Kebab, Kalamari & Koshary [EY Y, A3 Y & J]
Mar 26, 2016, 10:11 am
#16
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: SIN
Programs: Singapore Airlines Krisflyer
Posts: 184
Day 5 - IST to ATH to LCA
Our final morning in Istanbul was spent doing the laundry and having one last menemen before making our way to the airport.
Although one could fly directly from Turkey to Cyprus (albeit the Turkish side), the island's unique political situation meant that non-EU citizens like us had to fly into the Greek side to avoid potential immigration issues.
Aegean Air had the cheapest fare at 65 USD and we had to take quite a bit of detour to reach our destination.
Maps generated by the Great Circle Mapper - copyright © Karl L. Swartz.
Thanks to our Gold statuses with Turkish Airlines, we got to enjoy the fast-track lane and Turkish Airline Lounge.
The lounge had expanded to two levels since my last visit and it was as impressive as ever.
We settled down with some kebab and pide. Do & Co catering didn't disappoint.
Afternoon departures ex-IST - Istanbul desperately needs a new airport.
Lucky to have a gate which was close to the lounge
It was a full flight between IST and ATH and the crew were really impressive with the full meal service for such a short flight.
The only choice of meal was pasta and it tasted much better than its looks.
The primary entertainment was the view outside the window
We got a remote gate at ATH and it seemed that we were the only ones transiting to a non-Schengen destination.
Spent some time browsing through what ATH had to offer in terms of duty-free items and Mrs ended up buying some cosmetic stuff which was 20% cheaper than back home.
The rest of the time were spent at Swissport Lounge, the contract lounge for Aegean flights at the non-Schengen gates.
Food offerings at Swissport Lounge - pretty basic compared to the lounge at IST
Got another remote gate and boarding was efficient with both front and rear doors used.
View from my seat
The flight was similar to the earlier one; we were even served the same pasta. Personally I was impressed with Aegean's operations; clearly it was doing something right with all the full flights.
There was hardly any queue at the immigration and our priority-tagged checked bag was among the first few out on the carousel.
We had rented a car from Low Price Cyprus Economy Car Rentals and the person-in-charge Christos was waiting for us on arrival. He had arranged for our car to be delivered at the hotel and gave us a free lift from airport to the hotel. Very good service and I would highly recommend the company.
It was almost midnight when we arrived at Hotel Opera and both of us were happy to rest after a long travel day.
Although one could fly directly from Turkey to Cyprus (albeit the Turkish side), the island's unique political situation meant that non-EU citizens like us had to fly into the Greek side to avoid potential immigration issues.
Aegean Air had the cheapest fare at 65 USD and we had to take quite a bit of detour to reach our destination.
Maps generated by the Great Circle Mapper - copyright © Karl L. Swartz.
Thanks to our Gold statuses with Turkish Airlines, we got to enjoy the fast-track lane and Turkish Airline Lounge.
The lounge had expanded to two levels since my last visit and it was as impressive as ever.
We settled down with some kebab and pide. Do & Co catering didn't disappoint.
Afternoon departures ex-IST - Istanbul desperately needs a new airport.
Lucky to have a gate which was close to the lounge
It was a full flight between IST and ATH and the crew were really impressive with the full meal service for such a short flight.
The only choice of meal was pasta and it tasted much better than its looks.
The primary entertainment was the view outside the window
We got a remote gate at ATH and it seemed that we were the only ones transiting to a non-Schengen destination.
Spent some time browsing through what ATH had to offer in terms of duty-free items and Mrs ended up buying some cosmetic stuff which was 20% cheaper than back home.
The rest of the time were spent at Swissport Lounge, the contract lounge for Aegean flights at the non-Schengen gates.
Food offerings at Swissport Lounge - pretty basic compared to the lounge at IST
Got another remote gate and boarding was efficient with both front and rear doors used.
View from my seat
The flight was similar to the earlier one; we were even served the same pasta. Personally I was impressed with Aegean's operations; clearly it was doing something right with all the full flights.
There was hardly any queue at the immigration and our priority-tagged checked bag was among the first few out on the carousel.
We had rented a car from Low Price Cyprus Economy Car Rentals and the person-in-charge Christos was waiting for us on arrival. He had arranged for our car to be delivered at the hotel and gave us a free lift from airport to the hotel. Very good service and I would highly recommend the company.
It was almost midnight when we arrived at Hotel Opera and both of us were happy to rest after a long travel day.
