Alexandria Egypt

Well, after the disappointment of having two ports cancelled we docked in Alexandria yesterday to the only Port we would see in Egypt.

We didn’t even intend to go ashore as they required an Egyptian passport that was quite expensive and we had been here previously.

They advised us that the Authorities were going to stamp all passports with a quick visit stamp that would allow everyone to go ashore.

Decided to go into town and quickly remembered the crazy drivers here, no traffic lights, all driving like maniacs everyone for them selves. As soon as we got off the bus we were surrounded by men wanting to take us for a ride in their horse and buggy. They insisted that you listen to them about where they would take you and when you said that you just wanted to go for a walk they all but got abusive. We took off to cross the road and was met with a stream of cars going all ways and at quite a speed, quite scary.

After a few minutes walking around the filthy town we knew that we didn’t need to spend much time here so we hired a horse and carriage for an hours tour.

The driver couldn't speak English, but we were amazed at the horse who trotted along amongst all the crazy drivers with blaring horns and people running out in front of him. The drive would just tap its rump with his whip on the side where he wanted him to turn and off he'd turn.

He knew exactly what to do and they seemed to have the run of the road.

Went back to the ship and found out that the cruise director from Mariner was on board and appearing tonight.

There are quite a few of the crew from Mariner on board and they have all recognised us with big grins and saying “Hello Mr Tony and Madam Gloria welcome back”.

If you have not been online to read our blog over the last couple of days you might need to go back as we have been sadly lacking!