Cairo is crowded, dusty, colorful, fragrant and romantic. Singular in how it captures the imagination… think of minarets, camels, Cleopatra and Omar Sharif….
A few street scenes…
The Khan el-Khalili market was originally part of a palace complex but evolved into a massive bazaar by the 14th century. It is a living part of the city, encompassing religious sites, schools, charity centers… and of course a jillion stalls selling jewelry, textiles, clothing and trinkets.
Henry is the opposite of a shrewd shopper; he adopts a deliberately naive and open manner which is a magnet for the pushy salesmen (all are men and all are pushy), who are delighted to oversell and overcharge him.
At the end of the day, the amount Henry spends is minuscule compared to the joy all parties experience in the back-and-forth of the deal.
A sunrise trip to the Pyramids allowed us to bypass the visitors who normally mob the site….
Saladin, the first sultan of both Egypt and Syria, constructed the Citadel in the 12th century to defend Cairo against Christian Crusaders.
The complex incorporates the Mohamed Ali Mosque. Visitors to the mosque are required to remove their shoes, or else don protective booties.
Women are not required to cover their heads, but it is preferred as a sign of respect…
The Grand Egyptian Museum opened less than a year ago after decades of planning and construction. It contains relics of Egypt’s ancient civilization, including the treasures from the tomb of King Tut. It is absolutely dazzling.
A quick taste of the modern and ancient Middle East….. next stop is the very European city of Madrid.
Around the World Again 
Cairo to Madrid – there’s a contrast! I love your power pose, Robbie, with the contrast to your elegant one with the headscarf.
I received a Garmin ping indicating that you were close to home – I hope the return trip was smooth. I look forward to the next update with eager anticipation.
In the meantime, the long weekend calls here.
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