MS Magic Hotel, Nile Cruises, Egypt
Hotel Information
Hotel Class:
Hotel Description:
Climb aboard this floating hotel to embark on a voyage of a lifetime. Experience the lap of luxury in your beautifully appointed cabin or take in the sights and sounds of the ever-changing surroundings from the observation deck. All cabins are air-conditioned, twin or double bedded, with a television, mini-bar, safe, marble bathroom with shower. Each cabin has a large window and some of the upper deck cabins have a sofa-bed. Facilities include a Plunge pool, Sundeck and bar, Restaurant, Lounge bar and discotheque, Occasional informal entertainment,TV lounge, Billiard table, Internet & Shop.
loading...
MS Magic Hotel Reviews
" Wonderful sights along the Nile "
Submitted By: tiogagirl
We have just returned from a weeks nile cruise on Magic 1. The boat was generally very clean and the rooms were actually spacious and also kept very clean. We were all inclusive and the meals were ok and there was always something to choose. I would recommended all inclusive as the drinks tend to be very expensive. The only negative points are the condition of the sun bed covers which were very badly worn and rip in parts, when the boats are moored up 3 or 4 deep it does get very boring and you do feel a bit of a prisoner, and the harassment from the shop staff - this was not appeciated as you got enough of this outside. All in all a very comfortable boat - To us, a means to an end, as you could not get around to see all the sites without the use of a boat.
Highlights valley of the kings - we visited 3 tombs and Tutankhamun tomb (numbers 57,2,6 and 62) I would recommended 57 although it is a trek down the stairs but the art work and colours on the wall are worth seeing Philae Temple - not sure why but this temple was my favorite Abu Simbel - an optional excusion but to my mind a necessary one - be aware though that it is a 2.45am start;but well worth it
Highlights valley of the kings - we visited 3 tombs and Tutankhamun tomb (numbers 57,2,6 and 62) I would recommended 57 although it is a trek down the stairs but the art work and colours on the wall are worth seeing Philae Temple - not sure why but this temple was my favorite Abu Simbel - an optional excusion but to my mind a necessary one - be aware though that it is a 2.45am start;but well worth it
Advice: Very good way to see the sights, let down by diesel fumes and lots of other boats moored alongside.
Activities: Don't miss Abu Simbel (preferably go before sunrise!) Luxor Museum is excellent
- Date of Holiday:Oct 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Cosmos
" Superb Nile Cruise "
Submitted By: coldal
This 1 week experience involved Monarch Airlines flights from Manchester to Luxor then an all inclusive deal on board MS Magic 1 with some included and other optional excursions.
Firstly concerning the travel arrangements, if you afford to upgrade to extra legroom seats on the Monarch flights it makes the 5.5 hour journey more bearable. The checking-in at Manchester is appalling - huge disorganised scrum with far too many flights checking in all around the same time. I wish Monarch would let you pre-book actual seats beforehand. The Luxor airport checking-in at the end of the week was much better organised surprisingly.
The Magic 1 is one of about 7 Nile Cruise ships owned by a company called Flash International and was a most enjoyable experience.
The all inclusive deal makes live easier and particularly good for getting copious supplies of bottled water for taking on trips. The staff do make you sign slips every now and again for reasons that did not seem obvious, I suspect some things are not included, though we had no extra payments at the end of the week.
It is worth noting however that the boat is noisy with a constant hum coming from the engines especially when docked, which seems to be most of the time, often four or even five boats locked together with diesel fumes often making the top deck sun lounging experience somewhat less than ideal.
The meals are a buffet style, and whilst I had no complaints, many of our party were less than impressed with the fayre.
You will be allocated an Egyptologist for the entire week for the excursions, and in our case Ahmed turned out to be superb in all ways from an excellent command of English, a clear voice and extremely knowledgeable. The tours do involve early starts, in particular an optional visit to Abu Simbel by air with a 3am start - but you get back in time for 9am breakfast!
Please be aware that the price you pay the tour operator before you leave the UK is not an end to the payments you will be required to make. Tipping is a huge issue in Egypt and whilst the tour operator simplifies things by providing envelopes for pre-payment of tips to cover Egyptologist, boat crew and tour sundries (minimum £10 each category expected) everywhere you go you will be hassled by traders to such an extent that it can seriously detract from the enjoyment of the holiday. Everyone is trying to get you to give them money be it a tip, or to rip you off, even just money for nothing. Personally I would never go back to Egypt as I cannot stand this sort of thing!
The cabin on board is well sized and has a lovely big window, but when you are docked it will likely be looking into another boat. There are a few small shops on board, but most people make for the top sun deck which has a nice pool. The loungers in the shaded area get snapped up quickly and a number of unconsiderate guests leave their towels on loungers and then disappear!
There is some form of entertainment on board every evening in the lounge bar and an Egyptian themed evening on the Thursday is heavily promoted.
I am deliberately pointing out the negatives as people can make up their own minds as to whether it is an issue for them or not. Having said that the week was a most enjoyable holiday and no real complaints about the tour operator, the boat or the experience overall.
Would be best for couples who are genuinely interested in ancient Egyptian history and who don't mind early starts and being with the same company for a week.
Perhaps not suitable for children or if extremes of heat is a problem!
Firstly concerning the travel arrangements, if you afford to upgrade to extra legroom seats on the Monarch flights it makes the 5.5 hour journey more bearable. The checking-in at Manchester is appalling - huge disorganised scrum with far too many flights checking in all around the same time. I wish Monarch would let you pre-book actual seats beforehand. The Luxor airport checking-in at the end of the week was much better organised surprisingly.
The Magic 1 is one of about 7 Nile Cruise ships owned by a company called Flash International and was a most enjoyable experience.
The all inclusive deal makes live easier and particularly good for getting copious supplies of bottled water for taking on trips. The staff do make you sign slips every now and again for reasons that did not seem obvious, I suspect some things are not included, though we had no extra payments at the end of the week.
It is worth noting however that the boat is noisy with a constant hum coming from the engines especially when docked, which seems to be most of the time, often four or even five boats locked together with diesel fumes often making the top deck sun lounging experience somewhat less than ideal.
The meals are a buffet style, and whilst I had no complaints, many of our party were less than impressed with the fayre.
You will be allocated an Egyptologist for the entire week for the excursions, and in our case Ahmed turned out to be superb in all ways from an excellent command of English, a clear voice and extremely knowledgeable. The tours do involve early starts, in particular an optional visit to Abu Simbel by air with a 3am start - but you get back in time for 9am breakfast!
