• Jordan Gassner Travel Blog

    Cozy Luxury in Big Bear with Noble + Proper: A Hotel Review

    by

    Cozy Luxury in Big Bear with Noble + Proper

    Hotel Review

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner sitting and smiling on the red and brown sofa inside Fran's Flat at the Noble + Proper Hotel in Big Bear, California

    There was a time not too long ago when you couldn’t find a luxury hotel stay in the mountain town of Big Bear Lake, California. Luckily though, times have changed and there’s now a newcomer on the scene: Noble + Proper. I recently spent three days and two nights with a few friends in Noble + Proper’s 4-occupancy cabin, Lucille’s Manor! Read all about my stay at this thoughtful and magical hotel below:

    noble + proper

    The Property and Check-In

    Back in January, I was scrolling through Instagram when my eyes caught a stunning photo of a newly-opened hotel in Big Bear Lake, California: Noble + Proper.

    I immediately knew this place would be a gem. One of the owners, Sara, opened it last year with her partner, Sven, after dreaming of doing so for years. She’s an interior designer and her taste is flawless, and you can see that throughout the property.

    Right when we arrived, we felt a sense of calm. The buzz and noise from Los Angeles was replaced with the serenity and quietness of being somewhere more remote, nestled between soaring evergreens and string lights that bathed the property in a warm glow under the night sky.

    I loved how the hotel felt like a secret and tucked away escape in the heart of town. It was quiet, but not eerily so, being so close to many of Big Bear’s central attractions. With The Village only a 3 minutes drive away, Alpine Slide only 5 minutes and Aspen Glen Picnic Area under 10 minutes, we knew we wouldn’t be venturing far from the property that weekend, if we left at all!

    As one of the hotel’s included amenities, we found our guaranteed parking space with ease, right beside our cabin which had been clearly named with a sign on the door: “Lucille“. My friend, Oliver, had driven us up in a large truck. Normally parking may have been a bit tricky, but here, we had plenty of space.

    We also found the self-service check-in to be fairly simple. The hotel provided instructions for parking, a property map and our code for the cabin in a helpful Home Guide prior to arrival. And in no time at all, we had the truck unloaded and were free to enjoy our weekend!

    Settling in, my friends and I got a better look at the property. The Noble + Proper common areas were well-maintained and had all the rustic charm that Big Bear is known for. We quickly made plans to enjoy the the outdoor spaces the next afternoon before tucking back into our warm cabin.

    noble + proper

    The Cabins

    The blue living room and purple floral sofa inside Lucille's Manor at the Noble + Proper Hotel in Big Bear, California

    Being a luxury boutique property, Noble + Proper has 8 unique cabins for guests to choose from:

    • Otto’s Chalet
    • Fran’s Flat
    • Lucille’s Manor
    • Joe’s Tavern
    • Joseph’s Hut
    • Elfriede’s Haus
    • Maria’s Cottage
    • Orville’s Lodge

    Most of these fit 4 guests in 2 bedrooms and 1.5 baths, with the exception of Orville’s Lodge, which fits up to 14 guests in 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths.

    What makes the cabins so unique are their signature designs. Each is individually inspired by one of the owners’ relatives, whose personalities shine in both the construction and decor, down to the smallest details.

    For our visit, my friends and I stayed in Lucille’s Manor. Filled with deep blues, light pinks and feminine touches like gilded mirrors, beautiful portraits and floral designs, our cabin exuded glamour!

    When we first walked into Lucille’s deep blue living room, we were greeted by the hypnotic saxophone from “Tadow“, a song by FKJ and Masego, playing from a flatscreen Samsung Frame TV.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner sipping a cup of tea in the living room of Lucille's Manor at the Noble + Proper Hotel in Big Bear, California

    To the right of the front door, we found the complimentary WiFi password, an umbrella, and flashlight. To the left, a vintage stove fireplace with an easy-to-use timed knob.

    And just ahead, in front of the TV, stood our soon-to-be favorite spot in the entire cabin: a bright floral sofa that you could melt into. And we were more than happy to do just that between a few rounds of Scattergories and late night chats over the course of our stay.

    The deep blue walls from the living room continued on through to the cabin’s kitchenette, where we found ample cabinet space, a sizable Refrigerator and Microwave. The kitchenette also offered an Electric Tea Kettle, a French Press and a complimentary bottle of Agua De Piedra.

    Four portraits of women with big hair above the kitchen sink in Lucille's Manor at the Noble and Proper Hotel in Big Bear, California
    A blue bookshelf with a mix of hardcover books and a sketch of Victorian women in Lucille's Manor at the Noble and Proper Hotel
    Four portraits of women with big hair above the kitchen sink in Lucille's Manor at the Noble and Proper Hotel in Big Bear, California

    Perhaps my favorite amenities, however, were the beautiful Floral China Dish Sets. Not only did they make me feel as though I was having my own tea party inside the Manor, but I thought they were a fun and personal touch that I don’t often find at hotels.

    Also downstairs, we enjoyed a full bathroom decked with Black-and-White Tiled Floors, Floral Light Fixtures, a Pink Sink and a Hair Dryer! This was where my friend, Sarah, pointed out Noble + Proper’s signature scent by For All Folks Skincare: a mixture of Calendula, Basil and Rosemary. Not only was the scent used for the bathroom’s shampoo and conditioner, but we also realized the same scent was used for the kitchen’s hand and dish soaps!

    Heading upstairs, we settled into the cabin’s two bedrooms. Both were similarly decorated – weaving in all the feminine details that we had seen downstairs with rustic-patterned headboards, decorative pillows and wallpaper.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking out the window and folding a shirt while seated in front of a bed at Noble + Proper in Big Bear, California

    Our rooms had well-thought comforts like black-out curtains, ample clothing rack space and individual light switches for the bedside sconces. The beds themselves were so comfortable, made up with a white set of sheets, a scattering of pillows and a plush duvet, it was even difficult to get up some mornings!

    In between the bedrooms stood possibly the most well thought room of the cabin: an upstairs half bath. I loved that it sat in between both bedrooms, acting as a sort of insulation that provided a bit more privacy between the rooms during our stay. Additionally, because the full bathroom was downstairs, we never had to worry about waking another person up with a loud shower or hair dryer!

    Overall, our cabin was both glamorous and practical, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that we would love to experience again soon!

    noble + proper

    The Common Areas

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner and her friend Sarah enjoying a picnic at the Noble + Proper Hotel in Big Bear, California
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner and her friend Sarah playing horseshoes in the common areas of the Noble + Proper Hotel
    Two sets of hands enjoying sliced apples inside a Lucille's Manor branded mug during a picnic at the Noble + Proper Hotel

    After settling into Lucille’s, we were thrilled to find the hotel’s bike rentals, a hammock, picnic tables, a BBQ and my personal favorite: a horseshoe game set.

    These low-key activities are the very types of amenities I look for in a place like Big Bear – ones that are meant to inspire you to get off your phones and be present with your loved ones! And that’s exactly what we did.

    After a quick trip to the grocery store, we threw together a picnic that Lucille herself would be proud of since the April weather was proving to be mild. And of course, I couldn’t help but gather up a few of the floral china plates I had seen in our kitchenette to act as our serving dishes.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner and her friend Sarah laughing at something off camera during a picnic at the Noble + Proper Hotel
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner cheering on her friend Sarah playing horseshoes at the Noble + Proper Hotel in Big Bear, California

    In between bites of PB&Js, apples and veggies, we played a few rounds of horseshoe. Maybe it was the thrill of the space, but we were so much better shots than we initially anticipated! Sarah even went so far as to try some left-handed throws!

    We had of course planned to take the bikes out, but before we knew it, the temperature was dropping and the sun was going down, so we instead packed up our picnic and headed indoors by the fire. A magical activity-filled afternoon indeed!

    noble + proper

    The Verdict

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner and her friend Sarah clinking glasses in a cheers during a picnic at the Noble + Proper Hotel

    Our stay at Noble + Proper was absolutely enchanting and we’d definitely love to return! The property is inviting, the cabins are charming and the activities are delightful.

    If you’re planning a trip to Big Bear Lake, Noble + Proper should definitely be on your list of places to stay.

    Thank you to Noble + Proper for welcoming me to the hotel for the purposes of sharing my stay. All opinions and photos are my own and I can’t recommend this hotel and location in Big Bear enough!

    Noble + Proper

    Big Bear Lake, California, USA

    Type: Luxury / Boutique

    Price: $$$

    Book Now

    An Epic Adventure into Egypt’s Valley of the Kings

    by

    An Epic Adventure into Egypt’s Valley of the Kings

    I’ve always been fascinated by ancient Egypt, and in the spring of 2021, I finally took my first ever solo trip to see the mysteries, places and artifacts left to us by that great ancient civilization. Naturally, the first archaeological site in my Egypt itinerary was one I’d long dreamed of: The Valley of the Kings.

    Located on Luxor’s west bank, the Valley of the Kings is an ancient burial complex where almost all of Egypt’s 18th – 20th dynasty Pharaohs were laid to rest. Here’s my account of the magical visit I had there: An Epic Adventure Into Egypt’s Valley of the Kings.

    visiting the valley of the kings

    Arrival

    A walkway at the Hilton Luxor leading out to the Nile River
    A walkway leading up a set of stairs to the spa at Hilton Luxor
    The pool at the Hilton Luxor

    My journey began at 6:30AM when my Memphis Tour Guide, Ahmed, arrived to pick me up from my hotel. Despite having actively asked for an early departure to the Valley of the Kings, I woke up feeling extra sluggish that morning. Perhaps it was from traveling by car the day before, but I was running 5 minutes late and now anxious about making a bad and typically American first impression with a guide I had yet to meet in person.

    Despite my tardiness, however, Ahmed seemed calm as I excitedly rushed to meet him, arms filled with my large camera, a bag of lenses and other accessories and my wide brimmed Indiana Jones style hat.

    The Nile River in Luxor Egypt
    A group of Hot Air Balloons soaring above Luxor from across the Nile River in Egypt

    We quickly made our introductions before he motioned me toward a Memphis Tours van parked in the hotel’s valet, “Ready?”. And was I ever!

    We drove in that van for almost an hour traveling from my hotel on the east bank to the Valley of the Kings on Luxor’s west bank, all the while my stomach was doing backflips in anticipation for the ancient wonders that lay ahead.

    As we made our arrival, Ahmed, who spent the entire car ride pointing out ancient sites as we passed them, suddenly became serious. “Do you have sunglasses?”, he asked. I did.

    “Before we arrive at the ticket office, we will go through some shops. Make sure to wear your sunglasses as we pass through and do not look at or talk to any of the salesmen, unless you want to buy something. They can be aggressive with tourists.”

    Following his advice, I donned my large tortoise sunglasses and exited the van. Ahmed’s sunglasses tip did wonders – there were definitely a few persistent salesmen who came straight toward me with goods in their hands, asking questions to get me to engage, but they seemed much less aggressive with me as they were with the few other tourists who also arrived at that early morning hour.

    Within a few minutes, we had successfully passed through the shops and reached the ticket office. Here, we bought my four desired entry tickets, plus a tram ticket:

    1. General Admission – includes admission to 3 of the 65 tombs – 240 EGP*
    2. Ramses V and Ramses VI – Tomb KV9 – 100 EGP*
    3. Tutankhamun – Tomb KV62 – 300 EGP*
    4. Photography Pass – Allowed for digital camera and video shooting – 300 EGP*
    5. Tram Ticket – 4 EGP*

    *At time of writing.

    Two hot air balloons soaring over the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt

    Secret Tip

    For more top-line information about ticketing here, read my Valley of the Kings callout in my blog post: Top 12 Ancient Sites In Egypt, Beyond The Pyramids

    An aerial view of the Temple of Hatshepsut next to Luxor's Valley of the Kings

    Since we were among the first to the ticket office that morning, Ahmed and I were able to quickly load onto the tram that then took us and a few others to the actual entrance of this historic Valley.

    I still remember the vast expanse of desert stretching out before us, with huge mountains looming over on either side. Once we were close enough to the tombs to hop off the tram, I noticed the groups of excavators placed at strategic points around the Valley and in between the publicly-opened tombs. “The Valley of the Kings is still quite an active dig site” Ahmed told me as I began fantasizing of a discovery being made just as I was visiting.

    visiting the valley of the kings

    Merenptah – KV8

    The stairway down into the Tomb of Merenptah in the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt

    Close the tram drop-off point was our first stop: The Tomb of Merenptah, or KV8.

    Normally, guides are not permitted inside the tombs due to overcrowding. However, because of how early we had arrived, because Merenptah is a less frequently visited tomb and also because the nearby guards wanted a baksheesh (tip), Ahmed was allowed to venture in with me.

    Stepping inside, I felt the heat of the day quickly being replaced by a cool and eerie feeling. I slowly began to descend the narrow staircase that drew from the Tomb’s mouth and into the heart of that ancient burial place. Half watching my step down the main passage stairs and and half admiring the artwork on the walls, I couldn’t help but be taken aback. I’d seen hieroglyphs twice before, both times in California during traveling Egyptian archaeological exhibitions, but never like this.

    Vibrant hieroglyphs under a dark blue ceiling inside the Tomb of Merenptah in Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt
    Scaffolding next to vibrant hieroglyphs inside the Tomb of Merenptah in Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt

    This was completely different, a permanent art piece and story unfolding before my eyes in a place that held so much meaning to this ancient civilization. The backflips in my stomach suddenly died off and were replaced by the chill of goosebumps across my arms. I’d finally made my journey to ancient Egypt and was bearing witness to the extraordinary history that had long amazed me from textbooks and movies. What magic it was.

