I went to Egypt 2 times in 2004 & plan to go again in the future. It is a very interesting country & the people are wonderful, friendly, & love Americans & Canadians. Haven't finished typing my Israel/Egypt travelogue but here are a few names & websites that I whole-heartedly recommend: mboutros2@ yahoo.com (close space after @) the email address for Mona Ibrahim, K.E.T. Travel who did a wonderful job for us. She delivered everything we asked for at the right price. We had some difficulty with Milano Travel in January. Another person to contact about Cairo touring: Dalia Abd El Aziz, our Cairo guide during our 1st trip to Egypt. We met & had coffee with Dahlia when we were in Cairo on our 2nd trip. She is a most lovely, knowledgeable, & delightful young woman as well as a registered guide. Her email address: dalia_admo@ yahoo.com (close space after @) Jane Akshar, website, http://www.flatsinluxor.co.uk is a hospitable English gal married to an Egyptian man. She rents outs 3 lovely, brand-new this year, flats in rural East Luxor. Also is a very knowledgeable Egyptologist & will arrange budget guided tours to Valley of Kings, felluca rides. The apartments, 3 bedroom & lovely, rent for about $26 a night total!!!

Any other questions, please ask. Opinion: yes, hire a private guide with one of the tour companies....above I definitely recommend Mona at KET Travel for arrangements. Her guide for us in Cairo was Mr. Romany, a Coptic Christian. He, too, was extremely knowledgeable & lovely to work with.

Carol Bailey In N. Idaho but planning another trip