Please be aware that the price you pay the tour operator before you leave the UK is not an end to the payments you will be required to make. Tipping is a huge issue in Egypt and whilst the tour operator simplifies things by providing envelopes for pre-payment of tips to cover Egyptologist, boat crew and tour sundries (minimum £10 each category expected) everywhere you go you will be hassled by traders to such an extent that it can seriously detract from the enjoyment of the holiday. Everyone is trying to get you to give them money be it a tip, or to rip you off, even just money for nothing. Personally I would never go back to Egypt as I cannot stand this sort of thing!
The cabin on board is well sized and has a lovely big window, but when you are docked it will likely be looking into another boat. There are a few small shops on board, but most people make for the top sun deck which has a nice pool. The loungers in the shaded area get snapped up quickly and a number of unconsiderate guests leave their towels on loungers and then disappear!
There is some form of entertainment on board every evening in the lounge bar and an Egyptian themed evening on the Thursday is heavily promoted.
I am deliberately pointing out the negatives as people can make up their own minds as to whether it is an issue for them or not. Having said that the week was a most enjoyable holiday and no real complaints about the tour operator, the boat or the experience overall.
Would be best for couples who are genuinely interested in ancient Egyptian history and who don't mind early starts and being with the same company for a week.
Perhaps not suitable for children or if extremes of heat is a problem!
Advice: If interested in ancient Egyptian history, this is great.
Activities: Abu Simbel is spectacular.
Good for: City Breaks
- Date of Holiday:Oct 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Archers Direct
" Perfection on the Nile "
Submitted By: JonM
What can I say, we were booked on the MS Lady Mary and ended up on the MS Magic 1 boat for an 8 day/7 night trip half board.
Once we arrived on board we were given the option of upgrading to All Inclusive for £115 per person, we took them up on this offer and we were glad as the amount of water we drank was crazy due to the high temperature of Egypt.
the first thing to amaze you is the beauty of the inside of the boat, its like walking into a beautiful hotel on some resort. We were shown to our rooms by one of the cabin boys and shocked at how much room we had got. Reading some reviews before we left of how some people said their rooms were "tiny" well all I can say is they must be used to 20star rooms!! as they are plenty big enough to move around and jump around if you want! The rooms had all the right things, a couple of beds, we had a twin room but ended up pushing them together and then the cabin boy fitted a bigger sheet to our supprise.. the Air-con was great too... a Must for the temps we were to expect that week, we also had a TV in the room but when I tried this on the last day it didn't work, good job I didn't have time to watch it! The bathroom was very spacious too, along with a fitted safe in the wardrobe and plenty of power points.
oh yes and a HUGE window for the view.
The boat was arranged with the resturant down on the bottom deck, the bar on the 2nd deck, 1 shop on the 3rd deck with a pool table, 2 shops on the 4rth deck and a splash pool and bar on the top deck.
Our room was on the 3rd deck towards the front, and if your thinking about noise from the engines well think again.. even down on deck one it was very quiet although I would prefer a cabin on desks 2,3 or 4...
For the meals you are given a table in which you stay on all week, this is to keep the bills correct for the end of your stay if half board. I think they couldn't have picked a better table for us as we had great views from our seats and the laughter during the week coming from our table was to make it a holiday to remember..
Their is a dinning dress code but not many if any stuck to it. as long as your tidy its fine, trainers, shorts and t-shirts and even the odd bikini's were spotted in the dinning room! but I wouldn't recommend bare feet as sported by one guest.. maybe he just wanted to massage his own feet??
The bar was airconditioned with smoking on one side, the drinks come in half pints and wine glasses, so when ordering always order 2 beers = 1 pint & 2 wines = 1 large.
NOTE - all inclusive ends around 23:45 each night so order a table full of drinks before hand to keep you going!
oh and the cocktails are not on the menu for all inclusive! as some people found out...
The pool was great for relaxing during the 50 degrees plus we had during the week, but as the week goes on it can get durty from all the sun cream and if docked behind other boats then the diesel smoke...
The boat itself could not be faulted really, my girlfriend and I along with the group we hooked up with all felt the same. except for the last day. stock up on water for the airport run as the finish your all inclusive rights about 1-2hrs before your picked up and the waiters don't want to know as the tips have already been paid.
TIPS - around £10 each for the boat crew, £10 each for the tour guide, £10 each for the drivers, ticket people, guards and so on.
so expect about £30 each for the whole week.
Excursions - the main reason for the holiday
we took the Aswan City tour, Abu Simbel, Karnak Light Show as optional extra tours.
the city tour involved a trip to a Mosque, a hotel with 360 degree views of the city and a market visit. other than the 360 views from the hotel I wouldn't say I enjoyed this. the market was very over powering in the way the locals wouldn't leave you alone, if they weren't trying to sell you something they were beggin for money! you'd be far better jumping on a local horse and kart and letting the boy driving take you to his brothers/fathers shop.
Abu Simbel was a 2:45am wake up call - yes thats correct 2:45am.. why... wait for it..
It was a quick shower and then down for coffee, after coffee it was grab your stuff then onto the coach for the short trip to the airport in Aswan, try to be first on the plane to grab that all improtant window seat.
You arrive in the darkness around 1hour before sunrise and the rest of the tour groups, this is why you are taken at such an early time. and its worth it!
The sun rises around 6:10am and it was beautiful. The temples themselves are out of this world. to this mear men built these... no photos are allowed within the temples but if your lucky you can get away with the odd one or two.. if caught exect a fine and to delete the photos..
with this trip you'll be back intime for breakfast for a well deserved sleep before lunch.
the tours included - Edfu temple, Philie Temple, High Dam, Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, Valley of the kings, Hapsetpuet Temple, Kom Ombo Temple and a few other mini tours.
All these temples will amaze you and draw you into their world of how they were created and the history from the guides will wow you. even though you will struggle to take it all in..
A video camera for when the guides are speaking would be good so you can revisit the information afterwards.
you will always be walked through a market either before or after a visit to the temples as these are built on the exits.. don't make eye contact or speak to them if you don't want any hassle. as soon as you speak your theirs!!
We had such a great holiday but I think the company helped also, Thanks to Nikki & Rach for so many laughs during the week, and Mr Ricky!!! for the ability to make us laugh at you with everything you did!! if only you knew the half of it!
