Fodor's Expert Review Ana Kato Nubian Cultural House

The name means "Our Home" in Nubian, and in 19 rooms scattered among three houses, Ana Kato shares the secrets of village life lived on Aswan's less-visited West Bank. The best way to reach this exuberantly painted Nubian bed-and-breakfast is by motorboat from Aswan, slowly making your way against the current between hidden islands, through portions of the Nile few outsiders ever see. When you see the whimsically patterned, multilevel house perched on a low bluff, you'll know you've arrived. Because the houses are built in the traditional Nubian style, rooms and baths are small, with a few lighthearted decorator touches. While you're here, you can sign up for sandboarding (the desert equivalent of snowboarding), camel rides, fishing, Nubian massage, and henna painting. Or just settle in for a gourmet meal on the terrace above the Nile. Nubian dancers provide the evening's entertainment, unless there's a wedding in town. Yes, of course you're invited.