Field of Dreams

Egypt is a country, where everyone dreams - not of becoming the next David Beckham - but of becoming the next Abu Treika. You'll find football (soccer) being played in all corners of the country. And they have reasons to believe in themselves - they have won the African Cup of Nations more than any other country - seven times.

An impromptu match down a small side street in Mohandessin, Cairo

Arabian coffee

Yesterday, I tasted "arabic" coffee for the first time, and I start to understand why the Egyptian version of Turkish coffee is so flavorful - because it seems to be a blend of the two of them. Traditional arabic coffee seems to be made entirely from cardamom (hebaham). It is served with sweet delights (nuts covered in dates and then covered again in either sesame or caraway seeds). Combined, the coffee leaves this smooth and mesmerizingly warm all over feeling - refreshing especially after a day of fasting.

Almond Milk (yummy vegan alternative to rice and soy milk)

For people who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or just enjoy a nice sweet drink, then smooth and creamy Almond milk will tantalize your taste buds. This healthy alternative to milk and other milk replacements (like soy and rice) is a great source of protein and is just plain delicious. Visit the Alf Hana blog for a recipe on how to make almond milk.

The Swiss Club

Nestled in the busy streets and towering buildings of Mohandessin, the Swiss club is a surprisingly calm sanctuary of lush greenery, quaint but attractive old-ish buildings (in Egypt, "old" goes pretty deep), a nice play area for children, a German bookstore (also featuring some books in English, Arabic, and French) and a nice restaurant and sitting area. A great retreat for those wishing an escape from the urban landscape, a feeling of being withdrawn into the countryside as you are surrounded by centuries old trees, open green spaces, and quiet.

Pigeon delicacies (Hamaam)

Pigeons have been a delicacy raised and eaten in Egypt since around 3000 BC. The below bird was served to me at my company iftar (breaking the fast) just the other night.

You can never fit enough people on a motorcycle

I believe it is something of an incredible sport in Egypt, to see exactly how many brave people can fit on a motorbike.

(Click me to enlarge)

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Contrasts

Old and young, rich and poor, new and really really not new, you name the contrast and you will find it in Egypt, side by side, existing somewhat harmoniously right up against one another.