Mar 26, 2016, 11:49 am
#17
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: SIN
Programs: Singapore Airlines Krisflyer
Posts: 184
Day 6 - Larnaca/Lefkara/Kyrenia
Despite the very agreeable price of 45 euros, we only had one night at Hotel Opera. We would move on to two nights at Kyrenia before returning to Larnaca the day before our early flight out of Cyprus.
Since breakfast wasn't offered at the hotel, finding food was the first item on our agenda. We had the 5 Euro English breakfast at Da Vinci Cafe, which was opposite St Lazarus Church.
Since it was a Sunday morning, there were many worshippers at the church.
After our brunch, we decided to explore Larnaca on foot.
Cat is a recurring theme on this trip.
Finikoudes Beach
No diving
After the walk, we picked up our car and headed for the salt lake.
Introducing our rental car - Mitsubishi Mirage. Cost us only 65 Euros for 3 days' rental.
The salt lake was famous as being a haunt for flamingoes in February and March period but sadly there weren't many when we visited. There were a lot more of them when we drove past the salt lake on the way to airport a few days later.
After the brief stop at the salt lake, we hit the expressway towards Limassol and turned off at the exit for Lefkara.
I knew nothing about Lefkara until we read a tour brochure that morning and it seemed a nice place to visit. We found a place to park near the post office and started wandering around the small town.
Abandoned building?
Lefkara Church
Good view of the town
Pre-bloom almond trees
Local school
The town is also renowned for Lefkara lace and we were invited by a friendly elderly lady into her shop. We had a nice chat about her work and were glad to pick up a small piece home.
We got back on the road towards Kyrenia and the giant Turkish Cypriot flag appeared in the horizon.
Went through a bit of downtown Nicosia traffic before reaching Metehan border crossing between Republic of Cyprus and Northern Cyprus. Although it is the busiest car crossing between the two, it was quiet when we arrived.
Our passports were scanned by the Greek side before we moved on to the Turkish checkpoint.
We were asked by the polite TRNC immigration officer to park our car and purchase the insurance (20 euros for 3 days) from the counter on the right before going back to him to collect our passports. No forms were needed and no stamps were placed on the passports either. Took us less than 30 minutes to clear both sides and was generally hassle-free.
Got a better view of the giant TRNC flag and the famous quote from Atatürk: 'Ne mutlu Türküm diyene'
I found the quality of roads in the north a notch lower than the ones in the south.
Around 40 minutes later, we arrived at the highly rated Kemerli Konak Boutique Hotel. It cost us 75 euros a night and we were happy with our choice.
Swimming pool
Bed
We ventured out for dinner but the restaurants that we checked were all fully booked due to Valentine's Day. Even Arches, the hotel's restaurant, couldn't accommodate us.
Luckily room service was still available and we had a delightful Valentine's Day dinner at a reasonable cost.
Since breakfast wasn't offered at the hotel, finding food was the first item on our agenda. We had the 5 Euro English breakfast at Da Vinci Cafe, which was opposite St Lazarus Church.
Since it was a Sunday morning, there were many worshippers at the church.
After our brunch, we decided to explore Larnaca on foot.
Cat is a recurring theme on this trip.
Finikoudes Beach
No diving
After the walk, we picked up our car and headed for the salt lake.
Introducing our rental car - Mitsubishi Mirage. Cost us only 65 Euros for 3 days' rental.
The salt lake was famous as being a haunt for flamingoes in February and March period but sadly there weren't many when we visited. There were a lot more of them when we drove past the salt lake on the way to airport a few days later.
After the brief stop at the salt lake, we hit the expressway towards Limassol and turned off at the exit for Lefkara.
I knew nothing about Lefkara until we read a tour brochure that morning and it seemed a nice place to visit. We found a place to park near the post office and started wandering around the small town.
Abandoned building?
Lefkara Church
Good view of the town
Pre-bloom almond trees
Local school
The town is also renowned for Lefkara lace and we were invited by a friendly elderly lady into her shop. We had a nice chat about her work and were glad to pick up a small piece home.
We got back on the road towards Kyrenia and the giant Turkish Cypriot flag appeared in the horizon.
Went through a bit of downtown Nicosia traffic before reaching Metehan border crossing between Republic of Cyprus and Northern Cyprus. Although it is the busiest car crossing between the two, it was quiet when we arrived.
Our passports were scanned by the Greek side before we moved on to the Turkish checkpoint.
