I’ve finally gathered reviews and comments about Mara House and our Salahadeen Restaurant here on my own website. There aren’t many for Salahadeen, as it’s been open only to Mara House guests for years and TripAdvisor has since removed those reviews. These come from TripAdvisor, Google Maps, guest blogs, letters, and other kind words shared over time. Some are missing, as I hadn’t realized TripAdvisor began deleting reviews from tour guests who did their tours with us but who didn’t stay at Mara House. I hope these words give you a true sense of who we are and what Mara House is all about. Enjoy, Mara
471 entries.
Home Away from Home at Mara House in Luxor
"We have just returned after five nights at Mara House. The hotel is tastefully decorated with Egyptian style furnishings. We have never experienced such incredible personal service before and felt right at home, minutes after our arrival.
Our accommodation was a spacious 3 bedroom apartment style room with separate sitting room, kitchenette, good sized bathroom and balcony. The accommodation was spotlessly clean and the beds comfortable. There was no TV or telephone in the room, but we did not miss these too much. Afterall, Mara House does not pretend to be 5 star and is actually tailor made for those travellers looking for a private residence style of hotel accommodation.
This was my third visit to Luxor. In the past, I did stay in 5 star accommodation on the Nile. Of course they were very nice and well appointed. However, this time, as a more independent traveller -- I was anxious to get away from all the the noisy attractions and find some real peace and tranquility away from the tourist hassles with go hand in hand with travel in Egypt. Not only did we save a lot of money -- we also met Mara -- one of the nicest, friendliest and helpful people you will ever meet.
Mara House is situated right in the middle of a typical Luxor Egyptian family area. In the mornings, I would go out on to my balcony and see people going about their daily activities and even some children playing football in the street. The walk to the Nile takes around 10 minutes and takes you through the dusty local streets of Luxor. While to our eyes they may not be the most dust free, well paved or even the tidiest streets --- well, afterall, this is Egypt!! Nonetheless, we felt totally safe and remained intrigued with all the local sights along the way. Alternatively, taxis can be booked at a very reasonable price.
At first we were not sure of our way around, however, Mara was always on hand with maps, information, instructions - no matter how many times we asked. She was also very good at helping us arrange tours to visit the local sites.
Overall, I would say that this is one of the best hotels that we have stayed in, and I am extremely fussy. Perhaps Mara House is not the most convenient if you want to stay right on the banks of the Nile. However, if you want to mix your holiday in Luxor by living along side a real slice of Egyptian community life, lots of rest and relaxation, a safe family friendly environment ---PLUS your trips to the Pharonic Sites -- then experiencing "Egypt with Mara" is a must!"
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"We have just returned after five nights at Mara House. The hotel is tastefully decorated with Egyptian style furnishings. We have never experienced such incredible personal service before and felt right at home, minutes after our arrival.
Our accommodation was a spacious 3 bedroom apartment style room with separate sitting room, kitchenette, good sized bathroom and balcony. The accommodation was spotlessly clean and the beds comfortable. There was no TV or telephone in the room, but we did not miss these too much. Afterall, Mara House does not pretend to be 5 star and is actually tailor made for those travellers looking for a private residence style of hotel accommodation.
This was my third visit to Luxor. In the past, I did stay in 5 star accommodation on the Nile. Of course they were very nice and well appointed. However, this time, as a more independent traveller -- I was anxious to get away from all the the noisy attractions and find some real peace and tranquility away from the tourist hassles with go hand in hand with travel in Egypt. Not only did we save a lot of money -- we also met Mara -- one of the nicest, friendliest and helpful people you will ever meet.
Mara House is situated right in the middle of a typical Luxor Egyptian family area. In the mornings, I would go out on to my balcony and see people going about their daily activities and even some children playing football in the street. The walk to the Nile takes around 10 minutes and takes you through the dusty local streets of Luxor. While to our eyes they may not be the most dust free, well paved or even the tidiest streets --- well, afterall, this is Egypt!! Nonetheless, we felt totally safe and remained intrigued with all the local sights along the way. Alternatively, taxis can be booked at a very reasonable price.
At first we were not sure of our way around, however, Mara was always on hand with maps, information, instructions - no matter how many times we asked. She was also very good at helping us arrange tours to visit the local sites.
