The Gift of the Nile

Herodotus wrote “Egypt is the gift of the Nile” and a medieval Arab poet continued, “and the Nile is the gift of the Good God”. The fertile Delta zone of Egypt, annually enriched by the floodwaters of the Nile, formed the basis of the country’s prosperity and allowed a splendid civilisation to develop. When power moved from Memphis at the southern end of the Delta to Thebes in Upper Egypt, magnificent temples and tombs were built by the 18th-20th dynasty New Kingdom pharaohs in Thebes and as far south as Abu Simbel and who themselves were later buried in the Valley of the Kings. For the interested traveller, a Nile cruise presents almost too many options – the wish to take advantage of an experienced guide, the desire for independent exploration and the attraction of relaxing in a warm climate amidst scenic river landscapes.

Exclusive VJV Event - Luxor Temple Reception
Those who rediscovered ancient Egypt in the 18th and 19th centuries enjoyed magical overnight stays and this has prompted us to arrange private evening access to the Luxor temple, enhanced by striking illumination, to savour the unique night-time atmosphere. A private reception has been arranged at the temple exclusively for the guests of Voyages Jules Verne. Enjoy a cocktail served by staff in pharaonic uniform at the illuminated Luxor Temple before strolling through the temple unimpeded by other visitors. A recording of Verdi’s Aida, once staged in the temple, will provide a musical background to the occasion and local musicians will play the Egyptian ‘takht’ music. Note: In summer the Luxor temple will have extended opening hours to the public until 10pm. For departures Jul-Aug 2009 and during May-Oct 2010, guests will now have a cocktail reception in the historic setting of the Victoria lounge at the Old Winter Palace at 8pm, followed by a visit to the illuminated temple during public opening times.

Click here for more exclusive arrangements by VJV.