Alive and Kickin

It is 4 countries later and I have finally found an internet in Tanzania (thanks to Daniel, my guide).. For all these weeks I have been in places with no internet, no electricity, no newspapers, and no cell phone connection. It has been an adventure. Hopefully I can gradually catch up.... The "Real" tour of Egypt was highlighted by a slow cruise up the Nile River. The Nile is one of the 2 rivers in the world that travels from south to north. We flew from Cairo to the Aswan Dam and after seeing spectacular pyramids and tombs, boarded a 250 foot, 4 story ship to slowly cruise up the Nile. It is amazing how quickly your body adjusts to the gentle rythms and sounds of the Nile; the sound of children laughing and waving as they swim on the banks, the hot wind that blows in in the afternoons, the sound of the Muslim "call to prayers" that rings out 5 times a day. In addition, all of the side trips to land were beyond expectations. Our guide, Hanan, is actually a professor at the University of Cairo and has participated in many of the archeological digs at the Valley of the Kings and elsewhere. She made everything come alive and all of us hung on every word. One couple was in Egypt for their 5th visit and said that they had never heard the information in her tour. Also, Bill the other guide was knowledgable and truly concerned about all of our wellbeing. I can't recommend Gate 1 enough as the group to use if you travel to Egypt. And they are not paying me for this commercial!!!! The trip to Egypt ended much too soon but I know that I will return. It has my heart. On to Nairobi.........Happy Trails, Marion....P.S. Orsem Hobby, Magic M