Introduction
Luxor is an ideal place to visit if you are interested in the history of Egypt. There are temples and monuments, while close by is the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens. The major part of the area’s economy comes from tourism, and the area is in three distinct parts, Karnak, Luxor and Thebes. There are plenty of ways to travel around as taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced, although it is best to arrange a price beforehand. Many of the locals work in the tourism industry, but there is also a lot of agriculture still carried out.
Facts
- The population is in the region of 490,000.
- The main souvenirs sold will be alabaster items, Egyptian cotton tablecloths and perfume bottles made of glass with ornate gold plated designs.
- Calaches – horse drawn carriages - are used to take holiday makers on a tour of the area.
Luxor was formally known as Thebes. It was considered the city of the God Amon-Ra and became the religious capital of Egypt. This came to an end when the Greeks ruled. The most important temple in the country was based here at Karnak. Since then there have been Libyan and Roman rulers.
Things to See and Do
A major attraction is the temple built by Aminhoptep and Rameses II and a visit to the Valley of the Kings is a must. You can go into most of the tombs and the hieroglyphics and paintings inside can still amaze visitors. The Luxor Museum is small compared to many but most of the exhibits were found locally. It is also worth taking a coach trip to visit the Colossus of Memnon. Once it goes dark the Sound and Light show at the temple is outstanding. Add to this the markets and bazaars selling a wide range of souvenirs and there is plenty to see and do in Luxor.
Nightlife
There is plenty of choice at night. You can remember home at the Kings Head pub or Murphy’s Irish Pub or watch the belly dancers at the Hotel Mercur. Many hotels arrange Egyptian nights when you travel along the Nile in a felucca and are then entertained by snakes and dancers before enjoying a banquet. It is possible to stay out late but as many trips start very early, many choose not to have too much of a late night.
Eating and Drinking
There are plenty of cafes and bars to choose from, while most hotels also provide good meals. The Old Winter Palace dates back to 1886 and the restaurant there is ideal fo
r a special occasion. There is a dress code but jackets and ties can be provided by the hotel. Sofra provides cheap Egyptian cuisine in a traditional setting. There is an English run restaurant called Puddleduck and this provides traditional English food. McDonalds can be found near to the Temple and there is also a KFC and Pizza Hut. Alcohol is available in most hotels and many bars and restaurants. A lot is imported but there are some Egyptian versions on sale. There are Egyptian versions of spirits and while they are much cheaper there is a difference in quality. Wine is long established with some of the better known ones being Abarka and Obelisk.
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