What I Wish I'd Know BEFORE Doing My Nile River Cruise!

[@RyanK-100]

This may have been the most information-packed travel video I have seen on KZbin. It was not a commercial. It was not a list of complaints. it was exactly what you would say to a friend who was going to take the same trip you just did.

[@samuelcollins1331]

Bingo! Gary is in a higher stratosphere from the rank and file cruise oriented KZbin content providers. This one is particularly excellent in its minute detail. So detailed that we are NOT GOING!!! Thanks Gary,,,,,,,I think🥸

[@yahspeaks9125]

You've just perfectly summed up why I love this Channel and Gary!!

[@silviaeastonborges5204]

Exceptional…

[@steveross129]

Spot on. Travelers need to realize that a Nile Cruise is not about the cruise experience, it’s about the sights. Go for the (well defined) adventure. You want comfort, go on a Rhine cruise. You want to see amazing stuff, a 7-night Nile cruise is great!

[@CarolFremel-my4hs]

Exactly - the Nile cruise is the only one I’ve been on - not interested in paying good money to do on a boat what I can do at home - I travel to experience new places and Egypt was certainly a great experience

[@starcounter]

I really enjoy learning the cons of these trips with your videos. The brocures of course never mention the negative aspects. My knowing what to expect in advance eliminates unrealistic expectations.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you found them interesting. Yes, it is finding those things that are not spoken about that I always enjoy seeking out!

[@ilovesparky13]

What cons? I didn’t see any negatives in this video.

[@esciteach7997]

@@ilovesparky13 only the upset stomach/"the runs" part. Happens a lot in this area. Friend went on a church sponsored trip to "The Holy Land" and that was their only problem too.

[@mpb3481]

@@ilovesparky13​​⁠​​⁠​⁠He mentioned there was hardly any downtime so it was rather hectic. And the vendors were constantly swarming them. Also the paid toilets were on the grubby side. And they had to go through security in almost all the sites and have their belongings scanned. He also pointed out that because all the river ship companies are required to have Egyptian partners who mostly take care of operations on the Nile, even the luxury lines weren’t quite up to standard. Lastly, he mentioned the Nile is so crowded with ships, there can be several ships docked side by side and it can get pretty noisy at night with all those engines running especially if one is unlucky enough to have a cabin close to where the neighboring ships’ engines are.

[@lexibc]

My wife and I went to Egypt in the late 1990's and it was the best trip I have ever been on in my life since. From reading comments all over the place I'm glad we went when we did, sounds like things have changed. One important think for everyone to know, make sure you don't go during Ramadan. Things like pools at hotels and most restaurants are closed and some activities are cut back. Not sure if this has changed since though. The only thing I got tied of very quickly are the shops and the badgering at all the shops, gets very old very quickly. As for security and safety, never felt threaten in anyway, every Egyptian we met were wonderful people. Though I was at the Pyramids and this guy would not leave me alone trying to sell me something and I swear out of nowhere this solider materialized and began dragging this guy away. It's a must trip for everyone.

[@connie_360]

Was there in March and it was Ramadan and agree, amazing part of the world! We had a fabulous team on our Aqaba tour and the driver and guide couldn't have coffee or smoke until after 7 pm. It was hilarious when they pulled the bus over a few minutes before 7 and stood out there counting down the last few secs. We were all cheering them on for their first coffee of the day! Not sure about hotels but all the moments were open but if you want a wine or beer, wait until after 7 😀

[@MrTVintro]

I think the biggest issue is when one imagines a Nile river cruise you think of Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie. You think of a solo luxury ship gently making its way down the nile. Being on the same stretch of river with a dozen other cruise ships definitely ruins that image for me.

[@connie_360]

@@MrTVintro Wouldn't we all love to travel that way. The idea that I might have to use a bucket as a toilet is the reason I haven't done it. Must have been a budget video I saw. 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@ianangus4171]

We have been to Egypt five times over the past twenty five years. The first and last involving cruises. Egypt has changed dramatically and so have the cruises over the years. Wonderful on each occasion but the cruises are not relaxing with very early starts incredible heat , not for the faint hearted. On the last cruise my wife and I both had tummy upsets ( the on board cure looked very much like anti biotics )and were unable to go to Abu Simbel (we had been there twenty years previous and it is still the most impressive man made object I have seen) fortunately a family on the boat escorted our daughter to the site and she was awe struck. i would always recommend Egypt but your wonderful videos let people see the pit falls. Well done.

