Summer 2k24 In Cairo
Blog Entry #???
Date: August 3, 2024
Location: Al Salaam City, Egypt
As Salaamu Alaykunna, My Beautiful Sisters —
Ahlan Wa Sahlan, Welcome!
It’s been a while since my last entry, so I thought I’d try something new. Just me interviewing myself—reflecting and reconnecting with y’all in a chill, real way. Nothing too formal, just a little sit-down to catch up.
Q: So, how are you? Where have you been?
A: Alhamdulilah, I’ve been good. My travel cup is full and honestly, running over. It’s been beautiful. I’ve had to remind myself often—girl, be present, soak it all in, because soon enough I’ll be back home, probably missing it.
I got to spend Eid Al-Adha in Toronto, Canada, which was special. Then not long after, I made my way here to Cairo. Now I’m in my final week in Egypt and just taking it all in. Alhamdulilah for everything.
Q: What’s the most memorable dish you’ve made since we last heard from you?
A: Definitely this salad I used to make almost every day back home. I haven’t had a chance to make it here, but I still think about it. Let’s call it the Colorful Crunch Salad. Super simple, super fresh:
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Two handfuls of mixed greens
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One stalk of scallions
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One red bell pepper
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One avocado
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Half a purple onion
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One tomato
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A little honey
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Salt and pepper
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Juice from half a lime
I usually pair it with these quick salmon patties I make—just one can of salmon, an egg, chopped red pepper, green onion, and some salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. I measure with my heart and pan-fry them with a little oil, but they cook fine in the oven or air fryer too.
Q: What’s been the most exciting part of your trip so far?
A: Trying to swim, hands down. Growing up Black, a lot of us just weren’t into getting our hair wet—and I was no different. I didn’t have a swim cap and probably wouldn’t have worn one even if I did. So swimming was never something I learned.
But this trip? I pushed myself. And that felt really good. Not just physically, but emotionally too. Like, I actually tried something I’d avoided for years.
Q: So, this is your third time in Egypt. What’s different about it now? How have you grown?
A: This time feels different. I’ve been through some things. I had losses. I had to really fight to get back here. It took a lot of du’a and patience. But SubhanAllah—I’m here.
I see myself differently now. My confidence has grown. There’s this new self-love I carry, and it’s made space for more grace and compassion toward others. I’m able to connect more openly with sisters now, but I’ve also learned to protect my peace, to respect my limits, and to check in with myself when my social battery’s low. It’s been a journey for real.
Q: Have you reconnected with anyone or met new people this time?
A: Yes, actually. When I arrived, I met my roommate for the first time—and she’s honestly become like a little sister to me. Allah really looked out with that one. She’s smart, helpful, funny, and thoughtful. You know when you meet someone and you just click? That was her. I don’t take that lightly at all.
Then, I got to reconnect with my old roommate too, who also feels like a little sister. We grabbed dinner and caught up, which was nice. Familiar and comforting.
And my old neighbor—man, she showed up for me in such a big way. She hosted me, she was with me at the clinic when I had two teeth pulled, she made sure I was good. That’s not something small. She held it down. I think this time around we had more time to really talk and just be around each other. I got to know her better and I’m so grateful for that. Watching her kids grow up—especially her daughter, who I remember when she was still pregnant—it’s just a sweet, full-circle moment.
Q: Have you noticed any changes in Egypt since your last visit?
A: Definitely. The streets are different. Places that were just sand are now apartment buildings. The area I’m staying in now? I remember riding past it years ago when it was just open desert, barely touched. Now it’s developed and full of life. It’s wild.
The prices have changed too. The currency’s dropped, so the U.S. dollar stretches further, but the cost of things like housing has gone way up. Still, Egypt is evolving quickly. You can really see the growth.
Q: How’s the food been? Any favorite meals or local spots?
A: Homecooked meals always hit different. One of my dear friends and her mom cooked this beautiful meal for me—grilled chicken, salad, goulash (kind of like an Egyptian-style lasagna), rice, and for dessert, banana chocolate cake with fruit. I was full full.
There’s also this dessert spot near where I’m staying that does fresh waffles with any topping—I went for Nutella, of course. Then there’s Fridays (like the American chain), which is cool when you’re craving something familiar.
And let me not forget the crepe I had in Nasr City—fire. I wish I remembered the name. Plus, I always stop by the juice spot for my go-to lemon and mint drink. Simple, but so good.
Q: So what are your plans for your last few days here?
A: I want to keep it light. Maybe go for another swim, link up with a few friends, and grab the things on my family’s “don’t forget to bring back” list. I also want to just walk the city, take it in one more time, and be present. That’s the goal.
Q: Where to next? Got any upcoming travel plans?
A: InshaAllah, once I’m back in the States, I’m heading to Canada for an Islamic conference. This’ll be my second time going and I’m really looking forward to it. It’s a great space to learn and recharge spiritually.
Thanks for catching up with me.
Travel has a way of teaching you, humbling you, and filling your soul in ways you didn’t expect. I’m grateful for this trip and for the people who’ve made it even more special. Can’t wait to share where I land next.
Until then,
Umm AlKhyr
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