Claremont Graduate University, as a sort of celebration of the new Coptology program, has instituted a yearly trip to Egypt – glimpses of the country and an introduction to Coptology.
This blog is a way to document that, share memories, photos, tips, ask questions and prepare to go back to Egypt.
We definitely invite comments, suggestions, submissions and resources both to improve the site and to improve the trip as a whole.
Welcome!
(It should be noted, for the safety of all concerned that the site administrator here is a very radical feminist. Journal entries (primarily, but among other pages) will contain feminist material. Deal.)
Hello,
I was searching the net for some pictures and resources to add to my interactive project (about Egypt, of course) and I came across your amazing journal. First of all I would like to applaud you on your decision to make such an exquisite and detailed article of your somewhat-exciting tour in Egypt. I am a highschool student from Egypt, but studying abroad. I visit egypt every two years, because I love my school and I work here sometimes. When I visit Egypt, I feel like a stranger, just like I’m sure you do too. Everything you mentioned is completely true and I can’t wait to share some of your entries with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism, only to help with some of the most frustrating things about Egypt– like the “minor merchants” who shove “souvenirs” at you “expecting payment”. I hope you can allow me to do so. It saddens me that my country can give such as bad impression, although it has amazing potential. It’s even a disappointment to its own people sometimes. Anyway, I hope that you may once again visit Egypt(preferably on a summer:D), because I would like to meet you.
Again, I sincerely appreciate your effort in this blog– it is amazing! I was also wondering about your name– is it Cara-he ?
Thanks for your time,
YOUR BIGGEST FAN:D
Ziad
Thank you so much for the praise, Ziad, it’s very flattering. You are most welcome to share the entries with anyone you like, provided that you credit the website itself. I am indeed going back to Egypt – in 3 days, in fact. I look forward to seeing how my perceptions shift this time.
I do want to note, however, that the sales techniqes that I described, while initially disconcerting, are perfectly legitimate tactics as far as I (and I believe everyone on the trip) am concerned.