[@naplescameraman]

I took the Nile cruise through Viking last September. As a photographer, I was looking forward to the trip, and did my due diligence to make sure that I got the most out of the experience. I must admit that this was my first cruise ever, and that the idea of having a rigorous itinerary was going to be challenging, as we have always traveled logistically on our own. The first day of our Cairo excursion took us to the Egyptian Museum, and although our Egyptologist was excellent, the time spent there was only about 2 hours. I knew there was so much more to see, so I told him I’ll take a cab back to the hotel. I spent an additional 4 hours there. Unfortunately, all other site tours were of the same duration. For instance, at Karnak, all the tours arrive at about the same time, 9am, and leave around 11:30. Again, I told the guide that I’ll make my own way back (fortunately, the Viking dock in immediately outside the entrance). By noon, I had the place to myself. As I wondered through, I made friends with some of the guards who, for a small gratuity, gave me access to several restricted areas. As far as safety, I’m a 65 year old guy, 5’6” at 150 lbs, carrying thousands of dollars of camera equipment and never felt the least bit worried about being a victim. I would certainly highly recommend the cruise, but more highly recommend breaking away from the tours to explore on your own. Like traveling anywhere, common sense goes a long way and is really invaluable.

[@arriesone1]

“Highly recommend breaking away from the tours” ….our friends did that and got mugged.

[@KateandBree]

Mom and I have booked an East Mediterranean trip that stops in Alexandria, Egypt. Imagine my utter delight when a 12 hour excursion to Saqqara, the Giza pyramids, the Sphinx and the Western Plateau was offered. I basically became I school girl and ran around the house. I'm so excited and I definitely now need to add some things to my packing list now that I've seen this video.

[@ColinBishop-i9c]

Gary, I very much enjoy your videos which are really useful but your Nile Cruise seems to have been a bit out of your comfort zone. We havet done the cruise twice and recognise all the points you have made. You certainly do need to keep within the tourist 'bubble' but Nile cruises really need a lot of preliminary research to avoid the problems you encountered. It's a very different world to conventional cruising, but get it right and it is a an unforgettable experience. The secret is to treat it as off a one off experience and not as an extentsion to conventional cruising. Egypt Nile cruises are indeed a unique experience but something that really does need a lot of preliminary research. We did this and had a fantastic time on both occasions. We also took high tea at the Old Cataract Hotel and swam in the pool on an overnight stay. Sublime! Colin B

[@MadeNCda]

Always enjoy your candor, Gary. Unfortunately, the Sudan situation abruptly escalated whilst you were on your cruise. Egypt, being on the border, was on alert for rapid escalation, which could very well explain the feeling you picked up on. I do love Egypt and can't wait to go back one day!

[@brianlivesey981]

Having done over 70 cruises and on the Nile the the key question you should have asked is: "How are the kitchens inspected on the river cruise ship". On our river cruise ship the kitchens were inspected by scientists and health inspectors from England every month. The other subject you did not mention was "kick-backs" for the guides. The guides take you to vendors where they receive a "commission" which is probably not the most economic or best place/vendor to purchase goods. The pestering is unrelenting and intrusive. My wife was robbed on a Nile cruise in Luxor. It was an experience.

[@kevincleek8103]

I'm not sure I'd recommend this for everyone, but in 2000 my wife and I stayed at the Windsor Hotel in Cairo. I buttonholed the desk clerk and asked what he could do for me with regard to a Nile Cruise. He advised me to come back in the afternoon. So, the offer was made: Overnight train from Cairo to Aswan, boat trip to Elephant Island, day tour of Aswan Dam, overnight in a 4 star hotel (with towels turned into animals on the bed), next day air flight to Abu Simbel, with tour guide, back to Aswan, onto tour boat loaded completely with French tourists, two Aussies, one American from Spokane and my wife and myself. Down the Nile for four days, visiting every site, Philai, Kom Ombo, Edfu, until we got to Luxor...all tours, guides included. $700USD cash for the both of us! Sure, it was a bit of a risk, but it paid off. In Aswan, we were offered a private tour in Luxor of Nefertari's tomb, Valley of the Queens (three days downstream), for $200pp, but I had checked out the site before, so I declined and hired a taxi in Luxor for 6AM to get us to the ticket office at 7AM when it opened; admission was $25pp. The site didn't open until 9AM, so we bought our driver breakfast and asked that he wait for us. Another couple of bucks got us an extra 20 minutes in the tomb. Major score. After Luxor, a bus ride to Hurghada, and a 3AM ferry to Sharm-el-Sheikh, where we decompressed after two weeks of Egyptian street vendors' pestiferous assailments. Then on to Jordan! Thanks for your great cruising commentaries. I love them!

[@gatsby6815]

Hello and thank you. We were fortunate to have a Nile cruise aboard the Oberoi Zahra as part of our Egypt and Jordan trip through Tauck Tours. Everything you say is spot on. They are very touchy about cameras and security. Just a point, bring a couple of hundred new $20 dollars. I required a physician and the Egyptian doctor required American dollars for his services and medicine plus the tip for the crewman who went to get him.

