Suez

There are a few direct buses travelling from Alex to Suez daily. I opt for the Mid/West Delta bus departing at 9am. It takes just under five hours and costs E£30.

To be honest, i simply want to break up my journey as i head toward Jordan via the daily ferry from Nuweiba, and Lonely Planet says Suez is a great place to watch large tankers journey through the 190kms passage, with more than 20,000 vessels passing through each year, amounting to 14% of all world trade. Constructed between 1859 – 1869, its surface width is 280-345m and has a depth of 22.5m.

Whether it is the recent uprisings in Egypt or simply slow traffic, the waterway remains very quiet and i only get a chance to witness one large cargo vessel slide through. Army officers and tanks are everywhere, and around the docks and concourse i am forbidden to take any photographs. Even when i park up by a canal-side cafe!

The town is divided into Suez and Port Tawfiq, and both seem to have little to offer the passing travellist.

There is only one budget hotel to be found – the poorly Arafat Hotel which charges E£75 self contained room. Seriously over-priced for its condition.

One night and i am pleased to continue onwards.