This has been our last day in the Cairo area. We went south and looked at the oldest pyramids very built and tombs in the area. We even climbed down into the burial chamber deep in the heart of the Red pyramid—one stinking long and hot climb in an angled shaft about 4 feet tall. In order, we saw the Bent, Red, and Stepped pyramids. 
As we drove through the country, we saw how most rural Egyptians lived. Far more donkey carts than cars. Water buffalos to plough the fields. Butchers who don’t rely on refrigeration. And, even a small caravan of 5 camels carrying palm fronds. It almost seems frozen in time. 
In the afternoon we toured some ancient churches and a synagogue in the oldest part of Cairo, an area called Coptic Cairo. These church have existed since the 5th-6th century and are still in use. Amazing to walk in churches people have worshipped in for over 1400 years.
One other thought. Egypt takes security very seriously. Police are everywhere and in large numbers at all tourist locations.
Today we had a police car escort our tour bus. We noticed that most of the others busses didn’t have escorts, so I asked our guide why. “Because you are Americans” was the answer. I’m not sure how I feel about that, but everyone has been friendly to us (or at least to our money).Tomorrow, off to Biblical Goshen….