Once we arrived on board we were given the option of upgrading to All Inclusive for £115 per person, we took them up on this offer and we were glad as the amount of water we drank was crazy due to the high temperature of Egypt.
the first thing to amaze you is the beauty of the inside of the boat, its like walking into a beautiful hotel on some resort. We were shown to our rooms by one of the cabin boys and shocked at how much room we had got. Reading some reviews before we left of how some people said their rooms were "tiny" well all I can say is they must be used to 20star rooms!! as they are plenty big enough to move around and jump around if you want! The rooms had all the right things, a couple of beds, we had a twin room but ended up pushing them together and then the cabin boy fitted a bigger sheet to our supprise.. the Air-con was great too... a Must for the temps we were to expect that week, we also had a TV in the room but when I tried this on the last day it didn't work, good job I didn't have time to watch it! The bathroom was very spacious too, along with a fitted safe in the wardrobe and plenty of power points.
oh yes and a HUGE window for the view.
The boat was arranged with the resturant down on the bottom deck, the bar on the 2nd deck, 1 shop on the 3rd deck with a pool table, 2 shops on the 4rth deck and a splash pool and bar on the top deck.
Our room was on the 3rd deck towards the front, and if your thinking about noise from the engines well think again.. even down on deck one it was very quiet although I would prefer a cabin on desks 2,3 or 4...
For the meals you are given a table in which you stay on all week, this is to keep the bills correct for the end of your stay if half board. I think they couldn't have picked a better table for us as we had great views from our seats and the laughter during the week coming from our table was to make it a holiday to remember..
Their is a dinning dress code but not many if any stuck to it. as long as your tidy its fine, trainers, shorts and t-shirts and even the odd bikini's were spotted in the dinning room! but I wouldn't recommend bare feet as sported by one guest.. maybe he just wanted to massage his own feet??
The bar was airconditioned with smoking on one side, the drinks come in half pints and wine glasses, so when ordering always order 2 beers = 1 pint & 2 wines = 1 large.
NOTE - all inclusive ends around 23:45 each night so order a table full of drinks before hand to keep you going!
oh and the cocktails are not on the menu for all inclusive! as some people found out...
The pool was great for relaxing during the 50 degrees plus we had during the week, but as the week goes on it can get durty from all the sun cream and if docked behind other boats then the diesel smoke...
The boat itself could not be faulted really, my girlfriend and I along with the group we hooked up with all felt the same. except for the last day. stock up on water for the airport run as the finish your all inclusive rights about 1-2hrs before your picked up and the waiters don't want to know as the tips have already been paid.
TIPS - around £10 each for the boat crew, £10 each for the tour guide, £10 each for the drivers, ticket people, guards and so on.
so expect about £30 each for the whole week.
Excursions - the main reason for the holiday
we took the Aswan City tour, Abu Simbel, Karnak Light Show as optional extra tours.
the city tour involved a trip to a Mosque, a hotel with 360 degree views of the city and a market visit. other than the 360 views from the hotel I wouldn't say I enjoyed this. the market was very over powering in the way the locals wouldn't leave you alone, if they weren't trying to sell you something they were beggin for money! you'd be far better jumping on a local horse and kart and letting the boy driving take you to his brothers/fathers shop.
Abu Simbel was a 2:45am wake up call - yes thats correct 2:45am.. why... wait for it..
It was a quick shower and then down for coffee, after coffee it was grab your stuff then onto the coach for the short trip to the airport in Aswan, try to be first on the plane to grab that all improtant window seat.
You arrive in the darkness around 1hour before sunrise and the rest of the tour groups, this is why you are taken at such an early time. and its worth it!
The sun rises around 6:10am and it was beautiful. The temples themselves are out of this world. to this mear men built these... no photos are allowed within the temples but if your lucky you can get away with the odd one or two.. if caught exect a fine and to delete the photos..
with this trip you'll be back intime for breakfast for a well deserved sleep before lunch.
the tours included - Edfu temple, Philie Temple, High Dam, Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, Valley of the kings, Hapsetpuet Temple, Kom Ombo Temple and a few other mini tours.
All these temples will amaze you and draw you into their world of how they were created and the history from the guides will wow you. even though you will struggle to take it all in..
A video camera for when the guides are speaking would be good so you can revisit the information afterwards.
you will always be walked through a market either before or after a visit to the temples as these are built on the exits.. don't make eye contact or speak to them if you don't want any hassle. as soon as you speak your theirs!!
We had such a great holiday but I think the company helped also, Thanks to Nikki & Rach for so many laughs during the week, and Mr Ricky!!! for the ability to make us laugh at you with everything you did!! if only you knew the half of it!
Advice: Explore the temples
Activities: Abu Simbel at sunrise is amazing
Good for: City Breaks
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Cosmos
" best of the best "
Submitted By: fainter
We booked this holiday in july of last year just thinking it would be nice to go out of europe for a change However this trip was called the Treasures of Eygpt which consist f 4 nighis on the nile travling on the M.S Magic of which our room was allicated to us which was like walking into a new 5 star hotel room a place for every thing and every thing in its place we had then to go into the eating hall to meet our tour guide whos name was AHMED beleave me if you get this guide you can be sure your with the best he is so well educated on Eygpt what you dont know about eygpt its not worth knowing anywayhes a first class guide i know ive done the job in our country its not a easy job Anyway we then had our first taste of the food it was always very well presented all salids and other foods prepaired by them was washed and made with bottle water not from any tap or other source and all food was great tasteing full of flavour the ship had two Bars of which because we went (A1) all soft drinks and local beers were free all the time you could drink yourself silly if you that way inclined however no your limits dont ruin it just be greatfull you know what i mean You can have a complete tour of the ship and you will find everything on the ship is as clean as your room and even the engine room kichens are spotless All staff on the ship are so pleasent i cant start to say anymore about that they are great even when our last night came before leaving the shipand going on to our hotel for the rest of our Holiday they came out of the Kitchens singing with a cake saying Goodbye on it were else would you get something so nice as that and whe we got back into our bedroom for our last nights sleep the cleaner who waas great our entire stay who cleaned the room twice a day every day had made a crocadile out of the towels and bed spreed it was the great end to a great experiance of which i recommend to anyone of any class of person
Advice: use the M.S MAGIC
Activities: Temples and Vally of the kings
- Date of Holiday:Jul 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:First Choice
" Amazing! "
Submitted By: nicnphil
I paid for my husband and I to go on this holiday for his 30th birthday, as I wanted him to have an experiance he would never forget - I really don't think he will!
The boat is lovely, very clean and well maintained, the food is also very good, and I am a very picky eater! If you are a light sleeper, take some good ear plugs (Boots do some called bio ears, they look like bits of blu tak, but they block out everything) - you will hear the engine in your room, we had a room at the top near the front and we could still hear it.
