October 24 - Monday

Up at some ridiculous hour for our three and a half hour drive to Abu Simbel. We took box breakfasts.

A long and boring drive. The first hour or more was in total darkness. I've driven the big deserts in America but nothing like this. There was NO vegetation for miles and miles. There were a couple places that looked developed. We saw a canal with water. Apparently there was a big government and Saudi project to turn the desert green. Apparently it failed after a billion dollar investment. We saw dozens of parked trucks.

Finally Abu Simbel. After a WC break we walked out to see it. This was also moved to keep from being flooded. I remember following the move at the time.

Also known as the "Temple of Ramesses, beloved by Amun". Built in 1264 BC by Ramses II partly to impress the Nubians. It fell into disuse and was buried by sand. It was rediscovered in 1813.
Extras

Truly amazing! I was surprised at the many rooms inside this amazing temple. Beautiful. Apparently pictures were not allowed inside.

Next door is the "Small Temple" or "The temple of Hathor and Nefertari". Very impressive also.

We tired out and hiked over for a glass of Egyptian mint tea - made with a Lipton tea bag and a sprig of mint. 

Back on the bus for a grueling three and a half hour trip home. Often the guyspur try to help the vendors by selling their stuff on the bus. Mohammad pointed out some features in the desert he thinks gave the ancient Egyptians the idea for the pyramid.

Back to the boat where we were greeted by a crocodile on our bed.

Diana and Norm were at dinner and she is feeling better.

We sat in the lounge where a few people gathered. In conversation a lady talked about having a bottle of Egyptian wine but no opener. I went and got our cork puller and our left over bottle of wine. Voila it was the same as hers. We told her it was terrible. When we tried them hers did seem a bit better. But still not good.

Off to bed.