Private 3-Night Nile River Cruise from Aswan to Luxor

To begin with, let me say how very safe we felt while we were in Egypt. It is lamentable that tourism, which accounts for 30 of Egypt's industry, has taken such a beating so that sensationalist media can sell 'news'. Everyone we met was friendly, helpful and seemed genuinely happy to welcome us to their country. Of course you need to be alert in Cairo - as you would in any large city - and keep your wits about you while you are out - as anywhere - that's just common sense. Hire a guide. They are inexpensive they know the language and the culture and can navigate both the streets and the process far better than you could on your own. Qualified guides are exceptionally knowledgable about Egyptian history - it is an extensive training program with exams - and can open doors to a richer experience. The cruise was enjoyable. The service was good - the food was fine... as in 'ok', not as in 'fine dining'! By Western standards, the accommodation is 3 star at best, most boats we saw looked to be pretty much identical, but it was quite acceptable if you are going for the scenery and history. I'm not sure why it is a '3 night' cruise when we were in Luxor by dinner time on the second day. Had we known this, we would have left the boat the next morning or maybe upon arrival in Luxor and stayed in a hotel in Luxor instead - if we had wanted to stay longer. 'Day 4' had no activities beyond breakfast and disembarking. This is really a 2 night, 3 day cruise stretched out. Our personal guide, Ahmed, was excellent - knowledgeable, friendly, flexible and helpful. We enjoyed spending time with him. His English had some interesting idiosyncrasies, but he was perfectly understandable and we communicated well. All of the guides and drivers we had on this trip were professional, punctual and helpful. They arranged extra excursions when we asked Karnak light and sound show and helped us locate a working ATM!