Of Queens and Temples: A 4 day Tour of Luxor and Aswan – II

This post is a continuation of a two-part series of my tours in Luxor and Aswan. As with most people who arrive in Egypt, Cairo was my first stop. There, I visited the Great Pyramids of Giza and took a tour of the city in 24 hours. Then I took an overnight train from the Giza train station to Luxor.

After spending about two days in Luxor, I continued on to Aswan with Kareem, my assigned driver. The drive was about 3 hours long although Kareem told me it’s usually longer. We arrived in good time and met with Geroge, my guide in Aswan.

Day Three: Luxor to Aswan: The Temple of Isis

Tempel von Philae Our first stop for the day was the Tempel Von Philae (The Temple of Isis) on Agilika Island. We had to ride in a small boat to get there.

Like the temples I had seen before, this one was just as impressive. George filled me with details about its history and stories about the goddess it was built for. I was fascinated.

Philae TempleI was even more impressed to hear that Agilika Island wasn’t the original location of this temple. In fact, it was moved from its original island (Philae) to this current one. How do you move an entire temple?

Isis TempleYou cut into several pieces and put them back together again. I would later find out that more temples were moved this way, including the majestic Abu Simbel temples. The temple of Isis was relocated after it became submerged when the Aswan Dam was created. The entire process took about nine years.

I read a few articles about the lack of authenticity of sites in Luxor and Aswan, especially since quite a few of them were reconstructed. My experience didn’t feel any less authentic. I was glad to be able to see them not lying in complete ruins.

Temple of IsisThe downside of organized tours

Once we were done exploring the Tempel Von Philae, we headed back to my accommodation for the night. But first (as expected at this point) was a stop at a spice shop. I really let my guard down here and was persuaded to buy stuff I didn’t need. I also felt cheated too. At some point, as I was about to leave, I decided to check what had been packed for me. They had left an item that I had paid for out and casually added it back when I complained.

I also wanted to see the Nubian villages on my return to Aswan. I was particular about what I wanted to see and I communicated that with the tour coordinator. The tour, to say the least, was disappointing. I was taken into a home where I was invited to hold a live crocodile and look at old relics the owner had collected over time.

If I had been in a better mood, I might have enjoyed the experience. By the time we tried to get to the places I wanted to visit, the day was far spent. I decided it was best to go back to the hotel instead.

Aswan

Day Four: Aswan to Abu Simbel Temples & Back to Cairo

Abu Simbel AswanBy the next day, I had gotten over the disappointments of the day before. I decided to start afresh and approach the day with as much positivity and optimism as I could muster. That paid off. When we got to Abu Simbel, whatever was left of my grievances melted away at the sight of the temples. It was worth it. It was all worth it.

Abu Simbel Temple (inside)Abu Simbel outsideAbu Simbel Templesl said my goodbyes to Luxor and Aswan after that. We stopped to look at the Aswan Dam before I was driven to the train station to catch my train back to Cairo.

Luxor and Aswan Tour

Have you been to Luxor or Aswan before? I’d love to read about your experience. And if you haven’t, is it on your living list? Would you consider going? Let me know in the comment section.

PS: I’ll write more about the Abu Simbel temples in a separate post.

4 comments

    1. Thanks Madeline. I was so impressed to hear that they did (moved the temple, that is). They had help from other countries too, so kudos to all the parties involved. And thanks, everything except for the store experience was good.

I love to hear from you, Leave a comment here!

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One beautiful day in 2018 🌞 , I awoke with the sudden urge to explore 3 countries on a budget! It was my first cross-country road trip but I took that chance and it led me straight to my husband 💕

Funny how life works out sometimes!
One beautiful day in 2018 🌞 , I awoke with the sudden urge to explore 3 countries on a budget! It was my first cross-country road trip but I took that chance and it led me straight to my husband 💕 Funny how life works out sometimes!
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A little dramatic? But yes, this was exactly what I needed.

I was experiencing burnout, at the same time, facing the possibility of being laid off from work... going through a deeply personal and emotionally draining phase and needed an out!

It was a short getaway but it was the just the reset that I needed! 🦋
A little dramatic? But yes, this was exactly what I needed. I was experiencing burnout, at the same time, facing the possibility of being laid off from work... going through a deeply personal and emotionally draining phase and needed an out! It was a short getaway but it was the just the reset that I needed! 🦋
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In this Nairobi Weekender Series, I'll be sharing some of the best weekend trips you can take from Nairobi.

Think beach getaways, hiking, camping, safaris and more! All within a short distance from the city!

In this video, we're visiting Amboseli National Park. This weekend getaway is perfect for a long 3-day weekend. Staying at least two nights in the area will give you enough time to enjoy a safari and your accommodation.

I recommend booking a place with a view of a waterhole - with this, you might even be tempted to skip the drive in the park completely!