The trips were amazing, and Ernest the Egyptologist told us so much info, it's amazing he remebers it all!
On my husband's birthday we were up at 2am, to catch the flight to Abu Simbel - DO IT! Going there, and seeing the sun rise over lake Nasser is possibly the best experiance of my life. Yes it is a lot of money, but you only live once. You get up early for all the trips (they normally left approx 7-8am) but this was the coolest time of the day, and you could chill out in the afternoon.
You will get hassled where ever you go, at first I found it quite un nerving, but by the end of the trip I just ignored them. Learn to haggle. See what you want, think how much you want to pay for it, and go in MUCH lower than this. If you start to walk away they will probably run after you anyway.
If you get a dodgy tummy ask the reception on the boat to get you the tablets from the chemist, it is the only thing that works (I can't remeber what it is called).
Try and take lower denominations of currency as EVERYONE expects a tip. Or just take loads of 50p pieces, as they usually take English money to, if it is that or nothing.
If you want to do a holiday that isn't just lying by a pool do this one - it was amazing.
The boat is lovely, very clean and well maintained, the food is also very good, and I am a very picky eater! If you are a light sleeper, take some good ear plugs (Boots do some called bio ears, they look like bits of blu tak, but they block out everything) - you will hear the engine in your room, we had a room at the top near the front and we could still hear it.
The trips were amazing, and Ernest the Egyptologist told us so much info, it's amazing he remebers it all!
On my husband's birthday we were up at 2am, to catch the flight to Abu Simbel - DO IT! Going there, and seeing the sun rise over lake Nasser is possibly the best experiance of my life. Yes it is a lot of money, but you only live once. You get up early for all the trips (they normally left approx 7-8am) but this was the coolest time of the day, and you could chill out in the afternoon.
You will get hassled where ever you go, at first I found it quite un nerving, but by the end of the trip I just ignored them. Learn to haggle. See what you want, think how much you want to pay for it, and go in MUCH lower than this. If you start to walk away they will probably run after you anyway.
If you get a dodgy tummy ask the reception on the boat to get you the tablets from the chemist, it is the only thing that works (I can't remeber what it is called).
Try and take lower denominations of currency as EVERYONE expects a tip. Or just take loads of 50p pieces, as they usually take English money to, if it is that or nothing.
If you want to do a holiday that isn't just lying by a pool do this one - it was amazing.
- Date of Holiday:Apr 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Cosmos
" Nile Cruise - Excellent Holiday "
Submitted By: carsfrost09
This was such an excellent holiday. We booked the all inclusive option through cosmos, it was definitely best with the all inclusive. I have quite a lot of information here so if you want to know what to expect and some advice then carry on reading!
ARRIVING: As we landed into Luxor airport, and the first thing we saw was mountains of sand, as seen in the pictures – and it was really authentic we were led straight from when we got off the plane to our rep, who directed us where to go. We got onto the coach that drove us to where our boat was docked – it only took 5 minutes. Often, to get to your boat, you have to pass through 2 or 3 boats to get there. The sailors take your suitcases to your room, so you don’t have to worry about that. There were meetings in the bar every now and then. Generally, dinners are around 7.30/8.00pm, but always check on the notice board with the itinerary next to the restaurant – on the first night, don’t worry you will be told.
MEALS: For all meals, you will be seated with other people, in groups of 6+. The food was brilliant – always something for everyone, with delicious desserts. We had a vegetarian on our table, and she said it was the best choice of food she has ever had. Also, if there is nothing you like, a chef will take orders and cook separate meals just for you.
CABINS: The cabins were really nice. There are 2 movies on every night on the TV, but you couldn’t watch TV while we were moving. We personally weren’t bothered about watching the telly as we were usually in the bar watching the evening shows etc.
MORNING: In the morning, reception call your cabin phone at the wakeup call time set on the itinerary. The ring was very loud and shrill so be prepared to jump out of your skin when the phone rings! It was truly amazing though, to open the curtains that first morning, and see the lush green banks of the river go by.
BREAKFAST: At breakfast, ask a waiter for a bottle of water to take with you for the excursions, and never drink anything you don’t get out the boat. The waiters were always very smiley and nothing was ever too much trouble for them.
COSMOS EXCURSIONS: For the excursions, our Egyptologist who shows us around the temple was Ernest and was excellent. The early starts are better than later – trust me! The longer you stay, the hotter and busier it gets. Whenever we go out, we wore pashmina’s which were brilliant for keeping off the sun, and looking respectable. We got back in time for lunch then had the afternoons to relax. Before you leave for excursions, hand in your keys to reception who will keep them safe. It only ever takes around 5-15 minutes to go to the excursion place.
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS: The only optional that we booked through cosmos was the Nubian village experience, which was worth it – though overpriced. We actually managed to do most of the rest independently which saved us soo much money.
HAGGLING: Wherever you go, someone will be trying to get you to buy their product. It is usually wayyy overpriced, so you need to haggle. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED: try not to look it, because if they know you want it then they wont haggle the price down as much as if you are going to walk away any second. It is best to figure out how much you want to pay for it, and if they don’t match it, walk away. Chances are they will come running back to you accepting your offer so they can get some cash, or you will find someone else trying to sell you exactly the same thing who will. Our Egyptologist usually told us what was good and what scams there are (when walking out of VOTK, people were trying to sell us alabaster, but it was fake because it was black and held in newspapers, so it didn’t show how the colour came off, just be careful of things like that). IF YOU ARE NOT INTERESTED: before leaving for our trip, we found some very useful phrases later on in the review. Do not show eye contact with them and completely ignore them. Personally I would wait till later on in the holiday before you start buying things.
EVENING ENTERTAINMENT: There are activities in the bar after dinner most evenings. Theres cocktail nights, meeting the staff, people coming in and performing shows, discos, bingo (not recommended – we skipped it because we were tired and the people on our table said it wasn’t that great). And the best of all – GALABAYA NIGHT! Definitely worth it. People who didn’t take part missed out big time. Its a great way to take part in Egypt culture and GREAT FUN! You wear your galabayas to dinner, then in the bar for party games.
TIPPING: About £30 per person. You pay at the beginning or the end of the holiday. This covers EVERYTHING. £10 for your Egyptologist (I was surprised that that was the only money they got – no salary and they had to pay for the rooms so I think it’s fair!) £10 for all boat staff, and £10 for all the coach drivers, tour people etc. Then the staff take care of all of that.
