Setting Sail for Alexandria

As someone who spends most of his time riding the waves and soaking up the sun in the Caribbean, the idea of diving into the depths of ancient history was a thrilling change of pace. I found myself in Al Doqi, ready to embark on the Alexandria Adventure, a full-day tour that promised to unravel the mysteries of Egypt’s second-largest city. The anticipation was palpable as I joined a small group of fellow explorers, all eager to uncover the secrets of this Mediterranean gem.

Our guide, Mohamed, was a beacon of knowledge and enthusiasm. His passion for Egyptian history was infectious, and it wasn’t long before we were all hanging on his every word. As we made our way to Alexandria, Mohamed regaled us with tales of Alexander the Great and the city’s storied past. It was a three-hour drive, but with Mohamed’s captivating storytelling, time seemed to fly by.

Descending into the Depths

Our first stop was the Catacombs of Kom ash-Shuqqafa, a labyrinthine network of underground passages and tombs. As someone who usually explores the ocean’s depths, descending into this ancient burial site was a different kind of adventure. The air was cool and slightly musty, and the dim lighting added an air of mystery to the experience.

Mohamed guided us through the catacombs, pointing out the intricate carvings and explaining the significance of each chamber. It was fascinating to see how the Romans had left their mark on this Egyptian city, and I couldn’t help but draw parallels between the ancient world and the vibrant cultures I’ve encountered in my travels.

After emerging from the catacombs, we made our way to the National Museum. Here, we marveled at the artifacts from the Greek and Roman eras, many of which had been discovered beneath the waters of Alexandria’s shores. It was a reminder of the city’s rich maritime history, and I felt a deep connection to the ocean that has always been a part of my life.

A Feast for the Senses

No adventure is complete without a taste of the local cuisine, and our lunch in Alexandria was a feast for the senses. We dined on fresh seafood, a nod to the city’s coastal location, and the flavors were as vibrant as the city itself. As we savored each bite, Mohamed shared stories of Alexandria’s culinary traditions, adding yet another layer to our understanding of this remarkable place.

With our appetites satisfied, we continued our journey to the Citadel of Qaitbay, a fortress that stands on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. The views from the citadel were breathtaking, with the Mediterranean stretching out before us. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the beauty that exists in both the natural and man-made worlds.

Our final stop was the modern Alexandria Library, a stunning architectural marvel that pays homage to the ancient library that once stood in its place. As we explored its vast collection, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the knowledge contained within its walls. It was a fitting end to a day filled with discovery and wonder.

As we made our way back to Cairo, I reflected on the day’s adventures. The Alexandria Adventure had been a journey through time, a chance to connect with a world that was both foreign and familiar. It was a reminder that, no matter where we are in the world, there is always something new to discover.