As long time lovers and devotees of the Jolie Ville, we were anxious to discover whether the extensive building works, and economic and political pressures had changed the experience. Well, sadly, they certainly have.
The Jolie Ville has always been the best kept secret in Luxor. A haven of peace and civilisation, away from the all-pervasive clamour and noise of the down-town area. And it still is. Unfortunately, the hotel’s standards have slipped dramatically. Because Egypt has been the subject of so many negative press and TV reports, hotel occupancy is very low indeed. I’d guess the Jolie Ville accommodation was about 30% occupied while we were there. It may be that with its much reduced guest revenue they simply cannot afford the previous standards. To add to that, they have obviously spent millions on building new two-storey accommodation blocks, most of which appear to be unused. Their timing has been very unfortunate.
There is no doubt that it is Jolie Ville regulars who understand the site who get the best from it. Most essentially, they know which of the bungalow units to avoid.
The disappointing news:
The kitchen ventilation exhausts to the south of the restaurant complex. With the prevailing north wind, all bungalows to the south are blighted by appalling fried cooking smells, laced with onions and garlic at biblical levels. Bungalows closest to the vents also have to tolerate the noise of the extraction fans. Bungalows nearest the river are least affected. Bungalows to the north of the site are not so affected, although there is a row of half-built two storey accommodations close to the east. This part of the site is not being completed at present, but it will become a noisy building site at some time.
Food at the Jolie Ville used to be excellent. We experienced meat that was raw – not rare, but raw. We were also disappointed with dried-out chicken, over-cooked vegetables, and pastries that looked great but tasted of nothing. Overall, it is now desperately ordinary.
The be-suited counter staff in the vast and geographically remote new reception building are unsmiling, and have to be pressed to assist with any concerns.
The much-loved courtesy boat into Luxor town was out of service, and had been so for some time. The courtesy bus still runs, and is excellent.
On the positive side:
The old bungalow refurbishments are excellent, although you only get a shower, and no bath. (I do love to soak after a day sunning or exploring).
No other hotel in the area offers freedom from street clamour and car horns 24/7.
Despite worrying media reports, there are no security problems in Luxor.
With occupancy so low, excellent deals can be had.
The room, bar, and serving staff are very nice. Some are exceptionally good.
Suggestions: Order river excursions from Joleys in Luxor. Order a taxi to tour the West Bank sights (about E£150 for the day), rather than through an agent. Buy water in quantity from a supermarket (about E£3 instead of E£13 in the hotel).
Even though a less enjoyable experience than it used to be, this is still by far the best place to base for a holiday exploring the amazing antiquities of ancient Thebes. In my opinion, the Sofitel at Karnak comes a distant second.
This was our 5th visit to the Jolie Ville, and we have recommended it to many of our friends. So it is a great disappointment to have to report negatively on this occasion. In fairness I can’t award less than four stars, but it ain’t what it used to be. I expect we’ll return eventually, but we will now leave it to mellow for a few years.
- Jolie Ville Luxor
- Movenpick Luxor
