Culture Shock
This area of the world has some cool customs. Hospitality
was very high. Many people welcoming me to their country as
they will you if your look foreign. I like the closest share
by people there It's not uncommon for example to see two men
arm in arm and share a closeness between father and son,
brothers or good friends. Greeting are very warm and usually
includes two kisses, one on each cheek. Even between men.
I'm not sure but I think one of the two men actually touches
and the other does not.
Cheap
Hostels
The Middle East is cheap to sleep in. Private rooms go for
under $10 most places. Jerusalem is the most expensive
thought at $21 a night. I used
HostelWorld.com to find
and book cheap beds in the region. I will write more about
the experience once I’m done. I usually just show up at
hotel without reservations with pretty good luck. This trip
is different because I’ve booked all my rooms with a small
deposit online. We’ll see how it works out.
Planning
It's always a good place to start planning a new international trip.
The U.S. State Department's
Consular Information Sheets Web Site for important
travel advisors.
Costs
Airfare was the highest expense at $1,350. Food, lodgings
and transportation and attractions fees. $83 to park the car
near the airport. Gas to commute to the airport. $110 to get
back into Egypt from Israel and transit (Private car) to the
Cairo airport
