Egyptian Food
It has been some time since I blogged about Egypt. Being one of the oldest civilisations in the world, Egypt sure stands out for retaining its traditions and culture. If I were to put on Egyptian outfits, wrap my head with the 25 pounds and stay in Egypt for a little while longer, I might really brainwash myself that I’m living in the ancient world. In short,
Egypt sure has not changed much.
Till this day, the Egyptian diet is pretty much similiar to those 2000 years ago. It consists of pita bread, beans and soup. My friends and I ate pita bread daily. Pita bread can be eaten with jam, dipped with sauce or accompanied with soup. Once in a while, sand might get embedded in the pita bread (since Egypt is really sandy) and you’ll get the extra crunch in your bread. Traditional Egyptian food is really healthy.
In the eight days that we were there, we never once saw an obese Egyptian. We were so privilleged to be on the traditional Egyptian diet for the entire trip (except we indulged in macdonalds once) that the two things I look forward to the most at every meal is a hardboiled egg and watermelon.
Oh, though we did drink soda water daily to quench our thirst.
Out of the Egyptian diet, I loved their soup. My friend Limin looked forward to the Kosa soup everyday. Kosa soup consists of potatoes, tomatos. It really is that simple, but it tastes better than spinach soup (in my opinion). I am still very much in love with my mom’s homecook food.
I’m a tomb raider!
Abu Simbel.
Here rest 2 enormous temples of Ramesses II. Moved from its original location as a precautionary measure to avoid being submerged during and after the construction of the Aswan high dam.
The massive effort put into moving this entire structure is evident. Only upon close scrutiny can one really observe the fine precise cuts in the rocks for the relocation project.
For that, waking up at 3am to catch the military convoy was worth it.
Edfu
I was completely wowed by how gigantic this site was. Guarded by 4 falcons, this site is no doubt dedicated to the God Horus (often represented as a falcon).
God Horus is widely depicted in Egyptian art and can be found in most of these archaeological sites.
Walking the grounds of this temple, I felt as if I have been brought back to ancient times. All the temple needed was throngs of Egyptians buzzing through this temple, to complete the look.
The Valley of the Kings & Queens
If you have gone to the pyramids in Giza and was fascinated by stories of treasures and mummies, you would most likely want to visit these 2 places where Egypt’s past rulers and wives called their final resting place. Children alike, do not be bored because this place looks like a blown up desert disneyland.
To guard the secrets of the tombs at both valleys, picture taking in the tombs are a big no-no, unless you are willing to donate YSL 40,000 to the authorities. Treasure hunters will be disappointed to know that the finest treasures of most of the tombs have been stolen by tomb raiders (except for King Tut whose tomb is strategically placed under Ramesses II) or are placed at Cairo museum. Though, in my eyes, the beautiful calligraphy and inscription on the walls of the tombs alone make up for the missing treasures.
Coliseum of Memnon
Just a 10,000 stone throw away from the Valleys of the Kings and Queens lies these 2 very very grand statues. Completely erected out from stones, though partially destroyed due to years long of erosion, they both bear the mark of incredulous creativity and builds-man-ship of ancient Egyptians.
The temple that they were suppose to stand on, stretches a great 1000 stones (or maybe more) long, but is unfortunately now a barren piece of desert land.
*nb: that piece of black/white bloth wrapped around my bag is the famous 25 pounds.
Embrace yourself for my favourite Egyptian site…
The Temple of Luxor
When you think of Egypt, you always immediately associate it with pyramids, mummies and camels. In my opinion, this silent gem is really a sight to behold. To me, it outshines the pyramids or even the deep valleys where the once world’s greatest rulers rest.
Entering the large premise, one cannot miss the towering pylon (or entrance wall). Inside the temple, were rows of neatly arranged pillars inscribed with wise words from the past. I felt like Alice in Wonderland. As this place was mainly used for festivals and celebrations, it had a bit of everything - centre room for worship, a mini temple at the back, an obelisk, statues everywhere. Apparently, the place where I was doing my jumping stint used to be laid with sparkling marble floor that reflected light onto the colour stained pillars, thus creating a magnificent sight to behold within the walls itself.
Not too far away from this temple, lies the Karnak. It seems that the Egyptian government plans to join these 2 archaeological sites together to form an open museum.
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]