While I enjoyed my time in Israel taking all the sights and sounds of the Holy Land, I had finished my Israel appetizer and was ready for my Egyptian main course.
VIP Service offered by Archaeological Paths
“VIP Airport Service – International flights. Once you arrive at the International Airport in Cairo, our dedicated representative will be waiting for you by the plane, so when you step out you will be taken across the entire airport, your luggage will be taken care of, and you will be assisted directly to your tour leader. Only then will you enjoy the transfer to the hotel in the VIP limousine. The service also applies at the departure.”
As soon as I took my last step off the gangway, a driver grabbed my carryon and whisked me away to the main airport straight to a lovely “waiting” lounge. It was an enjoyable space where I could relax, have something to eat, and drink while someone else retrieved my visa and grabbed my luggage.
VIP Waiting Lounge
My chariot
After waiting for just a short period, everything was all set. A valet carried my bags, and my dedicated assistant took charge of my passport as we passed through the outgoing baggage screening area. I was then off to my next awaiting chariot to The Four Seasons–First Residence in Cairo.
Saad, my driver, was a lovely older gentleman. He looked dashing in his suit, and I could tell he was someone’s loving grandpa. He just oozed warmth from every pore of his body. I also meet Mohamed, a team member from Archaeological Paths. He is not only astute, but very well-spoken and speaks 3 different languages, Arabic, English, and Russian. I met him in 2018 when I was here for the Royal Egypt tour with Archaeological Paths.
While we drove to the hotel, Mohamed and I talked about Egyptology. His interest is in the Ptolemaic Empire Period. I knew they are still searching for Cleopatra’s tomb in Alexandria, so I asked if him if he has ever worked on any dig site in that area. He said not yet, but he has worked at dig sites in Luxor.
I guess the ancient Pharaohs like me coming back here since there was hardly any traffic to speak of coming in. In a country that has over 24 million residents, that is saying a lot. Saad, making sure I was not feeling at all peckish, offered me some nougat and sesame candies. What a sweetheart! When we arrived at the Four Seasons, they treated me like a Royal Princess. Mohamed checked me in while I enjoyed a refreshing drink and met two more AP staff, Christopher and Carmila. I was told there would be fifteen “clients” on the Egypt 2 tour, which I think is a perfect number.
Very sweet Valet
Stunning vases 
Gorgeous decor 
Incredible flower arrangements 
Tranquil area near spa
When I opened the door to my room, I was in nirvana. I have to preface this by saying this is an incredible hotel, and I do not understand the reviews on Trip Advisor. When I read them, I had felt uneasy about staying at this hotel and not the Mena House, which is a place I like very much. The Mena House has the pyramids right next door and lush gardens, but the Four Seasons is palatial. My room overlooks the Nile, the pool, and the pyramids. They gave me a corner room with expansive views of the city. This is such an amazing country! I can’t wait to start the tour tomorrow.
Tim was hungry and already ate one – very tasty welcome treats for me and my pal 
A lovely desk where I can write
View from my room 
Tim wants to go check out the pool later on
Ourdoor dining by the pool at night
Next door – Maybe I can win some money in order to pay for this trip! 
Next door high end mall – Rolex, Tiffany’s – I have to stay away from here!
Sunset – Usually the Pryamids can be seen but it was a bit too hazy to see them. BTW, the white dots in the trees are thousands of white Eggrets. They were flying in by the droves as the sun was going to sleep for the night.
If you enjoy reading my posts about Egypt, STEM, Drones, MIT, mountains, or mysteries I hope you will want to run out and purchase my first book, “Osiris Returns”. With some luck, it should come to market late 2020 / early 2021. Please consider staying in the loop. An email sign-up form can be found at the bottom of my home page along with my social media links. Your email will only be used to alert you when it comes out. I will not use or share your email for any other purpose.
