Monday, November 3, 2008

Day 37 - Cairo

Out of steam is an understatement today. Day 36 ended with us arriving at our hotel 3.30 am of Day 37. Plane was bloody late leaving Aswan, stopped at Luxor, then on to Cairo (a long story which we wont tell right now).

After breakfast we met our guide at 10am then headed off for the Egyptian Museum. Crowds of people there - it was so busy!! All we can say though is wow!!! In 3 hours we were guided to the various major treasured items which included the contents of King Tut's tomb. Neil could spend a whole week here!!!

Next stop was the Islamic Citadel area which included a fort built in the 12th century and a Mosque built by Mohammed Ali in the 19th century. We were able to go in this massive mosque. Also great views from up there but was a bit hazy today. However not far away we saw the another large mosque which contains the tombs of the recent kings and also the Shah of Iran.

Had lunch then did a quick visit to the big bazaar area. Did not purchase anything but a very busy area. Headed back to the hotel at 4pm.

Got adventurous then and set out to find a rstaurant recommended by our guide. Did not take long to learn to go with a local when crossing the road. Forget the traffic - they seem to miss!! Even pedestrian lights mean nothing to them - just run a red and keep going!!

Had a really nice meal at the restaurant that was all Egyptian food. Sandra had the first and only glass of wine that she has had since being in Egypt! (That is another story also).

Should be no surprise that tonight will be an early night.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

I can tell that Egypt is all you imagined it would be. There is so much to see that I’m sure you could visit several times. Our kids also thoroughly enjoyed the Nubian people and their hospitality. Like Dee, my heart stopped when I heard of the buss accident.
How’s Cairo second time around? Lots of people say it’s a bit of a shock – so chaotic and a bit dirty.
Sounds like you are about ready to head home for a rest. But what fantastic memories and photos you’ll have.
The US Presidential race has more interest than our election at present. Thank god it’s this Sat and all the signs and election bashing will be over!
The ABs win was not convincing – OZ played brilliantly in first half. Hopefully in UK they will perform better.
In Brisbane, Ferns lost netball 43-41 to OZ – we had it to win again, but didn’t deliver.

larkhill said...

I don't think there is any other city quite like Cairo!
You have experienced the horrendous traffic but survived crossing the streets. And did you chance your luck at night when they don't all use their lights!
I think you need a full day at the museum at least - two would be good. The new museum may not have the charm of the old Egyptian Museum.
Have a good rest in Dubai - look forward to seeing you at the airport at 8 pm on Sunday 9th.

Cheers
Bruce & Di

Anonymous said...

We have been away for 4 days so have just caught up with all your news. Glad you have enjoyed Egypt. We will have to compare notes, it sounds like you went to the same nubian village we did. We suspected the "pet" baby crocs may have been dinner on another day!
Have a safe trip home.

Anonymous said...

Friday 7th Nov - been checking regularly for another blog update. You are obviously busy touring, so will have to wait until we catch up in W'gton to hear about the rest of your adventures.
Election: Latest TV1 and TV3 polls still put National ahead.
Good news - petrol dropped another 6c last week.
ABs: Henry resting many of top players for game against Scotland.
Please bring home some settled weather!!
Safe trip home.