My “nutshell” summary version reads like this: 3 fast paced weeks, running at full speed. Temperatures 95F-112F with full sun and blue skies, sand sand sand, visiting every Pyramid, Temple, Coptic (means Egyptian) Church, man made dam at Aswan, wonderful people and cross section views of days in the lives of many Egyptians, Caroline our wonderful (OAT) guide, Papyrus relics and artworks, jewelry both ancient and new, museums galore, the incredible Library in Alexandria, Nile Valley, top to bottom, public markets in every town and on premises of some venues, glorious foods and mouth watering presentations and over the top restaurants, talented chefs, artisans of all genre and again wonderful people.
My out of “the nutshell” version; The cities; broken pavement, dirty streets, the result of eons of blowing sand and LITTER in piles. the youngsters happily play in their neighborhood streets often in the sand, muck and garbage but seem as happy, robust and healthy as other youngsters seen around the world. Most of the building facades appear corroded, decaying, pockmarked from sand and salt-sea air and in danger of destruction. There are no modern structures of glass and steel as elsewhere in the world (maybe that is a plus). 1/2 of the structures appear to be under construction others under destruction or on hold. The metal building
material Rebar grows vertically on top of half finished buildings as prolifically as the numerous trees in the forests. It is common to see apartment structures built a floor at a time; the lower apartments occupied by grandparents, parents and families. Newly married sons and daughters move into the same building after the parents build up the next floor above for them, thusly the explanation for the spikes of Rebar vertically awaiting the next level apartment and family expansion. We have seen this in other parts of the world as well.
Speaking of families; we visited many families, enjoyed home hosted meals, learning so much about the daily life of citizens from all levels of life, education and occupation. What stands out in my mind the most is the love and devotion of families units and their deep regard, hungry quest for education and the hope to better the lives of the next generations. Young people and many middle aged folks want to attend college, many abroad and some move away from family to pursue careers and futures far away.
We sailed on the Nile river boat Asiya Dehabeya, for 5 nights, a 16 passenger, 15 crew two masted sailboat with engine. So comfortable, what a crew.
Such smooth sailing it was with Captain Mohammad.
The Egyptian cuisine is Mediterranean with differences. I will share the Egyptian version of Moussaka; SO DELICIOUS; a recipe shared with us by our glorious chef on board the river boat. EgyptianMoussaka Restaurants vary from simple pizza and subs, to highly upscale and sophisticated dishes. We dined like kings and queens, too much food, large portions but delicious. The Egyptians love baked goods and they are works of art. Every other shop seems to be a bakery.
The historical sites. We saw everything intimately, from crawling through the Great Pyramid, do it if you go, to all of the renown Pyramids and tombs, the Sphinx, Temples, monasteries and Coptic (meaning Egyptian) Churches.
We had opportunities to learn Hands on to make and buy chairs and tables and bamboo mango boxes for shipping, by the lead artisan age 88 and to make and purchase parchment and papyrus papers and drawings, jewelry, clothing, accessories in upscale venues on the street or in the many markets.
We were indeed hounded by vendors begging us to buy. Either you are interested in buying or you walk by, protecting yourself as they beg you to “buy from me” and make no eye contact as you continue to your destination.
Summing up 3 weeks of full days and nights is hard. I haven’t discussed Luxor, the Aswan Dam, light shows on site, the camel ride, rescued temples, the social and economic picture, the political situation which seemed to be escalating during our visit and continually was denied by our leaders. More stories will come out in the weeks to come. What a memorable tour it was.