From riding camels at the Giza Pyramids to cruising the world's busiest river, I documented every day of this adventure so my clients know exactly what to expect.
I've been fortunate to explore more than 50 countries, and I've done my share of river cruises on the Rhine and the Danube. But the Nile had always called to me. When the opportunity came to experience it firsthand with AMA Waterways, I knew this was a trip that would not only fulfill a personal dream but also give me the kind of destination knowledge I need to truly serve my clients.
Flying into Cairo, I was immediately struck by the enormity of what lay ahead. This wasn't just another river cruise. This was an adventure through thousands of years of human history, a chance to walk where pharaohs once ruled.
The Heart of Ancient Egypt
Visiting the Grand Egyptian Museum set the tone for everything that followed. The scale of artifacts, the stories they held, it was the perfect introduction before heading out to see the Giza Pyramids. And let me tell you, nothing quite prepares you for that moment. Riding a camel alongside those ancient structures, feeling the desert heat, understanding that you're standing at one of the most famous sites in human history. It's something I keep thinking about and telling people about, even now.
What surprised me most was how many mosques Egypt has. I honestly didn't realize the religious architecture would be such a significant part of the experience. We visited a beautiful mosque that left a lasting impression on me. The intricate designs, the peaceful atmosphere. It added a dimension to the trip I hadn't anticipated.
We traveled to Valley of the Kings, explored the Ramsay Museum, went through the locks in Luxor, and wandered through countless markets. Each day brought new temples, new stories, new moments of genuine wonder. Here's something I learned that surprised me: the Nile is the busiest and largest river in the world, and there are so many river cruise boats navigating its waters. After three previous river cruises in Europe, I thought I knew what to expect. The Nile is a different experience entirely.
A Dubai Bonus
After the river cruise, I did a three day post stay in Dubai with AMA Waterways. I visited the largest mall in the world and actually went snowboarding inside it. We explored many mosques there as well. One thing that stood out immediately: Dubai is one of the cleanest countries I've ever been to. That kind of detail matters when you're helping clients decide where to go.
Who This Trip Is For
I want to be direct about this: this trip is definitely geared towards retirees or people approaching retirement. The focus on culture and history is deep and immersive. I don't think young kids or young adults would enjoy it in the same way. But for those who appreciate learning, who want to truly understand a destination's past, this is extraordinary.
I journaled this trip every single day, documenting what to expect for each excursion. That's something I do because I believe my clients deserve to know exactly what they're signing up for. No surprises, just a well organized adventure that matches their lifestyle and expectations. AMA Waterways is a river cruise experience I will confidently recommend, especially on the Nile. Having been there myself, I can now walk my clients through every day, every temple, every unforgettable moment. And that's exactly why I travel. To inspire them with my own stories, and to help them go on an adventure and live their life.
