Absolutely, every traveler to Cairo can’t wait to experience the wonders of the Sphinx and the iconic Pyramids! While Cairo hasn’t always been my top pick, I genuinely appreciate how breathtaking these monumental sites are. Standing before these incredible structures is an unforgettable experience—it truly feels like you’re in the presence of history itself!
Before you get to actually see the Sphinx, you have to endure another significant activity: the taxi ride to the actual site. A taxi ride anywhere in Cairo is mind-bending, and this was a ride to top all other trips. First, the price. Meters in Cairo taxis are for decoration only, and negotiating the price is no different than haggling over the cost of a local drink. The currency is the Egyptian Pound, and as I was settling in, I had no idea at all about the actual prices for the ride.
Anyway, I finally hopped into the old taxi, and he blasted off through Cairo’s cramped, noisy, and terrifying streets. We bucked and rolled for about 20 minutes, and after a right-hand rocket turn, to my amazement, I was looking at the Pyramids. I’m sure that Lawrence of Arabia used a different route getting to the site, but here I was. Wow. When I started my journey, for some unknown reason, I envisioned the Pyramids, and the Sphinx was a distance away, possibly in a quiet, thoughtful area that would enhance the visitor’s experience. In fact, it was within walking distance of a local neighborhood. Who knew?
Once you’re actually there, you’ll fight for air and space with an army of vendors trying to sell rides (Camel and Horse, thanks) and tour guides. I made it through this. mob and found myself standing at this fence, actually looking at the most iconic creation, ever. As I moved to the pyramids, I couldn’t help but realize that, once again, I am so thankful for the opportunities to travel the world and see things that are often once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Yes, my friends, amazing things are actually just around the next corner.
Are we there yet? 