We were asked by the polite TRNC immigration officer to park our car and purchase the insurance (20 euros for 3 days) from the counter on the right before going back to him to collect our passports. No forms were needed and no stamps were placed on the passports either. Took us less than 30 minutes to clear both sides and was generally hassle-free.
Got a better view of the giant TRNC flag and the famous quote from Atatürk: 'Ne mutlu Türküm diyene'
I found the quality of roads in the north a notch lower than the ones in the south.
Around 40 minutes later, we arrived at the highly rated Kemerli Konak Boutique Hotel. It cost us 75 euros a night and we were happy with our choice.
Swimming pool
Bed
We ventured out for dinner but the restaurants that we checked were all fully booked due to Valentine's Day. Even Arches, the hotel's restaurant, couldn't accommodate us.
Luckily room service was still available and we had a delightful Valentine's Day dinner at a reasonable cost.
Mar 27, 2016, 10:10 am
#18
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: SIN
Programs: Singapore Airlines Krisflyer
Posts: 184
Day 7 - Kyrenia
We started the day with a scrumptious breakfast which was included in the room rate. There was a choice between English and Turkish breakfast and we ordered a set each.
Our plan for the day was simply hitting the main sites around Kyrenia.
The first stop was St Hilarion Castle and we saw an interesting looking sculpture en-route. My guess was that it was one of Atatürk.
Impressive
After paying the 9 TRY entrance fee, we began our ascent. We could hear and see the Turkish Army's firing range from a distance.
There were some really great views of Kyrenia along the way up. We were trying to make out where our hotel was.
We were quite lucky as we got to see the view before the fog set in. A pity for those tourists who arrived later.
The final part of the ascent was quite steep and required quite a bit of physical effort.
Almost the top
Didn't expect someone to welcome us at the top
After St Hilarion, we drove to Bellapis where the famous abbey is.
Inside the church
Offering good view of Kyrenia as well
Lunch was the very satisfying seafood meal at Hürdeniz Fish Express. The prawn casserole was our favourite.
We then walked around the harbour area for most of the afternoon.
Türk Bankasi
Road-side backgammon anytime
Waterfront
Statue
Hotel Rocks Casino - one of the top hotels in Northern Cyprus. What amused me were the stone lions outside it. Feng shui is relevant in Cyprus as well.
Beautiful harbour
Fort
Mediterranean Sea
Both Mrs and I were afflicted with the unexplainable craving for Asian food so we ended up at Chinese House for dinner.
The decor was pretty oriental, Mandopop songs were playing in the background and beside the manager, the service staff were Asians.
The food was quite pricey but they sure hit the spot.
Our plan for the day was simply hitting the main sites around Kyrenia.
The first stop was St Hilarion Castle and we saw an interesting looking sculpture en-route. My guess was that it was one of Atatürk.
Impressive
After paying the 9 TRY entrance fee, we began our ascent. We could hear and see the Turkish Army's firing range from a distance.
There were some really great views of Kyrenia along the way up. We were trying to make out where our hotel was.
We were quite lucky as we got to see the view before the fog set in. A pity for those tourists who arrived later.
The final part of the ascent was quite steep and required quite a bit of physical effort.
Almost the top
Didn't expect someone to welcome us at the top
After St Hilarion, we drove to Bellapis where the famous abbey is.
Inside the church
Offering good view of Kyrenia as well
Lunch was the very satisfying seafood meal at Hürdeniz Fish Express. The prawn casserole was our favourite.
We then walked around the harbour area for most of the afternoon.
Türk Bankasi
Road-side backgammon anytime
Waterfront
Statue
Hotel Rocks Casino - one of the top hotels in Northern Cyprus. What amused me were the stone lions outside it. Feng shui is relevant in Cyprus as well.
Beautiful harbour
Fort
Mediterranean Sea
Both Mrs and I were afflicted with the unexplainable craving for Asian food so we ended up at Chinese House for dinner.
The decor was pretty oriental, Mandopop songs were playing in the background and beside the manager, the service staff were Asians.
The food was quite pricey but they sure hit the spot.
Mar 31, 2016, 9:39 am
#19
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: SIN
Programs: Singapore Airlines Krisflyer
Posts: 184
Day 8 - Kyrenia/Nicosia/Larnaca
Like the previous morning, we were joined at the breakfasts by fellow hotel occupants.
Trying to charm us
After checking out, we set off for Nicosia, the last divided capital in the world.
Turkish military presence still very evident in TRNC.
The traffic got heavier as we got into the city proper of North Nicosia and we even had to make way for an ambulance.
