Egypt Travelogue: Cairo - 30 Sep 2006

It's almost 10pm. We're settling in for the evening. We went for a 1.5 hour walk up the Nile corniche, across bridge to Roda Island, and back again. EVERYONE is out on the street. couples, friends, men and women alike walking arm-in-arm. It seems much more relaxed and friendly than any city in the US. As much as we try to blend in, someone yelled to us from a passing car "Welcome to Egypt!!". Lots of people are out standing on the bridge (at night) just talking, there are random chairs out there for you to sit, people are fishing, playing cards, talking, smoking (everyone smokes), laughing, strolling... there are xmas-like lights up
everywhere and Ramadan lanterns hanging from every entryway. Nile cruises up and down the river filled with people partying. We passed a gorgeous mosque with the wonderful sound of what I believe is a prayer
coming from the loudspeakers. I came to learn that during Ramadan, after breaking the fast at sunset, people spend the evenings visiting friends and family, and going out into the city for parties and socializing.  We did hear the call to prayer, the athan, which was the final prayer of the day.

I love it here. I feel so comfortable. It's just so warm and friendly. Tonight we had dinner just after sunset. It's called the Ramadan iftar dinner. So much good food... hummus, taboulleh, babaganoush, dolmeh, veal, and lots of stuff I've never heard of. We had some sort of traditional Egyptian dessert (om ali) that was like a milky almond pastry soupy thingy. I've just taken to tea since I know the water's been boiled. Day 2 and no sign of Mummy Tummy.

Question: Tow are Cairo and Chicago alike?
Answer: The cabs slow down and beep at you to get your attention if you want a ride.

We were surprised, we thought as foreigners that we'd be bombarded by beggars or people trying to sell us stuff. nothing of the like. We're left alone or welcomed as guests. Occasionally an "ahlan" (hello) as we pass. There are no whistles at women or jeers. It's so nice to see people so affectionate and friendly with each other. So many stereotypes of the Middle East that we wouldn't be welcomed as Americans, or that women weren't respected.  From what we experienced, these illusions were just that - illusions.  We were guests in their country and treated with the famous Arab hospitality. We were often randomly welcomed and greeted, and felt very comfortable.