Luxor bites the Dust
Modern Egypt is under pressure from its ancient origins
These shots were taken during December 2008, and show the transformation taking place in Luxor city. In a bid to rejoin the temples of Luxor and Karnak by excavating the original route of the avenue of the sphinxes, hundreds of people have been moved from their homes. 
One of the reasons I love Luxor so much; not a hard-hat in sight, not a restriction, a barrier, or a closed road. Life simply goes on. Cars and coaches weave in and out between twisted steel, and children intent on reclaiming bricks, rush in and out between bulldozer attacks. 
Even the corner shop stays open. Everyone from rule ridden Britannia should visit Egypt. That doesn't mean Egypt is free of rules and red tape, but for street life, anything goes. On this trip we saw a wobbling motorcycle with a passenger clutching a full length glass mirror, and an ancient Vespa, transporter to a large washing machine and two very small children. The list is actually endless.
And finally, two delicious discoveries, and firsts for us; Oasis Cafe and Gallery, and the Abo El-hassan El-shazly Restaurant. Full report and locations coming soon. But now, a sad note to end on for all you book fans; the wonderful Aboudi Book Shop is moving right to the other end of town. Weep.
TAKE ME BACK TO LUXOR LAST YEAR
TAKE ME BACK TO THE HOME PAGE
To view more Luxor images click on the Alamy box 