Overall, I would say that this is one of the best hotels that we have stayed in, and I am extremely fussy. Perhaps Mara House is not the most convenient if you want to stay right on the banks of the Nile. However, if you want to mix your holiday in Luxor by living along side a real slice of Egyptian community life, lots of rest and relaxation, a safe family friendly environment ---PLUS your trips to the Pharonic Sites -- then experiencing "Egypt with Mara" is a must!"
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A haven in Luxor
"If you're wondering whether or not to stay at Mara House then wonder no longer. Do it!!!
Mara and her team provide a highly personalised service with truly beautifully furnished and big rooms. We could hardly believe that our bedroom (which was actually a quarter of a house was really ours)
The prices are unbelievably reasonable for all this and breakfast is included. But particularly priceless is the advice and assistance Mara provides to help you get around in the hectic (but exciting and mysterious) environment of Luxor.
We highly recommend the restaurant with its 1 zillion courses...Mara also provides excellent recommendations for other places to eat (but we'd suggest you try for her restaurant).
Mara believes in the law of attraction - that good things stick to other good things. We like this idea because her haven in the heart of Luxor is sooooooooooooo good.
One tip - just because you can trust Mara doesn't mean you can trust all her staff. Our only negative experience was her driver who tried to fleece us for extra tips on the return trip to the airport. We would advise you to check with Mara before using his services what the appropriate price and tip is."
"If you're wondering whether or not to stay at Mara House then wonder no longer. Do it!!!
Mara and her team provide a highly personalised service with truly beautifully furnished and big rooms. We could hardly believe that our bedroom (which was actually a quarter of a house was really ours)
The prices are unbelievably reasonable for all this and breakfast is included. But particularly priceless is the advice and assistance Mara provides to help you get around in the hectic (but exciting and mysterious) environment of Luxor.
We highly recommend the restaurant with its 1 zillion courses...Mara also provides excellent recommendations for other places to eat (but we'd suggest you try for her restaurant).
Mara believes in the law of attraction - that good things stick to other good things. We like this idea because her haven in the heart of Luxor is sooooooooooooo good.
One tip - just because you can trust Mara doesn't mean you can trust all her staff. Our only negative experience was her driver who tried to fleece us for extra tips on the return trip to the airport. We would advise you to check with Mara before using his services what the appropriate price and tip is."
Great Inn, Fabulous Feast in Salahadeen Restaurant at Mara House
"All the reviews posted here about Mara House describe what a fabulous host Mara is, how comfortable and beautiful the inn is, how Mara provides invaluable insights and suggestions on how to best use your time in Luxor. But not enough has been said about the restaurant she runs at Mara House, Salahadeen. The restaurant is open to people staying at the Inn and elsewhere in Luxor. The night we ate there, people who had stayed at another hotel joined us, but reservations are required.
The Egyptian Feast we were served at Salahadeen was the best food we had during our entire two week visit to Egypt. Dinner is composed of multiple courses of Egyptian food including soups, and meat and vegetable dishes, rice and a dessert. This may vary somewhat depending on what fresh produce is available. The food is brought out on large trays and set in the center of each table. Each tray contains six or so bowls of various foods which are eaten Egyptian style with bread, or with forks, as desired. The food is very fresh, prepared each day from local ingredients. It is a great opportunity to try a myriad of the exotic foods in combination with each other. The flavors were extraordinary.
The dining room the Egyptian feast is served in is beautiful with its dark wood, red silk drapes, beautiful lighting and fountain in the center. You can't improve on the atmosphere.
Mara runs the restaurant as she does the inn, with an eye to creating an experience not soon forgotten. The restaurant, like the Mara House itself is an oasis. Mara House and Salahadeen made our trip to Egypt. Thank you, Mara for an experience beyond our greatest expectations! Staying at Mara House and feasting at Salahdeen really were the highlights of our trip to Egypt."
"All the reviews posted here about Mara House describe what a fabulous host Mara is, how comfortable and beautiful the inn is, how Mara provides invaluable insights and suggestions on how to best use your time in Luxor. But not enough has been said about the restaurant she runs at Mara House, Salahadeen. The restaurant is open to people staying at the Inn and elsewhere in Luxor. The night we ate there, people who had stayed at another hotel joined us, but reservations are required.
