For those who have been following us over the course of the last year know that Egypt is a country that is forever in our hearts. Not only was Egypt the first stop on our around the world trip back in June of 2010 but it where we learned what true Egyptian hospitality is all about. We also met a handful of really great people during our first trip that we continue to keep in touch with to this day. Call me a pessimist, but I never thought I would ever meet a real “friend” in Egypt never mind a best friend.
Since our last trip I’ve kept in contact with many people that we met but I mainly keep in touch with one of my closest friends that helped us find some last minute accommodation during our first visit. His name is Mohammed, and believe it or not he’s now one of my best friends and we keep in touch on almost a weekly basis. During a conversation with him a few months ago he had mentioned that he would love to host Liz and I at his home at some point this year. When I mentioned this to Liz, she thought it would be nice to get back to Egypt to spend time with our friends. So, what did we do? We booked our tickets!
[box type=”info”]In case you missed it: A post about our first day back in Egypt can be read here.[/box]
After sleeping away a slight case of jet lag we were out and about on our first day in Cairo. Our friend and tour guide Mahmoud took us on a tour of Coptic Cairo.
After a brief visit to Mar Girgis Church we took a nice stroll through the Coptic Cemetery which was impressively clean and well kept.
[box type=”info”]For more photos of our tour of Coptic Cairo click here.[/box]
After our tour through Coptic Cairo we headed towards a medieval gate and major landmark in Cairo called Bab Zuweila. The coolest part of Bab Zuweila was when we formed two teams (Mahmoud and I vs. Mohammed and Liz) and we raced to the top of the two minaret towers!
You wouldn’t believe how small and tight the stairs are in these minaret towers. At certain points of the ascent to the top of the towers you’re surrounded by complete darkness and if you’re claustrophobic in any way you might want to skip the climb. One missed step and it could be the end of you! Once we reached the top we took in the amazing and not so amazing views of Cairo in the distance.
Amazing:
Not so amazing:
All in all, we had a great day with our friends as expected. On the way home we stopped to grab a couple chicken shawarma sandwiches from GAD, a famous restaurant chain in Egypt that just can’t be beat!
I love reading yalls post about Egypt. I looked forward to them so much. Y’all get me so excited to visit. I’ll will def be hitting yall up once I get there. I am planning to stay there a few months. Its been a dream of mine to explore that country.
Thanks a lot Jaime. Really hope you enjoy your time there… contact me if you need help.
Nice shot with “Coptic Cemetary”!
I never thought of Egypt as being known for friendly hospitality, thanks for the insight.
Thanks Andrew!
come to see by yourself that all the Egyptians are friendly and they can help you on whatever you wanna :)
most welcome in Egypt for sure
Thanks Mona!
Very nice page! Love the pictures :)
Wow, it seems like you had an amazing experience in Egypt. I am staying in Egypt for 2 months, I am excited!
Yes, we love Egypt! Good luck. What will you be doing there during your two month stay?