Let me know what other places you'd love to see and please share your best weekend or day trips from Nairobi in the comments! 💬
In this Nairobi Weekender Series, I'll be sharing some of the best weekend trips you can take from Nairobi. Think beach getaways, hiking, camping, safaris and more! All within a short distance from the city! In this video, we're visiting Amboseli National Park. This weekend getaway is perfect for a long 3-day weekend. Staying at least two nights in the area will give you enough time to enjoy a safari and your accommodation. I recommend booking a place with a view of a waterhole - with this, you might even be tempted to skip the drive in the park completely! Let me know what other places you'd love to see and please share your best weekend or day trips from Nairobi in the comments! 💬
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Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in!

It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂

In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end).

If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂

And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀

#OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
Once again, I've found myself back in K-drama heaven! 🥰 I had left K-drama for anti-MLM and true crime content on YouTube for a bit, but this drama (Our Unwritten Seoul)? It dragged me right back in! It reminds me of the golden days when Alchemy of Souls and Extraordinary Attorney Woo were airing at the same time! Those were weekends I eagerly looked forward to! 😂 In a season of my life that's felt a little uncertain, this drama is a small spark, something warm (and certain?) to look forward to every week(end). If you're watching it too, let me know in the comment section. But no think pieces about what you don't like 😭 Let's all just enjoy this in peace and hope there's a very sweet and happy ending waiting for us in the next 2 weeks! 😂 And if you're not a kdrama fan, that's okay too! Maybe you'll enjoy this quick guide to Seoul and beyond! 🇰🇷🚀 #OurUnwrittenSeoul #seoulkorea @nigeriankoreanaddict @visitkorea_travel #kdramafeels #solotravel @kdrama_9jaddicts
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This country truly has it all! 😍

Lovely weather ✅️
Pristine whitesand beaches with warm waters ✅️
Incredible Wildlife and Safaris in your backyard!✅️
Stunning mountains and hiking trails ✅️ 
Lovely outdoor spaces, waterfalls, gardens and forests ✅️

From Maasai Mara to Mount Kenya, from Watamu to Lake Naivasha - Kenya really said "why choose when you can have everything?"

Have you visited or is it on your travel wishlist? Tell me your favourite experiences/what you're most looking forward to in the comment section!💬
This country truly has it all! 😍 Lovely weather ✅️ Pristine whitesand beaches with warm waters ✅️ Incredible Wildlife and Safaris in your backyard!✅️ Stunning mountains and hiking trails ✅️ Lovely outdoor spaces, waterfalls, gardens and forests ✅️ From Maasai Mara to Mount Kenya, from Watamu to Lake Naivasha - Kenya really said "why choose when you can have everything?" Have you visited or is it on your travel wishlist? Tell me your favourite experiences/what you're most looking forward to in the comment section!💬
1 week ago
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If you're tired of crowded tourist spots, save this hidden gem before everyone finds out!

📍Suncheon Bay National Garden ❤️
If you're tired of crowded tourist spots, save this hidden gem before everyone finds out! 📍Suncheon Bay National Garden ❤️
2 weeks ago
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The most beautiful African sunset🌙✨️🦒
The most beautiful African sunset🌙✨️🦒
2 weeks ago
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While you're working hard, don't forget to schedule time for rest. 🤎☯︎
While you're working hard, don't forget to schedule time for rest. 🤎☯︎
2 weeks ago
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Listen, you don't have to tell me twice! I'm a 9-5 woman who loves to travel. I don't joke about my PTO and public holidays! 😂

If you're planning to combine your vacation days with a public holiday, here are the upcoming ones for the second half of the year...

🇳🇬 × 🇰🇪
- Jun 06 (and 9?): Eid Al-Adha
- Jun 12: Democracy Day 🇳🇬
- Sep 04 - 05?: (Tentative for Mawlid
- Oct 01: 🇳🇬 Independence Day
- Oct 10: 🇰🇪 Utamaduni (Moi) Day
- Oct 20: 🇰🇪 Mashujaa Day
- Dec 12: 🇰🇪 Jamhuri Day
- Dec 25-26: Christmas & Boxing Day

You're welcome! 😊
Listen, you don't have to tell me twice! I'm a 9-5 woman who loves to travel. I don't joke about my PTO and public holidays! 😂 If you're planning to combine your vacation days with a public holiday, here are the upcoming ones for the second half of the year... 🇳🇬 × 🇰🇪 - Jun 06 (and 9?): Eid Al-Adha - Jun 12: Democracy Day 🇳🇬 - Sep 04 - 05?: (Tentative for Mawlid - Oct 01: 🇳🇬 Independence Day - Oct 10: 🇰🇪 Utamaduni (Moi) Day - Oct 20: 🇰🇪 Mashujaa Day - Dec 12: 🇰🇪 Jamhuri Day - Dec 25-26: Christmas & Boxing Day You're welcome! 😊
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