April 20

I was able to pick up the luggage late Saturday evening. At first when I went to the airport the security didn’t want to let me in since I didn’t have an outgoing ticket. It took approximately15 minutes to convince them that all I wanted was to pick up luggage that was lost in a previous flight. They finally let me pass then the officials at the baggage claim area told me I would have to come back in the morning as I hadn’t brought my passport. Fortunately, I have an Egyptian Drivers License and that was able to serve as my identification along with the baggage claim. Anyway, after a few more minutes, I was able to claim the luggage and leave.



Sunday evening we joined Debbie and Mahmoud for supper at the Chinese Restaurant at the historic Hotel Cecil overlooking the bay and yacht club on the Corniche. The view from the top of the hotel where the restaurant is located is probably one of the best in Alexandria. It is said that Agatha Christie, Winston Churchill and Somerset Maugham are a few of the many dignitaries who stayed at the Cecil. The cab ride to the Cecil was one of the more interesting rides we have had. The cabbie spoke some English and seemed anxious to try it out. He told us much about his present life as he took us on a roundabout route to the Cecil. He seemed interested in showing as some sights and even stopped at one of the Roman historical locations. He offered to give us a tour anytime and wanted to give us his mobile number to call him. Like many locals we have met, he was very friendly and hospitable. When we finally arrived at the hotel, he didn’t want to accept our payment as he wanted us to be happy with his service. He finally took the money after we took his name and phone number.