routine Pyramids visit

We just had the normal hassles today at the Pyramids, no dramatic confrontations as I’ve had a couple of times.

My last visit to the Pyramids, I was shocked to realize, was in February 2007– again for the sake of a visitor. Since then they’ve built a perimeter fence and a real ticket sales building as opposed to the former ticket shack. But they certainly haven’t cracked down on the con artists inside the tour area. That was an ongoing headache, as always. But it’s remarkable how often the phrase “Tomorrow, God willing” in Arabic works to shake them off.

We got Jully Black up on a camel for a little while, and it led to some good photos. For those who have never ridden a camel, it’s a bit like an airplane trip– takeoff and landing are the most dangerous parts. As the camel gets up, it’s so strong and so ill-tempered that it really feels like you’re going to get thrown. Once it starts at normal walking pace, however, then it’s a fairly comfortable ride. But if you aren’t holding on tight as the camel rises from the ground, there is a legitimate chance of getting thrown and severely injured.

We have a birthday in the group tonight, so there are some mandatory festivities ahead, probably involving the Nile this time.