[@peterixon8708]

Gary, recently retired. Have begun to travel the world a bit (we are overseas 3 of the next 8 months). Your videos are excellent and a real boon for those of us wondering what it might be like to do river cruises in Europe and Egypt.

[@philipcubitt]

Gary. You have me worried. My wife and I depart for a Nile cruise in 5 weeks time. Im off to the agent tomorrow (open on a Sunday) to discuss many points you raised. Fingers crossed.

[@kelleyprice3450]

My husband & I just got back from a month in Egypt. We had a wonderful time. We felt VERY safe (safer than at home, really). Our cruise was on the Amwaj Livingstone which was great (but our cabin was mid-ship on the 3rd floor). Food was great. People are SUPER friendly. Yes, bring lots of US $5s and $1s, they're quite useful. Bring your own TP, usually they hand you some as you go in, but sometimes not! What a wonderful place. I can't wait to go back! Edit: we were also concerned about potentially getting ill, but then relaxed, at fresh fruit (we did wash it in bottled water), had ice at the nicer hotels, ate raw veggies/salad... no issues. I had brought all the medications that we might potentially need, but didn't need a thing.

[@dawnelder9046]

I will likely never, ever get on a cruise, let alone a Nile one. But love watching these anyhow.

[@AngelaHavey]

So pleased I went on my own in 1990. No security screening in those days and not so many tourists. Had a lovely trip down the Nile over a week. I was in Egypt for three and half weeks. I had a fantastic time. Too busy for me these days - far too touristic for me today.

[@Damaaskrose]

WOW, Gary, this video was very revealing. My friends and I went on a Nile cruise in 2007, and it looks like it was a good time to go. Egypt is amazing, and it is sad that it now has to be so policed. 😔 There were, still, the pushy (and I don't blame them as they have families that need to fed and housed) vendors, but were given instructions on what to do and what not to do. We did have one female traveller who did what she was told not to 🙄 and got the vendor in trouble 😠 The Nile cruise was wonderful. We did the 7 days cruise and 3 days in Cairo. We had to pay for toilet paper then too.

[@CruisingWithDee]

Thank you; my husband and I are considering a Nile River Cruise for 2025 and your information is very helpful and comprehensive.

[@jefflimp561]

We just booked ours for early ‘25 and they were almost all sold out already. Which is saying something given how far out we are and how expensive of a trip this is.

[@CruisingWithDee]

@@jefflimp561 Wow; we’d better get moving then. We find it so hard to plan trips so far out, but it seems it’s a necessity now with many of the far-away trips on smaller ships.

[@jefflimp561]

@@CruisingWithDeeI did a ton of research and ended up booking with Viking. Good luck!

[@CruisingWithDee]

@@jefflimp561 We are leaning toward Viking as well; had a very good experience with them on a Danube cruise last Fall And thank you!

[@sylvaindupuis5595]

Just a copy paste of the comment I made in your previous video, I made it a few days after the video was out and it may interest some people to learn of a different experience. I was in Egypt for 3 weeks in September 2010. I also took a cruise on the Nile, but one way only from Luxor to Aswan, so it was only 4 days. The main difference in my cruise was that it was on a Dahabiya, a small sailboat (bigger than a Felouque, like the one we see at 9:27 in you video) that had only 6 cabins and a suite, the wind permitted to sail only one day, the rest of the time, we where pulled by a small tugboat. The only motors we heard where small generators a few hours each day to charge batteries for the AC in our cabins. On my cruise, we where only 6 passengers, a couple, two sister and the daughter of one. I was alone. For the excursions on the different sites, the other passengers had all been in Egypt before, so they didn't took the guided tour, I was alone whit the guide, he would start by showing me around and give the explanations on everything and then wait for me near the entrance taking a coffee while I took all the pictures that I wanted. Since it was a smaller boat, we didn't stop at the standard spot where all the bigger boats where stacked one against the other, the staff chose beautiful spots where we where alone, we even had a picnic on a small island one night. If you ever go back on the Nile, I strongly suggest that type of cruise. You can check some of the pictures I took on the cruise flic.kr/p/98vqo3

[@ChristianCrusader777]

great pictures thx

[@travelclubwithnicolekelly2432]

We were there about a month ahead of you on an Intrepid trip. Only 10 peeps and the same guide brought us much closer to the people and out of that bubble. Only 1 night on the Nile for us in an open air Felucca. Enjoyed your vid. Thx for sharing.