PHRASES: La, shukran (No, thankyou)
SEBNEE, EMSHEE! (GO AWAY! LEAVE ME ALONE!)
As-salama alaykum (Hello)
Shukran (Thankyou)
Mish Mushkila (No Problem)
Aiwa (Yes)
La (No)
Ma’al salama (Goodbye)
Ahlas (Enough (go away))
Ghali (Expensive)
Staff and Egyptian people really appreciate you speaking some of their language.
OTHER USEFUL TIPS: Take some pens. There are children on the streets asking for “stylo” – a pen for school. We take things like that for granted.
Get some small change so that you don’t have to get lots of money out on the street or something.
Take a light jacket or pashmina scarf for the mornings and evenings as its slightly chillier when the suns not up.
Use hand gel to avoid germs
Turn off A/C because changes in temperature also can cause tummy upset – also with ice in drinks.
If you do have a tummy upset – flattened lemonade acts as a temporary precaution.
Test you hydration by pinching and lifting the skin on the back of your hand, it should spring straight back.
We printed out the itinerary and map from the website we booked the trip from and kept it with us which helped.
I usually have heat rash on hot holidays, but this time I used some... I think it’s called Zirtek (medicine) which prevented it if anyone has the same problem.
Thats it! Have a nice holiday.
:)
ARRIVING: As we landed into Luxor airport, and the first thing we saw was mountains of sand, as seen in the pictures – and it was really authentic we were led straight from when we got off the plane to our rep, who directed us where to go. We got onto the coach that drove us to where our boat was docked – it only took 5 minutes. Often, to get to your boat, you have to pass through 2 or 3 boats to get there. The sailors take your suitcases to your room, so you don’t have to worry about that. There were meetings in the bar every now and then. Generally, dinners are around 7.30/8.00pm, but always check on the notice board with the itinerary next to the restaurant – on the first night, don’t worry you will be told.
MEALS: For all meals, you will be seated with other people, in groups of 6+. The food was brilliant – always something for everyone, with delicious desserts. We had a vegetarian on our table, and she said it was the best choice of food she has ever had. Also, if there is nothing you like, a chef will take orders and cook separate meals just for you.
CABINS: The cabins were really nice. There are 2 movies on every night on the TV, but you couldn’t watch TV while we were moving. We personally weren’t bothered about watching the telly as we were usually in the bar watching the evening shows etc.
MORNING: In the morning, reception call your cabin phone at the wakeup call time set on the itinerary. The ring was very loud and shrill so be prepared to jump out of your skin when the phone rings! It was truly amazing though, to open the curtains that first morning, and see the lush green banks of the river go by.
BREAKFAST: At breakfast, ask a waiter for a bottle of water to take with you for the excursions, and never drink anything you don’t get out the boat. The waiters were always very smiley and nothing was ever too much trouble for them.
COSMOS EXCURSIONS: For the excursions, our Egyptologist who shows us around the temple was Ernest and was excellent. The early starts are better than later – trust me! The longer you stay, the hotter and busier it gets. Whenever we go out, we wore pashmina’s which were brilliant for keeping off the sun, and looking respectable. We got back in time for lunch then had the afternoons to relax. Before you leave for excursions, hand in your keys to reception who will keep them safe. It only ever takes around 5-15 minutes to go to the excursion place.
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS: The only optional that we booked through cosmos was the Nubian village experience, which was worth it – though overpriced. We actually managed to do most of the rest independently which saved us soo much money.
HAGGLING: Wherever you go, someone will be trying to get you to buy their product. It is usually wayyy overpriced, so you need to haggle. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED: try not to look it, because if they know you want it then they wont haggle the price down as much as if you are going to walk away any second. It is best to figure out how much you want to pay for it, and if they don’t match it, walk away. Chances are they will come running back to you accepting your offer so they can get some cash, or you will find someone else trying to sell you exactly the same thing who will. Our Egyptologist usually told us what was good and what scams there are (when walking out of VOTK, people were trying to sell us alabaster, but it was fake because it was black and held in newspapers, so it didn’t show how the colour came off, just be careful of things like that). IF YOU ARE NOT INTERESTED: before leaving for our trip, we found some very useful phrases later on in the review. Do not show eye contact with them and completely ignore them. Personally I would wait till later on in the holiday before you start buying things.
EVENING ENTERTAINMENT: There are activities in the bar after dinner most evenings. Theres cocktail nights, meeting the staff, people coming in and performing shows, discos, bingo (not recommended – we skipped it because we were tired and the people on our table said it wasn’t that great). And the best of all – GALABAYA NIGHT! Definitely worth it. People who didn’t take part missed out big time. Its a great way to take part in Egypt culture and GREAT FUN! You wear your galabayas to dinner, then in the bar for party games.
TIPPING: About £30 per person. You pay at the beginning or the end of the holiday. This covers EVERYTHING. £10 for your Egyptologist (I was surprised that that was the only money they got – no salary and they had to pay for the rooms so I think it’s fair!) £10 for all boat staff, and £10 for all the coach drivers, tour people etc. Then the staff take care of all of that.
PHRASES: La, shukran (No, thankyou)
SEBNEE, EMSHEE! (GO AWAY! LEAVE ME ALONE!)
As-salama alaykum (Hello)
Shukran (Thankyou)
Mish Mushkila (No Problem)
Aiwa (Yes)
La (No)
Ma’al salama (Goodbye)
Ahlas (Enough (go away))
Ghali (Expensive)
Staff and Egyptian people really appreciate you speaking some of their language.
OTHER USEFUL TIPS: Take some pens. There are children on the streets asking for “stylo” – a pen for school. We take things like that for granted.
Get some small change so that you don’t have to get lots of money out on the street or something.
Take a light jacket or pashmina scarf for the mornings and evenings as its slightly chillier when the suns not up.
Use hand gel to avoid germs
Turn off A/C because changes in temperature also can cause tummy upset – also with ice in drinks.
If you do have a tummy upset – flattened lemonade acts as a temporary precaution.
Test you hydration by pinching and lifting the skin on the back of your hand, it should spring straight back.
We printed out the itinerary and map from the website we booked the trip from and kept it with us which helped.
I usually have heat rash on hot holidays, but this time I used some... I think it’s called Zirtek (medicine) which prevented it if anyone has the same problem.
Thats it! Have a nice holiday.
:)
- Date of Holiday:Mar 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Cosmos
" 4/5/09. "
Submitted By: whalo
Had such a marvellous time. staf excellent, food excellent, egyptologist excellent. pepeole we met fantastic. if Yvonne and david read this , didnt get your number have some lovely pics of ypou, find me on facebook Sandra revell.
