Positive: the temples, the sympathy of the guide (Ramadan) and the driver (Achmed), both very attentive and kind. The driving was excellent (smooth and cautious), the car was spotless and very comfortable, the ride was fast, and well timed.
Negative: The tour begun with the guide informing us that Abydos is very far, and that it would be better to skip abydos, and instead visit a temple in Luxor, with no extra charge. The supposed distances and time were cleary exagerated... as we could confirm later on.
that was strange, since we knew already that abydos was far, what ment a 10 hours trip (forth and back). Secondly, why would we change the tour, skipping the most far destination for something in Luxor (where we were) and pay the same? The priceof the tour was higher because of the distance and time that took, why should we skip it to something we didn't want and still pay the same? It was strange.
During the trip until Dendera (first stop) and before starting the route to abydos, we were questioned several times if we wanted to skip Abydos. That insistance was ackward, since we were very clear since the first time. I understand that the road is very bumpy, and the driver obviously doesn't like to do this tour, it's a long way, and with some roads in really bad shape, but still, that shouldn't be a reason to try to convince the client to change the trip. I insist, it doesn't make sense.
The insistance to book other tours (karnak light show, balloon in luxor, etc) was pushy, to say the least, not to mention the "invitations" to visit alabaster, spices and parfums factories...
last but not least, I repeat that the guide was very nice (also the driver), but his knowledge of egyptian art and history was surprisingly poor. If we book an extra price for an "egyptologist", it's not acceptable to have an expert that knows less then me about the history of the ancient egypt. And on top of that, with a really limited knowledge of the english language.
Of course it's not his fault, that did everything he could to make us happy, and was very kind and attentive, but it's the company's fault. It's not acceptable to charge this value and not provide a good and competent service.
The guide in charge was very kind and well-educated in history, so I learned a lot. They were also worried when their friends got sick along the way and figured out how to deal with it.
It is highly recommended for those who want to study the ruins.