Luxor, Egypt

Capital City

The sweltering heat and arid climate are facts of daily life in this ancient city, where 40,000 residents brave temperatures over 104°F for much of the year. Despite being a world-class tourist destination, Luxor's bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the city's transformation into the "world's largest open-air museum" sparking concerns over heritage preservation. Yet for those drawn to the grandeur of Egypt's ancient wonders, Luxor's unparalleled archaeological riches and stunning Nile vistas make it an unmissable destination.