Wednesday, 7 Feb. This time the flight was on time. Largely empty plane. Had several meals at airport lounges. Showered in Frankfurt, which is better than sleep.

Flight to Algiers was crowded and loud. Algerians are clearly a very social people. Customs was difficult. The form to fill out was in French/Arabic. The agent was uninterested in helping out. A more experienced and friendly agent helped me out. Had to go through security to exit the airport. Police were everywhere.

Drove straight to the restaurant where my companions (who all arrived yesterday) were having dinner. One was absent and injured, apparently tripping while getting out of the European-style bathtub. They are difficult. Word was that she’d have to get surgery for a broken wrist. She might go home. I may never see her. The other five women are a talkative lot. Our Trip Leader/guide, Hachem, is all one would expect. An outspoken agnostic. Skillfully juggling several balls in the air. Dinner was chicken soup and chicken shish kabob. I’m detecting a trend.

After holding my hand through the checkin and room inspection, Hachem was thrilled to hear I wanted to visit the bar. He introduced me to some of his friends, then rushed off to the hospital. All the friends were similarly agnostic. Lively conversation about Algeria.