Camels and Pyramids

Today was pyramids day! The Arabic studies group arrived here on Sunday night, but today was the first day we were all together as a group. We got up early and headed to Giza to ride camels to the pyramids! It was so much fun. My camel's name was Michael Jackson, "because he loves to dance." The other camels had Arabic names. It was completely surreal to be riding a camel in front of the pyramids - but it didn't really feel touristy because we were in such a big group on our own. It was more of a fun learning excursion. We stopped a few times, but didn't get really close to the pyramids because they're closed to visitors. About a month ago, a tourist climbed to the top and had to be airlifted out - so no more climbing.

We stopped for group pictures, and went through the ordeal of getting on and off a camel a few times. Scary at first, but so fun! They were surprisingly comfortable to ride, and were bumpy and exciting when they galloped. We rode them in long lines (there's 40 of us now) all attached to eachother. I was at the front of one line, with Mohammed, our camel driver. At the end of the ride, when we were heading back, he hopped up on my camel with me and our whole line galloped back - so awesome!

Afterwards, we saw the Sphinx, and took more group pictures. It was so intense to see these things in real life - I had chills all day, despite the heat! Today was actually a beautiful day. It was cooler (in the 90's) and there was a nice breeze.

The whole group!

Getting off our camels, mine is in the foreground.

Riding to the pyramids!

The pyramids.

Fun with camels.

Michael Jackson lounging in the sand.

A pyramid at the pyramids!

The Sphinx.

Love the textures close-up.

Preparations for an X-Games motocross event on Friday, right in front of the pyramids. We're organizing a group to attend. Note the yellow spray painting.

The whole enchilada.


























We went to lunch at a place that was very similar to the Nubian Restaurant in Aswan. The food kept coming, and it was delicious! After lunch, we came back to the hotel and were informed that our papers are still due sometime tonight, but that our meeting was cancelled (Denis is sick). I'm glad for the extra time, and am spending it writing for you all!

Classes start tomorrow. Unsure of what to expect, but it should be interesting!