The Egyptian Feast we were served at Salahadeen was the best food we had during our entire two week visit to Egypt. Dinner is composed of multiple courses of Egyptian food including soups, and meat and vegetable dishes, rice and a dessert. This may vary somewhat depending on what fresh produce is available. The food is brought out on large trays and set in the center of each table. Each tray contains six or so bowls of various foods which are eaten Egyptian style with bread, or with forks, as desired. The food is very fresh, prepared each day from local ingredients. It is a great opportunity to try a myriad of the exotic foods in combination with each other. The flavors were extraordinary.
The dining room the Egyptian feast is served in is beautiful with its dark wood, red silk drapes, beautiful lighting and fountain in the center. You can't improve on the atmosphere.
Mara runs the restaurant as she does the inn, with an eye to creating an experience not soon forgotten. The restaurant, like the Mara House itself is an oasis. Mara House and Salahadeen made our trip to Egypt. Thank you, Mara for an experience beyond our greatest expectations! Staying at Mara House and feasting at Salahdeen really were the highlights of our trip to Egypt."
Loved Mara House & love Mara, It truly felt like a home away from home
"Mara House is by far the best place to stay in Luxor. I’ve been to Egypt several times with groups and stayed at different hotels in Luxor each time, all 5 stars. None of them can hold a candle to Mara House. I was able to completely relax without the hustle and bustle that is experienced at the other hotels in Luxor. I travelled on my own this time and spent 8 days at Mara House in mid Nov. I very much appreciated the quite, home like environment of Mara’s and when it came time to leave, I left feeling like I was leaving home rather than going home.
I have a huge amount of respect for Mara and the House she’s created; it’s absolutely beautiful in every way. Without repeating all the wonderful things already expressed in the other reviews, I’ll say that I’m in total agreement in recommending Mara House to everyone, whether it’s your first visit to Egypt or you’re a seasoned traveler going the independent route . One of the things that really stands out, is Mara’s attention to detail and her genuine devotion to your care and comfort while in Luxor.
Unlike most of the arranged trips or hotel tours, where you’re rushed through the sites without really being able to connect with and explore the areas, this truly is the best way to see Luxor. By letting Mara take care of arranging your guide and driver, trips to the West Bank sites and East Bank temples are relaxed and at a pace that you set. By choosing to stay at Mara House you get to see and experience far more of Egypt than you would otherwise. "
"Mara House is by far the best place to stay in Luxor. I’ve been to Egypt several times with groups and stayed at different hotels in Luxor each time, all 5 stars. None of them can hold a candle to Mara House. I was able to completely relax without the hustle and bustle that is experienced at the other hotels in Luxor. I travelled on my own this time and spent 8 days at Mara House in mid Nov. I very much appreciated the quite, home like environment of Mara’s and when it came time to leave, I left feeling like I was leaving home rather than going home.
I have a huge amount of respect for Mara and the House she’s created; it’s absolutely beautiful in every way. Without repeating all the wonderful things already expressed in the other reviews, I’ll say that I’m in total agreement in recommending Mara House to everyone, whether it’s your first visit to Egypt or you’re a seasoned traveler going the independent route . One of the things that really stands out, is Mara’s attention to detail and her genuine devotion to your care and comfort while in Luxor.
