Guest Book

Clean, friendly oasis in a non-touristy neighborhood

"Clean, quiet, and friendly are important attributes in Luxor. Mara House feels like a B&B. It is located about 10 minutes walk from the train station in a quiet neighborhood. It was nice to show up without day plans and simply join up with whatever small tours were going out that week. We took two tours with Hady, who is both informative and entertaining. I highly recommend going to Abydos/Dendara with him to see temples in a good state of preservation. Mara has good advice on prices and independent sight-seeing as well. Luxor and Karnac temples are a short taxi ride away. Since touts are everywhere, you need to know in advance what to expect to pay and what all the scams are. (If anyone asks you, "Where are you from?", you can bet that person is a tout.)

Be aware that the rooms do not have phone or TV and that internet is available only via the "office" computer on the first floor (and in nearby internet cafes). This was not a problem for us and we were always able to use the internet when we needed to but if you plan to use it a lot, this could be a concern. Showers without shower curtains surprised us at first, but we quickly adjusted.

So unless you are looking for a hotel with all amenities right in the middle of the hustle and bustle, Mara House is a great value. Friendly staff, trustworthy advice, good tours on offer."