We parked our car several hundred meters away from Büyük Han and walked through the local neighbourhood towards it.
We found our way to Ledra Street, the primary foot crossing between the two sides. I could see many tourists coming over from the South to shop at the North.
The border was still heavily militarised.
People-watching while having ice-cream.
Inside Büyük Han, the largest caravanserai in Cyprus.
Outside of Selimiye Mosque, another church-turned-mosque.
Getting out of North Nicosia's old town area was tough. It took us more than 30 minutes and through several wrong turns to get out of the narrow alleys. Since petrol is slightly cheaper in the north, we topped up before crossing the border through Metehan crossing.
After the slow-moving traffic through South Nicosia, I was glad to hit the expressway again.
Peanuts
For our last night at Cyprus, we booked ourselves a room at Josephine Boutique Hotel for 65 euros. It was just a block away from Finikoudes Beach.
The hotel has a pool at its top floor and the views were pretty good.
Panorama
The rest of the afternoon was spent walking around the hotel and we managed to find some bargains at the boutiques.
This sunset rounded us our time on this really interesting island.
Trying to charm us
After checking out, we set off for Nicosia, the last divided capital in the world.
Turkish military presence still very evident in TRNC.
The traffic got heavier as we got into the city proper of North Nicosia and we even had to make way for an ambulance.
We parked our car several hundred meters away from Büyük Han and walked through the local neighbourhood towards it.
We found our way to Ledra Street, the primary foot crossing between the two sides. I could see many tourists coming over from the South to shop at the North.
The border was still heavily militarised.
People-watching while having ice-cream.
Inside Büyük Han, the largest caravanserai in Cyprus.
Outside of Selimiye Mosque, another church-turned-mosque.
Getting out of North Nicosia's old town area was tough. It took us more than 30 minutes and through several wrong turns to get out of the narrow alleys. Since petrol is slightly cheaper in the north, we topped up before crossing the border through Metehan crossing.
After the slow-moving traffic through South Nicosia, I was glad to hit the expressway again.
Peanuts
For our last night at Cyprus, we booked ourselves a room at Josephine Boutique Hotel for 65 euros. It was just a block away from Finikoudes Beach.
The hotel has a pool at its top floor and the views were pretty good.
Panorama
The rest of the afternoon was spent walking around the hotel and we managed to find some bargains at the boutiques.
This sunset rounded us our time on this really interesting island.
Apr 6, 2016, 7:33 am
#20
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: SIN
Programs: Singapore Airlines Krisflyer
Posts: 184
Day 9 - LCA to ATH
Aegean offered the best price again between LCA and CAI and it meant that we needed to make another detour via ATH again.
Sunrise at LCA
The flights cost us 110 USD each and it allowed us to spend the whole day in Athens. With the upgrade coupons from our Aegean Air Miles & Bonus Silver status, we upgraded both sectors to business class.
Goodbye Cyprus
Had some breakfast at the rather spartan LCA Aegean Lounge.
Chariot for the trip
Mrs and I found ourselves as the only two passengers in business class.
Welcome drinks were offered.
Off we go.
Limassol
The giant TRNC flag from the sky
From the menu, we knew that breakfast would be eggs.
Post-breakfast tea and praline
Flying over Rhodes
Descending into ATH
While the Euro-business configuration is not exactly business class, both of us were still impressed with what A3 offered on the short flight.
With our bags checked through all the way to CAI, we zipped out of the airport after passing through Greek immigration.
No taxis for us; we would take the trains.
Sunrise at LCA
The flights cost us 110 USD each and it allowed us to spend the whole day in Athens. With the upgrade coupons from our Aegean Air Miles & Bonus Silver status, we upgraded both sectors to business class.
Goodbye Cyprus
Had some breakfast at the rather spartan LCA Aegean Lounge.
Chariot for the trip
Mrs and I found ourselves as the only two passengers in business class.
Welcome drinks were offered.
Off we go.
Limassol
The giant TRNC flag from the sky
From the menu, we knew that breakfast would be eggs.
Post-breakfast tea and praline
Flying over Rhodes
Descending into ATH
While the Euro-business configuration is not exactly business class, both of us were still impressed with what A3 offered on the short flight.
With our bags checked through all the way to CAI, we zipped out of the airport after passing through Greek immigration.
No taxis for us; we would take the trains.
Apr 11, 2016, 9:55 am
#22
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: SIN
Programs: Singapore Airlines Krisflyer
Posts: 184
Day 9 (cont'd): Day in Athens
ATH is connected to downtown Athens by Metro line 3 and we queued up to get our 9 euros ticket to town.
