Aswan, south of Luxor, and near the southern border of Egypt and Sudan, is a little known tourist destination. The people that you'll find there as visitors will be backpackers and those in search of an unusual getaway. It's very different to the Egypt you might imagine, and if all you know of the country is Sharm el-Sheikh and other hideous man-made tourist traps, then think again. Aswan is an oasis of Nubian-Egyptian culture, within easy access of the Aswan Dam (you can have a cruise on Lake Nasser if you feel the urge), and Abu Simbel, one of Egypt's finest temples, particularly in view of its history (it was moved when the Dam was built). The town itself ...  Read the complete review

I travelled to Egypt with a company called Explore Worldwide who specialise in what they call "small group exploratory holidays". They are perfect for those travelling alone - as I was - as you get to join a group of other like minded travellers. There holidays are for those wishing to go "off the beaten track" and get a real taste of a country travelling by local means of transport and staying in local style accomodation. This does mean "roughing it" a little but suits anyone with a sense of adventure. When I travelled to Egypt the group ranged from two teenage Australian sisters to a retired couple from New Zealand! Their website ...  Read the complete review