[@voodoox6112]

I loved our hot air balloon ride in Luxor. Throughout our trip and on our 7 day cruise we had early mornings to avoid crowds and the worst of the heat eg. 3 hour bus ride to Abel Simbel and we were on site by 8.15am. By 10am the site was busy and by 12pm it was hot. We had an armed guard on our bus trip and at some other sites. We got used to seeing glimpses of his automatic weapon beneath his suit jacket. Who wears a suit in Egypt? He looked out of place but he was a nice chap. My travel Dr was adamant, must use bug spray due to the various mosquito bourne viruses. I had lots of meds for an upset stomach but the locals gave me strong Turkish coffee with lemon. 2 weeks in Egypt was memorable and we added Israel and Jordan, which were fabulous.

[@gweilospur5877]

I did a three- night cruise from Aswan to Luxor a couple of years back. It was amazingly good value given I was taking up a cabin alone, it was only about US$300 including all meals and three tours with a guide. I booked it on Viator. The food was always a very nice buffet, and the boat was luxurious with a swimming pool. The cabin was as good as a decent three- star hotel. There were lots of similar boats doing the same trip. Three nights was enough given that I stayed at Aswan and Luxor before and after the cruise so I did my sightseeing there separately.

[@antoinettejoubert]

As a lady I travelled solo all the times I went to Egypt and NEVER did I encounter any problem whatsoever! I love travelling in the local buses and on the trains and found it very exciting and wonderful to be part of the local people,who are very kind and helpful. I suppose some people are just more scared of life than others!

[@wimhance6541]

Both videos are excellent and fair (if not a little kind). I think it’s worth noting that the Luxor/Aswan cruise is an illusion, the distance (and sites), can be covered in a taxi either way between the towns in a matter of hours. I don't know if the 600 mile Aswan to Cairo cruise still exists, but it will be less crowded as are the many sites between Abydos and Cairo. There is a Lake Nasser cruise to various salvaged Nubian Temples (including Abu Simbel), but the generally mediocre standards still apply on both. The prices quoted strike me as somewhat excessive. In recent years the experience has become Benidorm on the Nile. It's worth a trip, but manage your expectations.

[@Mooncelt]

Thanks for this enlightening video! Watched it before we left on our two -week trip to Egypt. We just returned last week. We did a three day Nile cruise. The food on the cruise was nondescript but OK. It was so hot there were no bugs! We did not get Pharaoh's revenge because our guide said never drink anything with ice and no raw vegetables. Used bottled water for teeth brushing and drinking. It was an amazing experience that I will never forget. It felt secure enough and it seemed like an even-keel trip overall in terms of safety. Our guide was exceptional!

[@suzy8109]

I have been fascinated by Egypt since childhood and I have been thinking of doing a Nile cruise for years. Your videos are so informative and useful to watch for anyone wanting to do any possible cruise. Thank you so much for this channel and all your hard work, Gary ❤

[@sabinahribarternar7502]

About the vendors at the attractions - you can get rid of them by putting on sun glasses and not taking them off the entire time. No eye contact = no contact. Take it from a blue eyed blonde woman 😅

[@johncole7533]

I’ve wanted to do this ever since I was child and watched the movie adaptation of “Death on the Nile,” with Peter Ustinov, David Niven, Maggie Smith, Angela Lansbury, Bette Davis . . . What a cast!

[@cathydrumobich9045]

If only the cruises were still like that!

[@tipsfortravellers]

such a fab movie. it was also my inspiration !

[@erichearduga]

Interesting... our 12 night Egypt Land and River vacation in 2007 was one of the best trips we have ever taken... We never went in and out via the shop areas and vendors weren't allowed to try to sell you anything unless you cross the painted line into the shop area at every location. We did have the security check points and screenings, but that's been the whole world since 2001.

[@letarogers6380]

Thanks for this video! I’ve definitely missed my window for visiting Egypt.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@FraserAtSea]

I still think this trip looked amazing, but FYI - if I ever do a Nile cruise, I’ll be approaching you for a tonne of help in the process, haha!

[@GypsyHeart2012]

I did a Nile River journey in 1982. There were no thoughts or Discussions on Security, It was an amazing experience. With the Grand Egyptian Museum Opening it will be a lot to see in open place.

[@HeatherGemmen]

Thank you for your review of your trip. You always provide thoughtful videos, Gary, and they're very appreciated!

[@christianebirwin8463]

Thomas Cook, who organised the Nile cruise segment of our Egypt trip for us, advised us against a more expensive cabin. Get the one with the window on the water line, he said, as you won't be spending much time in the cabin!! How right he was. It was quite hectic some days - being woken at 0530 to have breakfast to go on a bus trip to the site to get there before the heat of the day - but it was worth it, and we were very happy with our waterline cabin and slept like logs!

[@well-blazeredman6187]

'Templed-out': love that expression, and often use it in the Far East. Good video.