Validate your ticket
It would get crowded closer to town.
We got off at Monastiraki and found ourselves at the foot of Acropolis.
Halfway up and looking down. Athens is a mix of ancient and modern.
Got our 12 euros ticket into Acropolis and for the first time on the trip, we ran into fellow countrymen.
Parthenon - Athenian landmark
Erechtheion
Attempt to be artsy
Amphitheater which I had no idea how to get to.
Temple of Olympian Zeus in a distance
Giant rock that we would scale later.
Done with the ruins, we headed back down to Monstiraki.
Cat is a recurring theme for this trip.
Lunch was at Thanasis and we had to try some soulavki and moussaka.
We spent the rest of the afternoon walking around the area and taking random photos.
Ermou Street
Syntagma Square, scene of numerous protests
Changing of guards outside of the Greek Parliament
Inside National Gardens
Zappeion
Temple of Olympian Zeus again
I had a Greek friend who lived in Athens and she arranged for us to meet at Glyfada in the evening. It was a long 50-minute tram ride to Plateia Katraki.
This machine at Leoforos Vouliagmenis swallowed our 2 euros.
Validate your ticket
It would get crowded closer to town.
We got off at Monastiraki and found ourselves at the foot of Acropolis.
Halfway up and looking down. Athens is a mix of ancient and modern.
Got our 12 euros ticket into Acropolis and for the first time on the trip, we ran into fellow countrymen.
Parthenon - Athenian landmark
Erechtheion
Attempt to be artsy
Amphitheater which I had no idea how to get to.
Temple of Olympian Zeus in a distance
Giant rock that we would scale later.
Done with the ruins, we headed back down to Monstiraki.
Cat is a recurring theme for this trip.
Lunch was at Thanasis and we had to try some soulavki and moussaka.
We spent the rest of the afternoon walking around the area and taking random photos.
Ermou Street
Syntagma Square, scene of numerous protests
Changing of guards outside of the Greek Parliament
Inside National Gardens
Zappeion
Temple of Olympian Zeus again
I had a Greek friend who lived in Athens and she arranged for us to meet at Glyfada in the evening. It was a long 50-minute tram ride to Plateia Katraki.
This machine at Leoforos Vouliagmenis swallowed our 2 euros.
Apr 13, 2016, 9:15 am
#24
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: SIN
Programs: Singapore Airlines Krisflyer
Posts: 184
Day 9/10: ATH to CAI and Le Meridien Cairo Airport
Our evening was spent catching up with my Greek friend in Glyfada. It was always great to meet up with friends whom I haven't seen in a while.
Instead of backtracking to the city, we caught bus X96 (6 euros each) and was at the airport around an hour later.
The flight to Cairo would be the second last of the day.
After going through the immigration, we relaxed at Swissport Lounge until the flight departure.
Boarding was once again through a remote gate.
Like on the LCA-ATH sector, we were the only pax in J. I guess that it didn't really make sense to pay J price for such a short flight.
Rows 1 and 2
The pilots preparing for the flight while we enjoyed our pre-departure drinks.
What's on menu
Food were served shortly after take-off. Mrs had chicken while I had the fish.
Aegean Air's Egyptian arrival card.
We arrived at CAI ahead of schedule and we were the first ones off the flight. It was a long trek from the gate and we had to purchase our Egyptian visas (25 USD each) from one of the bank kiosks before going through the immigration.
An Egyptian official welcomed us before the luggage belt by asking if we had transportation arranged. More hustlers appeared in the arrivals to offer us rides which we quickly declined.
As we would be arriving at CAI T3 at around 2am in the morning, I decided to book the adjoining Le Meridien Cairo Airport for 4,000 Starpoints.
While the staff seemed to take forever to check us in, he upgraded us to a room on the Club Floor based on my SPG Gold status. Despite our fatigue, the porter made sure that we understood all the facilities inside our room. I was pretty sure that I over-tipped.
Welcome.
The next morning, we had breakfast at the Club Lounge before checking out.
A pretty impressive spread. We had lots of fresh fruits.
View from the club lounge. Its window was much cleaner than our room's.
The hotel is definitely convenient for someone who's looking for a place to stay between flights in CAI. However, if one were to explore they city, it will be better to stay somewhere closer to the city due to the horrendous Cairene traffic.
Instead of backtracking to the city, we caught bus X96 (6 euros each) and was at the airport around an hour later.