    Down in the burial chamber, one of the guards motioned toward a dark, blocked-off chamber. It was rather small, with no lights, but with what appeared to be interesting hieroglyphs. The guard lifted the wooden barricade that was otherwise preventing us access, encouraging us to go in for a closer look. I immediately knew he was working even harder to get the inevitable baksheesh that I’d already planned to hand over and was happy to oblige.

    Being still the first visitors to Merenptah that day and standing inside this “forbidden” space void of any modern fixtures was an exciting plot twist I hadn’t expected! My mind flashed to Brenden Fraser uncovering ancient tombs in The Mummy and I was reinvigorated by the thrill of adventure!

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing inside a dark passage in the ancient Tomb of Merenptah in the Valley of the Kings
    The smaller sarcophagus inside the Tomb of Merenptah in Luxor, Egypt

    Letting the feeling take hold, I moved back into the main part of the burial chamber with Ahmed, immediately stopping in front of the giant sarcophagus standing at the center. The sheer size of the structure was magnificent, a truly fitting piece for a tomb such as this.

    Here, I took in the history of the tomb, its former inhabitant, and its excavation as Ahmed told them to me: Mereneptah was a son of Pharaoh Ramses II also known as “Ramses The Great”. He was already in his later years when he ascended the throne after his father’s long reign and although the tomb is one of many that have taken on damage due to flash flooding, his is the second largest known in the Valley of the Kings.

    Having now received my fill of everything inside Mereneptah’s burial chamber, Ahmed and I ventured back up the tomb’s narrow staircase and into the sun once more.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing next to the large sarcophagus inside the Tomb of Merenptah in Luxor, Egypt
    The large sarcophagus inside the center of the burial chamber in the Tomb of Merenptah in Egypt's Valley of the Kings
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling next to the large sarcophagus inside the Tomb of Merenptah in Luxor, Egypt
    visiting the valley of the kings

    Tuthankhamun – KV62

    Many people around the world – myself included – have seen pictures of the famous gold funerary Mask of Tutankhamun. In fact, I even remember the first time I saw its photo. I had been sitting in elementary school turning a page in my history textbook, and there it was in all its glory. I remember marveling over this ornate piece of ancient art, absorbing all the details in its blue and gold striped head cloth and closely studying everything I could find in its piercing gaze.

    Of course, the mask was found and made famous in 1922 when Howard Carter discovered the Tomb of Tuthankhamun. Because learning about this very mask and tomb is what ignited my childhood-to-adulthood fascination with ancient history, I was particularly to visit KV62: the Tomb of Tutankhamun.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing and smiling while dressed in an Indiana Jones inspired outfit in front of the Tomb of Tutankhamun
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner holding her entry ticket with an excited expression in front of the Tomb of Tutankhamun in Luxor, Egypt

    “Due to its popularity and its small size , you’ll need to leave your large camera with me. They are not allowed inside”, Ahmed explained as we inched closer to the tomb’s protective walls and gate.

    I eyed the entrance to the Tomb and said, “I understand, but, I definitely need a photo by the sign as proof for my friends and family back home that I’ve actually been!”. Ahmed then laughed, obliging me with my cheesy tourist photo.

    Inside, the tomb was small as he said, but beautifully decorated, with vibrant paintings that seemed to jump right off the walls of that dimly lit chamber. Sealed just beneath these paintings was a glass box – and inside Tutankhamun’s mummy.

    It felt surreal to stand in the very same tomb that the boy Pharaoh was still resting in today and that he had been sealed with his famous funerary mask for over 3,000 years.

    I was even more lucky as there was a minute inside where no other tourists came to view this usually popular spot. One of the guards took this opportunity to offer me a photo – on my phone – in exchange for a baksheesh, which I agreed to. I knew these types of offers would be very common and persistent throughout the day, but I absolutely had to mark the occasion.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing in front of a sarcophagus inside the Tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings in Egypt
    visiting the valley of the kings

    Ramses V and VI – KV9

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking up at the ceiling while inside a walkway of Egypt's KV9 Tomb in Valley of the Kings
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling and turning inside the burial chamber of KV9 Tomb in Luxor, Egypt's Valley of the Kings
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking up at the hieroglyphs inside a walkway of Egypt's KV9 Tomb in Valley of the Kings
    A broken sarcophagus sitting inside the burial chamber of KV9 Tomb in Valley of the Kings
    A granite box that used to hold a sarcophagus inside Egypt's KV9 Tomb in Valley of the Kings
    Astronomical texts on the ceiling of the burial chamber inside Tomb KV9 in Egypt's Valley of the Kings

    After exploring the Tomb of Tutankhamun, I met back up with Ahmed and my DSLR camera and we proceeded to our next “separate ticket” tomb: KV9.

    KV9 is the Tomb of two Egyptian Pharaohs: Ramses V and Ramses VI, his uncle. Upon entering, it seemed as though everywhere I turned there was a new striking set of hieroglyphs in brightly-colored blues, golds, reds and yellows to uncover. The long corridor was so brilliant that even the ceiling was lathered in rich paints and deep carvings.

    Intricate and colorful hieroglyphs on the ceiling of Egypt's KV9 Tomb in Valley of the Kings
    A broken sarcophagus inside the burial chamber of The Tomb of Ramses V and Ramses VI in Egypt's Valley of the Kings

    As I moved further inside, I became suddenly aware of the large smile I had plastered itself on my face, stars also replacing my eyes. I must’ve looked both focused on my surroundings and as if I was in a dream, all at once.

    My favorite details of the tomb by far, however, were in the ancient burial chamber. Walking in, my eyes immediately tracked the adult-size, broken sarcophagus on the ground, bringing me back to those adventurous Mummy feelings I had first received in the Tomb of Merenptah. Scanning the room, I noticed a large black granite box to my right. It had sheltered the now broken sarcophagus at one point in time.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing in front of a sarcophagus inside the burial chamber of KV9 Tomb in Egypt's Valley of the Kings
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking at the broken sarcophagus inside the burial chamber of KV9 Tomb in Egypt's Valley of the Kings
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking inside the burial chamber of KV9 Tomb in Luxor, Egypt's Valley of the Kings
    visiting the valley of the kings

    Ramses III – KV8

    A depiction of Osiris and another figure decorating the walls of the tomb inside Egypt's Valley of the Kings.
    A wall of hieroglyphs inside a tomb inside the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt
    Colorful hieroglyphs depicting Osiris, god of the dead, in Luxor, Egypt

    Back up at the surface, Ahmed and I walked the short ways across the dusty dirt road in the Valley to the The Tomb of Ramses III, or KV8.

    Going from a tomb that required an additional ticket to a tomb that’s already included as a general admission option, I wasn’t quite prepared for the crowds that had now arrived in the Valley! Entering wasn’t a problem, but I ran into a few bottlenecks inside the tomb’s small passages, where groups huddled together studying the hieroglyphs from behind a protective wall of glass.

    On top of the navigating the crowd in this small space, I quickly ran into the most aggressive guards that I had come across thus far. That sentence probably sounds a bit scary if you don’t know what you’re in for, but I promise it was only a bit frustrating. My attempts to enjoy the tomb and take in the history were interrupted more than once by these guards telling me they’d take my photo and trying to grab my camera from my hands.

    Ptah Sokar on the front wall inside the Tomb of Ramses III in Egypt's Valley of the Kings
    A passage inside the Tomb of the Ancient Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses III in the Valley of Kings in Luxor, Egypt

    About halfway through the tomb, this scene must have begun looking a bit comical because an older couple who were also visiting came over and pretended that I was part of their group so the guards would back down. We chatted for a bit and they even volunteered to take my photo to drill it in for the guards a bit more, an incredibly kind offer.

    Unfortunately, when we crossed paths, they were leaving the tomb while I was only moving further in. I felt so grateful for their help, but I didn’t want to hold up their visit any longer so after a few minutes, I thanked them and told them I could manage from there and that I hope they enjoyed the rest of their trip.

    At this point, a few guards came back and I finally allowed one to join me so the others would stop reaching for my camera – and thank goodness, it worked. Nearing the end of the tomb, we found a beautiful staircase with a break in the crowds and the guard joining me took my photo while I finally took in the colorful hieroglyphs from a more peaceful spot. The chaos was suddenly worth it.

    We inevitably made our way back, dodging incoming tourists, and at the entrance I handed over a baksheesh for the guard’s time and rejoined Ahmed to head to our final tomb of the day.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing at a stairway inside the Tomb of Ramses III in Luxor, Egypt
    visiting the valley of the kings

    Ramses IX – KV6

    Intricate and vivid hieroglyphs inside the burial chamber inside the Tomb of Ramses IX in the Valley of the Kings in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking out over the burial chamber inside Tomb KV6 in Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt
    The burial chamber inside the Tomb of Ramses IX in the Valley of the Kings in Egypt

    For the final stop, Ahmed and I walked over to KV6, the Tomb of Ramses IX. The tomb was almost completely empty when we arrived so the guards there allowed Ahmed to journey inside with me.

    The site here was small, with one short passage leading to a compact burial chamber. But like the Tomb of Ramses III, the walls were still decorated in their original and vibrant shades of blue, red and gold, albeit due to the protective glass layer that surrounded them.

    Almost immediately, I was drawn to KV6’s walls and the ceiling. Ahmed definitely noticed, telling me how they bring to life the details inside the ancient Egyptian Book of the Dead, which was used here as a way to help the Pharaoh find his way to the afterlife. Everywhere I looked there were inscriptions with intricate spells, carvings of unique animals and colorful depictions of the gods. It was a glorious sight to see, one where you feel both the presence and the weight of the meanings they formerly held.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking through the Tomb of Ramses IX (KV6) in Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt
    visiting the valley of the kings

    Reflections

    A sarcophagus inside the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt

    Making my way back up the Valley’s dusty road and toward the exit with Ahmed, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of reverence for the ancient civilization that had created this breathtaking place. The tombs in the Valley of the Kings were a sheer testament to their skill, dedication, and belief in the afterlife. And for me, it was a magical travel moment and a humbling reminder of the incredible history waiting to be discovered around every corner of the world.

    Discovering Marriott Mena House in Cairo: Hotel Review

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    Discovering Marriott Mena House in Cairo

    A Hotel Review

    I’ve been fortunate to visit some truly incredible hotels around the world. So when I had the opportunity to stay at the historic Marriott Mena House in Cairo, Egypt, I was excited to see everything this beautiful property had to offer. I spent four nights in one of Marriott Mena House’s Partial Pyramid View Rooms and can confirm it was a great location for a first-time visit to Egypt. Find my full review of the hotel below:

    marriott mena house

    The Property

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner leaning against a railing to look at the Pyramids of Giza from a stairway at Marriott Mena House in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner leaning against a railing and smiling with her arm in the air in front of a view of the Pyramids of Giza from Marriott Mena House in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking at the Pyramids of Giza from a stairway viewpoint at Marriott Mena House in Egypt

    Although much of the property is new construction, Marriott Mena House is similar to Aswan’s Sofitel Legend Old Cataract in that it’s a historic hotel. Originally a royal and then private hunting lodge before becoming a hotel in the 1800s, Mena House is the site of Egypt’s first ever swimming pool. In the 1920’s, following Howard Carter’s discovery of King Tutankhamun’s Tomb, it also rose as a hot spot for famous politicians and celebrities. The hotel has even hosted the likes of Winston Churchill, Agatha Christie and Frank Sinatra!

    Dress Twirl near Pyramids at the Marriott Mena House in Cairo, Egypt

    Upon arrival, I was greeted by a friendly bell hop who helped me with my luggage and escorted me from the car’s driveway all the way to the hotel’s entrance via golf cart. I was struck by the stunning gardens around us and the opulent architecture ahead.

    The lobby was both spacious and welcoming, with a gold decorated ceiling and plenty of seating areas to relax. My only criticism upon entering the hotel was that check-in was a bit awkward. The staff member at the counter seemed distracted and disorganized, taking over ten minutes to locate my reservation. And while waiting, I couldn’t help but notice the noise increasing and long line of guests accumulating behind me. After another five minutes though, I was luckily on my way.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner twirling with arms out in the air near Pyramids at the Marriott Mena House in Cairo, Egypt

    The rest of the hotel – all the way from the long hallways to the exterior garden just behind – were lovely. Exactly what I had hoped for. Of course, the main star here is the famous Giza Pyramids view from the side of the hotel’s garden, near 139 Pavilion. This view is the main reason I booked the hotel and, although I had high expectations, I was not in the least disappointed.

    As far as amenities, I frequently found myself at the hotel’s pool. And while it can get rather crowded since Marriott Mena House is a bit more on the beaten path, it was still a wonderful spot to cool off at in between tours around Cairo. I was even able to finish my Death Comes At The End by Agatha Christie audiobook here with poolside cocktails and appetizers!

    And finally, my exchanges with hotel staff around the property drastically improved after check-in. From arranging transportation to recommending local sights and activities, everyone went out of their way to ensure that my stay was as comfortable as possible.

    marriott mena house

    The Rooms

    There are 4 types of rooms with multiple balcony view options at Marriott Mena House.

    1. Deluxe Garden View
    2. Deluxe Partial Pyramid View
    3. Deluxe Premium Pyramids View
    4. Executive Garden View
    5. Grand Deluxe Garden View
    6. Executive Partial Pyramid View
    7. King Suite Pyramids View

    For my stay, I opted for a Deluxe Partial Pyramid View Room. My room came equipped with 1 king-size bed, a sitting area, a terrace balcony and, as the name suggests, a view of the Giza Pyramids.

    While my room wasn’t as ornate as Marriott Mena House’s Grand Deluxe Rooms or King Suites, I found it to be perfectly comfortable and functional for my needs.