[@silviaeaston]

OMG.... your BEST report.... EVER! I have seen this report 3x since I will not be able to see it in this lifetime!

[@Stevenimich]

I did a 4day 3night Nile cruise (Aswan to Luxor) last year. It was really fun. I hooked up with a family from Australia the whole time (family of 5) and we were assigned as one tour group. So glad it was just us! The only down side of the trip was when we docked to see Kom Ombo, our tour guide never showed up and we didn't get enough time to see the place as the ticket office was having computer issues as well. Since we decided we weren't going to wait for our tour guide, we went straight to the ticket office at Kom Ombo. We only had barely 30 min. to see the place instead of the whole hour because of our tour guide not being there and then the ticket office having computer issues. The rest of the time, the tour guides and sightseeing was great!

[@sharri115]

My one and only cruise was a Nile cruise on Oberoi phile. It was over 20 yrs ago when I was 18 and boy how things have changed! I was in visiting my childhood friend and his family who lived in Cairo (his mom still lives there and has a travel agency that she an Egyptian woman has owned for over 20yrs, SEEgypt) so my experience was different from regular tourists. But it was an amazing cruise.

[@pamelalambe1356]

Loved cruising the Nile. Our boat was smaller but comfortable and the sight are overwhelmingly stunning.

[@dionline88]

Excellent video, Gary. If I'm ever blessed enough to do a Nile River cruise, this is the video I will re-watch prior to booking. Thank you again for sharing your experiences and recommendations!!

[@ErikDaVinci]

I would like to debunk the issue of health and safety concerning the water in Egypt. I made my first cruse on the Nile back in 2006 and heard the same warning before going there. Even about not even touching the water in the flood. But the water in the Nile is in overall fine. Especially upstream. Downstream in Kairo you can find trash tossed into the water. Sure you should drink bottled water, but I have no problem brushing my teeth with the tapwater or eat vegetables cleaned with the tap water. Same standard as many I-countries. The real issue in Egypt surprisingly few knows about are about the big beach hotell facilities most tourists lives in when visiting Egypt. Like in Hurghada. They do reuse grey/brown water (your pee and poop) from the facility to water the hotell complex's gardens around the swimmingpools and restourants during the nights when the guests are all asleep. And this is done unfiltred. This is an extreme bioazard spreading bacterias and diseases among people. I do understand their goal of saving water, but this need to stop.

[@evelynwaugh4053]

There is schistosomiasis in the Nile, so it's not quite harmless.

[@MarkRLeach]

3:36, using a Camera Tripod. The issue is that 'amateur' photographers can take phots for free, but professionals must pay a fee. If you attempt to use a tripod you will be assumed to be a professional, and so will be asked to pay a fee. I was caught out attempting to use a monopod.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Yes, a key and good watch out and point. It was interesting as in one temple I was filming just holding my iPhone but someone using a gimbal with there's was told to stop filming...

[@geograph-ology4343]

Everything you said was "Spot On". I wish I had brought more US singles than buying Egyptian pounds. We knew in advance not to drink the water. There was enough security that even if most of them were on their cellphones, one would catch trouble before it happened. Vendors can be insistent, but exercise Jedi Mind tricks, "This is not the customer you want." AMA was good but it had a few shortcomings. The people are friendly. The country is one foot in the 21st Century and one foot in 1200BCE. The best thing is the history you will see and the history you will learn. Thanks for spreading the word, Gary.

[@richard743]

Please do 1 or 2 videos about casinos onboard cruiseliners. I love playing poker on vacation but it's very hard to get info from the liners websites. Thanks for all the advice you give in your videos so that we don't frack it up due to ignorance. Keep up the good work mate. regards from Sweden.

[@DianeRoma1]

Thank you so much for this thorough review. Been debating about a Nile cruise. You definitely clarified many of my questions. I wonder if I’ll run into Hercule Poirot 😉

[@karenking6979]

I LOVED our cruise and stayed on the beaten path, I never went down a side street!!

[@dcreinken]

We just returned from our ten night Egypt land/cruise with Avalon. Two nights Cairo, Five nights Nile, two nights Cairo, with two additional pre-trip nights we booked. Your videos were sooo helpful. Thank you! I will note that our ship MS Farah, was not fully booked so they moved us from further aft to further midship without us asking. That helped with some noise. We also were only docked front to back once. Other than that, we were very pleased and felt like we got a similar level of service and experiences as you did with AMA Waterways. My one additional warning would be to emphasize the physical nature of the trip - we joked that there wasn’t an OSHA (US occupational safety) regulation Egypt didn’t break! By the way, we used followed your water advice and dietary advice and had zero issues - same with everyone in our group. Again, thank you!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Great to hear you had a great time, and I am delighted that the video helped too. Yes, I agree with your Health & Safety point....!!!!!!

