Follow Joanna Lumley on a journey down the Nile

The world’s longest river, the River Nile is set to become even more popular with holidaymakers this spring as ITV1 airs a new series on 12 April at 9 pm (the first in a four part series) following Joanna Lumley on a trip of a lifetime, travelling along this great river as it passes through Egypt and off into the heart of Africa.

The programme uses the river as its inspiration to tell the fascinating story of the River Nile and the many historic explorers that have travelled its length, as well as the people that live close to it today, as it winds its way north to south for four thousand miles.

Holidaymakers that would like to make their own journey along the lifeblood of Egypt should consider a 7 night Nile cruise through leading Egypt specialist, Discover Egypt (discoveregypt.co.uk), currently offering a further seven free nights in Luxor for any cruise booked on the 5 star Royal Viking and travelling between 16 April and 12 July 2010.

The price for the 14 night holidays is now from £899 including the 7 night full-board cruise on board the stylish 5 star Royal Viking with 10 land based excursions, 7 nights at the 4 star El Luxor in a great location next to the Nile, return flights from Gatwick and Manchester, plus transfers in resort.

Highlights of the cruise include visiting the Valley of King and Queens, Temple of Karnack, the Temple of Edfu, the High Dam, the Old Granite Quarries, the Unfinished Obelisk and the Temple of Philae, plus an optional excursion to Abu Simbel.

Back in Luxor, spend 7 nights exploring the historic city of Luxor even further, shopping in its bazaars or simply enjoying the Egyptian sunshine relaxing by the hotel pool.

Discover Egypt also offer 7 nights Nile cruise only with prices from just £599 per person with flights, transfers and full board accommodation plus 10 land based excursions with an Egyptologist.

Add on stays to Cairo, Alexandria, El Gouna and Sharm are also on offer.

To book, visit: discoveregypt.co.uk