    It was spacious and had great amenities, including a comfortable bed, a flat-screen TV, a full size sofa and a well-equipped bathroom. My favorite out of all the in-room amenities though were the ample storage space, full-size ironing board and fast and decently-priced dry-cleaning service!

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a white shit and vintage-inspired yellow skirt while staring at the pyramids from her room's balcony at Marriott Mena House in Giza, Egypt
    marriott mena house

    The Food and Drinks

    In addition to in-room dining, Marriott Mena House offers three different in-hotel restaurants you can dine at:

    • 139 Pavilion
    • The Moghul Room
    • Caviar Restaurant

    While the Caviar Restaurant was closed during my visit, I tried my best to make up for it through my visits to 139 Pavilion and the Moghul Room.

    139 Pavilion is particularly popular on Instagram for being the best spot to catch Marriott Mena House’s famous view of the Pyramids. But the hotel grounds around the restaurant are quite wonderful as well, as you can enjoy your meal on the exterior patio surrounded by a reflecting pool, a large open garden, and historically-minded architecture.

    As far as the food goes, 139 Pavilion hosts a breakfast buffet and an a la carte lunch and dinner.

    I had a difficult time with lunch and dinner due to my allergy restrictions and was a bit disappointed to find that the dishes tasted fairly bland. But luckily, 139 Pavilion’s breakfast buffet made up for it. With multiple food stations offering a large egg, fruit, meat and bread selection, I was still able to find and eat enough to keep me full through lunch!

    The Moghul Room was a much better experience. Open for dinner everyday from 4-11PM, the Moghul Room is a phenomenal Indian restaurant located just next door to 139 Pavilion.

    One night, the chef here even prepared a tasty dairy-free version of Chicken Korma for me. Having looked back at the restaurant’s menu recently, I also noticed the hotel added in allergy-friendly labeling, which is particularly great for those with vegetarian diets or nut allergies!

    marriott mena house

    The Verdict

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a white shit and vintage-inspired yellow skirt while smiling on her Pyramid View room's balcony at Marriott Mena House

    Although I felt Marriott Mena House can make some subtle improvements to their check-in process, crowding issues and menu options, I still found the hotel to be a great stay, especially for a first visit to Cairo. I loved the impressive photo ops, the beautiful historic architecture and the “can’t beat” location near the Giza Pyramids.

    Overall, if its your first time traveling to Egypt, you don’t mind the popular resort crowds and are looking for an aesthetic accommodation, Marriott Mena House might just be the perfect hotel for you.

    Marriott Mena House

    Cairo, Egypt

    Type: Luxury

    Price: $$$

    Book Now

    A Wonderful Day Visiting Abu Simbel in Egypt

    by

    A Wonderful Day Visiting Abu Simbel in Egypt

    In the spring of 2021, I embarked on my first ever solo trip to Egypt. This trip had been a long time in the making: being postponed due to the pandemic and also something I’d dreamed of doing for years prior. One of the places I had particularly set my heart on was Abu Simbel, an ancient site consisting of two rock-cut temples commissioned by Pharaoh Ramses II, or Ramses The Great.

    Even with all my built-up anticipation, my actual visit to Abu Simbel was a truly magical moment in my travel history – one that still brings me goosebumps and smiles. So in hopes to inspire you, here’s an account of my Wonderful Day Visiting Abu Simbel in Egypt:

    visiting abu simbel

    Checking-In

    A vintage red and white car in front of the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan, Egypt
    The interior lobby of the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan, Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner reading a book on a balcony overlooking the Nile and pool at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner reading "Death on the Nile" by Agatha Christie during High Tea at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel

    On my first night in Aswan, Egypt’s gateway city for Abu Simbel, I checked into the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract. Like the country it calls home, the Old Cataract is one of those famous places that certainly lives up to its reputation. The hotel has hosted royalty and celebrities, but is probably most famously known as a prime location in Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile.

    Since I was leaving quite early the next morning for the archaeological site, I met up with my tour guide, Mohamed, in the hotel lobby to discuss our itinerary. He advised me to order a “Breakfast Box” from the hotel that night so that I’d have something to eat on the road.

    Breakfast boxes are relatively common Aswan hotel amenities as there’s not much food on the journey to Abu Simbel and there’s timed road closures that require visitors to leave earlier than breakfast buffets are available.

    So, after setting my alarm for the next day, I placed an order with In-Room Dining, letting them know of my ask and my dietary restrictions and then headed to bed.

    visiting abu simbel

    An Early Wake-Up Call

    A hardcover of "Death on the Nile" by Agatha Christie inside a luxury room in the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan, Egypt

    The next morning, I woke up bright and early by normal standards, and quite late by Abu Simbel standards. And no, I did not sleep through my alarm.

    True to my nature of wanting to avoid crowds, I strategically timed my visit. While most tours leave Aswan at 4AM, I coordinated a 6:30AM departure with my guide. With this plan, we’d be arriving just as others were leaving so I could explore the temples relatively undisturbed. We didn’t dare push our departure past 6:30PM though for fear of the intense afternoon heat and of getting “stuck” in the desert due to the 5PM daily road closure between Aswan and Abu Simbel.

    So at 6AM that morning, I sleepily began brushing my teeth, applying my skincare and packing my camera equipment. 15 minutes later, my breakfast box arrived and 15 minutes after that, I was greeting Mohamed in the lobby once more.

    visiting abu simbel

    The Starting Journey

    A empty desert road

    While my breakfast box arrived on time, my dairy-free request was not applied. I was still able to eat around more suspicious-looking foods and wasn’t too bothered, but Mohamed insisted on calling the hotel to let them know about the error.

    I was a bit mortified at first as I’m not one to call out restaurant errors unless I literally can’t eat anything due to my allergy, but Mohamed assured me. Hospitality is taken very seriously in Egypt, he said. After his phone call, he said I’d be taken care of on return and that I should go to the hotel’s concierge.

    After a few jokes and mentions about the landmarks we were driving by, I finished what I could from my breakfast box. Mohamed then reminded me: our drive to Abu Simbel would be 3.5 hours total, with one mid-way stop at a cafe and restroom. The road leading outside of Aswan would be fairly straight from here, with nothing to see but desert.

    And so, with this, I decided to take a much-needed nap, only waking to use the bathroom at the mid-way point before quickly falling back to sleep in the car for the remainder of our journey.

    visiting abu simbel

    Arrivals & The Visitor Center

    Different souvenirs for sale in a street shop in Egypt

    Being able to sleep in the car was heaven and before I knew it, we’d arrived. I looked outside my window as we pulled into the car park, shaking off the final remnants of sleep. Just ahead, a group of tour buses were loading up with passengers – “Yes! The plan had worked“, I celebrated. And beyond, a series of tiny stone buildings and not much else – yet.

    Luckily, I’d already visited many of Egypt’s ancient sites, so I knew to throw on my pair of tortoise sunglasses and best stoney facial expression before leaving the car: tactics that helped me maneuver past even the most aggressive salesmen posted up near the gates of these great places.

    Our driver parked and Mohamed and I made our way toward and past those tiny buildings, which turned out to be exactly what I had expected: an aisle of small shops selling souvenirs that weren’t actually made in Egypt.

    We made it through easily and stopped at the restrooms before meeting inside the Visitor Center. Mohamed directed me toward a table with a model of the site. Pointing toward the two temples, he explained the significance of their layouts, where they were originally built, how they were found and why they were moved to their current location at Abu Simbel.

    The fact I found the most interesting was that the Great Temple’s rock-cut entrance was built so that sunlight shines directly onto three of the impressive statues inside the inner sanctuary on two days each year: October 22 and February 22. These dates are otherwise signify Pharaoh Ramses II’s birthday and ascension to the throne of Egypt, respectively.

    Different Egyptian-themed souvenirs for sale in street shop in Egypt
    visiting abu simbel

    The Great Temple Entrance

    An extra long shot of Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner in front of the colossal statues of Ramses II at the Great Temple of Abu Simbel in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner holding onto a sunhat with her left hand while walking along the path to the Great Temple of Abu Simbel
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing and smiling near two right statues of Ramses II at the Great Temple of Abu Simbel in Egypt

    We exited the Visitor Center and proceeded down a path along the hill I didn’t notice we were on top of before. Lake Nasser was to our front and right; a large rocky hill to our left. With every step, my excitement for Abu Simbel peaked even further, leaving me to almost glide down the hill.

    Then finally, the path turned right and my head along with it. There it was – the Great Temple entrance in all its glory. Even after everything I read, even with all my built-up anticipation, nothing could prepare me for the vision before my eyes. I felt the goosebumps spreading across my arms in defiance of the hot, desert climate and I drifted closer.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking away from two of the large statues of Ramses II in front of the Great Temple at Abu Simbel
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner holding onto a sunhat in awe while standing along the path to the Great Temple while Visiting Abu Simbel

    Mohamed, keeping step with me, let me have this moment of silence to take it all in. Four colossal statues of Ramses II sat upon their rock-carved thrones guarding the temple’s entrance. Toward their feet, depictions of the Pharaoh’s family – his mother, his chief wife and his children. Between these towering statues, just above the doorway, stands a smaller statue of the ancient falcon-headed god, Re-Horakhty, standing with its left leg forward.

    There were only a small handful of tourists and salesmen near the entrance – and the tourists were beginning to enter the temple, leaving the front completely unobstructed. Now while standing on the wooden pathway directly in front of the main temple, Mohamed broke me from my reverie, “Ready for a few photos before heading inside?”. I turned toward him, my expression changing into the biggest smile. I was going to create my own art in front of this stunning and ancient architectural masterpiece.

    visiting abu simbel

    Inside The Great Temple

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner staring up at one of statues inside the Great Temple at Abu Simbel in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking through the Hypostyle Hall inside the Great Temple while visiting Abu Simbel in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking toward the vestibule inside the Great Temple at Abu Simbel in Egypt

    After playing around with my camera and uncovering just about every photographic angle from the exterior, it was finally time to venture inside. The goosebumps returned as I stepped through the immense doorway. If I had thought that the exterior was grand (and it was), the interior of the Great Temple completely took my breath away.

    Standing on a wood-planked pathway in the Hypostyle Hall, I let out a breath I didn’t know I was holding. Wow. Lining either side of me were even more large pharaonic statues and just above, a beautifully detailed ceiling that still kept much of its original paint, even after all these years. Turning around, saw Mohamed still standing just outside the entrance – guides are not allowed inside the temples here due to overcrowding. Then, I smiled and proceeded further into the temple, weaving my way in between and around the statues, admiring the ancient craftsmanship.

    Moving into the now-emptied side chambers just off the main hall, I tried to envision the treasures they once held and how the room must have glimmered under torchlight, the vibrant hieroglyphs dancing in between the shadows on the walls.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling inside the entrance of The Great Temple while visiting Abu Simbel in Egypt
    Sunlight shining onto the Inner Sanctuary of The Great Temple of Abu Simbel Temple in Egypt

    Finally, I passed through the vestibule and another chamber, reaching the deepest point in the temple: the inner sanctuary, where only the high priests and pharaoh were formerly allowed. Now standing before the four statues here, I couldn’t help but laugh at what the Ancient Egyptians might’ve thought about me: a young woman – and even more, a solo female traveler – now venturing freely into this sacred and restricted area. Now sporting my best toothy grin, I turned back around and made my way outside.

    visiting abu simbel

    Discovering The Small Temple

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner holding up her arms in front of a giant statue of Nefertari at Abu Simbel in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner staring up at a giant statue of Queen Nefertari at the Small Temple of Abu Simbel in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner shielding her eyes from the sun while standing near a giant statue of Nefertari at Abu Simbel in Egypt

    Walking back out into the light, I joined Mohamed on the wooden pathway and we continued on to the Small Temple: The Temple of Hathor. While Abu Simbel’s Small Temple was designed to be a bit less tall and deep than the Great Temple, it was still stunning to behold.

    Also built by Ramses II, The Small Temple was dedicated to the goddess Hathor and to his chief wife and queen, Nefertari. I loved the six figured facade here in particular, as two of the four colossal statues were of the queen herself, perhaps the largest statues of a woman I had seen during my trip.

    Inside, columns with the face of Hathor lined the Hypostyle Hall. I’d seen this design twice before – once at the Temple of Hatshepsut and once at Dendera Temple, both of which were also dedicated to the ancient goddess.

    Moving about, I took in even more of the detailed hieroglyphics marking the walls and columns, silently wishing Ancient Egyptian was more easily accessible to the modern-day explorer. Come on, Duolingo!

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking into the Small Temple while visiting Abu Simbel in Egypt without any crowds
    visiting abu simbel

    The Return Journey & Recommendations

    Heading back outside once more, I re-joined Mohamed and our driver, taking one final look at the monumental structures in front of me.

    It had been an absolutely magical day – a dream of the past made reality. And now, it was time for another long car nap on the way back to Aswan.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling in front of the empty plateau in front of both The Great Temple and Small Temple of Abu Simbel in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking in a green dress and sunhat alongside the statues to the right of the Abu Simbel Great Temple entrance

    Recommendations & Tips For Visiting:

    Even though tour guides can’t go inside Abu Simbel with you, I still highly recommend visiting with a guide. There’s still lots to learn and see just outside the temples and having a guide makes the experience so much more enriching.

    If you’re hoping to visit without crowds, book a private trip over a group tour and request to leave Aswan around 6:30AM – 8AM*.

    *Err on the early side of this window if you want more time to explore the temples.

    Tour Operators I Recommend: Memphis Tours & EMO Tours

    Cost To Visit: Varies by tour type and operator. Typically at least 200 USD.

