I arrived last night and was picked up at the airport by Karim, a contact I had made through CS. He knew somebody at my hotel of first choice, but it was full. So he suggested Hotel Acropole. We went up the tiny lift, that had a door that didn't close. I stood back as we rattled up to the 4th floor. We got out, did hellos and Osman asked me what kind of room I would like. He showed me a room right off the lobby/breakfast room and I knew I wouldn't be looking at any other rooms. He opened the tall double doors onto a small balcony and there was the view I had hoped I could find from a room. Fantastic! A view of the corniche to the left, a park below and the craziness of the city streets to the right. And only $20. I did the obligatory bargaining and he said he was already giving me a discount, but I really didn't care. It was perfect.
Karim gave me a set of city walking maps to look over, we said goodbye until tomorrow, and I went for an evening stroll.
There is also a horrible reputation for traffic and hassles in this country, but so far I have only experienced hellos and welcomes, and cars have even stopped to let me cross the streets.
Altho, one attempt to cross had me darting back to the curb to get out of the way of a bus speeding towards me. A young guy chatting with friends saw the near-miss, reached for me, and then guided me safely across.
At a park, a little old man looked at me and said Welcome to Egypt. Thank you very much, I said with a big smile. Not at all, he replied. Lovely.
I know it's been less than 24 hours, but I am thrilled to be here.