Unlike most of the arranged trips or hotel tours, where you’re rushed through the sites without really being able to connect with and explore the areas, this truly is the best way to see Luxor. By letting Mara take care of arranging your guide and driver, trips to the West Bank sites and East Bank temples are relaxed and at a pace that you set. By choosing to stay at Mara House you get to see and experience far more of Egypt than you would otherwise. "
Perfect place to stay on the East Bank in Luxor
"What a true home from home Mara House turned out to be. After the hustle and bustle of Cairo it was great to be in the quiet part of town. The three of us flew Egyptair from Cairo to Luxor on a early evening flight and Mara organised the pick up from the airport. On arrival we were shown to our large three bedroomed fully furnished apartment. A quick shower and down to the restaurant for dinner. This set the tone for what was to be a truely excellent six days. Each morning a breakfast of bread, yoghurt, jam, honey, juice and tea was brought up to our very own dining room giving us plenty of time to get ready for the different tours Mara had organised for us. We have travelled in Egypt before as part of an organised tour group and were quite specific that as 'independent travellers' we wanted to spend time at the places we had chosen to visit rather than be herded around to fit in with someone elses time table. Mara organised transport and arranged for us to be accompanied by our excellent guide Naveen. Naveen knew her stuff and she also knew lots of the 'right' people so we managed to get to see many thngs that other tourist just don't get to see, Hatshepsuts statue at Karnak being one of them. Nothing was rushed except the trip to Abydos & Dandara and only because the tourist convoy set the pace. Naveen could also read Heiroglyphics so a lot of the inscriptions were explained to us in great detail. We also spent an afternoon visiting two very old Coptic churches and a Monastery, a very enjoyable time and something completely different.
Mara House was everything we expected from the website and turned out to be much more. Comfortable, spotlessly clean and homely. Mara House is no five star hotel but the service is top notch and the food is excellent. Sayeed the young man who helps around the house and waits in the restaurant was on hand during the day and evening to help with taxis and directions even down to making sure we paid the right price for our off the cuff trips.
I can genuinely say that we arrived as guests and left as friends, in fact we were quite sad to leave our home from home in Luxor. As a recommendation we would all give Mara House top marks all round. We thoroughly enjoyed our time with Mara and her team and look forward to returning in the not to distant future.
Allan, Brian & Niels"
"What a true home from home Mara House turned out to be. After the hustle and bustle of Cairo it was great to be in the quiet part of town. The three of us flew Egyptair from Cairo to Luxor on a early evening flight and Mara organised the pick up from the airport. On arrival we were shown to our large three bedroomed fully furnished apartment. A quick shower and down to the restaurant for dinner. This set the tone for what was to be a truely excellent six days. Each morning a breakfast of bread, yoghurt, jam, honey, juice and tea was brought up to our very own dining room giving us plenty of time to get ready for the different tours Mara had organised for us. We have travelled in Egypt before as part of an organised tour group and were quite specific that as 'independent travellers' we wanted to spend time at the places we had chosen to visit rather than be herded around to fit in with someone elses time table. Mara organised transport and arranged for us to be accompanied by our excellent guide Naveen. Naveen knew her stuff and she also knew lots of the 'right' people so we managed to get to see many thngs that other tourist just don't get to see, Hatshepsuts statue at Karnak being one of them. Nothing was rushed except the trip to Abydos & Dandara and only because the tourist convoy set the pace. Naveen could also read Heiroglyphics so a lot of the inscriptions were explained to us in great detail. We also spent an afternoon visiting two very old Coptic churches and a Monastery, a very enjoyable time and something completely different.
Mara House was everything we expected from the website and turned out to be much more. Comfortable, spotlessly clean and homely. Mara House is no five star hotel but the service is top notch and the food is excellent. Sayeed the young man who helps around the house and waits in the restaurant was on hand during the day and evening to help with taxis and directions even down to making sure we paid the right price for our off the cuff trips.
I can genuinely say that we arrived as guests and left as friends, in fact we were quite sad to leave our home from home in Luxor. As a recommendation we would all give Mara House top marks all round. We thoroughly enjoyed our time with Mara and her team and look forward to returning in the not to distant future.
Allan, Brian & Niels"
Mara House is the gold standard
"My cousin and I spent 4 days at Mara House in October. We booked it based on Trip Advisor recommendations, and it was quite honestly one of the best experiences we had in Egypt.
Mara House itself is beautifully thought out, the cleanest place I set foot in in Egypt, and is on a quiet backstreet (priceless after staying in places right on the Nile in other cities- no traffic and horns keeping you awake all night!) Even without all these plusses, however, it is Mara herself (along with the amazing Sayeed) who makes the place wonderful.
Literally NOTHING was too much trouble for her as she helped us to arrange transportation, guides, meals, and the finer points of negotiating some unique aspects of Egypt.
