One of the best ways of seeing Luxor and its monuments is from the air. Up until recently this could only be done in the early morning by hot air balloon. In late 2003, there was an alternative way - by seaplane! The seaplane flights have operated spasmodically since.

The hot air balloon trip over the West Bank is slow and graceful. It has to be an early start, as the balloons can only fly while the temperature is still relatively low. Unfortunately, because the wind cannot be guaranteed, there is no certainty that you'll actually see any of the monuments from the air! I've seen the balloons drifting over the Nile, seemingly on their way to the airport, as you can see on the left.! Other times, I've seen them clearly over the Theban hills.

There are now several companies organising balloon trips - you can easily get details of them from your hotel, but generally speaking, the cost will be between £75-100 (English not Egyptian), and the pick-up time is between 4.30 and 7.30am. After the last flight of the day, the balloon is deflated and packed, and the passengers and crew dance and sing! As the balloon needs to be balanced, for any other flight other than the first and last, it is a case of one out and one in.

For a guaranteed view of the major temples of Luxor and the West bank from the air, the seaplane is probably the best way. The flights started in late 2003, and I tried it in February 2004 - the cost then was approximately LE500. The ride can be a little rough, due to turbulence, and, yes, it is quite noisy. You fly higher than the balloons, and the trip takes roughly 30 minutes. But the views are breathtaking!