the day we leave

will be back to the blog late oct, see you then!

new hair cut and color!!!!

our first stop out of athens is Alexandria egypt, here's our excursion. . . .Day 1: Depart from the pier for a journey through desert scenery and reclaimed, cultivated land, reaching the outskirts of Africa's largest city, the legendary Al Qahira, internationally known as the teeming metropolis of Cairo. Sit back, relax and listen as your guide tells you about the history and culture of a timeless land on a journey lasting approximately three hours. Your first stop brings you to the Citadel of Saladin; where you'll see panoramic views of the city of Cairo. Driving through the 'City of the Dead' towards the Citadel, the architectural and the surreal surroundings will capture your imagination. Visit the spectacular Alabaster Mosque of Mohamed Ali and continue to Liberty Square, the heart of downtown, where the National Archaeological Museum is situated. Here acquaint yourself with Egypt's ancient history spanning a period of 50 centuries.The museum houses the richest collection of Egyptian Antiquities, including the magnificent Tutankhamun collection. Proceed to a leading hotel in Cairo for check-in formalities, lunch and a short siesta. In the early evening depart to the Papyrus Institute where the procedure of manufacturing the oldest paper in the world will be demonstrated for you. You'll have some time to shop for your favorite souvenirs before proceeding to the Giza Plateau to attend the English version of the 'Son et Lumiere'. Here seated in front of the Sphinx under a star studded sky, the Sound and Light performance brings the magnificent history and achievements of the ancient Egyptians to life as the illuminated Pyramids and the mysterious Sphinx dominate the surrounding darkness. To end the night, sail on the River Nile, the same timeless waterway traversed by Pharaohs, Queens and Nobles thousands of years ago. Enjoy a sumptuous buffet dinner in elaborate interiors as you glide past Cairo's waterfront landmarks, while a folkloric presentation and belly dancing take place for your entertainment. You'll then drive back to your hotel for a well-earned night's sleep. Day 2: After breakfast and check-out drive southto Egypt's first capital, Memphis. Here visit the ruins of the temple of Ptah, the fallen colossal statue of King Ramses the 2nd and the Alabaster Sphinx of King Amenophis the 2nd. Drive to the oldest, ancient cemetery of Sakkara and see the Step Pyramid of King Zoser. Continue to one of the Mastabas (tombs) built nearby, and visit ones such as those of Ptah-Hotep, Mereruca, Idut or Ti. Then proceed to the Giza Plateau, where the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World is found, the imposing Pyramids of Giza. You'll have some free time at the Pyramids to explore and enjoy this magnificent site as well as having unique photo opportunities. Continue down the valley where the Mighty Sphinx bears witness to the passage of time. Let your imagination reflect on the golden days of the Pharaohs as you gaze at this mighty monument. Lunch will be served afterwards at a leading hotel nearby the Pyramids before the return journey to port. Bring back with you wonderful memories to reflect upon for a very long time to come. Note: Shoulders and knees must be covered and shoes must be removed while visiting the Mosque. Visitors must go two security check points before visiting the Cairo Museum. During the Sound and Light show, use of video cameras requires a fee of approximately $6.00. All meals and overnight accommodations are included. The drive to Cairo takes approximately 3 hours each way.