Tuesday, 5/28. Consumed no food or drink until sunset. It was a challenge. Especially on a day that I climbed into the Great Pyramid of Cheops. I don’t think I’ll continue tomorrow. Should be 114 degrees.

Cairo is growing so large it’s nearly encircled the Pyramid Plateau. But it’s still pretty darn impressive. Cheops’ is the largest by a good bit, but the second one (built by his son) is on higher ground. Dutiful son, but sly. Overly friendly hawkers try to hand you something, then insist you buy it. Camels and horses are common. No Chinese tourists! (Not that I’m complaining.) To walk into the King’s Chamber costs $22, so there isn’t a crowd. It’s a cramped, steep and hot climb, though not as bad as my Dad related 30+ years ago. The chamber is smaller than I thought, and it’s empty. Really not much to it at all, except for the bragging rights of having been in it.

The boat, discovered only 65 years ago, was found disassembled. It took 13 years to figure out how to put in together. Remarkably good condition. They say it would float if put in the water. Ropes run throw drilled holes in the boards were used as fasteners. Huge boat, but it looked badly top-heavy.

The Sphinx was smaller than expected. Disappointing. It was located next to the docking area so it might have often been surrounded by water. It’s mostly one big stone that, rather than clear out, was shaped into a monument. Theoretically. The new museum is nearby and looks very impressive. But not close to ready. A December showtime is doubtful.

Lunch looked good. Dinner was a buffet on a boat welded to the pier. Huge crowd immediately after sunset. 30 minutes later the buffet table is removed and half the customers go off to pray.

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