It is hard to get closer to the pyramids without actually being on a camel. The great pyramid of Khufu is practically in the back yard and looms large in the windows of many of the rooms.The view has been enchanting guests since 1869 and Mena House Oberoi has played host to kings and emperors, Heads of State and an endless stream of celebrities. The palatial hotel presides over forty acres (16 hectares) of jasmine-scented gardens; its royal history is reflected in luxurious interiors that are embellished with exquisite antiques, handcrafted furniture and rich textiles. Think Agatha Christie and Death on the Nile. Agatha stayed here, as did Charlie Chaplin, Winston Churchill land Peter Ustinov and the cast when filming a movie version of Christie's Egyptian mystery. Only 30 or so rooms in this former Hunting lodge have The view so if you have to have influence or book in well advance. We must also give an honourable mention to the Sofitel Cataract Hotel, where Agatha Christie also stayed, which re-opens after a major facelift in mid-2010.