A stop in Cairo

While visiting the Middle East in June 2015, I used the wonderful Egyptian driver Tarek. He speaks English well, his taxi is decent, and he’ll drive visitors to the pyramids and local markets for around $50. If he’s busy, his brother Rahim may be available, and he’s a gem also.

I’ve used Tarek and Rahim for over 20 years. I know their family and have been in their home. They may be reached in Cairo by phone at 01222 70 5229. 

The InterContinental Semiramis Hotel Cairo (Corniche El Nil , P.O. Box 60, Cairo, Egypt; phone +20 2 27988000, www.ihg.com), located within one block of the Egyptian Museum on the Nile River, cost about $180 a night, including a lovely buffet breakfast.

For a few dollars more, you can face the Nile River and the Cairo Tower. I, however, prefer a balcony looking directly at the city and Tahrir Square, where all the buses go. I’ve never taken them; they’re cheap but very crowded. From the hotel, it’s a walk of three long blocks into central Cairo.

On this visit, the crowds in Cairo were small. 

The hotel provides its own cars for trips you might wish to take outside of Cairo for a fee. Tarek will make trips to Alexandria, too, although I don’t know his fee. Using a Cairo phone can be difficult, but the hotel concierge will do it for you.

At the entrance to the pyramids they charged about $11 per car. Camel drivers were there. Prices for camel rides ranged from $10 to $15. Negotiate. Camels are not very clean animals, and be prepared for a bumpy ride.

Prior to visiting Egypt, Americans must get a visa from the Egyptian Embassy. A tourist visa costs $15. This change occurred in May 2015; you used to be able to get a visa upon arrival at the Cairo airport. No more.

Tarek charged $20 for the ride from my hotel back to the airport.

VIRGINIA SHANNON

Naples,  FL