Friday, 12 November 2010

The Egypt Diaries - Wednesday 3rd November 2010

OMG - I feel bloody awful. Did not get to sleep until 5am. Could not face breakfast probably would of thrown it up.

Late morning in the lobby I had a very interesting conversation with one of the managers. By coincidence her name was Natalie from Russia and close friends with Natalya from the Ukraine. Russian Nat explained where she thought this hotel was going in the future and the type of clientele it would likely to attract. I concurred with her opinion that Iberotel Il Mercato was essentially a city hotel catering for business people rather than your traditional British beach tourists. My own misgivings is that it may fall between the two - nor one thing or the other.

As I may have expected the pick-up for the quad-biking was late. It took the intervention of Mr Aldo to secure my lift. Have to say it was worth the wait. Quad-biking in the Sinai desert was a wonderful experience. Would recommend it to anyone. I have done this type of excursion in every country I visited but it was the first time I did this in the desert and at night. Awesome!

I tried a new bar whilst watching the the Milan and Real Madrid match. I could not believe I was charged almost £4 for a bottle of Stella. I left the premises in a not too happy mood. Egyptians think if you are from Britain you are a cash cow. Its constantly a hard sell here - nothing for free. I am sticking with drinks in the hotel. The beverages maybe locally branded but at least its free.

It was Jack's the head of animation's birthday. His crew plus some guests surprised him outside a shop in the arcade. He got a printer which was well received. To celebrate the team and some guests went to a local club. I declined and instead was serenaded by Diana the now resident flutist at the hotel. She played Moon River and Fly Me to the Moon. I felt honoured, privileged and I confess a little bit special. Not a musical expertise myself but Diana did hit a few 'bum notes' but overall her musical skills were very good. I slept contented ready for the excursion tomorrow to St. Katherine's Monastery.

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