The Egypt Diaries - Friday 5th November 2010

I had about 3 hours sleep before miraculously getting up at 8am for a jog in the unyielding heat. To my shame whilst running I was caught short and needed to relieve my myself Paula Radcliffe style. I don't think my stomach can stomach the rich, vast and gargantuan amounts of food and alcohol I consume on a daily basis - I tend to live the style of a fat emperor whilst on holiday.

Going back to my predicament I found a place behind a brick wall where I was able to release last night's contents without too much embarrassment either to myself or anybody else watching this awful spectacle.

I spent the rest of the daylight hours in my air conditioned room relaxing, shielding myself away from the oppressive heat. A few glasses of whiskey and lemonade helped smooth the transition.

The evening I watched Dianne perform. She was nervous because Mr Aldo was milling around the hotel. The flutist wanted to be at her best particularly as her contract was being reviewed. There was no need to worry. As she was performing Mr Aldo came over and greeted me and said how good she was and I enthusiastically agreed, all in earshot of her. Dianne was in tears afterwards thanking me profusely. I insisted that I had little input and it was not my decision whether her stay at the hotel would be extended. Although I protested, I reluctantly took her thanks and gratitude.

I had delightful conversation with one of the Russian animators. Gosh only 20 but she has packed so much in her life. As usual I was envious of her beauty, age and experience. As the night drew on she explained the concepts behind her many tattoos that adorned her body. She insisted that they were all historical records of significant events that occurred in her life. I kept thinking to myself that she's only bloody 20 - I need to get out more.

I watched some TV before preparing myself for my pick-up at 2am. I was excited by Cairo but dreading the 14 hour round journey to the Egyptian capital. Things you do for a bit of culture.