Drawing by the fabulous and highly talented Leigh Toldi (see link in blogroll)

INTRODUCTION

We find after years of struggle that we do not take a trip; a trip takes us.  John Steinbeck

In March of 2000 I went to Egypt with my husband, Chaz Benedict. The trip was sponsored by the Ancient Egypt Studies Association in Portland, Oregon (a group that sadly no longer exists) and was organized and managed by Bill and Nancy Petty of the superb Museum Tours .

My goal was to both savor every moment and record as much as I could. I was an unabashed, wide-eyed American tourist. Everything was fascinating and my pen couldn’t move nearly fast enough to suit me. I recorded information as I heard and saw it but it is quite possible that some of  my “facts” are inaccurate. Any errors or omissions are my responsibility. My readers are welcome to leave corrections and comments.

Thousands of Egyptians depend on tourism for their livelihood and Egypt is open for business. If you’ve been thinking of taking a trip, now is the time to do it. Egyptians are without a doubt some of the most talented, friendly, and helpful people on the planet and that remains true in spite of the recent political upheaval. We always felt safe and welcome. I went for the monuments but would gladly have stayed for the people.

And if you love Egypt like I do, then please consider joining The American Research Center in Egypt and affiliate with the Northern California Chapter. (It costs nothing extra and will give you access to our newsletter, The Cartouche.) ARCE is a private, nonprofit organization promoting research on Egyptian history and culture, knowledge about Egypt among the general public, and American-Egyptian cultural ties.

In loving memory of Charles “Chaz” Benedict, my husband and partner in adventure for twenty-five years. May you sail joyfully on the great waters forever. 

May 28, 1958 — March 17, 2015

Chaz in King Tutankhamen’s tomb, March 17, 2000