We are packed! We’ve squeezed 4 weeks of gear into one med-sized suitcase a piece. This tour has some very specific size and weight requirements on our luggage – checked luggage can be no more than 50 lbs and carry-on no greater than 17 lbs. We made it and even have room to spare for a few souvenirs too.

As the weather will be hot, we’ve packed cotton and wicking clothes exclusively, two hats each and comfortable shoes. We’ve brought along some cooling towels, a couple of small portable fans, and lots of sunscreen. We’ve packed anti-diarrheal medication and electrolyte packs. Just in case.

This journey will have us on 10 flights. First, we are taking Delta to Atlanta. Then we are flying Qatar airlines to Doha, Qatar, and then on to Amman. Our flights between Amman and Cairo, Cairo to Luxor and Luxor back to Cairo are booked through AmaWaterways so we’ll find out what airline on the day of travel. We fly Emirates from Cairo to Dubai, and Qatar Airlines again from Dubai, to Doha, and then back to Atlanta. Then one final flight on Delta back to Columbus.

Today we fly to Atlanta, for one overnight and a good visit with our family there.

Tomorrow: Flight to Doha