The flight to Cairo would be the second last of the day.
After going through the immigration, we relaxed at Swissport Lounge until the flight departure.
Boarding was once again through a remote gate.
Like on the LCA-ATH sector, we were the only pax in J. I guess that it didn't really make sense to pay J price for such a short flight.
Rows 1 and 2
The pilots preparing for the flight while we enjoyed our pre-departure drinks.
What's on menu
Food were served shortly after take-off. Mrs had chicken while I had the fish.
Aegean Air's Egyptian arrival card.
We arrived at CAI ahead of schedule and we were the first ones off the flight. It was a long trek from the gate and we had to purchase our Egyptian visas (25 USD each) from one of the bank kiosks before going through the immigration.
An Egyptian official welcomed us before the luggage belt by asking if we had transportation arranged. More hustlers appeared in the arrivals to offer us rides which we quickly declined.
As we would be arriving at CAI T3 at around 2am in the morning, I decided to book the adjoining Le Meridien Cairo Airport for 4,000 Starpoints.
While the staff seemed to take forever to check us in, he upgraded us to a room on the Club Floor based on my SPG Gold status. Despite our fatigue, the porter made sure that we understood all the facilities inside our room. I was pretty sure that I over-tipped.
Welcome.
The next morning, we had breakfast at the Club Lounge before checking out.
A pretty impressive spread. We had lots of fresh fruits.
View from the club lounge. Its window was much cleaner than our room's.
The hotel is definitely convenient for someone who's looking for a place to stay between flights in CAI. However, if one were to explore they city, it will be better to stay somewhere closer to the city due to the horrendous Cairene traffic.
Apr 16, 2016, 10:37 am
#26
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: SIN
Programs: Singapore Airlines Krisflyer
Posts: 184
Day 10: Giza Pyramids & Sofitel El Gezirah
After checking out of Le Meridien Cairo Airport, we got an Uber to our next accommodation: Sofitel El Gezirah.
Got our first taste of the Cairene traffic.
Despite our early arrival, our room was ready and we were able to check in before our half-day tour to Giza Pyramids.
Our 1 tour was arranged by Ramasside Tours and we paid 125 USD each for 1.5 days of private transportation, guide and most entrance fees.
Lots of half-finished buildings in Cairo
And then the Pyramids appeared.
Our bags were x-rayed and we had to go through metal detector before being allowed to enter.
Fancy a ride, anyone?
Couldn't quite recall what these buildings were for.
The very impressive Great Pyramid of Giza or Cheops. It was the tallest structure in the world for over 3000 years.
Entrance to the chambers. We decided not to pay for the extra entrance fees to enter.
Both of us were quite amazed by the Ancient Egyptians' technology.
Climbed up
The sprawl of Cairo encroaching Giza.
Our guide shared with us that the number of tourists these days were only 10% of the pre-2011 revolution period. The situation around Middle East region didn't help either.
It seemed that Chinese tourists now formed the bulk of tourists in Egypt.
Chephren, the second tallest pyramid
The smallest Menkaure Pyramid
We were driven to the viewpoint where all three pyramids could be viewed together.
Signature shot
More vendors than visitors
And of course we had to see the Sphinx.
Someone's tired
After visiting the Pyramids, we visited several shops. The first was one that sold paintings on papyrus and we were impressed with the staff's excellent presentation in Mandarin. The second was a souvenir shop which had the usual touristy items. The last was a shop selling essence and we were treated to yet another excellent sales pitch in Mandarin.
Nothing caught our fancy though.
Almost back at the hotel.
The reason why we chose to stay at Sofitel El Gezirah was because of the one-for-one offer with The Entertainer. We paid 236 USD for two nights, a relative bargain.
The room was dated though.
Our room faced the Sports Club and we were treated to an exciting volleyball match that evening.
On our way back from the pyramids, our driver helped us to take away koshary , Egyptian national dish.
I don't know what they put inside but it was sure delicious!
We had to walk off the koshary by exploring the hotel.
Lobby. Restaurants were packed with local diners ahead of the weekend.
Got our first taste of the Cairene traffic.
Despite our early arrival, our room was ready and we were able to check in before our half-day tour to Giza Pyramids.
Our 1 tour was arranged by Ramasside Tours and we paid 125 USD each for 1.5 days of private transportation, guide and most entrance fees.
Lots of half-finished buildings in Cairo
And then the Pyramids appeared.
