Strip" and close to the Zoo. Everywhere was walkable anyway, wherever you end up. TR HERE, and the second one in my signature.

rapidex

The pyramids are indeed a disappointment,with campfires and old baked bean tins littered around,and indeed the camel rides are a ripoff.However,I am glad Mrs rapidex and I did it once.I have stayed in a number of the CAI hotels,and the Conrad or either of the Four seasons are ok.

I like the Royal hawaiian,but it is rather expensive with either cash or points.

m0hamed

Ummmm no.

The two Four Seasons' properties are stunning. The FS Nile Plaza is right on the Corniche, however the FS at the First Residence is more luxurious with views of the Pyramid but the location of Giza isn't convenient for tourists.

The new Ritz Carlton is the former Nile Hilton and is close up the Museum.

The St Regis is expected to open later this year.

Swanhunter

I actually enjoy Cairo. It's not an easy place but the sense of history mingling with modern life is quite something. A few random tips

* get a car and driver for the day and get out to visit some of the other Pyramids at Saqqara and Dahshur. You'll have them pretty much to yourself and limited hassle
* Egyptian museum is a ratty old wreck with the most mind blowing collection. Go early and race to the Tutankhamen room then explore at your leisure. The mummies are controversial but I found fascinating
* Don't neglect the Islamic history. Midan al Hussein, Al Azhar, Khan el Khallil and tea/seesha at Fishawai's are a great afternoons explore along with just ambling the streets
* the regular IC is a bit tired but has ace restaurants and good service coupled with a stellar downtown location. The two Four Seasons are great properties too.
* do some reading on the history before you go. There are lots and lots of layers!

I've had little hassle there despite my regular MO being wandering aimlessly poking my nose into all sorts of interesting corners. If you look obviously lost, rich or dumb people will try it on. If you have some travel smarts, do a bit of research and act confidently all will go well. Regular Egyptians can be super helpful if you do get lost. Smile warmly, don't be arrogant and they'll love you

Heartiest commiserations on HNL, however. Grim.

BAGoldBoy

Stayed at the Hyatt often and always had a great time. Helps if you have Hyatt status as the Regency Lounge is good. Hyatt have just opened a Centric hotel a short walk away - very funky.

HIDDY

Staying at the airport seems to be your best option if you're going just to start a cheap tier point run. Personally I'd rather stay at home earning zero tier points than ever go to Cairo again.
My least favourite city although others will no doubt love it.

Davehereford

Cairo is like marmite for sure but if you love it if will love you back! The Sofitel downtown and st Regis are beautiful hotels down town, with the Sofitel having an infinity pool over the Nile and some good dining options. I would suggest you eat at sequoia a famed nightspot with fantastic views and delicious Lebanese tapas style food!

Fitch

Nope not a TP run, more a TP-efficient holiday taking in 2 places she wanted to go (Cairo & Hawai'i) and 1 that I did (Hawai'i !).

We are under no obligation to stay in Honolulu - happy to overnight there on first and last and in between hit any other island(s) - suggestions on a postcard most welcome...

flylikelinz

I would highly recommend The Modern in Waikiki.
its reasonable at about $300 a night and there are no additional resort fees.

the service is impeccable on every level, only thing I'm sad about is when we were there the day we arrived we just got room service and missed out on having dinner in the restaurant with the Obamas! :P

paul4040

How does that square with the GUF terms and conditions?

8. Gold Upgrade vouchers cannot be applied to a booking containing any other carriers than British Airways.

nufnuf77

That has never been a problem IME.

Genius1

The Moana Surfrider was perfectly acceptable, but it wasn't amazing. If you're thinking of staying there, definitely go for a tower room with at least a partial ocean view.

I reviewed the property here: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/trip-...ss-hawaii.html

Schiehallion

The conclusion I came to was that this rule was flexible - subject to you finding a willing GGL agent.

Obruni Boy

+1 for pyramids at Dashur. Red pyramid is almost as big as the Giza pyramids but you have the place to yourself and can go inside without anyone else. Only trouble is it is back breaking to go down the shaft. Took me two weeks to stop aching.

HomerJay

HNL is Tokyo with a beach. Or Manhattan with a beach. It's fine, and I'd ask for a corner room in the pink palace with a view of both Diamond Head and the ocean. For one night. Done it. It's wonderful.

Then, I'd decide whether to do relaxing Hawaii (Kaua'i) or tourist Hawaii (Maui).
Each is only a twenty minute flight from HNL. Kauai is much more relaxed, more unspoiled, the so-called "garden island." Maui has a lot more to do.
Both are truly wonderful.

If you want to relax on the beach and see some amazing scenery, it's Kauai. If you want to do a lot more touristy things - like bicycling down Haleakala or driving the road to Hana - you'll love Maui.

Take a taste of Honolulu, but leave time to savor one of the neighbor islands.