For example, while I was downtown in Luxor one evening, I stopped at an ATM machine to get some cash out.... and the ATM machine 'ate' my bank card- it didn't give the card back after my transaction was completed. When I returned to Mara House that night. I told Mara what happened. She was immediately on the phone (even though it was 10:30 at night!) to one of the bank directors to get him to have his people open the naughty ATM machine and get my card out and have it returned to me the next morning (instead of mailing it to my bank in the States, which is what the usual protocol would have been). Now That's above and beyond!
Another evening when we were to tired to go out for a meal, Mara asked us what we wanted, had one of the staff go out, pick up the food for us, bring it back.... and we ate up on the rooftop garden with a lovely gin and tonic without having to leave.
Mara also serves a traditional Egyptian 4-course meal a few nights a week in the new restaurant area. Not only was this one of the most delicious meals we had in Egypt, but since Mara knew I was vegetarian she even had the chef vary the set menu of the meal to accommodate me.
If the people you meet are as important to you as the places you see as an independent traveler, I cannot recommend Mara House highly enough."
"My cousin and I spent 4 days at Mara House in October. We booked it based on Trip Advisor recommendations, and it was quite honestly one of the best experiences we had in Egypt.
Mara House itself is beautifully thought out, the cleanest place I set foot in in Egypt, and is on a quiet backstreet (priceless after staying in places right on the Nile in other cities- no traffic and horns keeping you awake all night!) Even without all these plusses, however, it is Mara herself (along with the amazing Sayeed) who makes the place wonderful.
Literally NOTHING was too much trouble for her as she helped us to arrange transportation, guides, meals, and the finer points of negotiating some unique aspects of Egypt.
For example, while I was downtown in Luxor one evening, I stopped at an ATM machine to get some cash out.... and the ATM machine 'ate' my bank card- it didn't give the card back after my transaction was completed. When I returned to Mara House that night. I told Mara what happened. She was immediately on the phone (even though it was 10:30 at night!) to one of the bank directors to get him to have his people open the naughty ATM machine and get my card out and have it returned to me the next morning (instead of mailing it to my bank in the States, which is what the usual protocol would have been). Now That's above and beyond!
Another evening when we were to tired to go out for a meal, Mara asked us what we wanted, had one of the staff go out, pick up the food for us, bring it back.... and we ate up on the rooftop garden with a lovely gin and tonic without having to leave.
Mara also serves a traditional Egyptian 4-course meal a few nights a week in the new restaurant area. Not only was this one of the most delicious meals we had in Egypt, but since Mara knew I was vegetarian she even had the chef vary the set menu of the meal to accommodate me.
If the people you meet are as important to you as the places you see as an independent traveler, I cannot recommend Mara House highly enough."
A wonderful stay
"We (a mid aged couple from Scandinavia) stayed with Mara for 3 nights. We really became curious when checking reviews and Mara's House suddently popped up as nr. 2 in the luxor area, so we decided to visit and we never got disappointed.
Initialy the cab driver had huge problems finding the house, even we had the street name written down. But we called Mara and passed the phone and our problem was solved. The location on the "wrong" side of the railroad, is only 15 minutes walk from Luxor Temple, but far enough away to secure absence from the much annoing hassle with calesh owners, taxi drivers and felucca agents - which is usual around the most hotels and the Cornishe.
This was our eight vacation to Luxor and staying with Mara was an all new but also much pleasant experience. Minor details in the house could function slightly better, but it was all more than well compensated by Mara's friendliness, and her desire to secure that all house guests are comfortable, safe and happy all over.
Mara's much devoted younger male staff spoke decent English and with a bit more experience, they also will become superiour care providers as Mara. Assad, Mara's local "limo" driver also is a win win bargain, with top reliable service and one completely escape the usual hassle with unreasonable taxi drivers unfair price demands. Assad even shops for you and secure your buys, at prices that only few foreigners can find in Luxor.
The "room service" is fab and very unique. All you need, is to lean over the railing and call your wish - i.e. coffee as to our pleasant surprice was complimentary. Actually we were pampered on, or above the level, that we are used to from staying weeks, at all of the five best five 5* hotels in the greater Luxor area. However we never had any of the cheffs cooking our own favorite breakfast porridge to perfection. Here Mara to our amazement and joy even beated the most expensive hotels.
