Basma Hotel, Aswan

Advantages: Culture, history, beauty, weather
Disadvantages: Hassling

...Half an hour after disembarking from the MS Prince Abbas after our week long cruise on Lake Nasser we were waiting with our luggage on the East Bank of the River Nile in Aswan as we watched the Pharoanic Barge make its way across the river from Elephantine Island to transport us back to our home for a further week-The Hotel Oberoi situated on this palm covered island in the middle of the Nile. Nothing had prepared us for the beauty we were about to experience. This stretch of the Nile between the city of Aswan, the Old Dam and the High Dam and Lake Nasser is scattered with islands. Ancient Aswan was originally sited on Elephantine Island as it could be easily defended against invaders from any direction. That ancient city has long disappeared and Elephantine Island can only be reached by the boats and feluccas that freely taxi visitors... Read review

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Advantages: Peaceful, Fantastic Scenery, Unique
Disadvantages: 15 Minute ferry journey from the river bank, Cool winds from the river

...The first impressions of this five star hotel can be gained from the short ferry journey from a dedicated pier on the East bank of the River Nile. Arriving at night (As I first did) you round the dark shadows of Elephatine Isle to be presented with the magnificent sight that is the Isis Island Hotel. Ok, I might be exagerating slightly, but not much! After a long journey (4 hours from Luxor, or a short drive from Aswan Airport) you are greeted in the hotel foyer with a glass of cold karkadeh (a drink taken from the hibiscus flower) and comfortable seats while the tour rep introduces him/herself. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, all having a minibar/fridge, television, bath/shower and a balcony with a stunning view of the Nile and depending on which side of the hotel you stay on, a sunset view over the sand dunes... Read review

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Advantages: A real taste of Egypt
Disadvantages: Usually only a stop off for the visit to Abu Simbel

...I travelled to Egypt with a company called Explore Worldwide who specialise in what they call "small group exploratory holidays". They are perfect for those travelling alone - as I was - as you get to join a group of other like minded travellers. There holidays are for those wishing to go "off the beaten track" and get a real taste of a country travelling by local means of transport and staying in local style accomodation. This does mean "roughing it" a little but suits anyone with a sense of adventure. When I travelled to Egypt the group ranged from two teenage Australian sisters to a retired couple from New Zealand! Their website is www.exploreworldwide.com and the tour I went on was The Nile Felucca Sailtrek. This is part 2 of my travelogue days 3 to 4 of a 10 day trip. Aswan was probably my favourite of the towns we stayed... Read review

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