General

As you might seem to notice - I AM in good spirits. I'm currently thoroughly enjoying the trip. My muscles are a little sore, my butt as well - but neither too bad. The weather has been WINDY!!! beyond belief - last night some people had to dismantle their tents and lie inside them due to the wind nearly destroying them standing up. It has been fairly cool with this wind - but quite pleasant today and yesterday - quite chilly as soon as the sun sets though.

The terrain is very consistently barren - sand!!!

No trees. Lots of police and military outposts and checkpoints on the way. Roads generally VERY good - two and three lanes both ways. It has been very flat to downhill nearly all the way ... hence the good spirits. We still pass many incomplete developments along the way. Today we passed thru Hurgada and into Safaga ... noticeably more upmarket holiday resort areas - palms, gardens, painted and structurally complete buildings all round. People are friendlier and generally everything more pleasant.