[@travelingfool9096]

this is on my bucket list for sure. thanks again for another informative video.

[@lbco5229]

Egypt is amazing. The ‘aggressive vendors’ are tiring, but overwhelmingly the Egyptian people are wonderful. I left the ‘group bubble’ and wandered away from the beaten path as much as possible and had zero problems. The food was very good, everywhere. Most speak English, but learning a couple basic greetings in Arabic goes a wonderfully long way and brings smiles. Bring lots of $1 and $5 bills (in ‘new’ condition if possible), for lots of small things like tips, donations, a cold drink, access to the toilet, etc. Agreed, the toilets are an experience to be missed (!) Keeping your head down and ignoring everyone is rude - treat them nicely and they will return the politeness.

[@AvesPasseri-Jinysvet]

I used to study in Egypt and also work as a guide for the Czech tourists coming to visit in the mid 90s. The funny thing is how little has changed on the cruise! Yes, you have wifi, everybody has mobile phones and photos, the food shown looks better (and I was to many 5star ships with the groups), the security is a bit tighter too. But overall, I guess, even the ships look the same and the galabeia parties etc. Funny.

[@Bucket-1979]

Always want to go to Egypt. I definitely enjoyed your video. Have a happy Father’s Day.

[@timeglass777]

Nile cruise is totally overrated. 1. the schedule of visiting temples is not designed for tourists. It depends on the boats time: sometime it stops at night, other times you have to get up 6 am to see temples. 2. it is not just your boat stops and people from your boat visiting the temples. There will be hundreds of boats and hundreds of people from the boats at the temple the same time. I remember that my boat reached Luxor around 4-5pm, and by the time I arrived at the Luxor temple, people were pushing each other at the temple. Next morning I visited it again around 10am and it was almost empty! So if you don't like crowds and don't want to be pushed around sightseeing, don't go to the cruise and book your own tour. 3. the food is mediocre which would be fine if many passengers including I did not get stomach problems. I never figured out what caused it since it was buffet. People in my group took turns getting sick. On the last day of the cruise, we decided on a McDonald's at Luxor. Everyone was fine next day. My conclusion is that don't be deceived by the romanticism of Cruise on Nile. Reality bites. I don't understand why they don't tell you the truth in these videos!

[@mickeymorgan4672]

Limited downtime. Sounds awesome. I can relax at home.

[@connie_360]

Security in Egypt is impressive! Thanks for this tour! 😀

[@silviaeastonborges5204]

Gary, about vendors (anywhere) you say “ignore them” BUT soon after you say “no no no… la la la”. I have a better one, for me “ignore them” means no “no’s” NO nothing, look down the pavement with absolutely no words as if you were deaf and could not speak! NO engagement whatsoever…

[@lbco5229]

You’re no fun.

[@stevemcglamery5368]

My wife and I did a Nile river cruise in Nov 2020. We only had 4 people on our boat and only saw one other boat on the river. Everything was open and there was nobody there. Fantastic trip.

[@jimmyandersen742]

Great info and you are very good telling what do do or NOT..Great work!!

[@andreaward6478]

Went on Viking last November, the weather was perfect. No problems, met in the arrivals lounge and helped through. Amazing egyptologist Walid. I think Viking must have their own moorings because we never parked side by side. Used dollars for everything- take new notes and lots of ones. The coach drivers etc are happy to break larger notes. Security was excellent and we never felt at risk. It is a muslim country, they arent particularly strict but of course it's good manners to cover up. Medicine for upset tummy was available from reception on the boat, start it straight away, it's quick and effective. The vendors are a hassle and exhausting after a few days but just be firm and keep walking by. We had an amazing time, the sights were astonishing and an organised trip meant little to no anxiety

[@eleko12]

What would you have done differently if you had asked about the food before the trip? Would you have taken your own food on board??? The same question about the cabin: as far as I understood, all cabins would have been a bad choice because of other parking ships and motor noice.

[@mikoto7693]

I did this one years ago so my information is outdated but it was very similar to this video. I was very similarly “bubbled” off and guarded. I was safe and protected though I did notice that in Cairo we were being escorted by a guy in a suit who was armed with some kind of Uzi under his jacket! I didn’t get an upset stomach because I did that same things as this guy did. My brother did and he that local remedy that worked for him. It is very action packed with a lot to do. I skipped a couple sites because I needed some downtime. Glad I did it but wouldn’t go again.

[@MellowWind]

I still don't get it. Is it better to stay at the back or midship because of the engines?