    Bring: Sunscreen, Sunhat, Water, Snacks, Camera and a Taste for Adventure

    15 Best Non-Ancient Locations in Egypt You Need To Visit

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    15 Best Non-Ancient Locations in Egypt You Need To Visit

    Where in Egypt do you go when you tire out of seeing the ruins, the mummies, the tombs and the treasures? I’m not sure that’s actually a question anyone would ever ask, but perhaps you’re instead looking to diversify your Egypt travel plans in between all the Ancient Egyptian sites and museums. If so, here are the 15 Best Non-Ancient Locations in Egypt You Need To Visit:

    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Alabaster Mosque

    Jordan Gassner covering her head with a with a scarf and standing in in the sahn at the Great Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha in Cairo, Egypt

    The Alabaster Mosque or The Great Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha is located in the Citadel, an old fortress that sits high above Old Cairo.

    Jordan Gassner covering her head while looking up at the top of the sahn at the Great Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha in Cairo, Egypt

    The Mosque was commissioned in the 1800s by its namesake, Muhammad Ali Pasha, whose tomb can now be found therein. It received its other name, the Alabaster Mosque, for the radiant marble that covers both the inner and outer walls of the sight.

    Upon arrival, I was drawn into the sahn, or courtyard, by two items. The first, a shaded fountain in the middle of the courtyard, erected there so that Muslim visitors can wash before praying. Walking closer to the fountain, I was surprised to see that the underside of the shaded rooftop had the most rich painted designs, a beautiful contrast to the marble facade.

    The second was an antique clock tower on top of one of the mosque walls – originally sent as a thank you to Egypt from France’s King Louis Philip for gifting the country the obelisk of Ramses II. Unfortunately, despite repair attempts, the clock hasn’t worked since its arrival in Egypt. Hopefully that changes one day, but for now, it’s still a beautiful piece to admire.

    Location: Cairo

    Entry Cost: Free*, though prepare to tip 5EGP to the attendants upon entry.

    Jordan Gassner walking a corridor outside of one of the must-see Cairo mosques - the Alabaster Mosque

    Moving to the interior of the Mosque, I sat with my guide, Reham, for a bit – staring up at the dizzying yet radiant lanterns overhead and enjoying the calm reprieve from the heat outside. It was also here I saw Muhammad Ali Pasha’s great tomb.

    Jordan Gassner sitting without shoes and wearing a scarf over her head inside one of the must-see Cairo mosques - the Alabaster Mosque
    Jordan Gassner looking up at the tomb of Muhammad Ali Pasha in one of the must-see Cairo mosques - the Alabaster Mosque

    Additional Info: It’s respectful to dress conservatively for any mosque you plan to visit. I wore long dresses that covered my knees and shoulders and brought a scarf to cover my head before entry.

    Searching for more travel tips?

    5 Stunning Cairo Mosques For Your First Time in Egypt

    7 Secrets No One Tells You About Egypt

    What To Wear in Egypt

    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Nubian Village

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner twirling in a bright blue dress in front of a colorful accommodation in Aswan's Nubian Village in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner sitting on top of a second floor viewpoint in Aswan's Nubian Village in Egypt

    Visiting the colorful Nubian Village in Aswan is a truly magical experience. Located on the banks of the Nile, the village is home to a vibrant community of Nubian families, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. Visitors here can learn about Nubian culture and history, sample traditional food, buy spices and even take part in dances and music.

    During my visit, I was even able to meet a wonderful family who invited me to enjoy some tea and hibiscus juice with them before showing me their pet: a baby crocodile!

    Location: Aswan

    Entry Cost: Free* – but bring cash for shops, food, and of course, baksheesh!

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner holding a baby crocodile in Aswan's Nubian Village in Egypt
    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Mosque of Ibn Tulun

    I love traveling to places with historic buildings and sights, hundreds and sometimes thousands of years old. Older architecture tells a story in both its detailed designs and unexpected flaws. History without words and evidence of time gone by. The Mosque of Ibn Tulun is no exception.

    The interior courtyard of the mosque is surrounded by four porticoes, of which can be seen multiple archways with intricately stuccoed roofs. These heavenly designs juxtaposed against the rough scratches and peeling textures of construction lend even more to the mosque’s appeal. A beauty that has withstood the test of time.

    Heading just outside the inner courtyard to the ziyada, or the space between the inner and outer walls, you can climb the spiral staircase of the Mosque’s minaret. While the minaret is wonderful to behold itself, once you’ve made it up the somewhat treacherous stairs, you’ll be greeted with the most wonderful view of old Cairo, including a birds-eye view back into the Mosque’s courtyard. While there are many viewpoints of the city, this might just be my favorite since it is such a central, historic and peaceful place to take in the sights.

    Jordan Gassner walking in a turquoise dress, hunter green head scarf and slip-on disposable socks throughout one of the arcades inside the one of the must-see Cairo Mosques: the Mosque of Ibn Tulun

    Solo Female Traveler in a turquoise dress and hunter green head scarf inside one of the Must-See Cairo Mosques: The Mosque of Ibn Tulun
    Visiting the Mosque of Ibn Tulun in Cairo, Egypt

    One item to note: A locked iron gate blocks the entrance to the minaret staircase, so in order to climb, you’ll need to ask a guard for entry. Just remember to tip for this incredible experience. I recommend about 5EGP, which is well worth the cost for your own private viewing from the top.

    Finally, as somewhat of a bonus to visiting the mosque itself, you might also visit the Gayer-Anderson-Museum right next door. It’s home to a large collection or rare artifacts from the area and also the spot where James Bond (Roger Moore) got into a fist fight in The Spy Who Loved Me. While I ran out of time and wasn’t able to visit the museum in addition to the Mosque, it is easily at the top of my list for my next visit to Egypt.

    Entry Cost: Free*, though prepare to tip 5EGP for disposable shoe covers and another 5EGP to visit the top of the minaret.

    Additional Info: Disposable shoe covers are required, though they’re easy to hide in photos (in the top photo, I simply took a step down into the courtyard to hide mine!)

    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Gayer-Anderson Museum

    Located next to the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, the Gayer-Anderson Museum is the former home of British army officer John Gayer-Anderson, who was a collector of Islamic art, furniture and artifacts. After his death in the mid 20th century, the ornate house was converted into a museum and opened to the public.

    In addition to its impressive collection, the Gayer-Anderson Museum is also notable for its role in the 1974 James Bond film, The Man with the Golden Gun. The museum is featured in the film as the setting for the climactic showdown between James Bond (Roger Moore) and the villainous Francisco Scaramanga (Christopher Lee). Today, you can visit the courtyard where the scene was filmed and relive a piece of James Bond movie history.

    Location: Cairo

    Entry Cost: 60 EGP*

    Best Non-Ancient Sites in Egypt: Gayer-Anderson Museum
    The courtyard inside the Gayer-Anderson Museum, Cairo, Egypt
    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Manial Palace Museum

    A staircase inside the intricate and ornately decorated entryway inside Manial Palace Museum in Cairo, Egypt
    The blue tiled fireplace inside Manial Palace Museum, the former residence of Egypt's Prince Muhammad Ali
    The intricate tiled parlor inside the Manial Palace Museum in Cairo, Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing and smiling at the top of a stairwell in Manial Palace Museum in Cairo, Egypt

    Manial Palace Museum is the former residence of Egypt’s Prince Muhammad Ali. The Palace is a stunning example of early 20th century Egyptian architecture and features intricate carvings, stunning mosaics, and beautifully designed gardens. Inside, you can explore the opulent palace rooms and get a greater sense of what royal life was once like.

    Walking through the halls, I felt like I had stepped back in time. The attention to detail in the design and decor is absolutely breathtaking, and I could have spent hours exploring every nook and cranny of the grounds.

    Location: Cairo

    Entry Cost: 100 EGP*

    Best Non-Ancient Sites in Egypt: Manial Palace Museum
    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Khan El Khalili

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner admiring a shop filled with lanterns inside Khan El-Khalili Bazaar in Cairo, Egypt

    If you’re looking for an experience to overwhelm the senses, look no further than Khan el-Khalili Bazaar in Cairo. As soon as you step into this 14th century market, you’ll be greeted with the most vibrant mix of colors, smells, and sounds! The market’s narrow alleyways are lined with shops and stands selling everything from spices and perfumes to handcrafted jewelry and textiles.

    The vendors are friendly and eager to engage with visitors, and bargaining is a common practice. You can find unique souvenirs and gifts for loved ones back home, or simply enjoy the atmosphere and people-watching. The market is especially lively in the evening when the heat of the day has subsided, and locals and tourists alike gather to shop, eat, and socialize.

    Location: Cairo

    Entry Cost: Free* – but bring cash for shops, food, and of course, baksheesh!

    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    The Hanging Church

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking up the steps of Egypt's Hanging Church while wearing a burnt red midi dress

    Located in the heart of Coptic Cairo, The Hanging Church gets its name from its unique architectural design, as it appears to be suspended in the air with its nave overhanging a passage.

    The Hanging Church dates back to the 3rd century and has some stunning facades – especially around the interior courtyard. Standing under the archways and in the doorways here, I felt as though I had entered Rivendell or another breathtaking fantasy-like location.

    Location: Cairo

    Entry Cost: Free*

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing in front of an intricate archway at Coptic Cairo's Hanging Church
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling in a doorway leading inside Coptic Cairo's Hanging Church
    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus

    The altar and dome inside the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus in Cairo, Egypt
    A staircase inside the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus in Cairo, leading to the site that's believed to be the spot where the Holy Family rested during their flight to Egypt
    Best Non-Ancient Sites in Egypt: Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus

    The Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus is another amazing church in Coptic Cairo. Believed to be built on a site where Jesus, Mary, and Joseph rested during their flight to Egypt, it is considered one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in the country.

    And coupled with the beautiful domed roof, intricate wood carvings and colorful frescoes, the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus is a must-visit for those anyone in religious history and culture.

    Location: Cairo

    Entry Cost: Free*

    The altar inside the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus in Coptic Cairo
    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Synagogue Of Ben Ezra

    Best Non-Ancient Sites in Egypt: Ben-Ezra Synagogue

    The Synagogue of Ben Ezra is a 9th century Jewish temple in Cairo that’s named after the medieval Rabbi of the same name. The synagogue features finely carved wood and colorful stained-glass windows throughout.

    The temple is also believed to built on the site where the baby Moses was found in a basket by the Pharaoh’s daughter.

    Location: Cairo

    Cost: Free* – but bring cash if you plan to take photos! There is a small camera fee.

    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Al-Azhar Park

    With numerous walking paths, monuments, dining options and more, Al-Azhar Park is a peaceful oasis in bustling Cairo. The park is also situated alongside the eastern Ayyubid Wall, a 12th century ruin that wasn’t uncovered until excavation for the park began in the late 20th century.

    Location: Cairo

    Entry Cost: 10 EGP*

    Best Non-Ancient Sites in Egypt: Al-Azhar Park
    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Citadel of Qaitbay

    Best Non-Ancient Sites in Egypt: Citadel of Qaitbay

    Built in the 15th century, the Citadel of Qaitbay is a magnificent fortress located on the Mediterranean coast in Alexandria. The citadel was originally built to protect the city from invasions by sea, and it served as an important military stronghold for centuries.

    Visitors can explore the various rooms and corridors of the fortress, which include a mosque, a prison, and a courtyard. The citadel also houses a small museum that contains artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the citadel and the region.

    A window in the 15th century fortress of Qaitbay in Alexandria, Egypt

    Location: Alexandria

    Entry Cost: 60 EGP*

    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Bibliotheca Alexandrina

    Best Non-Ancient Sites in Egypt: Bibliotheca Alexandrina

    Visiting Bibliotheca Alexandrina is an awe-inspiring experience. The library stands as a testament to the ancient Library of Alexandria, which was one of the most important centers of learning in the ancient world.

    As you step inside, you’re greeted with a vast circular atrium with a stunning glass roof that fills the space with natural light. The library houses over 8 million books, including rare manuscripts and documents, making it one of the largest and most comprehensive libraries in the world.

    Location: Alexandria

    Entry Cost: 70 EGP*

    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Aswan High Dam

    Best Non-Ancient Sites in Egypt: Aswan High Dam in Egypt

    Built in the 1960s, Aswan’s High Dam stands at an impressive 111 meters tall and spans over 1.7 miles across the Nile. The dam was originally constructed to control the Nile’s flooding and provide hydroelectric power to Egypt, but it’s also a scenic viewpoint for tourists to see the surrounding desert landscape.

    Location: Aswan

    Entry Cost: 100 EGP*

    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    Saint Catherine’s Monastery

    Bell Tower of Saint Catherine's Monastery (Egypt, Mount Sinai)

    Situated at the base of Mount Sinai, Saint Catherine’s Monastery was built in the 6th century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, and it is considered to be one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world. The monastery houses a vast collection of religious artifacts, including the famous Codex Sinaiticus, which is one of the earliest versions of the Bible.

    Location: Sinai Peninsula, near Sharm El-Sheikh

    Entry Cost: Free – but entry to the Treasury is 20 EGP*

    Best Non-Ancient Sites in Egypt: Saint Catherine's Monastery
    top non-ancient locations in egypt

    The Red Sea

    Best Non-Ancient Sites in Egypt: Solo Female Traveler in the Red Sea, Egypt

    Ok, this one is technically a cheat because The Red Sea was definitely during ancient times. But because a visit here is not typically made for the history, I’m including it.

    Despite its name, the Red Sea is made up of dark blue and transparent turquoise waters, depending on which areas you explore. Consider visiting one of Egypt’s beach towns and head out on a boat tour or snorkeling / scuba diving excursion.

