Solo Sojourn to the Timeless Wonders of Luxor

A Day Amongst Giants

Today was a day of wandering amidst the colossal remnants of pharaohs, feeling the weight of history in every grain of sand. It's a humbling experience to stand where kings once stood, to see their visions, now weathered by time, yet still magnificent. The scale of their ambition is truly breathtaking.



My day began, as it has every day here in Luxor, with breakfast at the Sonesta St George Hotel Luxor. The familiar spread and the gentle hum of the dining room provided a comforting start before venturing out into the day's adventures. Fuelled up, I set out to explore the West Bank, eager to immerse myself in the stories etched in stone.


Experience luxury and comfort at the Sonesta St George Hotel in Luxor, with stunning Nile views, exquisite dining, and top-tier amenities for an unforgettable stay.

My first stop was the Ramesseum, the mortuary temple of the great Ramesses II. Even in its ruined state, the temple exudes power and grandeur. I was immediately struck by the fallen colossus of Ramesses, a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of even the most powerful reigns. The sheer size of the statue, even in fragments, is awe-inspiring. I spent a good amount of time wandering through the hypostyle hall, imagining it in its full glory, the columns adorned with vibrant colours and intricate carvings. It's fascinating to think that Jean-François Champollion, the decipherer of hieroglyphs, visited these ruins in 1829 and identified Ramesses' names, unlocking so much of our understanding of this ancient civilization. The Ramesseum Medical Papyrus, housed within these walls, is also a testament to the advanced knowledge of medicine in ancient Egypt. I found myself lost in thought, pondering the lives of those who walked these halls thousands of years ago. It reminded me of my own work back in Antwerp, carefully piecing together fragments of the past to reveal their hidden stories.


Explore the Ramesseum, a historical gem in Luxor, Egypt, showcasing the grandeur of Ramses II's reign through stunning ruins and ancient artistry.

The sands of time may shift, but the echoes of greatness remain, resonating through the ages in the stones of Luxor.

From the Ramesseum, I ventured to the Amenhotep III Sun Temple. Though much of it is now lost to the ravages of time and the Nile's floods, the remaining Colossi of Memnon still stand guard, silently watching over the landscape. These massive statues, each weighing around 720 tons and standing as tall as a six-story building, are truly a sight to behold. They depict Amenhotep III seated, hands resting on his knees, gazing eastward towards the rising sun. It's incredible to think that these statues have stood here for over 3,000 years, weathering earthquakes and floods, and still retaining their imposing presence. Amenhotep III, often called the Sun King, certainly knew how to leave his mark. It's said that he erected around 250 monumental constructions, temples, statues, and stelae, all to immortalize his legacy. Standing before these colossal figures, I felt a profound connection to the past, a sense of wonder at the ingenuity and ambition of the ancient Egyptians. I thought of Marie and Thomas back home, and how they would marvel at these incredible sights. Perhaps one day, I can bring them here to experience this firsthand.


Explore the breathtaking ruins of the Amenhotep III Sun Temple in Luxor, a captivating glimpse into ancient Egyptian civilization and its architectural marvels.

After a morning steeped in history, it was time for lunch. I made my way to the Nubian House, a local restaurant known for its authentic Egyptian cuisine. The restaurant is set in a traditional Nubian home, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. I decided to try their special, a selection of traditional Nubian dishes. The flavors were incredible, a blend of spices and fresh ingredients that tantalized my taste buds. It was a welcome change from the hotel fare, and I enjoyed chatting with the friendly staff, learning about their culture and traditions. It's these kinds of experiences that make traveling so rewarding, connecting with people and cultures on a personal level. I learned that the Nubian people are known for their hospitality, and I certainly experienced that firsthand. They even showed me their natural well and guava tree, explaining how they use the leaves as a cough suppressant – a testament to their resourcefulness and connection to nature.


Experience authentic Egyptian cuisine at Nubian House in Luxor - where tradition meets taste.

In the late afternoon, I sought refuge from the sun at Gerda's Garden, a charming restaurant owned by a German-Egyptian couple. The garden setting was a welcome respite, and the menu offered a mix of Egyptian and German specialties. I opted for a classic Egyptian moussaka, which was absolutely delicious. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and I enjoyed chatting with the owners, learning about their story and how they came to create this little oasis in Luxor. It reminded me of the small garden I tend to back home in Antwerp, a place of peace and tranquility amidst the bustling city.


Discover Gerda's Garden in Luxor – where fast food meets local charm and flavor in a vibrant dining experience.

As the sun began to set, I decided to indulge in a local tradition and visited the Wine Palace. It wasn't quite the opulent Sofitel Winter Palace, where the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb was announced, but it had its own charm. I savoured a glass of local wine, reflecting on the day's adventures. The Ramesseum and the Amenhotep III Sun Temple had transported me back in time, allowing me to glimpse the grandeur of ancient Egypt. The Nubian House and Gerda's Garden had provided a taste of local culture and hospitality, enriching my experience in Luxor.


Experience the essence of Luxor at the Wine Palace, where relaxation meets local flavor in a charming bar setting.

The air is filled with anticipation for tomorrow's journey to the Temple of Khnum and the Sound & Light show. I'm also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at SHOP SANDOUK. HandCrafts/FairTrade. I'm eager to see what new wonders await me in this ancient land.



Tonight, as I sit on my balcony, the sounds of Luxor drifting up from the streets below, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for this opportunity to explore such a remarkable place. It's a privilege to walk in the footsteps of pharaohs, to learn about their lives and their legacies, and to share these experiences with you all. Until tomorrow, may your own journeys be filled with wonder and discovery.