Advice: excellent
Activities: temples
- Date of Holiday:May 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Magic 1Nile Cruise "
Submitted By: d.kerrigan
Sailed on the Magic 1 last year same time and it was A1 brilliant 10/10.This year Im afraid the cut backs were evident.The rooms are very comfortable appointed rooms with everthing you need,butcompared to last year the food was not in the same league,the service although not bad was not up to the same standard. There was less staff and my partner had to ask for service at the bar on the sundeck in the evening.The cheese and wine bar was not in use and if you wanted a cup of tea early you were told to wait.There just was not enough staff,although I cant complain about the staff that were there.The thing that was really disappointing for us this year is when we were moored we were stuck every time between othe rboats sometimes six in a row we never got prime position, it was awful on deck smelling diesel fumes all the time. If we went again we would have to be gauranteed, better mooring positions or we would not do it again. this would not put us off going to egypt again it is a fascinating place.
Advice: Great first time experiance fabulous sightseeing, go all inclusive
Activities: Valley of the kings
- Date of Holiday:Apr 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Truly magic "
Submitted By: nighthorse
The Magic 1 is a beautiful boat, with lots of dark wood, polished brass and decorative marble flooring in the public areas. Our room was surprisingly large and very comfortable, with a big picture window. Bathroom was also impressive.
The food was excellent and plentiful. Drinks were generous and definitely not watered down. Staff were polite, efficient and helpful
The cruise itself was lovely, the best parts for me personally being when we cruised during the daytime, and you could watch the riverside slipping by and see real Egyptian life. Also interesting if wildlife/birds are your thing. Slightly disappointed that most of the sailing was done at night, in order to be moored up for the various temple excursions, most of which were excellent. Our Egyptologist for the week, Said, was superb.
The Nile at Aswan was particularly beautiful, and the felucca ride to Lord Kitchener's island not to be missed. A bonus for me was the optional boat-trip around the Wildlife reserve. The young lad who was our guide spoke excellent English and was extremely knowledgable about the birds which he seemed able to spot and identify at amazing distances!
By the end of the cruise you can feel a little "templed out", and your head spinning with so much information in a short time. Our 2nd week relaxing at Hurghada on the Red Sea coast was an excellent antidote to this. The 5 hour bus ride through the desert there, and also back to Luxor for our flight home, was a bit of a trial. The tedium was relieved, for me, by the fact that quite a large part was parallel with the Nile, through agricultural land and canalside villages, with masses of birdlife to be seen from the bus.
The only downsides to our Nile Cruise were the air quality when several boats were moored up at stopping places, and particularly the last 3 days in Luxor. They are parked, side-by-side, up to 5 deep out into the river, all with engines running for power and belching out some pretty unpleasant fumes. I had a bad throat on and off all week, which disappeared instantly we left Luxor for the Red Sea. I heard several people complaining of breathing problems.
Another thing which slightly spoiled our trip was that by the time we discovered that the boat did not exchange currency, we had already sailed. There was nowhere on the stops to exchange either, as we were parked quite a way out of town at Aswan. We managed to get a few Egyptian Pounds from the rep, but were still left financially embarrassed in quite a few places, for tipping money and for drinks while on excursions etc. So make sure you have some Egyptian money before you board. If I did this trip again (quite possible!), I would get some exchanged on arrival at Luxor airport, where you have to queue up at the bank anyway to obtain your Visa.
Taken overall, a fabulous trip which I'll never forget, to a fabulous and fascinating country.
The food was excellent and plentiful. Drinks were generous and definitely not watered down. Staff were polite, efficient and helpful
The cruise itself was lovely, the best parts for me personally being when we cruised during the daytime, and you could watch the riverside slipping by and see real Egyptian life. Also interesting if wildlife/birds are your thing. Slightly disappointed that most of the sailing was done at night, in order to be moored up for the various temple excursions, most of which were excellent. Our Egyptologist for the week, Said, was superb.
The Nile at Aswan was particularly beautiful, and the felucca ride to Lord Kitchener's island not to be missed. A bonus for me was the optional boat-trip around the Wildlife reserve. The young lad who was our guide spoke excellent English and was extremely knowledgable about the birds which he seemed able to spot and identify at amazing distances!
By the end of the cruise you can feel a little "templed out", and your head spinning with so much information in a short time. Our 2nd week relaxing at Hurghada on the Red Sea coast was an excellent antidote to this. The 5 hour bus ride through the desert there, and also back to Luxor for our flight home, was a bit of a trial. The tedium was relieved, for me, by the fact that quite a large part was parallel with the Nile, through agricultural land and canalside villages, with masses of birdlife to be seen from the bus.
The only downsides to our Nile Cruise were the air quality when several boats were moored up at stopping places, and particularly the last 3 days in Luxor. They are parked, side-by-side, up to 5 deep out into the river, all with engines running for power and belching out some pretty unpleasant fumes. I had a bad throat on and off all week, which disappeared instantly we left Luxor for the Red Sea. I heard several people complaining of breathing problems.
Another thing which slightly spoiled our trip was that by the time we discovered that the boat did not exchange currency, we had already sailed. There was nowhere on the stops to exchange either, as we were parked quite a way out of town at Aswan. We managed to get a few Egyptian Pounds from the rep, but were still left financially embarrassed in quite a few places, for tipping money and for drinks while on excursions etc. So make sure you have some Egyptian money before you board. If I did this trip again (quite possible!), I would get some exchanged on arrival at Luxor airport, where you have to queue up at the bank anyway to obtain your Visa.
Taken overall, a fabulous trip which I'll never forget, to a fabulous and fascinating country.
