The approach from the air yesterday revealed a sprawling, monochromatic city, as far as the eye could see. Everything the color of sand, and sand itself, found everywhere in bulldozed piles and drifts and dunes, a constant reminder that this river oasis lies within the grasp of the Sahara. Later, during the drive to the hotel, more color came through. Markets and street vendors, shops and stores - many with French names - homes and palaces, brightly painted.
Oh, and a huge billboard singing the praises of Oreo cookies!
It was about six PM by then, and what I believe was the evening prayer was resounding from the minarets; a hauntingly beautiful voice, strong and poised, coming over the loudspeakers. I felt it as a welcome, and melted into its embrace.
Waking to the sound of birds chirping this morning. I wonder if they sing in Arabic. Last night's drive from the airport was surreal; an exquisitely orchestrated dance of pure chaos. No traffic lights, no stop signs, six or seven cars abreast on what would be three lanes of traffic, drivers coming within centimetres of each other in a very fluid waltz accompanied by the sound of a thousand honking horns. No anger, no frustration, none of what we Americans would call 'road rage', - one honks his way through to remind other drivers that he is there. All very polite and considerate indeed.
We are going to explore the neighborhood a bit today, some shopping for items we couldn't bring with us aboard the flights and a pre-paid local sim card for my phone. The idea was brought forward to go to the museum today, but a warning from the US embassy late last night (we registered the State Department for email updates and advisories) tells of planned demonstrations at Tahir Square this afternoon...
There will be more opportunities to go visit King Tut.
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