In the future it is going to be very interesting to follow how long in advance one needs to book to secure vacacy. With only nine flats and the all positive feedbacks that Mara consistently gather from new devoted guests, she will soon surpass the many years no. 1 review - 5* Maritime Jolle Ville- (now really dated and renovation needed for years) and probably have fully booked long time ahead.
Mara's house is truly spotless clean and the accomodation on level with the nicer 3 star hotels - but it is fair to say that the service is much above, and when the house soon has fully WIFI Internet, there is not much more to desire within reason, especially not when the price level is considered. We wish Mara and all her staff good luck and a bright future, as the traveller's favorite home in Luxor Egypt."
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"We (a mid aged couple from Scandinavia) stayed with Mara for 3 nights. We really became curious when checking reviews and Mara's House suddently popped up as nr. 2 in the luxor area, so we decided to visit and we never got disappointed.
Initialy the cab driver had huge problems finding the house, even we had the street name written down. But we called Mara and passed the phone and our problem was solved. The location on the "wrong" side of the railroad, is only 15 minutes walk from Luxor Temple, but far enough away to secure absence from the much annoing hassle with calesh owners, taxi drivers and felucca agents - which is usual around the most hotels and the Cornishe.
This was our eight vacation to Luxor and staying with Mara was an all new but also much pleasant experience. Minor details in the house could function slightly better, but it was all more than well compensated by Mara's friendliness, and her desire to secure that all house guests are comfortable, safe and happy all over.
Mara's much devoted younger male staff spoke decent English and with a bit more experience, they also will become superiour care providers as Mara. Assad, Mara's local "limo" driver also is a win win bargain, with top reliable service and one completely escape the usual hassle with unreasonable taxi drivers unfair price demands. Assad even shops for you and secure your buys, at prices that only few foreigners can find in Luxor.
The "room service" is fab and very unique. All you need, is to lean over the railing and call your wish - i.e. coffee as to our pleasant surprice was complimentary. Actually we were pampered on, or above the level, that we are used to from staying weeks, at all of the five best five 5* hotels in the greater Luxor area. However we never had any of the cheffs cooking our own favorite breakfast porridge to perfection. Here Mara to our amazement and joy even beated the most expensive hotels.
In the future it is going to be very interesting to follow how long in advance one needs to book to secure vacacy. With only nine flats and the all positive feedbacks that Mara consistently gather from new devoted guests, she will soon surpass the many years no. 1 review - 5* Maritime Jolle Ville- (now really dated and renovation needed for years) and probably have fully booked long time ahead.
Mara's house is truly spotless clean and the accomodation on level with the nicer 3 star hotels - but it is fair to say that the service is much above, and when the house soon has fully WIFI Internet, there is not much more to desire within reason, especially not when the price level is considered. We wish Mara and all her staff good luck and a bright future, as the traveller's favorite home in Luxor Egypt."
Read less
Wonderful Place to Stay
"At the end of October, my daughter and I stayed at Mara House in Luxor. We were both absolutely delighted with our choice of Mara’s. We had an extremely spacious suite with three bedrooms. The room was very clean and in excellent condition.
Mara House is more like a Bed & Breakfast than a hotel, so if you like staying at B&Bs, this is the place for you in Luxor. The breakfast isn’t much, though, but I found that to be the case at other small places in the Egypt, too. The atmosphere is wonderful and Mara makes herself available at all times to assist you in any way possible. She provided excellent information on what to see, in what order, and what it would cost, and she arranged transportation and guides for our visits to the sites, both near and far. She is also available just to chat about her place, her experiences in Egypt, metaphysics, and more. I love the intimacy of a small place like this, where the guests can talk directly to the owner and get a better sense of a place like Luxor. Much better than dealing with a concierge at a large hotel.
Be sure to thoroughly explore her website as it contains a wide range of information . The section on Travel Tips, for example, is a terrific source of invaluable information—better than any other source I found.
The location of Mara House is one of the things I liked about it, although others might be less thrilled. It is not in the midst of the tourist area or near the large hotels but, instead, is in a residential neighborhood of Luxor. However, the center of town is a short and inexpensive taxi ride away, or even within walking distance (if you haven’t exhausted yourself on tours of temples and tombs). The location gives you a better sense of daily life in Luxor, which is most appealing to me.
