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Egypt Holiday - Travel Department Solo Travel
Dear Travel Department, I recently returned from a 12-day trip with Travel Department, covering Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea. Our tour guide, Dodi, was outstanding—his expertise and enthusiasm brought Egypt’s rich history to life. The trip offered unforgettable experiences, from exploring iconic temples and the pyramids to visiting the historic Cataract Hotel in Aswan, a place where Agatha Christie’s appreciation for Egypt first reached a global audience. One of the highlights for me was the visit to Abu Simbel, made even more memorable by witnessing the sunrise over the Nubian Desert. I also had the unique opportunity to explore a Nubian village, ride a camel, experience a hot air balloon ride, and enjoy thrilling sand buggy and motorbike rides in the desert. However, I did have concerns regarding the cruise from Luxor to Aswan. The boat was outdated, and although it was kept clean, the towels and sheets were noticeably gray instead of white. The atmosphere was somewhat restrictive, with limited availability of food and drinks outside of set times, even though it was an all-inclusive package. The lack of general Wi-Fi was inconvenient, as it required guests to pay for access in the lobby. The cabins and common areas were in poor condition, and the pool cleanliness was questionable. Basic amenities, such as coffee, were of disappointing quality, served from flasks, and the food overall did not meet expectations—especially when compared to other cruises we saw at various ports. It’s unfortunate to have spent seven nights on a boat that did not align with the overall quality of the trip. On a positive note, the hotels in Cairo and the Red Sea were of a high standard, providing excellent accommodations. Ultimately, this journey was unforgettable thanks to three key aspects: 1) our incredible guide, Dodi, whose deep knowledge of Egypt and Ireland and warm personality made the trip exceptional; 2) the wonderful group of fellow travelers, who made this solo trip incredibly rewarding; and 3) the awe-inspiring sights of Egypt. With an upgraded cruise experience, this trip would truly be the adventure of a lifetime. Sincerely, Susan