Libya: Anyone been to Libya? Or is anyone going on the 4/12 SS Sailing?

I am considering going on the 12 night sailing this April which includes two ports in Libya. Has anyone been to Libya? SUggestions? Anyone booked on this cruise? Any suggestions for Cairo, as I will be arriving several days early before transfering to Port Said to pick up the ship.

...Any suggestions for Cairo....

If you've never been to Cairo, don't miss the Egyptian Museum (in the centre), the Pyramids of course but including the interior of the Great Pyramid and the Solar Boat museum nearby.

 

On a lighter note, the Khan el-Khalili bazaar is fun and less hassle (haggling is never aggressive) than neighbouring countries' equivalents. Try to see one or two of the older mosques: Mohammed Ali for the view of the city and Sultan Hasan nearby for the architecture.

 

For a taste of untouristic Cairo, visit the Egyptian Zoo in Giza -- healthy animals and relaxed locals. If you have time, go to Old Cairo. Finally, for the best ceramics ever, go to the Museum of Islamic Art. Try the Blue Guide to Egypt if you want to read up before going.

 

Avoid "papyrus museums", which are all a bit commercial, fake and tacky.

 

Get your concierge to write the names of these destinations in Arabic (with their English equivalents) for you and you're all set to go independently with local taxis. Haggle (gently) before getting in. Or get your hotel to arrange a taxi for the whole day if you're more comfortable with that but be aware that the driver will be paying more than half what you pay, as a kickback. Or the hotels will arrange air conditioned cars at even higher cost. Don't forget to take water with you. Air conditioning is feeble where it exists.

I would also recommend the evening "sound & light" show on the Sphinx,and Pyramids.It is very atmospheric.

The Cairo Museum is very large,but a must see are the Tutankhamun exhibits.(From memory,the mask weighs 22 Kg,and coffin 220 Kg of solid gold.)

I have checked the SS site, and could find NO sailings to Libya???????

Check voyage 1509 on the Silver Cloud. It is going to Libya.