[@ingelisemacdonald6094]

My husband and I did a Nike cruise in 2019. It was so incredibly interesting! A real experience! Before we went we had purchased Egyptian cash and unfortunately our Canadian bank gave us this in large bills. At no time during the cruise were we able exchange these for smaller bills. We had a few Euros in coins and that is all we were able to spend in the markets. Very disappointing for us and the vendors.

[@mythai9593]

Looks amazing, love Egyptian history 👍

[@NotTomS]

Excellent vid... and trust folks, Egypt is place where you want to be in a bubble... lots of nasty surprises for the unprepared and unassisted...

[@causticchameleon7861]

On our cruise, we booked a supposedly 5 star cruise ship. It was not. It was at best a 3 star based on the accommodations but the staff was fabulous. I found it odd that there were no female staff on the whole ship. Only male staff. We had the galabaya dance too which was quite fun. We picked up our galabaya dresses in Cairo from a shop our guide knew. We went in early February and the temps were in the 60’s-70’s during the day and 40’s at night. No bugs that I recall. He’s right about the portable toilets. They are horrendous. I labeled them Cholera & Dysentery.

[@arribaficationwineho32]

What cruise line? I will admit I have used a hole in the floor in other countries

[@causticchameleon7861]

@@arribaficationwineho32 I can’t remember the boat name. My mom used her travel agent to book the trip and the tour guide in Egypt picked the boat.

[@arribaficationwineho32]

@@causticchameleon7861 sounds like a great trip. Do you still have the dress?

[@jacquelyns9709]

Can you do this cruise using a rollator walker?

[@redwoods7370]

My daughter just returned from a Nile River cruise and visit to the pyramids, etc. She said that it gets very hot inside the pyramids, temples, and museums.

[@cydneystephen2814]

Hi Sir Gary. First time I’m hearing the word Egyptologist. QUESTION? The labeled plates of food was a display to show the menu? Have never seen that. Good to know of good security. Groups of 24 a good size. Didn’t know GI issues were common. Guess water for ice was filtered. Thanks for all the great insights as usual.

[@tpkyterooluebeck9224]

Anywhere in the Middle East that is not Israel proper ran by Jews, you can get sick on the food. President Cheese in Israel is better than the exact same stuff in Jordan. In Jordan, it can get you sick, but in Israel, they keep their cheese fresher and get rid of old stuff and don't serve bad cheese. India and Pakistan can have the same issues.

[@derekogilvie6942]

a superb presentation

[@lesliecastro3656]

13:10 Hello Mr. Bembridge. How accessible is the trip for physically challenged persons? Thanks!

[@Honda_Hooligan]

I was recommended to take Ciprofloxacin as a prophylactic before I went to India. It must have worked as I didn't get an upset stomach.

[@simonpeter6053]

Re: templed out, I once took a 3-week tour of Europe at the end of which I was cathedraled out!

[@gailweatherall1215]

I have taken that dinner cruise on the Nile...didn't have a problem.

[@shawnbell6392]

Yes, avoid salads and use bottled water for even brushing your teeth. I had no health issues in a month in Egypt. There is also hi tech travel clothing that will maximize comfort and cooling so you don't need to resort to shorts and tank tops.

[@ameliamathew8636]

You’re making Egypt sound so unsafe, but I’ve had many friends travel there who felt very safe outside of a “bubble” and found people very lovely and helpful

[@AG-qc8ek]

Yes, his comments about security worries and political things feeling on edge and about to explode at any moment, are just overblown.. and his irritation about the staff being non European is weird (...) at best...

[@SculptyWorks]

Awesome that you got to make this trip! 👍👍

[@strange924]

The help this video has provided me is invaluable! Thanks a million.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad it helped!

[@cathydrumobich9045]

Great video. What's the best time of year to go? Also, are there any ultra-luxury private cruises for smaller groups so you can avoid those "stacked-up" dock large boats?

[@chrisboot2468]

We (my husband and I) have visited Egypt - specifically Luxor - 19 times. we have NEVER had any problems about being an LGBT+ couple. Like the threat of "upset stomach" which also NEVER happened to us. We walked everywhere, used local transport, the local's ferry across to the West Bank of the Nile. All the Egyptians we met were extremely friendly and concerned about our welfare. We are still in touch with about a dozen of them. The "dangers" of Egypt are greatly exaggerated and videos like this do nothing to dispel this myth.

[@angelwingz892]

Agreed! Best vacation ever was a week in Luxor. So much to see! Do go on the early morning balloon ride...this was such a highlight...Hapchetsuts temple, Valley of the Kings ...so amazing. The people are genuinely friendly. I recommend it.

[@CandyGirl44]

What was the condition and treatment of the horses and camels like at the pyramids, I've known some people come away from Egypt disgusted at the treatment of animals?