Advice: If you get the chance of this trip, just go!! It
Activities: Boat trips on the First Cataract at Aswan
Good for: City Breaks
- Date of Holiday:Mar 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Cosmos
" MS Magic "
Submitted By: johngould
Having been on the Nile several times before and travelleed on 5 star boats including RA II, I can honestly say this one is better. Very clean, good food but repetitive, helpful staff and great tour guide. Dont bother with the DVD they are selling onboard its appalling quality when you watch on a large TV and very little content, with a massive title over the top all the way through...they still film on VHS!! Asked Cosmos for room at front of boat, starboard side and high...got all 3 impressed!!! some guests were having sleepless nights at rear of boat due to engine noise 24/7. They keep going to power generators. Didnt do optional trips as not good value ie: Sound & Light show at Karnak Temple. Flight was with Monarch & was the most cramped I have ever been on a plane, several commented on that, not good for 5hr 30min flight. An excellent holiday in general
- Date of Holiday:Mar 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Cosmos
" Magical holiday "
Submitted By: Tmar
Magical holiday
My husband and myself have just returned from a brilliant holiday on the MS Magic 1 down the Nile. We have no complaints at all the boat was first class and the staff could not be faulted. From the moment we stepped on board we felt right at home. The food is excellent and the cabins clean. We must mention Mustafa our waiter, nothing was too much trouble for him. We were sat at at table with 12 people. We made friends with Sharon, Joe, Maureen and Pete and spent most of our spare time with them. We are hoping to plan the same holiday together next year. Maged (Magic) our egyptologist was very very good, he was very knowlegable about ancient and modern Egypt. He made our trips out very informative and funny. The Galleba party is a must, most people dressed in the traditional costumes which you can purchase on board at a very reasonable price. Mine was £5 and my husbands £10. This is a holiday we will remember all our lives. We came away having made many new friends as all the holidaymakers on the cruise were like one big family. May I mention there are no money changing facilities on board but you have a chance to do this in Aswan and Luxor. We had a few early starts but you then have the rest of the day to relax. Plenty of sun beds and free towels. Tipping £10 pp for the drivers and porters, £10 pp boat crew and £10 pp egyptologist. You can pay these in sterling or egyptian. We gave our waiter and cabin boy a tip but this is not compulsory.
My husband and myself have just returned from a brilliant holiday on the MS Magic 1 down the Nile. We have no complaints at all the boat was first class and the staff could not be faulted. From the moment we stepped on board we felt right at home. The food is excellent and the cabins clean. We must mention Mustafa our waiter, nothing was too much trouble for him. We were sat at at table with 12 people. We made friends with Sharon, Joe, Maureen and Pete and spent most of our spare time with them. We are hoping to plan the same holiday together next year. Maged (Magic) our egyptologist was very very good, he was very knowlegable about ancient and modern Egypt. He made our trips out very informative and funny. The Galleba party is a must, most people dressed in the traditional costumes which you can purchase on board at a very reasonable price. Mine was £5 and my husbands £10. This is a holiday we will remember all our lives. We came away having made many new friends as all the holidaymakers on the cruise were like one big family. May I mention there are no money changing facilities on board but you have a chance to do this in Aswan and Luxor. We had a few early starts but you then have the rest of the day to relax. Plenty of sun beds and free towels. Tipping £10 pp for the drivers and porters, £10 pp boat crew and £10 pp egyptologist. You can pay these in sterling or egyptian. We gave our waiter and cabin boy a tip but this is not compulsory.
- Date of Holiday:Feb 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Cosmos
" MS Magic 1 Nile Cruise "
Submitted By: claire.bonner
Our stay on MS Magic 1 was brilliant, from the rooms to the food to the trips. We were lucky enough to sit with some fab people at meal times and that made the holiday for us.
The sights were great it was good doing something different every day, despite the early starts and there was still loads of time to relax. We were on the boat on new years eve and the crew really did make it a special night, the food and towel displays were fab.
One thing that I did notice in the other reviews was to tell you to be prepared for backhanders to occur by the guides when they take you to places. They say never buy at the markets but this is only so they can make more commission from you. The bext place to buy your stuff from is in the Savoy Market in Luxor accross from where all the boats park. We would recommend No 89 on the second floor for perfums and No 77 on the second floor for alabaster at fixed prices and they are both the same stuff as in the expensive places that they take you do.
Despite this if you are thinking of a nile cruise DO IT ITS FAB YOU WILL REALLY ENJOY IT.
The sights were great it was good doing something different every day, despite the early starts and there was still loads of time to relax. We were on the boat on new years eve and the crew really did make it a special night, the food and towel displays were fab.
One thing that I did notice in the other reviews was to tell you to be prepared for backhanders to occur by the guides when they take you to places. They say never buy at the markets but this is only so they can make more commission from you. The bext place to buy your stuff from is in the Savoy Market in Luxor accross from where all the boats park. We would recommend No 89 on the second floor for perfums and No 77 on the second floor for alabaster at fixed prices and they are both the same stuff as in the expensive places that they take you do.
Despite this if you are thinking of a nile cruise DO IT ITS FAB YOU WILL REALLY ENJOY IT.
Advice: Be prepared for early starts
Activities: Valley of the Kings was the best thing, go to the really far tomb, which goes down and down, excelle
- Date of Holiday:Dec 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Cosmos
" Allan and Cathy "
Submitted By: allanandcathy
We have just returned from a cruise abord MS Magic 2 which was wonderful. We did the 5 day cruise which was jam packed but worth every minute. The boat, staff and food were all excellent and we made friends with some great people. The temples were stunning and you really have to see them to appreciate this. Photographs and descriptions do not do them justice. It seems that everyone thinks that their Egyptologist is best and we are no exception. Ahmed made the past come alive whilst also giving us a flavour of the present. Following the cruise we went to Cairo and spent 4 hours in the Museum. We appreciated this much more because of what we had learned from Ahmed. Yes the early starts are hard to take but we had a week at the Sheraton Resort in Luxor afterwards to re-charge and were pampered by the staff.
All in all a marvellous two weeks.
All in all a marvellous two weeks.
Advice: Be ready for everyone wanting to be tipped and learn to say NO to people trying to sell you things
Activities: All three restaurants at the Sheraton
- Date of Holiday:Jan 2009
- Board Basis:Full Board
- Tour Operator:Cosmos
" 7 great days! "
Submitted By: rachel26
We ended up onteh Magic II by fluke - we were put on this becuae the boat we were meant to be on was over booked. I am so glad! The boat was literally a floating 4* hotel. The staff were all polite and helpful and extremely ready to please. The ship's manager and his two assistants were very good and coudl not do enough to ensure we were happy. Any slight complant was dealt with immediately and to my absolute satisfaction.
The food a plentiful and good quality. As a vegetarian I was concerned I woudl not have enough choice but I did - although I woudl have prferred more traditional egyptian food - the catering was mainly to European tastes.
The boat was clean and tidy everywhere we went. I especially liked the library/ reading and games room as it meant you coudl get out of the cabin and not have tosit in the bar or on the sun deck.
It's a shame there were so many smokers- mainly German on board. There is no smoking in the dining room or on one side of the bar but mostly everywhere else other han cabins so sometime syou have to walk through a crowd of smokers to get to somewhere else - but that's the way it si in Egypt.
I would dfinitely look at choosing this boat again next time we go.....
