Bet El Kerem Guesthouse

Abdel made the stay excellent, very accommodating and he knows the area VERY well.. And they know him which helps!

Water pressure in the shower.. That's really it

Abdel is the best host we have ever had. His place was super clean, the beds were very soft and comfortable, and his cooking was delicious. We loved the garden and rooftop patio. His place is super close to the ferry (6:00 - 24:00) allowing you to get across the river easily for food. He also provides amazing trip experiences at a fraction of the cost. If you don't want to find food across the river, Abdel is a cook with 30+ years of experience and is willing to make you anything you want. We were so, so sad to leave his place after our stay.

There wasn't really a lot we thought could have been better. The shower/bathroom was a little odd in our room with how the shower curtains were closed. They could probably be hung better but overall, we didn't really care or notice.

I had very early starts so a box/carry away breakfast was provided rather than a regular breakfast. What was provided satisfied my needs. The owner was very friendly and helpful and the guests ate together at night which was good for exchanging ideas and sharing experiences. It is not a typical hotel setting: that can be a plus or minus depending on one's needs. Arrangements can be provided for a variety of tours and activities such as felucca sailing, camel rides, etc.

The location is on the west bank of the river, opposite the main city of Aswan. There is a boat back and forth which is fine but makes exploring before or after dinner a little more difficult. Tour pickups are on the city side so it takes more time to get to such locations.

The owner clearly enjoys having guests and do his best to make your stay a great one. I traveled alone and he took me to his favorite coffee shop in town and even brought me to a local restaurant with his friends and paid for my lunch! It was a cool experience. The rooftop terrace is a great place to relax and the free access to fruit and warm/cold drinks is very nice. The location is good and it's easy to get across the river with the local ferry.

The bathroom situation is not great. I tried two rooms, one bathroom was a tent-like construction in the hallway so everyone in the hallway could hear what was going on in the bathroom. The other had a tiny shower stall in the bedroom itself and a separate toilet outside the room.