The food at her restaurant, Salahadeen, was very good and the atmosphere terrific. Be sure not to miss it (reserve with her the day before or early in the day because they need to buy the food fresh for the evening). There is also a bar room that is very nice, although the price of alcohol in Egypt is not cheap.
Mara’s is one of my new favorite places, and the value is without equal. I look forward to going again and recommend it most highly."
"At the end of October, my daughter and I stayed at Mara House in Luxor. We were both absolutely delighted with our choice of Mara’s. We had an extremely spacious suite with three bedrooms. The room was very clean and in excellent condition.
Mara House is more like a Bed & Breakfast than a hotel, so if you like staying at B&Bs, this is the place for you in Luxor. The breakfast isn’t much, though, but I found that to be the case at other small places in the Egypt, too. The atmosphere is wonderful and Mara makes herself available at all times to assist you in any way possible. She provided excellent information on what to see, in what order, and what it would cost, and she arranged transportation and guides for our visits to the sites, both near and far. She is also available just to chat about her place, her experiences in Egypt, metaphysics, and more. I love the intimacy of a small place like this, where the guests can talk directly to the owner and get a better sense of a place like Luxor. Much better than dealing with a concierge at a large hotel.
Be sure to thoroughly explore her website as it contains a wide range of information . The section on Travel Tips, for example, is a terrific source of invaluable information—better than any other source I found.
The location of Mara House is one of the things I liked about it, although others might be less thrilled. It is not in the midst of the tourist area or near the large hotels but, instead, is in a residential neighborhood of Luxor. However, the center of town is a short and inexpensive taxi ride away, or even within walking distance (if you haven’t exhausted yourself on tours of temples and tombs). The location gives you a better sense of daily life in Luxor, which is most appealing to me.
The food at her restaurant, Salahadeen, was very good and the atmosphere terrific. Be sure not to miss it (reserve with her the day before or early in the day because they need to buy the food fresh for the evening). There is also a bar room that is very nice, although the price of alcohol in Egypt is not cheap.
Mara’s is one of my new favorite places, and the value is without equal. I look forward to going again and recommend it most highly."
Absolutely unbeatable.....
"My first visit to Egypt and first place I stayed. 5 nights initially and returned a week later to stay another night before my flight home.
The owner, Mara provided (what i found was) invaluable information about Luxor and indeed Egypt which set me up for a memorable visit.
The room was great, very clean and with tv, fan, A/C and hot shower. Although i say room, it had a living room, kitchen, bathroom and bedroom.
It's about 15minute walk to Luxor Temple located in a friendly neighbourhood.
The staff speak decent english and are most helpful.
A place I will recommend to anyone."
"My first visit to Egypt and first place I stayed. 5 nights initially and returned a week later to stay another night before my flight home.
The owner, Mara provided (what i found was) invaluable information about Luxor and indeed Egypt which set me up for a memorable visit.
The room was great, very clean and with tv, fan, A/C and hot shower. Although i say room, it had a living room, kitchen, bathroom and bedroom.
It's about 15minute walk to Luxor Temple located in a friendly neighbourhood.
The staff speak decent english and are most helpful.
A place I will recommend to anyone."
How can you miss Mara and her beatiful house?
"Personally I am sure that staying in Mara house will offer any tourist a chance to achieve more interesting experience in Luxor besides the already planned trip. Mara did help a lot during my trip in Luxor. The appartment is beatiful, silent, clean and comfortable. Additionally, she could help to organize a wonderful plan in Luxor according to my experience. The only thing that I missed is the dinner inside Mara house. I hope if I have another chance visiting Luxor, I will definitely come to enjoy the dinner with her. Thanks Mara!
---Jing and Qi (china)"
See More
- Mara House Luxor – your home away from home
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Photos of Our Suites – Take a look at the rooms you’ll call home.
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Mara House Guest Gallery – Faces and memories from over the years.
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Salahadeen Restaurant & Feast – The story behind our restaurant and its exclusive menu.
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(Coming Soon: Photo Journal of Mara House – from the first brick to today.)