A few days into my trip now, and so far I am really enjoying it. Being in a small group is much better then some of the large groups I have seen, and whilst much of the trip has very much been on the beaten track (it is Egypt after all, one cannot avoid the pyramids for example) there have been several times when we have enjoyed a more unique experience.

One of the highlights so far for me was a visit to a small Nubian village outside Aswan. Our group was taken by Camel to the village, a small community on the outskirts of the Saharan desert. The town itself was built entirely on a burnt red sand, and in contrast to the major cities we have visited it was very clean - the community appears to take great pride in their village. Arriving with the setting sun, we were welcomed by a group of young children, grateful for any small tokens we could leave them (pens especially seem to be a big hit in the Egyptian towns) before being led to a Nubian household for an evening meal.

The house appeared typical of many in the village, mostly open-air and painted a deep blue, with murals on the walls. It was well equipped with basic facilities, and I could easily imagine spending time enjoying life in such a place (perhaps only hindered by the lack of a Western-style toilet). The family were very welcoming, and we were all encouraged to mix with the local community in song and dance before dinner. The meal itself was simple but amazing, typical of most of the food we have had since leaving Cairo.

I have no delusions that even in this aspect of the tour the path has been well trodden before us, but for me this does not take away from both the experience. The area has not yet been ruined by excessive tourism, and yet can still benefit the additional income generated by semi-regular visits throughout the year.