    Locations: El Gouna, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh

    Entry Cost: Free, but costs for snorkeling, scuba diving and other boat tours vary by tour operator*

    *Prices at time of writing for foreign adults.

    The Mummy Travel Guide: Cairo and Luxor

    by

    The Mummy Travel Guide: Cairo and Luxor

    Reel Places Series

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking out over a Marriott Mena House hotel room balcony towards the Pyramids of Giza
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner staring up at the faded paint colors of the hieroglyphics inside Mehou's Masataba in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a yellow skirt, white button up shirt and straw hat walking into the dark, covered Abydos Temple ruins.

    Welcome to “Reel Places“, a blog post series where I create a travel guide that makes you feel like you’ve entered the world of your favorite film. In this post, I’ll be sharing themed-recommendations for Egypt – specifically Cairo and Luxor – through the lens of the beloved adventure film, The Mummy. I plan to cover both real locations from the movie as well as a few unique spots that fit in with the film’s archeology-core imagery. So buckle-in and join me on this epic Mummy-inspired adventure through Egypt:

    reel places – the mummy travel guide

    Where To Stay

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking out over a Marriott Mena House hotel room balcony towards the Pyramids of Giza

    Cairo and Luxor are two of the biggest cities in Egypt and are popular stops for many explorers. In looking for Mummy-inspired accommodations, I focused in on finding places with a little historic luxury and classic charm that can be enjoyed in between rugged desert adventures.

    Cairo Hotels

    Marriott Mena House – $$$

    El Otel – $

    Luxor Hotels

    Moudira Hotel – $$

    Djorff Palace – $

    reel places – the mummy travel guide

    What To See in Cairo

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner staring up at the faded paint colors of the hieroglyphics inside Mehou's Masataba in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling near a statue of Pharaoh Hatshepsut inside the Museum of Antiquities in Cairo
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing inside a colonnade on the Saqqara Necropolis in Egypt

    Cairo is a wonderful base point for the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Grand Egyptian Museum and more. But to give you that classic Mummy-style you’re hoping for, I looked to turn-of-the-century museums and slightly less-frequented archaeological sites that will transport you back into the world of the film:

    The front of the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities in Cairo

    Egyptian Museum of Antiquities

    Starting off with a location that’s actually included in the film, Cairo’s Museum of Antiquities is one of the world’s oldest archaeological museums and Evie’s place of employment. It houses treasures like the full burial collections of Yuya and Thuya and the Narmer Palette.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling next to a statue of Pharaoh Hatshepsut inside the Museum of Antiquities in Cairo

    When I visited in 2021, the museum also housed the world-famous Mask of Tutankhamun. Walking these halls and realizing the depth of history around me immediately made me feel as though I too was a scholarly librarian ready to embark on my next big academic or archaeological adventure.

    The Mummy Travel Guide: A black and gold ancient Egyptian sarcophagus inside Cairo's Egyptian Museum of Antiquities
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner staring up at a statue of Pharaoh Hatshepsut inside the Museum of Antiquities in Cairo
    A row of ancient Egyptian sarcophagi inside Cairo's Egyptian Museum of Antiquities

    Saqqara Necropolis

    While it’s still a must visit, the crowded Giza Necropolis doesn’t quite fit in with the secret ancient sites uncovered in The Mummy. So make sure to create your own Rick O’Connell-inspired adventure by looking to the off-the-beaten-path treasures of Saqqara:

    The Mummy Travel Guide: Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing in front of the Pyramid of Djoser in Egypt

    Pyramid of Djoser

    Arguably the main reason to visit Saqqara, the Pyramid of Djoser is the oldest pyramid in the world still standing today. Built around 2630 BC, it is a classic step pyramid.

    The Mummy Travel Guide: A frieze of cobras on top of the Southern Tomb of King Djoser in Egypt

    Southern Tomb of King Djoser

    The Southern Tomb of King Djoser’s funeraral complex is the oldest stone building of the ancient world. Located near the entrance of the necropolis, the Southern Tomb is decorated with a frieze of cobra heads symbolizing power and protection.

    Pyramid of Unas

    Dreaming about visiting the inside of a pyramid? The Pyramid of Unas may be small compared to the Greats in Giza, but it does provide a quick trip without the massive crowds.

    Descending into its small chambers, I felt as though I was discovering a new and ancient place for the first time alongside Rick and Evie!

    Hieroglyphics above a doorway leading into a small chamber inside the Pyramid of Unas on the Saqqara Necropolis in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner staring up at the faded paint colors of the hieroglyphics inside Mehou's Masataba in Egypt

    Mehou’s Mastaba

    Not far from the Pyramid of Unas, richly-colored paintings from the Old Kingdom line the walls inside Mehou’s Mastaba. This “eternal house” was the royal vizier’s final resting place.

    A wooden staircase inside Prince Mohamad Ali's Former Home at the Manial Palace Museum in Cairo, Egypt
    A bright blue tile fireplace inside the Manial Palace Museum in Egypt
    Prince Mohamad Ali's Former Parlour at the Manial Palace Museum in Cairo, Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing under a porch overlooking the Manial Palace Museum Gardens in Egypt

    Manial Palace Museum

    The lavish former home of Prince Muhammad Ali, the Manial Palace Museum, was built from 1900-1929. Take a step back in time while strolling through the pristine desert garden or while explore its opulent and colorful interiors.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing at the top of a staircase inside the elegant and opulent Manial Palace Museum in Egypt
    Solo Female Traveler at the Mosque of Ibn Tulun in Cairo, Egypt

    Interested in Uncovering Even More of the City?

    Consider visiting these 5 Stunning Cairo Mosques during your trip to Egypt.

    Jordan Gassner walking a corridor outside of one of the must-see Cairo mosques - the Alabaster Mosque
    reel places – the mummy travel guide

    What To See in Luxor

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a yellow skirt, white button up shirt and straw hat walking into the dark, covered Abydos Temple ruins.
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking up at the hieroglyphics inside a tomb in the Valley of the Kings in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a green dress and standing just outside the shadows from the columns in Karnak Temple's Hypostyle Hall in Luxor, Egypt
    Egyptian Steamboat on the Nile in the warm evening sun.

    Luxor is a popular base point for what are arguably the best temples and tombs in all of Egypt. And while similar to Cairo in having some tourist-laden sites, Luxor also has some must-see, classic experiences and wonderful hidden gems that feel true to the adventurous spirit of The Mummy:

    Nile Cruise

    First, arrive to Luxor in style on one of Egypt’s many classic river steamboats. Just make sure not to get stuck on the wrong side of the river before exiting!

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing and smiling in front of a broken sarcophagus inside a tomb in Egypt's Valley of the Kings

    Valley of the Kings

    Made famous from the re-discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamun, the Valley of the Kings is the ancient burial site of almost all of Egypt’s 18th-20th century Pharaohs. With broken sarcophagi, vibrant hieroglyphics and long descents underground, you’ll be feeling like Rick O’Connell and crew in no time.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking up at the hieroglyphics inside a tomb in the Valley of the Kings in Egypt
    Colorful blue and gold hieroglyphics inside the Tomb of Queen Nefertari in Egypt's Valley of the Queens

    Valley of the Queens

    Not too far from Valley of the Kings is Luxor’s equally beautiful Valley of the Queens. More off-the-beaten-path, this is a wonderful spot for fans of The Mummy to explore.

    And if you’re hoping to visit a tomb so well preserved that it looks like it’s been undisturbed for a few millennia, don’t pass up a visit the Tomb of Queen Nefertari.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a yellow skirt, white button up shirt and straw hat walking into the dark, covered Abydos Temple ruins.
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a yellow skirt, white button up shirt and straw hat walking through one of the small side temples inside Abydos Temple in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking up at a column in Abydos Temple's Hypostyle Hall

    Temple of Seti I

    Possibly the crown gem of all the off-the-beaten-path places near Luxor, the Temple of Seti I, the Pharaoh from The Mummy, is located about 3.5 hours from the city and makes a wonderful day trip.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a yellow skirt, white button up shirt and straw hat staring up at the ancient hieroglyphs known as the Abydos Table
    Top Ancient Sights in Egypt: A low angle view up at the inner roof of Abydos Temple, where the ceiling is cracked with light shining through, smoke marks, and ancient graffiti, some of which, due to its writing over past inscriptions, even resembles modern day transportation.

    More commonly known as Abydos Temple, the site contains the famous Abydos Table, a chronological list of past Pharaohs as documented by Seti I. Of the 76 who came before him, Seti I left out a few notable and controversial Pharaohs, including Hatshepsut and Tutankhamun.

    Abydos is also located on top of the Osireion, the ancient sacred location for the heart of the Egyptian god, Osiris, making it all the more special and mysterious to visitors today.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a green dress and standing just outside the shadows from the columns in Karnak Temple's Hypostyle Hall in Luxor, Egypt

    Looking for More Ancient Tombs and Temples to Explore?

    Discover the Top 12 Ancient Sites To Visit in Egypt Beyond the Pyramids.

    Top Ancient Sights in Egypt: Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a green dress and smiling with eyes closed while the sun peaks through the massive columns of Karnak Temple's Hypostyle Hall in Luxor, Egypt
    reel places – the mummy travel guide

    Where To Eat

    A brass table and straw chair with four cups of mint tea

    Where To Eat

    As for restaurants, I looked for spots that had unique Egyptian details, sophisticated stone and brass elements, and a dash of 1920’s elegance.

    Cairo Restaurants

    Abou El Sid – Traditional Egyptian Cuisine

    Moghul Room – Indian Fine Dining inside the Marriott Mena House

    Zeeyara – Traditional Egyptian Cuisine

    Luxor Restaurants

    1886 Restaurant – Mediterranean-French Fine Dining inside the Sofitel Winter Palace

    Royal Bar – Elegant Bar inside the Sofitel Winter Palace

    Sofra – Traditional Egyptian Cuisine

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CoEqcjPLP4g/

    Death on the Nile Travel Guide: Everything You Need to See in Aswan

    by

    Death on the Nile Travel Guide:

    How To Spend 3 Days in Aswan

    Reel Places Series

    Welcome to “Reel Places“, a blog post series where I create a travel guide that allows you to you enter the world of your favorite film through real destinations around the globe. In this post, I’ll be sharing my recommendations for Aswan, Egypt through the lens of the Agatha Christie murder mystery, Death on the Nile. This post will cover real locations from the book-turned-film as well as a few new spots that fit in with the film’s glamorous, classic and mysterious aesthetic. So come aboard with me on this epic mystery-inspired tour through Egypt:

    reel places – death on the nile travel guide

    Where To Stay

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner reading a book on a balcony overlooking the Nile and pool at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel

    There are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations in Aswan, but for a truly authentic Death on the Nile type of stay, look no further than the Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel and a luxe Nile Cruise Ship.

    Sofitel Old Cataract

    Sitting along the Nile River, this former Victorian-era Palace is a prime location in Death on the Nile and also where the original story was penned by renown murder mystery writer, Agatha Christie.

    Sofitel Old Cataract – $$$$

    Nile Cruise Ships

    Steam Ship Sudan – $$$$$

    • The historic steamer where Agatha Christie once stayed while accompanying her husband during an archaeological visit

    Movenpick SS Misr Steamer – $$$

    • A 9-10 day journey down the Nile from Cairo to Aswan, Roundtrip.
    A straw lounge chair and set of sofas overlooking the Nile River from the top of a balcony at the Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan, Egypt
    A vintage red and white car in front of the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan, Egypt
    The corner of the library inside the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract in Aswan, Egypt
    reel places – death on the nile travel guide

    What To See

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a long sleeve blue patterned maxi dress and a green scarf, shielding her eyes from the sun under a row of columns outside of the Philae Temple ruins on Philae Island in Aswan, Egypt
    Death on the Nile Travel Guide: Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling from a seat on a covered, open-air boat on the Nile River in Aswan, Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a 3/4-length sleeve white shirt, purple skirt and holding a straw sun hat while walking and looking up at the hieroglyphs dotting the high walls of the Inner Passageway of Edfu Temple in Egypt.
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a long sleeve blue patterned maxi dress and a green scarf, shielding her eyes from the sun under a row of columns outside of the Philae Temple ruins on Philae Island in Aswan, Egypt

    Philae Temple

    Beginning with a site near the city, Philae Temple is unique for its location on a small island at the center of the Nile River. Built during the reign of King Ptolemy II, Philae Temple is dedicated to the gods Osiris, Horus and most importantly, Isis, the ancient Egyptian goddess of fertility, magic and health.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a long sleeve blue patterned maxi dress and twirling in the Philae Temple ruins on Philae Island in Aswan, Egypt

    Early-on in Death on the Nile, Simon and Linnet Doyle enjoy a romantic excursion to Philae before joining the SS Karnak at Shellal.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a green dress and with a hand holding a sunhat on her head while looking up in awe and away from the camera on the walkway leading up to the four massive sitting statues of Ramses II at Abu Simbel Temple in Egypt

    Abu Simbel

    A major site in real life and in Death on the Nile, Abu Simbel is an archaeological complex consisting of two rock-cut temples commissioned by Ramses The Great. If you’re looking to feel like Hercule Poirot solving your next big mystery, this site is a must-see.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking alongside the exterior of the Great Temple of Abu Simbel, underneath the colossal statues of Pharaoh Ramses II
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a green dress staring up at the four massive sitting statues of Ramses II at Abu Simbel Temple in Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a green dress and straw sunhat walking toward the secondary temple in Egypt's Abu Simbel
    The lone dome of Qubbet El-Hawa, an ancient archaeological site along a hill in Aswan Egypt, sparkling in the sun

    Qubbet El-Hawa

    Located on the opposite side of the Nile from the Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel, Qubbet El-Hawa is an archaeological site containing the tombs of many Old and Middle Kingdom priests and nobles from ancient Egypt.

