Random Observations and Anecdotes (2)

If you ever find yourself in Egypt, climb Mt. Sinai at midnight to reach the summit before sunrise. If you are feeling like a true champion, try and make it to the top in under one hour and thirty minutes.

Also, there's a reason why the pyramids are world famous. Believe the hype. And don't forget your camera.

Finding references to the small island nation of Jamaica is extremely easy in any and all countries - even in the most remote of places.

If you find yourself in Jerusalem and in need of a good line up, head to the Arab quarter in the old city. Quality barbershops full of history abound.

If you're hostel hopping and know that you snore, be aware. Some people get irrationally angry when they can't get a good night's rest. Also, if you're a light sleeper - invest in earplugs.

The main square in Marrakech, Morocco (the Djemaa El Fna) looks like a scene straight out of Arabian Nights - monkeys on chains, snake charmers, cross-dressing story tellers, music and smoke emanating from the evening food stands. But if you take a picture, someone's probably going to ask you for some dirhams (money.) If you are looking for good value for money in the city, check out the three dirham orange juice stands (delicious) and the scarves sold by market vendors (quality.)

I saw an incredible amount of University of Michigan paraphernalia while traveling throughout Israel.

While traveling, always make an effort to be aware of local customs, especially religious observances and holidays. For example - arriving to a small town in Israel at the beginning of Shabat (Friday evening) on an empty stomach and without pre-arranged accommodations is not a great idea.

Casablanca to Cairo

Dodging hustlers and rug merchants in Tangiers; befriending Australians in Fez; avoiding snake charmers and monkeys on leashes at the DJemaa El Fna in Marrakech.

Riding camels to the Pyramids in Giza; Relaxing by the Red Sea; climbing in the footsteps of Moses to the summit of Mt. Sinai - and getting it all done because of the hospitality of friends in Cairo...actually, getting everything so far on this trip done because of the kindness of friends, both old and new.

Much thanks to Tommy Digital and Alex in London, Becky and the auxiliares in Jaen, and Josslyn and the AUC crew in Egypt. Hopefully Israeli hospitality will exceed my expectations as well.