Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Luxor with Family
Day 9: Luxor's Last Embrace: Reflecting on Ancient Wonders and Hidden Gems
Discover the final day of our Luxor adventure, exploring Carter House, Deir El-Shelwit Temple, and savoring local flavors with my family.
A Fond Farewell to Luxor
As our Luxor adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family over the past nine days. Today promised a more relaxed pace, a chance to soak in the last moments of this ancient city before heading back to Denmark. It's funny how a place so steeped in history can feel so familiar, almost like a second home.
Our day began, as many others had, with a delightful breakfast at Aladdin's Kingdom Restaurant. The aroma of fresh Egyptian bread and the sweet taste of local honey filled the air, a perfect start to the day. Lasse, ever the adventurous one, tried the ful medames (stewed fava beans), while Astrid and I enjoyed a more familiar omelet. It's these simple moments, shared over a meal, that truly make a trip memorable.
Experience authentic Egyptian cuisine at Aladdin's Kingdom Restaurant in Luxor—where every dish tells a story.
The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.
After breakfast, we set out to visit Carter House. It was fascinating to walk through the home of Howard Carter, the man who discovered Tutankhamun's tomb. The house itself is a modest mud-brick structure, but the stories it holds are immense. I could almost picture Carter poring over his notes, the excitement of his discovery palpable even after all these years. The replica of Tutankhamun's burial chamber was a highlight, offering a glimpse into the treasures that lay hidden for centuries. It's incredible to think that this unassuming house was the epicenter of one of the greatest archaeological finds in history. I was particularly moved by the information panels detailing the Egyptian contributions to the discovery, a reminder that history is always a collaborative effort.
Discover the history and culture of the New Valley at Carter House, an engaging museum that showcases Egypt's rich heritage.
Next on our itinerary was the Deir El-Shelwit Temple, dedicated to Isis. This Greco-Roman temple stands in stark contrast to the grand Pharaonic structures we've seen, yet it possesses a unique charm. The temple is smaller and more intimate, with well-preserved reliefs depicting Roman emperors making offerings to Egyptian gods. It's a testament to the blending of cultures that occurred in Egypt during the Roman period. Astrid, with her librarian's eye for detail, pointed out the cartouches of various Roman emperors, a fascinating glimpse into the past. The temple exuded tranquility, a peaceful oasis away from the bustling city. I found myself contemplating the layers of history embedded in this place, each civilization leaving its mark on the landscape.
Explore the rich history and breathtaking architecture of Deir El-Shelwit Temple in Luxor, a hidden gem of ancient Egyptian heritage.
For lunch, we decided to try PIZZA ROMA. IT, a local Italian restaurant. After days of exploring Egyptian cuisine, we were all craving a taste of home. The pizza was surprisingly authentic, a testament to the Italian woman who runs the place with her Egyptian husband. Lasse devoured a Margherita pizza, while Astrid and I shared a pasta dish. It was a comforting meal, a reminder of our roots in Italy and Denmark, even as we embraced the wonders of Egypt. The friendly staff made us feel welcome, and we even chatted with a couple from Rome who were equally impressed with the pizza.
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Pizza Roma in Luxor - where fresh ingredients meet culinary passion in a cozy setting.
In the afternoon, we ventured into the Pr-Ba Concept Store (Luxor) for a bit of souvenir shopping. I was on the hunt for a unique piece to bring back to my workshop in Silkeborg, something that would remind me of this incredible journey. The store was a treasure trove of local crafts, from handwoven textiles to intricate pottery. I finally settled on a small alabaster carving of Anubis, the god of mummification. It was a beautiful piece, and I knew it would look perfect on my workbench, a reminder of the artistry and skill of the ancient Egyptians. Astrid found a beautiful scarf made from Egyptian cotton, while Lasse picked up a few small trinkets for his friends back home. It's important to support local artisans, and I was glad to find a store that showcased their talents.
Explore the Pr-Ba Concept Store in Luxor for unique handicrafts and souvenirs that capture the essence of Egyptian culture.
As the day drew to a close, we decided to have dinner at Maxime's El Saltana café. The café had a lovely atmosphere, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the evening air. The menu offered a variety of Egyptian and Mediterranean dishes, and we all found something to our liking. I opted for the grilled chicken, while Astrid tried the falafel. Lasse, of course, went for the burger and fries. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was a perfect way to end our last day in Luxor, savoring the flavors of Egypt one last time.
Discover authentic Egyptian flavors at Maxime's El Saltana Café in Luxor – where tradition meets taste.
Tomorrow, we bid farewell to Luxor and begin our journey back to Denmark. While I'm eager to return to my workshop and share my experiences with my friends, I know that a part of me will always remain in this ancient city. The memories we've made as a family, the sights we've seen, and the people we've met will stay with us forever. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of discovery, a chance to connect with history and culture in a profound way. I am already looking forward to our next adventure. Perhaps we will explore the ancient ruins of Rome, or maybe we will venture to the far reaches of Asia. Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the world is full of wonders waiting to be discovered, and I am eager to explore them all with my family by my side. As I always say, the journey is the destination, and I'm grateful for every step of the way. I am thankful for the opportunity to share my experiences with you, and I hope that my words have inspired you to embark on your own adventures.
I think I will miss the warm Egyptian sun, it will be colder back in Silkeborg, but I am still happy to go back to my workshop and my familiar routines. But first, some days of rest are needed!
Until next time, happy travels!
Join us on a family adventure to Luxor, where history comes alive through ancient temples and vibrant culture in the heart of Egypt.
Meet this Featured Explorer
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Occupation: Restorer of Antique Furniture
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Country: Denmark
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Age: 47
Ciao! I'm Andrea Colombo, a restorer of antique furniture with a passion for history, art, and exploring different cultures. Born in Italy and now living in Denmark, I've spent my life surrounded by craftsmanship and stories of the past. Join me as I share my travel experiences, weaving together personal anecdotes, historical facts, and practical tips for those who appreciate immersive and authentic journeys. Together with my family, I seek out unique destinations, connect with local communities, and uncover the hidden gems that make each place special. Benvenuti!
- History
- Art
- Architecture
- Different Cultures
- Culinary Experiences
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