Aswan rocks (Assuan)

Member Name: jojoegypt2008

Product:	Assuan
Date:	13/11/08 (16 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Quiet, unusual, loads to see and do

Disadvantages: Hot in summer

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 is quieter than Cairo by a million decibels, and much more laid back. The boats permanently moored along the corniche are practically all restaurants, which do great food at amazing prices.
From Aswan, you can visit Philae temple, which has a Son et Lumiere show in French or English nightly, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can sail from Aswan back to Luxor on a felucca - go to Elephantine Island and ask for Captain Jamaica.

Summary: For the discerning, adventurous traveller