
Joanna’s Egyptian Adventure
An unforgettable journey on the Nile
Is there a name that conjures more exotic, history-filled memories and sheer awe than the Nile? Inspiration for many a film and book over the years, the world’s longest river is as practical as it is dreamy and plays a vital role in Egyptian culture and commerce. For centuries, travellers and traders have drifted up and down the glossy waters, and today a cruise is a time-honoured way to explore the treasures that line its banks. From multi-tiered cruisers to the ancient dahabiyyas – 19th century sailing boats and the ultimate in romance – there are plenty of vessels to choose from to suit your cruising style. All will stop at the renowned sights and monuments (the temples at Luxor, the High Dam and Obelisk, and the temple of Horus in Edfu, depending on your route), but it’s the unexpected sights of river life that are perhaps the most enjoyable: children splashing in the shallows, farmers tending to their sugarcane, families taking tea outside their mud-brick houses and the sails of feluccas catching the breeze…
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For centuries, the Nile has been at the heart of Egyptian life and this vast, shimmering highway is the best vantage point from which to see the country's varied history. Hop aboard one of the many luxury cruisers (in Luxor or Aswan) and set sail... Along the way, you'll stop to marvel at the Valley of the Kings, examine the ancient temples of Aswan, or soar overhead in a hot air balloon. While you're on the move, find a lounger on the deck and something cool to sip on as the tranquil river scenes slide by. Bliss.
In a fast-paced world, the joy of slow travel is all the more pronounced. Sit back, watch the light dance over the green foliage by dawn and the dust-filled deserts by evening, and enjoy.
Book a cabin as high up as possible. The Nile has tall banks, and the upper cabins on the cruisers have, by far, the best views.
Cruises from Luxor to Aswan, usually around 4 days, are the most popular and you will see lots of other boats on the river. To escape the crowds, spend a little longer on the boat and head to Lake Nasser.
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