Kathleen Pascarella’s Travel Journal

Take my advice: Egypt is a must-see

Where did you go? Egypt all over the country including Cairo, Giza, Aswan, Luxor, Memphis, Abu Simbel, Quarna, Saqqara.

When did you go? I went Nov. 1, which is the kick-off of the touring season because it is not as hot and uncomfortable. It was about 75 degrees every day.

For how long? I was there for 11 days; plenty of time to see everything.

How long did it take to get there? You must be ready to endure this travel time ... about 24 hours door to door.

How much was your flight? I purchased a package through a tour company, which included all flights, hotels, Nile cruise, many meals, attraction fees and transfers for $3,085.

Lodging, food, fun? I bought an excursion to Abu Simbel for $244, plus about $200 for spending money. Everything is very inexpensive in Egypt.

How did you get around? Airplane, bus, felucca, cruise ship, taxi, horse and buggy, camel, horse, foot.

What did you pack that came in handy? Bubble wrap (for fragile souvenirs), Handiwipes, Egyptian pound conversion cheat sheet, camera (of course), pens, candy and gum for Egyptian children, New Balance sneakers, hat.

Did you feel safe? Absolutely. Cairo is the second safest city in the world, people are kind and hospitable.

What’s a "must do?" Without a doubt, the pyramids in Giza and the Sphinx. A Nile river cruise, a camel ride, a trip to Abu Simbel to see the four statues of Ramses II, the Egyptian museum, Valley of the Kings, Khan al Khalili bazaar in Cairo.

Any troubles, such as eating certain foods or speaking the language? They tell you not to drink the water or eat fruits, dairy products or cold salads. Otherwise, food was delicious, especially the desserts. Sugar is in abundance in Egypt, so everything is sweet.

The universal language is a smile. I had no problem with non-speaking Egyptians, but you must learn the basics in Arabic. They also speak fluent French and German and most speak English or know enough to communicate.

What did you buy? Perfume, silk scarves, jewelry, cartouche drawings of names of people on papyrus.

Last words of advice: Find a way to get there at some time in your life. Experience the culture and the history that is beyond one’s imagination.

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Author(s) : Thomas
Publication : 22 May 2006
Update : 22 May 2006

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