Our bags were x-rayed and we had to go through metal detector before being allowed to enter.
Fancy a ride, anyone?
Couldn't quite recall what these buildings were for.
The very impressive Great Pyramid of Giza or Cheops. It was the tallest structure in the world for over 3000 years.
Entrance to the chambers. We decided not to pay for the extra entrance fees to enter.
Both of us were quite amazed by the Ancient Egyptians' technology.
Climbed up
The sprawl of Cairo encroaching Giza.
Our guide shared with us that the number of tourists these days were only 10% of the pre-2011 revolution period. The situation around Middle East region didn't help either.
It seemed that Chinese tourists now formed the bulk of tourists in Egypt.
Chephren, the second tallest pyramid
The smallest Menkaure Pyramid
We were driven to the viewpoint where all three pyramids could be viewed together.
Signature shot
More vendors than visitors
And of course we had to see the Sphinx.
Someone's tired
After visiting the Pyramids, we visited several shops. The first was one that sold paintings on papyrus and we were impressed with the staff's excellent presentation in Mandarin. The second was a souvenir shop which had the usual touristy items. The last was a shop selling essence and we were treated to yet another excellent sales pitch in Mandarin.
Nothing caught our fancy though.
Almost back at the hotel.
The reason why we chose to stay at Sofitel El Gezirah was because of the one-for-one offer with The Entertainer. We paid 236 USD for two nights, a relative bargain.
The room was dated though.
Our room faced the Sports Club and we were treated to an exciting volleyball match that evening.
On our way back from the pyramids, our driver helped us to take away koshary , Egyptian national dish.
I don't know what they put inside but it was sure delicious!
We had to walk off the koshary by exploring the hotel.
Lobby. Restaurants were packed with local diners ahead of the weekend.
Apr 24, 2016, 9:42 am
#27
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: SIN
Programs: Singapore Airlines Krisflyer
Posts: 184
Day 11: Old Cairo and Egyptian Museum
It was Friday and the traffic was relatively light in the morning when we set off for our tour of Old Cairo.
We visited Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha, one of the landmarks in Cairo.
Muhammad Ali Pasha, the ethnic Albanian Ottoman commander-turned-founder of Modern Egypt.
The exterior was lined with alabaster, hence it is also known as Alabaster Mosque.
Interior:-
The mosque was built in Ottoman style, unlike the Mamluk-style mosques which were the norm in Egypt.
The mosque also offered a good view of Cairo. We also learned that the Nile used to flood every summer until the completion of Aswan High Dam in 1970 and that explained why Old Cairo was built away from the river and development of the areas along the river only started in the 1970s.
Next up we visited the Hanging Church in Coptic Cairo.
Mar Girgis metro station is right opposite the Hanging Church.
Mosaic of biblical story
It is also the seat of Coptic Orthodox pope and there are pictures of Egyptian presidents with the pope.
Unlike Christians in other countries, the Christian community had their service on Friday. We could go in and take a look inside the church after the service.
The holy journey in Egypt
Stained glass
Happy kids
Leaving the church
Passing by Monastery and Church of St George.
We also visited Ben Ezra Synagogue and photography wasn't allowed inside. Most Egyptian Jews had migrated to Israel and very few remained in the country.
After Coptic Cairo, we headed to Khan el-Khalili bazaar to soak in the atmosphere. However, like many markets in the world, the products are mainly imported from China.
Al-Hussein Mosque
Walking around the area
Antique shop
Selling fabrics
Joined our guide at the cafe
Egyptian coffee
After we expressed interest in trying fuul and falafel, our driver helped us to get some before we headed for Egyptian Museum.
Tasty lunch
The very impressive Museum fo Egyptian Antiquities. Even though I wasn't huge into ancient history, it was still awe-inspiring looking at all the items from thousands of years ago. The Tutankhamen collection was especially interesting.
We were sad to learn from our guide that looting occured during the 2011 revolution and some items were lost.
After a fruitful visit, our guide recommended us to Farahat, a restaurant famous for its stuffed pigeon.
Menu
And of course the food:-
Pita bread and salsa
Stuffed pigeon
Kebab
Heading back to hotel in a cab after another hearty meal. A relaxing end to the trip.
We visited Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha, one of the landmarks in Cairo.
Muhammad Ali Pasha, the ethnic Albanian Ottoman commander-turned-founder of Modern Egypt.
The exterior was lined with alabaster, hence it is also known as Alabaster Mosque.
Interior:-
The mosque was built in Ottoman style, unlike the Mamluk-style mosques which were the norm in Egypt.
