Morning in Aswan: tea, reflections, and packing plans

I woke up just before sunrise today, the call to prayer faintly audible through my hotel window. The city was still mostly asleep as I stepped onto my small balcony, watching the first light touch the Nile. There's something magical about these early morning moments when the world feels like it belongs just to you.

The thermometer on my balcony read a crisp 10°C - cool enough that I needed my light jacket as I sat with my morning tea, watching the river slowly come to life. A few early feluccas were already setting out, their white sails catching the morning light against the hazy horizon.

I've been in Aswan for four days now, and tomorrow I'll be moving on. It's always a strange feeling, these last days in a place. Part of me wishes I could stay longer, sinking deeper into the rhythm of this riverside city, while another part feels the familiar pull of what's next.

The hotel's breakfast doesn't start until 8:00, so I've been sitting here organizing photos and making some notes about what I've seen. The unfinished obelisk, Philae Temple, the High Dam, the market spices, that elderly fisherman I see every day in the same spot. I wonder how many sunrise catches he's witnessed over his lifetime.

Packing thoughts

I've started mentally packing already, which I always do the day before leaving. My system has evolved over these past 113 days - everything has its place now. It takes me exactly 23 minutes to pack everything if I'm being methodical.

I need to finish my hibiscus tea before leaving - the package the market vendor sold me is too big to carry, and it's become my evening ritual here. Perhaps I'll have a final cup tonight as I watch the sunset.

My backpack feels heavier than when I started this journey, though I haven't actually acquired much. Perhaps it's the weight of experiences rather than possessions.

Today's plans

I have one full day left in Aswan, and I'm determined to make the most of it. The botanical garden on Kitchener's Island is still on my list - I've heard it contains some remarkable specimens brought from across Africa and Asia. The garden doesn't open until 9:00, so I'll head to breakfast first, then catch one of the small boats across.

The weather forecast promises a beautiful day - starting cool but reaching about 23°C by afternoon with clear skies. Perfect for garden exploration and photography.

I'm also hoping to catch the sunset from the west bank near the Tombs of the Nobles. Ibrahim, my taxi driver from the first day, mentioned it's less crowded than other viewpoints and offers a spectacular perspective across the river to the city.

The journey continues

Day 113 of 500. It still feels strange to count the days like this, but it helps me maintain perspective on this journey. 387 days remain before I return home, before I turn 51.

I wonder what I'll carry from Aswan when I leave tomorrow. Not just the photos or the spices, but the lessons. The patience of the Nile, perhaps. The river doesn't rush, yet it's shaped this entire landscape over millennia. There's something profound in that - the power of persistence over force.

The city is waking up now. The hazy morning light is brightening, and I can hear more activity in the streets below. Time for breakfast, then off to the botanical garden to see what treasures it holds.

Until later, Ruben