Nile Cruise

The St. George, operated by Sonesta, was our home on the Nile for four wonderful nights.

Thom described its old world charm as the "Orient Express on water."

The bartender displayed only alcohol bottled in Egypt at my request.

Needless to say, we spent most of our free time on the sun deck.  Afternoon temperatures reached the low 80s.

Thanks to a boat that pulled up alongside us, Thom perfected the art of shopping and tanning simultaneously.

The boat merchants threw him up a towel.  He threw down 100 Egyptian pounds (less than $6) in the bag he's gripping even though the unhappy souvenir salesman employed by the St. George told him it probably had been used.

The tranquil scenery mesmerized as we glided past.  I honestly can say I've never seen anything quite like it.

This may have been the captain of the boat taking a break

. . . while the porters cleaned the chandelier in the chilly pool!

Sari, author of My Home Sweet Rome, her memoir of living and loving in the Eternal City, was our delightful dining companion.

She did a mean impersonation of  Shahrazad (note the wine label) our last night at dinner. Having a new audience for your stories is one of group travel's unsung joys!