Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Luxor with Friends

Luxor's Echoes of the Past & Present

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of ancient history and modern-day comforts. It’s funny how travel can be both exhilarating and grounding, all at the same time. I found myself reflecting on how much I appreciate having Lena and my friends here to share these experiences with. It makes every discovery, every shared meal, that much more special.



Our day began, as most do here at the Iberotel Luxor Hotel, with a hearty breakfast at the hotel restaurant. Fuelled up and ready, we set off to explore the wonders that Luxor had in store for us. First on the agenda was Queen’s Island. Getting there involved a short ferry ride from the Luxor Corniche, which was an experience in itself. The Nile shimmered under the morning sun, and the gentle breeze was a welcome respite from the already rising temperatures. It reminded me a bit of boat trips back in Cyprus, though the landscape here is starkly different.


Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Luxor at Iberotel Luxor Hotel, where comfort meets convenience just minutes from the city center.


Explore the serenity of Queen's Island in Luxor, a tranquil escape rich in natural beauty and historical significance, perfect for relaxation and reflection.

Queen’s Island, also known as Kings Island, was a tranquil escape from the bustling city. It was named after Queen Sonja of Norway, apparently one of her favourite places. I read that the Jolie Ville Luxor Hotel & Spa Kings Island is located there and offers a wide range of activities, including a mini zoo. We didn't explore the hotel itself, but enjoyed the greenery and peaceful atmosphere of the island. It was a good change of pace, a chance to slow down and appreciate the calmer side of Luxor.





After our relaxing interlude on Queen’s Island, we headed to the Avenue of the Rams, a site I had been particularly excited about. The sheer scale of it is breathtaking. To walk along a path once trod by pharaohs, flanked by these imposing statues, is an experience that truly transports you back in time. Lena was especially fascinated, snapping photos from every angle. She’s always had a keen eye for detail, noticing things I often miss.


Explore the stunning Avenue of the Rams in Luxor, a historical landmark showcasing ancient Egyptian heritage through its majestic statues and rich history.

The Avenue, also known as the King’s Festivities Road or Rams Road, connects the Karnak Temple with the Luxor Temple, stretching for 2.7 kilometers. I learned that it was originally established for the annual Opet Festival, as well as royal coronations. The avenue is lined with over a thousand statues, some with human heads and others with ram heads, symbolizing the deity Amun. The ram-headed sphinxes were particularly striking, each one a testament to the incredible craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

It’s amazing to think that this avenue, which lay hidden for thousands of years, was only fully uncovered in recent decades. The restoration work is impressive, allowing visitors to experience a glimpse of ancient Thebes in all its glory. Walking along the Avenue of the Rams, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the civilization that created it. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate history so much, connecting us to the stories and lives of those who came before us.



For lunch, we decided to try LA CORNICHE RESTAURANT. It was a welcome break from the heat, and the restaurant itself was quite elegant. The Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor, where it's located, has a rich history, built in 1886. The atmosphere was lovely and the service was great. We enjoyed some soup, seafood and chicken. It was a satisfying meal, although Lena thought the flavours were a little bland. She always has high standards when it comes to food, a trait I both admire and sometimes find challenging.


Savor exquisite Western cuisine with breathtaking Nile views at La Corniche Restaurant in Luxor.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to indulge in a bit of familiar comfort food for dinner. Wang Chao Chinese Restaurant seemed like a good option, and it was conveniently located. The restaurant itself was fairly standard, nothing particularly special, but the food was surprisingly good. We ordered a variety of dishes, from noodles to stir-fries, and everyone seemed to enjoy their meal. It was a nice change of pace after days of exploring Egyptian cuisine, and it reminded me of some of our favourite Chinese restaurants back in Berlin.


Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Wang Chao Restaurant in Luxor - a must-visit culinary destination for travelers seeking diverse cuisine.

After dinner, we decided to check out The King's Head Pub, a British-style pub that promised a taste of home away from home. It was a bit of a hidden gem, located on the second floor of a building, but well worth the effort to find. The pub had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with dark wood furnishings and a lively crowd. It was a mix of tourists and locals, all enjoying a drink and some good conversation.


Discover the vibrant ambiance of The King's Head Pub in Luxor, where local culture meets international charm for a unique social experience.

I opted for a local beer, while Lena tried one of their cocktails. We chatted with some of the other patrons, swapping travel stories and recommendations. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. It was a fun and relaxing way to end the day, a chance to unwind and soak in the atmosphere of Luxor.



The King’s Head Pub is known for its British fare and pub atmosphere. It’s apparently open from 3 PM to 11:30 PM. It seemed like a popular spot, and I can see why. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a drink after a long day of sightseeing. I read online that they have a good selection of beers and that the prices are reasonable. I also saw some reviews mentioning their fish and chips and Sunday roast, which sound delicious.



Tonight, as I sit here writing, I feel a sense of contentment. Today was a good day, a day of discovery and relaxation, of ancient wonders and modern comforts. It’s these contrasts that make travel so enriching, so fulfilling. And to share these experiences with Lena and my friends makes it all the more special.



Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Mortuary Temple of Seti I and the Tomb of Seti I (KV17). I'm particularly excited about seeing the tomb, as I've heard it's one of the most impressive in the Valley of the Kings. We'll also be having lunch at the Jamboree Restaurant and dinner at Tex Mex, which should be interesting. And Lena is hoping to do some shopping at the Nobles Art Gallery. It promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery, and I can't wait to see what Luxor has in store for us.



It's also the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid Al-Fitr. I read that people will be gathering with their families to pray and enjoy delicious food. I'm curious to see how this will affect our travels tomorrow and whether we'll get a chance to experience some of the local traditions.



Until then, goodnight from Luxor!