Big Steps Back

This pile of rubble is really...

An ancient Harbour and Lighthouse (1st c BC to 2nd c AD)

The end of our stay started with an interesting crossing of the Suez Canal on a local coach.  We all had to de-bus to complete a security check; cameras forbidden of course.  Then it was back headlong into the smoggy, hectic, bustle of Cairo.  We found some respite in the Salma Hotel before making plans for our last day in Egypt.  Mr DIY made arrangements to visit a work colleague; I made for the Egyptian Museum.   We met in Khan al-Khalili for some last minute shopping.  Well, it was nearly Christmas!

Amazing colours near Sharm el-Sheikh

I’ve included a map of our romp through the timelines of ancient Egypt; a path that allowed us to get a sense of life in those times – a mere jump away from prehistoric man.  You can however, become quite giddy as you try to  assimilate the many layers of history that have been imposed as civilisations glitter then fade, again and again.    

We covered a lot of ground!

We enjoyed our Imaginative Traveller tour; it was professionally managed and well organised.  Athena, our group leader and all the monument docents were well informed and friendly; as were our bus drivers and cruising staff.  Our travelling companions were good fun and we enjoyed being able to do extra “cultural immersions” on our own and at our own pace.  Would I ever go back?  I don’t think so.  There are just too many other wonderful things to see and do.  I’d need to live a thousand years to cover it all.  Perhaps I could make a start by building a big pyramid in readiness for my next life….now there’s a thought!

Farewell to Egypt