The city has been southern Egypt's strategic and commercial gateway since antiquity. It carries a distinctly African vibe, its lively souks and streets dotted with distinctive Nubian villages and splendid mud-brick houses, awash with colour and pattern. The city is steeped in history, with the magnificent Temple of Isis, a testament to the city's ancient origins, offering a glimpse into its storied past. I saw less of Aswan, food poisoning from a rabbit stew keeping me confirned to my cabin so I missed seeing the great Dam. But we did get the chance to visit a local nubian and watch craftsmen work the loom.

The city's charm isn't just confined to its historical treasures. Aswan is also a haven for those seeking relaxation. The Nile is at its most picturesque here, with amber desert and granite rocks forming a backdrop to azure waters, as traditional wooden sailing boats, known as feluccas, glide by. The river, is beautiful to explore if you’re confident you can fight a crocodile and Aswan's pace of life is slow and relaxing, making it the perfect place to stop and unwind for a few days and soak up the chilled-out atmosphere.