    Death on the Nile Travel Guide: Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner peering out on a covered motor boat while traveling on the Nile River in Egypt

    Boat Ride on the Nile

    Cruise the nile in style via a classic Felucca or Motor Boat. To maximize your time in Aswan, combine your trip down the river with a visit to Aswan’s Nubian Village, a traditional village with bright blue houses, spice shops & cafes.

    Death on the Nile Travel Guide: Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling from a seat on a covered, open-air boat on the Nile River in Aswan, Egypt
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a 3/4-length sleeve white shirt, purple skirt and holding a straw sun hat while walking and looking up at the hieroglyphs dotting the high walls of the Inner Passageway of Edfu Temple in Egypt.

    Kom Ombo and Edfu

    An easy day trip down the Nile, Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples are excellent day trips from Aswan. Visit Kom Ombo for its Ancient Egyptian calendar and Edfu for its inscriptions of the “Sacred Drama” of Horus defeating Seth.

    A female traveler holding a straw sunhat to her head and wearing a white shirt and purple skirt reads the heiroglyphs on the remains of a column at the Ancient Egyptian Temple of Kom Ombo
    reel places – death on the nile travel guide

    Where To Eat

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner reading "Death on the Nile" by Agatha Christie during High Tea at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel

    Where To Eat

    As for restaurants, I looked for open-air and historic spots near-and-around the Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel, where a large part of the book and film takes place.

    1902 Restaurant – French Fine Dining

    Orangerie – International Cuisine

    Saraya – Mediterranean Dishes

    Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel Terrace – Mediterranean Cuisine & High Tea

    Vienna Cafe – Light Snacks and Drinks

    A whicker table and chair sitting on the Victorian-era terrace overlooking the Nile at the Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan, Egypt
    High Tea set up on the Terrace at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan, Egypt
    Death on the Nile Travel Guide: The historic dining room inside the 1902 Restaurant in the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract in Aswan, Egypt

    5 Reasons You Need to Visit LA’s Hollyhock House

    by

    5 Reasons You Need to Visit LA’s Hollyhock House

    One of my favorite parts about traveling is witnessing all the history that’s still around today. Admiring old architecture, and more specifically, exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites is a wonderful way to learn more about the place you’re visiting, its culture, its art and its values. Recently, I had a chance to visit Hollyhock House, the first ever UNESCO World Heritage Site in Los Angeles. To just say it was wonderful would be a gross understatement, so instead, I’m sharing all the Reasons You Too Need To Visit LA’s Hollyhock House:

    hollyhock house

    UNESCO World Heritage Status

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking inside a doorway from the backyard of Hollyhock House in Los Angeles
    An open doorway leading from the backyard into one of the rooms inside the UNESCO World Heritage site, Hollyhock House
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing with hand on hip outside a doorway in the backyard of Hollyhock House in Los Angeles

    Hollyhock House is one of eight Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2019. Each were collectively recognized as UNESCO’s first modern architecture designation in the United States.

    The inscription recognizes the universal value of Frank Lloyd Wright’s works and his influence on contemporary design. Specifically, Hollyhock House is recognized for seamlessly blending a multitude of architectural styles including Mayan Revival, Modern, Art Deco and more.

    While exploring the house, I couldn’t help but be reminded of my past travels to far-off archaeological sites around the globe. If you’re yearning for Mayan or Egyptian Temple vibes close to home, Hollyhock House is definitely a spot to add to your list.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner clasping her hands while standing outside a doorway in the backyard of Hollyhock House in Los Angeles
    hollyhock house

    Badass Female Benefactor

    While Frank Lloyd Wright designed Hollyhock House, the UNESCO site would not be around today if it weren’t originally for Aline Barnsdall, an American oil heiress, philanthropist and art patron.

    She originally commissioned Wright to design this site as a home for her, which she named Hollyhock House and which features a distinct hollyhock motif after her favorite flower.

    Outside of her role in the creation of Hollyhock House, Barnsdall also contributed to politics and to the arts. She supported women’s suffrage, fought against the development of oil fields in California, founded the Los Angeles Community Playhouse, donated funds to New York’s MoMA.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing in the backyard of the famous Hollyhock House, commissioned by American oil heiress, philanthropist and art patron, Aline Barnsdall

    My favorite anecdote about her, however, was how much of a rebel she was for her time! She even intentionally had a child out of wedlock, which was wildly scandalous at the time, since she considered marriage archaic.

    hollyhock house

    Barnsdall Park Location

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner scanning LA's Barnsdall Park from a rock just in front of Hollyhock House
    The exterior of the Hollyhock House as seen from Barnsdall Park in Los Angeles, California, USA
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner shielding her eyes from the sun while standing in front of a view of LA's Griffith Observatory from Barnsdall Park

    Sweater Photography Shot In Collaboration With: Oliver aus der Mühlen

    Still in its original location on top of the hill that Aline Barnsdall commissioned Frank Lloyd Wright to build upon, Hollyhock House is now part of LA’s public Barnsdall Park.

    This is an amazing place to relax, have a picnic, take your dog or spend time with friends no matter the time of year.

    Sitting on top of a hill in Hollywood, the park has fantastic views of the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory and the surrounding area. But perhaps my favorite part of the park, and definitely a reason to make a late afternoon visit, is the epic sunset viewpoint.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling while sitting on a rock in LA's Barnsdall Park just in front of Hollyhock House
    hollyhock house

    Art Integrations and Exhibits

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking at a sculpture with three figures inside Hollyhock House, the first Los Angeles UNESCO World Heritage Site

    As a groundbreaking architectural site, Hollyhock House features numerous artistic elements in its design.

    Some remarkable mentions include the hollyhock flower motif that can be found throughout the house, an “owl fountain” in the central courtyard and “Mayan tiles” adorning the large fireplace.

    But the art doesn’t just end there. Hollyhock House also hosts several art exhibits over the years. A few notable ones include Henri Matisse‘s collection of works, “The Inner Eye: Vision and Transcendence in African Arts”, and “Glowing Animals | Radiant Forest”.

    The hollyhock flower motif reflected in Hollyhock House's walls and stained glass
    The "Mayan Tile" inspired fireplace in the Hollyhock House living room
    A piece of wall art showing a crane near a stream decorating the walls of Hollyhock House's living room
    hollyhock house

    Small Entrance Fee & Free Parking

    A bookcase inside Hollyhock House in Los Angeles, California
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing inside the library doorway at Hollyhock House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    A bookcase and matching tapestry inside Hollyhock House in Los Angeles, California

    I’ve been to my fair share of UNESCO World Heritage Sites while traveling the world, but rarely have I ever found one so accessible to the public.

    The cost to enter Hollyhock House is currently 7 USD per adult*. And if you’re a senior or a student, you can expect to pay only 3 USD for entry*. As far as parking, there are plenty of free parking spots* both at the top and at the bottom of the hill that the park and House sit on.

    *At time of writing

    A pink velvet chair and vintage lamp inside the library of Hollyhock House in Los Angeles, California

    Hollyhock House

    Los Angeles, California, USA

    UNESCO World Heritage Site

    Price: $

    Book Now

    Solvang Travel Guide: How to Have the Most Magical Weekend

    by

    Solvang Travel Guide: How to Have the Most Magical Weekend

    Located an hour away from Los Angeles, Solvang is a charming Danish village in the heart of Santa Barbara wine country. This small town is known for its European-style architecture, delicious restaurants and wine tasting opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a solo escape, a romantic getaway or a girls trip, here’s my Solvang Travel Guide: How To Have the Most Magical Weekend:

    solvang travel guide

    Timing

    Solvang Travel Guide: Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner sitting at a white iron table outside The Solvang Bakery in Central California

    Time of Year

    Like much of Central California, Solvang is pleasant year-round. However, some summer days can get up to 90°F or higher, which can make outdoor exploring slightly uncomfortable. Summer is also the time of year that sees the largest influx of weekenders.

    Instead, I recommend planning your visit in Fall or Winter around one of Solvang’s three signature festivals: Danish Days, Grape Stomp or Julefest.

    On one September weekend every year, Solvang hosts its annual Danish Days. This heritage festival includes three parades, Danish music and folk dance performances and themed events like rock concerts and Aebleskiver Breakfasts.

    Like the name suggests, Grape Stomp is a harvest festival where visitors have the opportunity to stomp grapes, receive a souvenir wine glass and, of course, sample some amazing local delicacies and wine. This annual tradition typically takes place in mid-October and is great option if you had previously missed out on Danish Days the month prior!

    Finally from late November to early January, the city dresses up for its annual Julefest with nostalgic Christmas lights and decorated trees. Visitors can experience a candle walking tour, seasonal music, traditional holiday markets, and light shows.

    Trip Length

    As a small town with lots of great restaurants, wine tasting opportunities and cute shops, a 2-3 day weekend is perfect for exploring Solvang.

    Solvang Travel Guide: Jordan Gassner window shopping at the Danish Mill Bakery & Coffee Shop in Solvang, California, USA
    solvang travel guide

    Transportation

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing and smiling on Alisal Road in front of Vinhaus in Solvang, California

    How To Get There

    If arriving from out of state, the easiest airports to fly into are the Santa Barbara (SBA), Burbank (BUR) and Los Angeles (LAX) airports. From there, Solvang is approximately a 1-2.5 hour drive, depending on your starting point. The furthest of these starting points is LAX at about 144 miles away.

    It’s also possible to visit from Northern California, but driving from larger hubs like San Francisco or Sacramento typically takes around 4.5-6 hours. So unless Solvang is just one of your stops on a much larger California roadtrip, I’d recommend driving-in from Southern California.

    How To Get Around

    Solvang is extremely walkable, as most restaurants and shops are located in the downtown area. However, to experience a bit more of Solvang’s charm, the city also has a local Trolly & Carriage Compa

    Going Wine Tasting?

    Solvang also has a number of different tour companies that can take you around the area.

    1. Artisan Excursion
    2. Los Olivos Limousine
    3. Stagecoach Co.
    4. Silk Road Transporation
    Traditional Danish buildings lining the cross-streets of Mission Dr and Fourth Place in Solvang, California, USA
    solvang travel guide

    Accommodations

    With picturesque buildings, amazing restaurants, diverse wineries and adorable shops, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags and book your Solvang hotel for a magical weekend you won’t soon forget:

    Hotels

    The Landsby – $$$

    Hotel Ynez – $$-$$$

    Sideways Inn – $

    Vinland Hotel & Lounge – $

    The interior lobby of the Landsby Hotel in Solvang, CA
    solvang travel guide

    Wine Tasting

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner holding a glass of wine while sitting at a table with a picnic basket and plates of food at Sunstone Vineyards

    Wineries

    Here’s a list of my favorite wineries, all of which have organic or biodynamic wines and are within 15 minutes driving-distance from Solvang:

    Coquelicot Estate – 100% Certified Organic

    Larner – 100% Organic

    Solminer – Austrian-focused and Certified Biodynamic & Organic

    Sunstone Vineyards – Celebrity Favorite. Their estate-grown wines are organic.

    Two plates full of food and two glasses of white wine in front of a picnic basket at Sunstone Vineyards in Solvang, California
    The wine pouring line-up inside the Toccata Tasting Room in Solvang California
    A wooden sign post on Mission Drive in Solvang, California reading four local business names, one of which is "The Sanger: Family of Wines"

    Tasting Rooms

    If you’re looking for something in-town, check out one of these local Solvang tasting rooms:

    Casa Cassara – 1607 Mission Drive

    Dana V. Wines – 1588 Mission Drive

    Royal Oaks – 1687 Mission Drive

    Sanger Wines – 1584 Mission Drive

    Toccata – 1650 Copenhagen Drive

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner drinking a glass of white wine at a "beer garden" style seating area at one of Solvang's many tasting rooms
    solvang travel guide

    Shopping

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking into the window of the Edelweiss Store on Copenhagen Drive in Solvang, California
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner window-shopping at the Edelweiss Store on Copenhagen Drive in Solvang, California
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing in front of the Edelweiss Store on Copenhagen Drive in Solvang, California
    The Wishing Well's traditional Danish-heritage decorated storefront in Solvang, California
    A building with an entrance fashioned like a white windmill with the sign "Hamlet Square" on top of it in Solvang, California

    Alisal Road

    Solvang’s main street, Alisal Road, is lined with a variety of shops that offer everything from Danish imports to handmade crafts to designer clothing.

    The Book Loft – Bookstore with a wide selection of new, used and Nordic books.

    Hanson’s Clock Shop Jewelers – Souvenir Shop with some incredible Danish charm, offering beer steins, cuckoo clocks and other bespoke collectibles.

    Solvang Olive Press – Olive Oil Shop offering tastings of flavored oils, maple syrup and more.

    Copenhagen Drive

    Another fun spot to peruse is Copenhagen Drive, especially if you’re an art fan as most of Solvang’s galleries are located here:

    Ingeborg’s Chocolates – Gourmet Chocolate Shop

    Pavlov – Art Gallery

    Pebble People – Souvenir Shop selling kitschy gifts Christmas ornaments and Disney figurines and watches.

    Thomas Kinkade – Art Gallery

    ZFolio – Art Gallery

    Honorary Mention: The Solvang Spice Merchant

    Shopping in Solvang isn’t just limited to Alisal Road and Copenhagen Drive. One of my favorite shops in the whole town is The Solvang Spice Merchant.

