My blog is like a diary (for my book that is taking so long to write!) and sometimes I use it to let off steam…. The following is an email I received two days ago and it is lovely to hear my blog helped some people come to Egypt and have a good time 🙂

“Hello Mara,

My wife and I are American and are currently visiting Eygpt.  My wife began planning this trip in November 2012 and began finalizing plans in Feb. 2013.  I was unaware of these plans in the making and when she informed me that she had booked flights to Eygpt, I was a bit concerned about the security issues in Eygpt.  After the events in June and Aug we were very concerned and were considering canceling our trip.  Our friends and family were advising us not to go and we were desperately searching for reliable, intelligent information about the state of affairs on the ground, and not what the media was reporting.  My wife discovered your website and blog and we read pretty much everything that your had written about life in Eygpt, as well as your insights into the situation “on the ground”.  Thank you for taking the time to clarify what was undoubtedly a very murky subject for us.  We relied on the information you provided in your blog and can confirm without hesitation that we made the right choice by coming here.  The people have been gracious and welcoming and we will tell everyone we know that they should come to Eygpt and experience it for themselves.  We know the tourist industry here has been devastated as witnessed by the empty restaurants and archeological sites.  It’s one thing hearing about it and quite another seeing it for ourselves. Once again, Thank you for your blog.  We will direct anyone interested in learning the real story to your website.  Peace be upon you.”

Hi there! I’m Mara, the heart and soul behind Mara House Luxor. I’m a firm believer that life’s too short for ordinary vacations—great holidays are like a reset button for the soul! My love affair with Egypt started over 20 years ago when I took a leap from Ireland for my first trip here. It was a standard tour package, and honestly, I didn’t know much about this incredible country back then. It was fun, but it wasn’t the magical, life-changing adventure I dreamed of. Today, that’s exactly what I’m here to create for you.

Now, after two decades of exploring, dreaming, and building, I’m lucky enough to work alongside an amazing Egyptian team who share my passion for crafting unforgettable experiences. We’re all about keeping things real—no hidden costs, just honest, transparent pricing and a commitment to making your trip truly special.

Whether it’s finding the perfect hotel in Cairo, setting up a dreamy Nile cruise, or designing a custom itinerary that’s just right for you, I’ll be the one rolling up my sleeves to make it happen. Your Egyptian adventure deserves to feel personal, effortless, and totally unforgettable—and I’m here to sprinkle a little magic on every detail.

Nomads? Digital Nomads or Retirees? Have you ever thought about staying at Mara House Luxor for a month or two/three even? I have a great offer for you!

Now, are you curious about how we could turn your holiday dreams into reality? Drop me a line at maraegypt@gmail.com—I’d love to chat and see if we’re a match! No pressure, just a chance to explore the possibilities together.