h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Having spent my 10th wedding anniversary on it, I have a fondness for the Nile. The White Nile flows from Lake Victoria to Khartoum, where it is joined by the Blue Nile, which rises in Lake Tana. From Khartoum the Nile flows to the Nile Delta.

Nile cruises run from Aswan to Luxor and beyond - Esna, Edfu and Kom Ombo are popular stopping points for the temples. There are also cruises on Lake Nasser, which was formed when the Aswan Dam was built in the 1960s. Some cruise boats are better than others, so try to find out as much as you can before booking a cruise. Personal recommendation is good, if you know somebody that has done a Nile cruise.

Feluccas are sailing boats that have been used on the Nile for years. Felucca rides are often part of any trip to Egypt, usually arranged in advance by your tour group. Or you could take a ride with one of the many 'sailors' who have boats berthed by the Nile - arrange the price before you step into the boat.

There are also hotels that have rooms with Nile views, but they usually charge extra for the view. Examples that spring to mind are the Meridien and the Winter Palace in Luxor, and the Old and New Cataract Hotels in Aswan.