    Offering a large and affordable collection of salts, spices and teas, the Spice Merchant has something for everyone. My recommendations? Sample a few blended spices. My favorites are the Brewpub Garlic Fries, the Spicy Thai Blend and the Tuscan Bread Dip.

    Bowls of loose spices underneath a chalkboard map of the world at The Spice Merchant in Solvang, California
    A shelf full of spice blends inside The Spice Merchant in Solvang, California
    solvang travel guide

    Restaurants & Cafes

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking underneath a decorative flower awning The Bread Shop in Solvang California
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing underneath a decorative flower awning The Bread Shop in Solvang California
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner opening the front door of The Bread Shop in Solvang California
    Solvang Travel Guide: Two cocktails on a table near a window at the Mad & Vin restaurant in the Landsby Hotel in Solvang, California

    Danish Pastries and Pancakes

    One of my favorite things in Solvang is all the amazing food! If you’re looking to keep the European charm going, try some of the town’s phenomenal Danish pastries and pancakes:

    Mortensen’s – Traditional Danish Bakery

    Olsen’s – Traditional Danish Bakery

    Restaurants

    If you have any food restrictions or are generally just looking for something a little less sweet, there are also many other casual and fine dining spots around town to choose from:

    Mad & Vin – Traditional Viennese Bakery and Salon

    • Located in The Landsby Hotel, this spot has my favorite food and drinks in all of Solvang!

    Leonardo’s – Italian Cuisine and Pizzeria

    peasants FEAST – New American

    Secret Tip:

    Have some extra time before your Mad & Vin reservation? Enjoy Happy Hour from 4-6PM daily in The Landsby’s Lobby Bar. The drink menu was updated since my last visit, but I found the Korean Style Short Ribs and Calamari incredibly delicious!

    solvang travel guide

    Day Trips

    Santa Barbara, California

    Red, orange and yellow historic buildings near palm trees in Santa Barbara's downtown area

    Located along the California coast, Santa Barbara is a wonderful spot to explore. See the Cactus Garden at Ganna Walska Lotusland, walk Stearns Wharf or visit Mission Santa Barbara. And for something a little more low-key, try shopping on State Street or renting bikes to explore the town.

    Distance from Solvang: 1 Hour

    An aerial view of Santa Barbara's red tiled roofs and palm tree lined streets
    One of the small town streets in San Luis Obispo lined with shop signs in front of boutiques and outdoor tables in front of restaurants

    San Luis Obispo

    An adorable college town, San Luis Obispo makes for a great trip from Solvang. Head over to quirky Bubble Gum Alley, then grab lunch at Mint + Craft before enjoying some boutique shopping on Higuera Street and a show at the historic Fremont Theater.

    And if you do decide to stay overnight, the nearby Madonna Inn is a kitschy hotel full of immersive rooms and photo-ops that will often make you feel like you’re in a different place and/or era.

    Distance from Solvang: 1.5 Hours

    Ojai

    An aerial view of the vineyards of Ojai, surrounded by large hills

    Don’t let the small town escape end! Take a trip to Ojai for a host of wonderful beer and wine tasting opportunities, cute hotels and trendy boutiques.

    Perhaps the number one reason to visit Ojai, however, and number one place I recommend, is Bart’s Books. Originally inspired by Parisian book carts on the banks of the Seine, Bart’s is not only the world’s largest outdoor bookstore, but a eye-catching spot to spend a few hours exploring.

    Distance from Solvang: 1.5 Hours

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking through a colorful bookshelf at Bart's Books in Ojai, California
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing in the middle of a vineyard in Paso Robles, California

    Paso Robles

    Why not continue your California wine adventure at one of the best wine regions in the state? Unlike Napa and Sonoma, Paso Robles has still managed to be one of California’s best kept secrets to all but locals and those in the industry.

    While in Paso, make sure to stop at wineries such as L’Aventure, Broken Earth and Robert Hall. For more ideas on what to do while visiting, visit my blog post: How To Spend One Day in Paso Robles – My Favorite Spots.

    Distance from Solvang: 1.5 Hours

    Top 10 Secrets You Need to Know Before Visiting Cayman Islands (2023)

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    Top 10 Secrets You Need to Know Before Visiting Cayman Islands (2023)

    Sure, there’s that famous Pirates of the Caribbean line, “Dead Men Tell No Tales“, but I’d also argue that the living may not tell you everything you need to know either – or at least, they may not realize all that they’ve omitted. That’s how I felt when I first visited Cayman Islands.

    Despite its proximity to the United States, this former-pirate-hideaway-turned-country has loads of differences that you’ll often only discover after visiting. At least, that’s how I felt on my first and recent visit. So if you’re hoping for a glimpse at what surprises you might expect from this Caribbean nation, here are my Top 10 Secrets You Need To Know Before Visiting Cayman Islands (2023):

    visiting cayman islands

    Buy Rental Car Insurance

    Left Hand Driving

    I’ve driven in many countries, and in Cayman, driving is not for the meek. While Cayman Islands drivers don’t necessarily get as close or go as fast as drivers in countries like Egypt, Cayman does have a few unique obstacles for those renting cars:

    Firstly, drivers from the U.S. and many other countries will find that driving in Cayman takes place on the opposite side of the road and on the opposite side of the car. If you’re already used to driving on the left-side of the road and the right-side of the car, this should be no problem. But if you’re new, this can take a few days to get used to.

    About four years prior I had my first taste of this in New Zealand, and while challenging at first, most of the roads were one-lane each way and thus easy to follow. Cayman, however, is not like that unless you get out and away from the main tourist areas, restaurants and shopping.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling over her shoulder in front of a white, pink and green traditional Cayman Islands home
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking along the road in front of a white, pink and green traditional Cayman Islands home
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking along the road in front of "The Old Homestead" in Cayman Islands

    Round-A-Bouts

    Not only does Cayman have roads with multiple lanes to be aware of, but you’ll frequently have to drive through large, multi-lane round-a-bouts instead of traditional four-signal streetlights.

    These round-a-bouts can be dangerous, even when you’re cautious. After 5 days of driving in Cayman, my partner was behind the wheel when a local Cayman Islands driver slammed into us, trying to make an illegal right-hand turn from the wrong lane in a round-a-bout.

    Luckily, we walked away with no injuries and our car with no damages, but we were the victims of a hit-and-run and had to file a police report. Everything turned out fine in the end, but I could’ve avoided so much anxiety by purchasing rental car insurance ahead of time.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner holding onto a white gate in front of a white, pink and green traditional Cayman Islands home
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner shielding her eyes from the sun and taking a selfie before getting in the car for dinner in Cayman Islands

    Secret Tip:

    Every travel insurance plan is different, but I recommend securing coverage on at least two things if driving abroad:

    First, your medical bills in case of a motor-vehicle accident. Often, you can find this type of coverage in independent travel insurance company plans, just make sure you read and understand the fine print before buying.

    Second, coverage on your rental car for collision, theft, natural disaster or any other cause not in your control. I find it’s usually best to book this coverage directly with the rental car company, but again, make sure you read and understand the policy before purchasing.

    visiting cayman islands

    Prepare For Sunday Closures

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a pink bikini and white cover-up while being surprised by a rooster at Heritage Kitchen on Grand Cayman
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a pink bikini and white cover-up in front of Heritage Kitchen Restaurant in Cayman Islands
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking down and fixing her hair in front of Heritage Kitchen on Grand Cayman

    Cayman Islands strictly reserves Sunday as the Sabbath, a day of religious observance and abstinence from work. Many businesses, including grocery stores, some restaurants and even gas stations are closed on Sundays in adherence to this religious custom. You’ll find that only hotels and a small handful of these restaurants and gas stations are open.

    The best way to get through a Sunday is to prepare on Saturday morning. Make sure your car has gas and that you’re stocked up on groceries. Then, plan to spend Sunday with a low-key trip to one of the island’s gorgeous beaches.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner holding a straw hat while walking away from the ocean on Governor's Beach in the Caribbean
    visiting cayman islands

    Avoid Going Out On Saturdays

    A gold built-in booth with plush red cushions inside Next Door Lounge
    A screening of Amelie at the Paradise Pizza Film Club on Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
    The gold, red and dimly-lit interior of Next Door Cafe

    Don’t wait until Saturday or Sunday to have a fun night out! Bars typically close early on Saturdays to make way for those weekly Sunday closures. Additionally, you’ll find that live music and dancing are prohibited on Sundays.

    Instead, I found that Wednesday through Friday are the best nights out. Not only do the bars close late, but they also often have dancing, live music and more. Here are a few weekly events to look out for:

    On Wednesdays, I recommend to Lone Star Bar & Grill for a fun “Open Mic” night, Sandbar for Wednesday trivia or Next Door for their Ladies Night which offers specialty cocktails and discounts on bubbles!

    On Thursdays, experience live Latin music at Carib Café or live jazz at Union Grill & Bar before hopping over to their neighbor, Next Door to keep the jazz party going.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner drinking wine at a table inside Bayside Restaurant in Cayman Islands
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling with her head in her hands at a table inside Bayside Restaurant on Grand Cayman Island

    Finally, on Fridays, Anchor & Den has an awesome Rockin Ramen night where they combine traditional street food with DJ beats. And, if it’s the last Friday of the month? Catch the best of the 60s, 70s and 80s at The Wharf‘s Boogie Nights!

    And more generally, here are all the bars, speakeasies and lounges I recommend on Grand Cayman:

    1. Anchor & Den – Restaurant and Bar
    2. Backroom – Speakeasy
    3. The Bird – Restaurant and Bar
    4. Carib Café – Bar & Grill
    5. Lone Star Bar & Grill – Sports Bar
    6. Next Door – Classic Cocktail Lounge
    7. Sandbar – Bar & Grill
    8. Sol Y Luna – Restaurant and Lounge
    9. Union Grill & Bar – Restaurant and Bar
    visiting cayman islands

    Consider Budget Before Booking

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a white dress and sitting next to a pirate's hat and under a palm tree at Rum Point in Grand Cayman

    If you’re on a budget, Cayman Islands can be a challenging destination to visit.

    Currently, the Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD) is valued higher than both the US Dollar and the Euro:

    • 1 KYD = 1.20 USD
    • 1 KYD = 1.11 EUR

    Additionally island prices tend to be higher than average:

    • A nice dinner for two in George Town runs around 200 KYD*
    • One night at a 4-star hotel typically costs 300-$400 KYD*.

    Of course, with any destination there are budget-friendly hacks and ways to explore, but Cayman is still a place you’ll want to spend more time saving for before visiting!

    *At time of writing (January 2023).

    visiting cayman islands

    Bring Cayman Islands Dollars For Tips

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner fixing her hair at Ms. Piper's Restaurant in Cayman Islands
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling at the Ms. Piper's Restaurant Outdoor Bar in Cayman Islands
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner pushing back her hair and holding sunglasses at Ms. Piper's Restaurant in Cayman Islands

    If you’re heading on any tours and need cash for tips, make sure you’re tipping in Cayman Islands Dollars. Don’t bring US Dollars or another currency in cash expecting it to be easy to make change in small amounts. This is generally true in any country you might travel, but especially in Cayman.

    Not only would you have to bring more bills if dealing with a foreign currency due to the Islands exchange rate, but I didn’t see many places available, even at the airport, for currency exchange.

    Instead, your best bet is to exchange your tip money before leaving for Cayman Islands.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner perusing the menu at the bar near the pool at Ms. Piper's Restaurant in Cayman Islands
    visiting cayman islands

    Check Receipts For Service Charges

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking over her shoulder while strolling along a colorful walkway in front of Grape Tree Cafe in Cayman Islands
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking toward the ocean on a colorful walkway in front of Grape Tree Cafe in Cayman Islands
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking over her shoulder and smiling on a colorful walkway in front of Grape Tree Cafe in Cayman Islands

    Since we’re already on the subject of costs, one of my positive takeaways from Cayman is that tips are usually already included in the bill.

    Most restaurants and bars will add on a 15% Service Charge so you won’t have to sit there, trying to calculate how much to leave behind for your server or bartender. If you don’t see this already on your bill though, make sure to double check with a worker.

    I’m not sure about you, but that’s one of the last things I want to figure out – in addition to currency conversion – after being out under the warm Caribbean sun all day!

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner strolling up a colorful walkway in front of Grape Tree Cafe in Cayman Islands
    visiting cayman islands

    Remember To Say Hello!

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner closing her eyes and holding a sting ray in the water off the coast of Cayman Islands

    Another positive takeaway from Cayman Islands is that people are extremely friendly! Almost everyone we encountered took time to say hello before passing by. And so we did as well. Often, this led to brief conversations with locals, at restaurants, beaches, stores.

    I know this may sound like a nightmare if you’re an introvert like me, but I promise that it wasn’t bad. If anything, it was the opposite: small bursts of magical travel moments filled with helpful recommendations and interesting local stories.

    If you’re visiting Cayman, the best advice I can give you is be open to those you’ll meet and, as cheesy as this sounds, remember to smile.

    visiting cayman islands

    Wear Bug Spray

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing on the porch of the pink Rankin Home at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park in Cayman Islands
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing in the doorway of a pink antique home in Cayman Islands
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking towards a historic pink homes in Cayman Islands' Botanic Park

    The country’s main island, Grand Cayman, is fairly developed. There’s lots of restaurants, hotels and shops, but there’s also lots of bugs. You’re in the tropical Caribbean after all!

    While you might not need bug spray while laying out near the beach, you will certainly need it during two specific times:

    While exploring inland. No matter the time of day, you’ll need bug spray while visiting spots like Queen Elizabeth II Royal Botanic Park and Cayman Crystal Caves.

    At Night. After dusk is when mosquitoes are most active. Protect yourself by wearing bug spray if you’re planning to go out and about.

