When unexpected plants grow in the desert…
Never did I expect to see my first sight of Lavender on my way to Bahariya Desert.
Camel or Horse
Trudge the desert like a local on a steady bemused camel or ride with the wind by galloping away on a horse.
No.
A pained, cracked and dry butt coupled with a sore arched back or a screaming human is what you get.
The Pyramids
Like most children who grew up watching National Geography and was greatly influenced by stories of Egyptian mummies and the “mysteries” of their tombs, I have been longing to visit this ancient city. Plus, being the only survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, who could resist the temptation of making a trip down at some point in their lives just to proclaim they have stepped on ancient land. Yes, it is indeed an exotic trip like most profess, but please visit Egypt only during the Winter time. There was a reason why people always associate deserts with oasis.
A major tourist magnet is the Great Pyramid of Giza. Battle alongside the throng of tourists for fresh air inside the pyramid. Within the pyramid, you would be greeted by narrow and steep pathways (a great excuse to be petite) and humid air. Just a mere 10 minutes stay in the pyramid would feel like 30 minute sitting in a sauna. I was glad to scramble for the exit to be in the scorching 40 degrees heat.
Destination Egypt
Destination: Egypt
Temperature: A blazing 40 degrees
Tan-meter (on a scale of 1-100): 85 [25 pounds* & lots of sun block to the rescue]
Survival kit includes: A bottle or two of 1.5 litre water, sunglasses, a jacket (to retain moisture even though it’s insanely hot) & the ability to remain calm and not get irritated by the heap of buzzing flies.
*25 pounds is a piece of cloth that Egyptians or Arabs use as head gear. It is known as 25 pounds because, my friends and I bought the piece of cloth for 25 pounds [rather expensive in my opinion but the name stuck]
About the Blog
Having moved around umpteen times since 2002 (12 to be exact), I have finally found a permanent home to blog about things that I love and live for. Welcome to Valerie’s world!