Bismallah

So magical
Of all the sights I know of in Egypt Abu Simbel might be the one that feels most magical to me. I am so fascinated by the project where they dismantled it and moved it to make sure it wasn't swallowed by the Nasser Dam. When I go to Egypt I want to take my time and I don't want to rush it through. That probably won't happen yet for a few years. But one day I will go there because I really want to see the treasures of Egypt before I hit the bucket. /Ake

Amazing Egypt
I'm so sorry to hear your sad news Andrea. How beautiful to have made the trip still, in your cousin's memory. Egypt is one of those places we often dream of, though not so many visit. When you do, you understand how special it is. Incredible country. I'm glad you were able to go in the end. I read about the Israeli tourists when it happened, and shocked to hear your Auntie was there. I admire her way of dealing with it, the keep calm and carry on generation I imagine. Well done also for heading out despite the news, and it is often interesting to find out that life still carries on in many places as normal despite what we hear in the news.

Life and Death
Like you, the National Geographic was responsible for inspiring a young me; and also like you, for countless reasons, Egypt has been an elusive destination. But you finally made it, how exciting! But I'm so so so sorry your cousin wasn't able to be there with you, and it's truly amazing your aunt was able to make the trip and be so stoic about what she witnessed. I can't believe the high temperatures that late in the year, that's crazy hot! Which company did you travel with? Given the composition of the group, I guessed the purple Canadian one rather than the red Australian one :)