Abu Simbel, Egypt We got up extra early to watch dawn over the temples, this time from the top deck of the ship. Our boat floated around the corner of the cliff, letting the temple slowly reveal itself.
It was a gorgeous sight, already crowded with tourists at 6:30 in the morning. (Egyptian tourists are an intrepid lot.)
The sunrise was equally stunning. The flat horizon really allows the sun to appear as a round disc, just as it was worshipped.
Our next sight from the ship was the Roman ruins of Kasr Ibrim, the last Christian stronghold in Nubia until the 16th century. It was a defensive stronghold of the Romans, a tall castle on a mountain before the lake was created and drowned it.
The rest of the morning was leisurely, with an excursion planned for 2:00. Don went; I passed. I couldn’t take this hellish heat, and just needed some quiet time. Don said I made a wise decision, when he returned soaking wet with sweat. I am becoming a bit resistant to temples that require lots of walking in the afternoon sun, small boats, and a ride on a donkey cart. Don’t hate me for it.