[@you6382tube]

So interesting! Excellent! Thank you!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@richardc488]

We enjoyed our cruise and the ballon ride over luxor at dawn was great. Security for our American group we had a suited policeman with a machine gun with us at all times in the bus at the sites. We also had a escorted armed police cruiser assigned to our bus. They do this for American based tours only, not Britt tours like Amarway.

[@AnInterestedObserver]

Thanks for a very useful video. Yes, getting the trots in Egypt is almost a given. Having worked there I experienced the most severe diarrhea imaginable, as did the dozens of other incoming European workers on the project with which I was involved even though we were staying in good hotels. As the narrator said, brush your teeth with bottled water, no salads unless you prepare it yourself and wash with bottle water, don't eat anything that 'hasn't been passed through a flame', as the company doctor advised us. No ice creams, nothing that anyone has peeled, peel it again yourself, locals don't always have good (or any) knowledge or understanding of basic hygiene. Having said that, the sights are amazing, just take care with what you out in mouth or what touches your lips or you'll spend all your time painfully on the toilet.

[@MiaHessMusic]

Great video!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@Pulchria24]

If you say 'La, la, la' to vendors they will assume you're singing. It's "La-al' [2 syllables] 'No' and it's wise, as well as polite, to say 'La-al, shok- ran' 'No, thank you'.

[@PetraPuppy]

SHUKRUN

[@MikeGill87]

I still don't get the obsession with security. I never had any problems anywhere in the world, Egypt included. Never I really felt unsafe in any way and that "bubble" would really piss me off.

[@lmurph5854]

What an informative video. Thank you so much.

[@mlandkj8272]

I understand the need to avoid ice, salads, etc. But what about Coffee? Is it safe to drink coffee in shops and on board the cruise? Do they use bottled or boiled water for coffee?

[@mikepham518]

Great video. I’m debating to book a 5-6 Nike cruise. Curiously how much time do they give you to see the Luxor temples. Can you walk alone or go you need to stay w your guide?

[@gingernightmare9152]

SS Sudan is the best and worth it!!!

[@randomethingscatstoo3118]

Thank you

[@FaeDruid]

I don’t get it, what is the local remedy? I mean what’s in it?

[@duncant3894]

Egyptians use antinal.

[@shinjineesen400]

Imodium?

[@SUSANREYNOLDS-dn3ob]

I was so sick when we were out and must have looked it because they got the Captain and he gave me 3-4 different tablets and I felt so bad that I just took them. Don't know what they were and I would never do that if I were in my right mind. Missed the Galabeya party but was well the next day.

[@shinjineesen400]

@@SUSANREYNOLDS-dn3ob Glad you are well now. I have been that sick (with extreme heat and pneumonia). Know how disorienting it is.

[@BrianBellia]

Very comprehensive. Great advice! 👍

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad it was helpful!

[@BrianBellia]

@@tipsfortravellers Enjoyable, too!

[@TS-pq8km]

Thanks Gary but not much on the Nile sailing experience itself. A timetable would be good. You have to wonder if the train and a few felucca trips plus some decent hotels in Luxor delivers a better experience. I think you have overdone "the bubble". In Egypt the Government limits where tourists can go so for most they are in a bubble as well. The hawkers at the main Indian sites are much the same but at least in India it's easy to escape the bubble and enjoy a more relaxed India. The fancy dress night sounds cringeworthy in modern times

[@fanndisgoldbraid3183]

I'll mention one thing about restrooms in the Middle East. The native population do not relieve themselves like we do in the Western world. I toilet facility in many places is a hole in the ground and a water hose that hangs nearby to clean up after. Unheard in the West. So naturally, places like Port-o-John's are disgusting. No one sits down. They point and shoot and let the next guy worry about it. The next guy/gal does the same. It's a mess. Expect that and you will not be surprised. If you can't handle that issue, best not to travel in the area at all.

[@rayewen3347]

I had been on a tour in Egypt many years ago. Actually, we landed in Cairo about an hour after President Sedat was assassinated. I have wanted to go back but after seeing this video, I've changed my mind. The sellers at the Valley of the kings now looks like a bazaar although they are still as aggressive as before. I was able to walk through tombs and other places without feeling I was in a museum. It was wonderful. It gave the feeling, as it should, of antiquity. It is now too business like. Thank you for this video.

[@helenorgarycrevonis2022]

Gary, thank you for great review. Question: what season did you travel in?

[@perpetuummobile100]

He said April

[@classicsciencefictionhorro1665]

He said April.

[@garyshepherd9226]

What's the point of a cruise like this - better to go to a hotel and do day trips?

[@clement2780]

when is river cruising vs bus vs train the preferred mode of travel or which destinations match which mode?