Aswan Day 6

Since we arrived at Aswan around midnight and our cabin was facing the street, we were able to sleep quite peacefully, as we learned from other travelers at breakfast. There were voices and car horns, but it was nothing compared to the other side of the ship. Here, a fresh air blower kept the guests from sleeping. 

After breakfast, we will set off at 07:15. The first destination is the unfinished obelisk. 

After that, we took a boat to the Philae Temple, also known as the Temple of Isis. The temple used to be on the now submerged island of Philae. The dam construction has indeed changed quite a bit. 

We return to the ship, and if it weren't for our additional booked excursion, we would have the entire afternoon free. But we start our city tour around 15:30. Our first stop is the Old Cataract Hotel. Agatha Christie stayed on the terrace of this hotel, and this is where my dream originated. Now, after all these years, I could catch a glimpse of it again. 

Across from it is the Cathedral of Aswan 

And from the public garden of the Old Cataract, one could see the island of Elephantine. 

Now we visit the El Tabia Mosque. Our tour guide explained a lot about the religion, the prayer proceedings, and patiently answered our questions in the interior. 

Spices are always a recurring topic, and we visit a spice shop on this excursion. We receive information in good German about the origin and use of the spices. 

The journey continues, and near the bazaar street, we get off and walk through the bazaar street towards the train station of Aswan and arrive at the coffee house. Despite the announcement, nothing was prepared for us. Thus, quickly many men were summoned from somewhere, tables and chairs were brought out onto the street, and off we went with ordering. What is astonishing is that somehow everyone always gets what they wanted😃. 

Now back to the ship, dinner, good night drink at the bar, and off to bed. Tomorrow we will get up really early.