Photo Essay: Alexandria, Egypt

Many people seem to only associate Egypt with the Pyramids, but Alexandria has a lot to offer as well. Then when the excitement of Alexandria starts to fade you are only a few hours away from Cairo.

Alexandria, Egypt - The cab rides are a trip. If you arrive by sea, you will have the "expensive" tourist taxis that are in decent shape and the yellow and black normal taxis outside the gate. If you have great health insurance I would say go for the normal people cabs. They are older and blend in well with the city. Usually the cabbies can't speak english so it is perfect if you like surprises!

You have to barter with the cabbie, then hear his first offer and offer him back one fourth of what he first quoted you. This brings him way down in price and you will probably agree on about half of what he originally quoted. And yes, they will take you down to Cairo for a decent price. Be careful not to confuse 50 cents EGP with 50 dollars EGP as they are both in bill form.
As you can see the cabbie on the left got our business because he had a positive attitude as is displayed by his "thumbs up". His name was Mohammed.

Alexandria Egypt - A very relaxing place to get away from the hectic city of Alexandria is the Palace in Muntaza. This is one palace among others which are located on a 115 acre piece of land, blocked off from the rest of the city. On the grounds you will find places to eat and a beach to relax at.

The complex also enjoys lush gardens, palm trees and gazelles. If you are staying overnight, two of the palaces have even been transformed into hotels to make you feel like royalty. While here, if you find yourself missing home then worry not young traveler, as there is a KFC right across the street.
Muntaza is a very relaxing place, especially in contrast to the rest of the city, and KFC delivers on mopeds. Kind of how I envision heaven to be like.

These are Pompey's Pillars located in the heart of Alexandria, Egypt. Don't feel like you've missed out if you can't see this. It is an awkward ride through the traffic and chickens in the city. It is the tallest ancient monument in Alexandria, but you should consider spending your Egyptian Pounds elsewhere, like at KFC. (The "C" stands for Camel)
If you need directions, just ask the armed guard sitting outside the entrance. His name is Mohammed.

Here is a neighborhood in Egypt on Laundry day. The buildings are a bit run down, but that gives them character, right?
I think the one on the right is a La Quinta.

Now it is time to move South. Tourist buses have an armed guard in each one so you never feel unsafe. Although if people generally felt safe they wouldn't feel armed guards are necessary in the first place.

Join us for Part 2: Cairo