A final tip not related to the boat - if you are travelling in Egypt get some EGYPTIAN one pound coins or notes. You will need these for backsheesh - we spenta lot on goign to the loo and so on in English money and wish we had had theforesight to carry egyptian small denominations!
The food a plentiful and good quality. As a vegetarian I was concerned I woudl not have enough choice but I did - although I woudl have prferred more traditional egyptian food - the catering was mainly to European tastes.
The boat was clean and tidy everywhere we went. I especially liked the library/ reading and games room as it meant you coudl get out of the cabin and not have tosit in the bar or on the sun deck.
It's a shame there were so many smokers- mainly German on board. There is no smoking in the dining room or on one side of the bar but mostly everywhere else other han cabins so sometime syou have to walk through a crowd of smokers to get to somewhere else - but that's the way it si in Egypt.
I would dfinitely look at choosing this boat again next time we go.....
A final tip not related to the boat - if you are travelling in Egypt get some EGYPTIAN one pound coins or notes. You will need these for backsheesh - we spenta lot on goign to the loo and so on in English money and wish we had had theforesight to carry egyptian small denominations!
Advice: This is a once in a life time thing to do.. DO take advantge of all the trips
Activities: All of the temples and tombs are great and hot air balloon ride over the nile not to be missed
- Date of Holiday:Jan 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Bookable Holidays using Med Hotels
loading...
While Luxor airport on arrival is chaotic a rep will quickly make themselves obvious. Once they do, get to them and they will sort your entry visa which you pay for only when on the transfer coach, £12 in sterling or $15US.
Tipping is a pain but the rep method of paying 3x£10 (rep organises it) is very good so at least you do not need to worry on the boat or when on ‘escorted’ trips. On one of your first trips you are taken to a bank where you can get money and the exchange rate is very good (close to 9 EGP to 1 GBP as opposed to 8 in the UK). Best to hand over GBP cash. You can also get small denomination EGP; hang on to any small notes for tips like going to the loo! It is a good idea to bring cheap pens and sweets for giving to the few children who deserve it. A few 50p or £1 coins are also helpful for any early tips before you get small denomination EGP.
We found sleeping on the boat fine but it is noisier towards the back and on deck 1 compared to 3 or 4. Not something to really worry about though.
Most tables in the dining room are for 6 so we ended up as one of three couples. You then dine with them for the whole trip. The couples we were with were excellent fun and the whole group seemed pretty good but this could be a problem if you are not so lucky! Might be worth chatting to as many others as you can before your first meal, getting your group together and going in on time. A bell is rung to indicate the dining room is open. However, it is part of the fun to see who you end up with!
The boat has 70 cabins so 140 max people. We were mainly 40+ age group but a few younger couples and plenty retirees! Very few children, just two families with young teens. It certainly is not a trip for children and most teens would likely find the trips ‘boring’!
The cabins are a good size and there is plenty of hot water in the shower. There is a free digital safe and plenty of storage space. The TV only works in port although there is a channel connected to a camera on the front of the boat so you can see forwards even when in bed!
Be aware that the extra optional trips are quoted in GBP but this is then turned into EGP by the rep at a rate of 9 to 1 and if you pay with a credit card there is then 2% added and your credit card company will turn the EGP back to GBP at a lower rate! Ours, Abbey Zero, gave a very good rate of 8.96 and does not make any other charges either, even for cash withdrawals!
Of the extra trips the Karnak sound & light was poor plus the cost of £22pp for a £11 ticket and coach ride of 5 minutes was a rip-off! We really did enjoy the quad bikes, camel ride and hot air balloon. The Aswan city trip had mixed reviews and certainly meant being exposed to the constant and at times, intimidating, ‘hagglers’!
Abu Simbel is awesome and probably worth £130 to fly, (£70 coach, 3 hours each way!) although the ‘cost price’ will be way below this! It does mean a 2.30am wake up but it is quite something to be back on the boat eating breakfast at 9.30am after having done it!
The trips that are part of the package are very good and the Egyptologists mainly excellent (1 of the 3 on our boat was not) and it is certainly worth getting up early for the trips to have a cooler time outside and be back with plenty of the day left. The Luxor area trips include fantastic temples/tombs. Many trips do finish with a visit to a ‘shop’ to try to get you to part with your money! Alabaster, gold/jewellery, perfume etc. Some are interesting but be prepared to say a firm ‘no thank you’!
The Egyptian Dress evening was fun and the galabeyas on sale on the boat are as good and cheap as anywhere else. £5/£10 gets you all you need, including a hat! If you want haggle free shopping for souvenirs try Gaddis next to the Winter Palace Hotel in Luxor.
On your final day the hot air balloon was early, 5.00am, so you are back for breakfast. I wouldn’t do the optional trip to the Valley of the Queens as I was ‘templed out’ and it gave time for packing, enjoying a final sunbathe etc. You get lunch and the all-inclusive is very fairly kept running until about half an hour before your coach takes you to the airport.
The all-inclusive is pretty good value and they certainly make sure there are loads of bottles of cold water. The glasses are small and you do have to return to the bar often but there is a good range of drinks, albeit local with the exception of Coke and they did have the diet variety too. Watch the measures – a G&T is mainly G, I actually poured my own! There is a very odd thing of often being asked to sign for food and drink even though you are all-inclusive. We often signed but equally often did not; crucially there was no bill to pay at the end. All inclusive ends at 11.45pm each night but most people are in bed getting sleep for the next early start by then!
Towels are provided, including for the swimming pool, so don’t take any like we did! We were told that they are pretty hot on the 20kg luggage although we were just over 21kg on the way home and nothing was said.
The food was excellent and loads of it. There was little ‘Nile tummy’ that we heard of and the very few who did suffer will have got it from off the boat. There is a tour of the boat that includes the kitchens which were spotless! The dirty banknotes are likely ‘carriers’ so a bottle of ‘hand wash’ is probably sensible.
There are loads of sunbeds and they really do not allow ‘bagging’ them. The sun deck really is very nice with lots of space, tables etc and a decent bar. There is no smoking on the boat except on the sun deck. The small swimming pool is good and certainly helps you to cool off. It was high 30s while we there in mid-October.
Luxor airport is modern and not too badly priced. The duty free alcohol did not seem cheap (got a much better deal on Bombay Sapphire in Tesco!) but cigarettes were very cheap indeed.
Advice: A great way to sample the culture and marvel at the ancient sites.
Activities: Abu Simbel, Hatshepsut's tomb, quad biking & hot air baloon in Sahara, Karnak and just cruising!
Good for: City Breaks