Had a great time in Egypt and the weather was perfect albeit a bit hot, although very much like Texas weather. Felt totally safe as we had a security guard in our tour bus at all times as well as the majority time we had a vehicle behind the bus with two security officers. This came in handy as they would turn on their lights and siren when we were in traffic and we would be able to speed on.

The Egyptians elected a new president this year and he appears to be very popular. He has a strong military background and was head of the army as well as attended the Military Academy and US Army War College. There are posters of him throughout the streets that were placed there by citizens to celebrate their new president.

The ancient sites are incredible and we were able to see so much. All the people we came in contact with were very gracious and we could not have received better service.

Neat photos, Susan. Glad you enjoyed your trip!

Thanks, Susan. Good to hear that Egypt is safer for travel these days,

Thanks for the update Susan, we would still love to get there someday, both attempts ended up being cancelled, so maybe 3rd time will be a charm. Waiting to hear what Ngaire might do.

Yes I felt totally safe and the trip was seamless. I would highly recommend.

Egypt is GREAT! Only downsides the vendors at most sites are VERY aggressive ! Also the temps can be unbearable at times - pick your time frame when it's NOT TOO HOT!!!!

You are so right Ted about the vendors and the heat.

Susan told me that the new President is focused on tourism and there are plans to have specific areas for vendors so the tourists will not be approached so much. Some areas are on the "way out" so not sure how he is going to do that but anything will help. A problem in many countries of course they seldom approach me I must have a "mean" look but they are always after Ken. I think they tell who is nicer!

I would NEVER go to Egypt in the summer it would be miserable!

I DOUBT Ngaire has a "mean" bone in her body! And I also doubt Ken would "out" her!

Haha, ngaire, that is so funny, because vendors never bother me either because I look mean. They are all over George though.

After river rafting in Nepal sweet Cathy made mistake of asking vendor price of some junk. He followed us up steep cliff to our transportation. He stuck to us like glue and would NOT take NO! NO SALE!

I did give him a buck just to get rid of him!

Discovered the following in a blog I look at. A recent visit to Cairo.
Interesting how the country is catering to the tourist again. Very encouraging. Four years ago our trip to Egypt was one of the most rewarding we have ever done. A most interesting country that all should put on their list, especially now that the country has the military back in control. The military recognizes that the tourist is a most important contributor to the economy.


http://onemileatatime.boardingarea.com/2014/10/10/visiting-cairo-on-a-stopover/

Thanks for posting that Ralph. Egypt is off the State Department warning travels lists now. So wonderful to know that people can go back and see the wonders of Egypt and hopefully get Egypt back into better financial order.

Susan had a great time.

I have been to egypt on last july, its safe and awesome, the giza is marvelous, nile is very calm and safety is considered as a good situation. hope this helps

I can't remember what Mr. Antoine's company name was, can anybody who is reading this thread remember? And did anybody on NILE catch Hany's last name?

South Sinai Travel - Antoines Company
Hany Hansaker (not sure of the spelling)

Thanks Ngaire! There was a Hany on the list of Coptic Christian men who were executed by ISIS; I didn't know how common Hany was as a name, but the last names are different.

I don't know how I could have forgotten South Sinai, though.

So glad to read this thread, since we're going to Egypt with Uniworld this October! Thanks Susan, and Ngaire.

sound beautiful