The mosque also offered a good view of Cairo. We also learned that the Nile used to flood every summer until the completion of Aswan High Dam in 1970 and that explained why Old Cairo was built away from the river and development of the areas along the river only started in the 1970s.
Next up we visited the Hanging Church in Coptic Cairo.
Mar Girgis metro station is right opposite the Hanging Church.
Mosaic of biblical story
It is also the seat of Coptic Orthodox pope and there are pictures of Egyptian presidents with the pope.
Unlike Christians in other countries, the Christian community had their service on Friday. We could go in and take a look inside the church after the service.
The holy journey in Egypt
Stained glass
Happy kids
Leaving the church
Passing by Monastery and Church of St George.
We also visited Ben Ezra Synagogue and photography wasn't allowed inside. Most Egyptian Jews had migrated to Israel and very few remained in the country.
After Coptic Cairo, we headed to Khan el-Khalili bazaar to soak in the atmosphere. However, like many markets in the world, the products are mainly imported from China.
Al-Hussein Mosque
Walking around the area
Antique shop
Selling fabrics
Joined our guide at the cafe
Egyptian coffee
After we expressed interest in trying fuul and falafel, our driver helped us to get some before we headed for Egyptian Museum.
Tasty lunch
The very impressive Museum fo Egyptian Antiquities. Even though I wasn't huge into ancient history, it was still awe-inspiring looking at all the items from thousands of years ago. The Tutankhamen collection was especially interesting.
We were sad to learn from our guide that looting occured during the 2011 revolution and some items were lost.
After a fruitful visit, our guide recommended us to Farahat, a restaurant famous for its stuffed pigeon.
Menu
And of course the food:-
Pita bread and salsa
Stuffed pigeon
Kebab
Heading back to hotel in a cab after another hearty meal. A relaxing end to the trip.
Apr 24, 2016, 10:29 am
#28
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: SIN
Programs: Singapore Airlines Krisflyer
Posts: 184
Day 12: CAI to AUH to SIN with Etihad
Due to the crazy Cairene traffic, our Uber took one hour to reach Cairo Airport.
Passed by Terminal 3 before getting to Terminal 1.
What awaited us was the long queue through the security before being allowed into the terminal. We also had to show our plane itinerary and luckily I pre-loaded the e-mail confirmation on my phone.
After checking-in and going through the immigration, we found ourselves at the air-side trying to spend our remaining Egyptian pounds.
T1 departures for the afternoon
Sampled some Egyptian McD. It was quite annoying to realise that smoking was permitted indoors.
Did some spotting before joining the queue for boarding.
Yemenia A310
Aviator Egypt
Going to board Etihad A340-600 through the remote gate.
From Abu Dhabi to the World
Safety card
Goodbye Egypt.
Our meals
Crossing the Red Sea
Wife's movie for the flight. I would catch it later on the next flight.
Sunset over the Gulf
Abu Dhabi
Some VIPs who were met by limousines
Spent most of our time in transit inside the rather crowded Al Reem Lounge and both of us were glad to be on our way again.
From my seat
Better IFE on 789
We sat on the tarmac for one hour before being cleared to take off. Killed the time with movies.
Menu
Fish
Pre-arrival snack
Love the amount of information presented
Home
Thanks for reading!
Passed by Terminal 3 before getting to Terminal 1.
What awaited us was the long queue through the security before being allowed into the terminal. We also had to show our plane itinerary and luckily I pre-loaded the e-mail confirmation on my phone.
After checking-in and going through the immigration, we found ourselves at the air-side trying to spend our remaining Egyptian pounds.
T1 departures for the afternoon
Sampled some Egyptian McD. It was quite annoying to realise that smoking was permitted indoors.
Did some spotting before joining the queue for boarding.
Yemenia A310
Aviator Egypt
Going to board Etihad A340-600 through the remote gate.
From Abu Dhabi to the World
Safety card
Goodbye Egypt.
Our meals
Crossing the Red Sea
Wife's movie for the flight. I would catch it later on the next flight.
Sunset over the Gulf
Abu Dhabi
Some VIPs who were met by limousines
Spent most of our time in transit inside the rather crowded Al Reem Lounge and both of us were glad to be on our way again.
From my seat
Better IFE on 789
We sat on the tarmac for one hour before being cleared to take off. Killed the time with movies.
Menu
Fish
Pre-arrival snack
Love the amount of information presented
Home
Thanks for reading!