    Visiting Cayman Islands: Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner holding a rope and looking up from an underground cave at Cayman Crystal Caves
    visiting cayman islands

    Drive To Discover The Best Beaches

    Visiting Cayman Islands: Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner taking off her sunglasses near the plants at the top of Spotts Beach
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner peering out over the ocean from the Barefoot Beach stone ocean staircase on Grand Cayman in the Caribbean
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner sitting on an outcrop of rocks overlooking turquoise blue waters at Smith Barcadere in Grand Cayman in the Caribbean

    One of the most surprising secrets to visiting Cayman Islands is that the best beaches aren’t necessarily the ones you see most often on postcards. Don’t get me wrong: Grand Cayman’s famous Seven Mile Beach is gorgeous, but because it’s right in the heart of the country’s tourism center, it gets crowded, especially on cruise ship days.

    Instead, driving out of George Town can deliver you some epic alternatives. Hoping to swim with wild turtles? Spotts Beach is the place. Looking for a fantasy-like oasis? Explore Barefoot Beach. And what about a photogenic paradise? Visit Smith Barcadere.

    Some of Cayman’s most beautiful beaches are located outside of George Town, so even though it’s an island, don’t forget to go exploring!

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner sitting and smiling near a group of starfish with a boat on the horizon at Starfish Point on Grand Cayman Island
    visiting cayman islands

    Keep Your Plans Flexible

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking up at the sign post at Tukka Restaurant on Grand Cayman marking the distances to other famous points in the world

    Finally, I recommend planning tours, making restaurant reservations and generally planning your days, but remember to keep said plans flexible.

    Changing tropical storms can certainly cause delays and closures for certain island activities, but they also affect cruise ship schedules. And on days where a cruise ship comes to port, you might want to get out of George Town and explore the other parts of Cayman Islands, away from the crowds.

    Finally, you’ll want to make room for a bit of magic. Remember those friendly Cayman conversations I mentioned earlier? Avoid keeping your schedule so jam-packed that you have no time to accommodate these. Leave in some padding to stop and smell the roses, to be present and to have fun! Trips aren’t meant to be a rush from place-to-place. Slow down and enjoy the island life.

    A Don’t Worry Darling Travel Guide: Palm Springs

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    Don’t Worry Darling Travel Guide: Palm Springs

    Reel Places Series

    Welcome to “Reel Places“, a new blog post series where I create an aesthetic travel guide that makes you feel like you’ve been dropped into your favorite film. For this first guide, I’ll be taking on Don’t Worry Darling and there’s no destination that quite encapsulates a seemingly perfect 1950s paradise quite like Palm Springs, California.

    I’ll show you how to embrace Palm Springs’ Don’t Worry Darling lifestyle across actual filming locations and other aesthetically-minded spots. I’ll cover everything from where to stay and eat to the best activities and experiences the desert has to offer. So sit back, relax, and let me take you on a journey to Palm Springs, where you can leave your worries behind and embrace the carefree spirit of this beautiful desert oasis.

    reel places – don’t worry darling palm springs travel guide

    Where To Stay

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing outside the famous mid-century modern entrance to the Palm Springs Parker Hotel in Southern California

    To start your pristine Don’t Worry Darling x Palm Springs getaway, you’ll want to an accommodation with a bright, Mid-Century Modern or opulent Hollywood-Regency style.

    Hotels

    La Quinta Resort & Spa – $$$$$

    • La Quinta Resort & Spa acted as the Victory Project’s community pool and clubhouse in the film!

    Parker Palm Springs – $$$$$

    Colony Palms – $$$$$

    L’Horizon – $$$$

    Les Cactus – $$$

    Saguaro – $$

    reel places – don’t worry darling palm springs travel guide

    What To See

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner posing in a vintage dress front of a mid-century modern home with orange doors in Palm Springs
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking away from a mid-century home with a pastel yellow door and light blue gate in Palm Springs
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner shielding her eyes from the sun in front of Alice and Jack's Home from Don't Worry Darling
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling while wearing a vintage dress in front of Alice and Jack's Home from Don't Worry Darling

    Mid-Century Modern Homes

    Both Palm Springs and Don’t Worry Darling are known for their mid-century modern home aesthetics. So why not cruise around some of the most iconic neighborhoods in the area on a self-guided tour.

    Important Note: Most homes are privately owned and only available to view from the outside. While touring, please be kind and courteous to those living in and around the area. Do not trespass or bother the residents or the property.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a vintage dress and leaning on a mailbox in front of Alice and Jack's Home from Don't Worry Darling

    Canyon View Estates

    The perfect place to start your tour is in the Canyon View Estates neighborhood, which acted as one of the movie’s prime filming locations. This neighborhood acted as the facade for the film’s Victory Project, where Florence Pugh and Harry Styles‘ characters, Alice and Jack, called home.

    • Alice and Jack’s Home – 471 E. Azul Circle
    • #ThatPinkDoor Home – 1100 Block E Sierra
    • Yellow Door Home – Balboa Circle
    • Orange Door Home – Bolero Circle
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking sideways while standing in front of a mid-century modern home with orange doors in Palm Springs
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing pink outside of Marilyn Monroe's formal rental in Palm Springs, California, USA

    Vista Las Palmas Neighborhood

    Vista Las Palmas, a spot known for its Old Hollywood celebrity homes, is another amazing place to explore. It’s the location of the Kaufmann House which was home to Chris Pine’s Don’t Worry Darling character, Frank and the spot where Slim Aaron’s shot his iconic photograph, “Poolside Gossip”.

    • Kaufmann House – 470 West Vista Chino
    • Dean Martin’s Home – 1123 N Via Monte
    • Elvis’ Honeymoon Hideaway – 1350 Ladera
    • Marilyn Monroe’s Rental – 1326 North Rose
    • Nat King Cole’s Home – 1258 North Rose Ave
    An empty Palm Springs City Hall on a clear blue day in Southern California

    Palm Springs City Hall and Visitor Center

    These two public mid-century modern buildings also briefly star in Don’t Worry Darling and are a vibrant and nostalgic take on Palm Springs architecture.

    Sunnylands

    Sunnylands is a mid-century modern center where can visit the historic Annenberg estate as well as its rotating art exhibit, café and gardens.

    Modernism Week

    Every winter, the city of Palm Springs holds their annual Modernism Week, a celebration of mid-century modern architecture.

    Come take on one of the week’s many interior home tours, view the vintage car show or experience a nightly themed party.

    Two vintage cars in front of a mid-century modern home in Palm Springs, California, USA
    reel places – don’t worry darling palm springs travel guide

    Where To Eat

    Don't Worry Darling Travel Aesthetic: White cat eye sunglasses next to two menus at the Colony Club Restaurant in Palm Springs, California
    Don't Worry Darling Travel Aesthetic: A green sign with an arrow and the text "The Penny" inside a retro ballroom with red patterned floors
    Don't Worry Darling Travel Aesthetic: The outdoor tables at the Colony Club Restaurant in Palm Springs, California, USA
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner wearing a vintage-inspired pink dress while dining at the Colony Palm Restaurant in Palm Springs, California

    Here are the restaurants that excel when it comes to cooking up delicious food and that vintage Don’t Worry Darling style:

    Bar Cecil – Michelin Star

    • This is currently one of Palm Springs’ hottest restaurants! Guarantee your visit by making an advanced reservation. Alternatively, if your party’s small enough, you can roll-the-dice as a walk-in and hope the restaurant had a recent cancellation!

    Colony Club – Californian

    Mister Parker’s – French

    Mr. Lyon’s – Steakhouse

    Norma’s – All-Day Breakfast

    The Penney & Parlour – American & Piano Lounge

    How to Enjoy a “Tourist Trap”: San Francisco Pier 39

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    How to Enjoy a “Tourist Trap”:

    San Francisco Pier 39

    An American flag flying over a wooden building with a blue and white "Pier 39" sign in San Francisco, California
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking across a bridge on the second floor walkway at Pier 39 in San Francisco
    A mast with a ship's wheel sign reading "Fisherman's Wharf of San Francisco" circling around a red crab

    Located in Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 is arguably the most popular visitor attraction in both San Francisco and the entire Bay Area. However, if you ask a local San Franciscan, they might argue that it’s a tourist trap you’d best avoid. And while it’s true that you won’t find the true pulse of San Francisco here, Pier 39 is definitely still a fun spot that’s worth the visit – if you know a few secret tips and tricks. So here’s the first post in my new blog post series, How To Enjoy A “Tourist Trap”: San Francisco Pier 39:

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling in front of the Fog Harbor Fish House on the second floor walkway at Pier 39 in San Francisco
    An empty second floor walkway at Pier 39 in San Francisco under a purple sunset
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner deciding on which orange to grab from a fruit stand in San Francisco Pier 39
    san francisco pier 39

    Visit at 9AM For The Best Pictures

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing in front of they Golden Gate Bridge lookout point at Pier 39 in San Francisco
    An empty wooden bench along the pier in San Francisco's Pier 39
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner walking across a bridge on the second floor walkway at Pier 39 in San Francisco
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing in front of the Fog Harbor Fish House on the second floor walkway at Pier 39 in San Francisco

    The earliest attractions and shops on the pier open at 10AM. Come one hour early to take pictures throughout the pier without the crowds.

    Pier 39 Photo Spots:

    • In front of the Giant Red Heart
    • Next to the Carousel
    • By the water, looking out toward the Golden Gate and Alcatraz
    • Sitting on the Musical Stairs (Piano Keys Stairs)
    • The second floor walkway in front of Fog Harbor Fish House
    • Sitting on one of the many wooden benches
    • With

    Secret Tip:

    If you have a bit of extra time before everything begins opening up, head over to the California Sea Lions viewing area, which is open 24/7.

    san francisco pier 39

    Hit Up the Rides Right As They Open

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing in front of the carousel at Pier 39 in San Francisco
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner fixing her hair in front of the carousel at Pier 39 in San Francisco
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking back at the carousel at Pier 39 in San Francisco

    Once 10 AM hits, go purchase tickets and enjoy some of Pier 39’s amusement park-style attractions. This is the perfect time to ride with little-to-no wait times as most people are only beginning to show up to the Pier and usually want to look around first before committing to an activity.

    My Favorite Pier 39 Rides:

    • The Flyer – it was like a small-scale SF-themed version of Soaring Over California at Disneyland’s California Adventure
    • Alcatraz Escape Room
    • San Francisco Carousel
    • 7D Theater: Carnavale Option – felt like a scary, adult version of Toy Story Midway Mania! at Disneyland’s California Adventure
    • Bay Plunge
    • Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze

    Secret Tip:

    Consider purchasing one of the cost-saving Ride Packages at the Flyer Thrill Zone. I loved Package C, which grants you one entry to three Pier 39 attractions: The Flyer, 1 of 2 Escape Rooms and the 7D Theater.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner standing on the second floor platform overlooking the Carousel in San Francisco's Pier 39

    Bonus Tip:

    Skip the Aquarium of the Bay. Instead, take a day trip to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

    san francisco pier 39

    Pre-Book An Afternoon or Sunset Cruise

    A wide shot of the marina at Pier 39 in San Francisco
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner sitting and looking over her shoulder on a bench overlooking the marina at Pier 39 in San Francisco
    A sea lion at Pier 39 sitting up and looking around amid other sea lions napping
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner sitting and looking back on a bench overlooking the marina at Pier 39 in San Francisco

    For the best time cruising around the bay, I have two main tips. The first is to book prior to visiting Pier 39. Often, you can find great discounts on sites like Groupon.

    Schedule your sailing trip either during the afternoon or sunset. An afternoon excursion will allow you escape the crowds and, while it will still feel brisk on the water, help you experience the best possible weather. A sunset cruise is perfect if you’re hoping for a romantic trip with picture-perfect views.

    My Favorite Bay Cruise Operators at Pier 39:

    Secret Tip:

    Bring snacks, a bottled water and make sure to dress in layers for your cruise!

    san francisco pier 39

    Be Selective While Shopping

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner looking at a group of oranges at a fruit stand in San Francisco Pier 39
    The San Francisco Gold Fine Jewelry Sign from Pier 39 in San Francisco
    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner reaching for an orange at a fruit stand in San Francisco Pier 39

    Pier 39 is home to tons of shops selling too many goods to name! While it’s a fun to peruse, remember that many of these items will be priced at a premium due to their location on the pier.

    My Favorite Items To Shop For at Pier 39:

    • Ornaments
    • Sunglasses – RayBan has a stand without huge mark-ups!
    • Fresh Fruits
    • Spices and Teas
    • Chocolate and Fudge

    Secret Tip:

    You’ll find plenty of San Francisco-branded merchandise like shirts, hats and sweatshirts on Pier 39, but if you’re searching for more authentic or niche gifts, check out some of SF’s other neighborhoods like Chinatown, The Castro, The Mission.

    Travel Blogger Jordan Gassner smiling and and shielding her eyes in front of the Under the Golden Gate store at Pier 39 in San Francisco
    san francisco pier 39

    Take A Short Walk For Quality Food

    Lamp post in front of the San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39 in Northern California
    Yellow tulips near a bench in front of San Francisco Pier 39

    It’s true. The best food in San Francisco is definitely not located on Pier 39, but there are still some good and easy-to-walk-to restaurants in the touristy Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood.

    A glass filled with the World-Famous Irish Coffee from the Buena Vista Cafe in San Francisco

    Where To Eat in Fisherman’s Wharf

    Jordan Gassner wearing an explorer outfit while canoeing through Lake Sandoval, Tambopata National Reserve in Puerto Maldonado, Peru, The Amazon

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