Asyut Hotels

YMCA Asyut: Lively place

This youth hostel was decent as we stayed in the new wing that contains air-con and a fridge and ensuite bathrooms. Has typical problems such as no hot water, however. Location is a plus point due to fruit stalls and tamiyaa stalls nearby, not forgetting a superb Internet cafe for those who want to hide from the terrible summer heat. KFC and a good western restaurant also along the Corniche just 10mins walk away.

Try the hamburger with egg at their own cafeteria. Also, YMCA is particularly helpful as it's one of the few hotels in this city whose manager speaks communicative English which means a room was booked without too much hassle.

The only thing I have to hold against this place is that they forgot to unlock the room to our bikes when we woke up one day at 2.30am to continue our Nile cycle so had to waste one more day. But it's a small problem since I don't think there will be another cycling team passing by too often :P

Unique Quality: Of the 11 cities/towns I've been to in Egypt, this little treasure offered a true opportunity to interact with the locals without being completely swamped. Big sports centre here means kids and teenagers come by every evening.

If you are interested in learning about local culture, the kids who are eager to practice the English they've learnt in school will be a delightful help. Even got a game of football going with 'em! :)