THOMAS Cook Holidays claims sales to Egypt have finally returned to levels prior to the 1997 Luxor massacre.
The country’s tourism industry virtually collapsed after the tragedy when 61 tourists, including six Britons, were murdered.
Thomas Cook saw sales plunge by 50% in the six months after the massacre. But increased security and reduced prices have tempted the UK market to return, according to Thomas Cook Holidays director and general manager Simon Laxton.
Launching the company’s dedicated 2000 Egypt programme, Laxton said: “Security has been stepped up in popular resorts and while it remains a way of life it is in no way obtrusive.”
The new resort of El Gouna on the Red Sea has been added to the programme along with the eight-day Desert Experience tour for independent travellers which includes a three-night cruise on Lake Nasser. Tour prices start at £949 with half-board accommodation for four nights and full board on the cruise.