The Nile Hotel

Good location, but

I chose a 5* hotel because it was my first time in Egypt and I was traveling with my daughter. I liked the fact that drinking was limited to the upstairs restaurant (always excellent food/service) and there was no casino. The location was excellent, with the Cairo Museum out the back door. It was also near the subway line and the Coptic Center/Museum was only a few stops away. Crossing streets was a nightmare here as everywhere in Cairo, but we managed by tagging along with an unsuspecting Egyptian. The lobby was attractive and the room fine, although the bathroom a bit tired. While everyone was gracious, the twin we had reserved was not offered until day three because we arrived late and the problematic sink drain remained unfixed the last day of our stay after two assurances that it would be fixed.

While we ended our trip in 5 star hotels because we were two women traveling on our own, we chose a tour organized by a British agent that was very economical. We enjoyed Egypt because of an articulate and enthusiastic Egyptian guide, the small group size, and an emphasis on seeing sites in upper, middle and lower Egypt rather than on stopping to shop and luxury accommodations. The one thing I would try to do if I went back to Egypt is get my hands on a lot of 1 and 5 pound notes so I would feel better about "sharing the wealth."

View of the Nile

This is a great location for Cairo. Roof terrace gives you a panaoramic view of city and can see pyramids from roof. I kept on going up to take it in. The museum is just at the back entrance to hotel so you can avoid the hassle of the taxi and negotiating the traffic. Its not cheap and breakfast is extra. However the setting for breakfast and friendliness of the staff was excellent. We changed notes at the useful bank there so we had plenty of small notes ready to hand for tips for the probably not very well paid staff. They have a good cafe with western prices but after a day being a Cairene it’s good to be able to relax in the familiar.

Taxi’s from hotel expensive, best to arrange with any tour guide you go with - would recommend www.adventureinegypt.com and Samo Tours [samotours@hotmail.com]

Cairo, Egypt

Great location with the museum, but nothing else in walking distance. Nice roof top bar good food and lobby cafe. All personnel very nice and accommodating. Worth the price of stay.