One of the oldest cities in the world and Egypt’s second largest after the capital, Cairo. Located in the north of the country, on the Mediterranean Sea. Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great - hence the name. The population of the city is only 5.3 million, compared to London’s 10 million. It may have half the number of people, but it certainly feels like WAY more. Alexandria is extremely dense and every plot has been filled. However, there is a law stating that buildings can only be of a certain height. So you’ll never see skyscrapers here.
The city feels like a seaside town on steroids. If you look north, you’ll see nothing but incredible Mediterranean views and you’ll feel totally calm. On the other hand, looking south in to the city, you’ll hear non-stop honking, you’ll see buildings on the verge of collapse and people absolutely everywhere. It sounds like madness, and it is, however it’s a breeze compared to Cairo.
Having said all that, I was completely blown away by how much I loved the city. I visited Alex back in May 2021, for a brief four days. Which turned into the most wholesome four days of my life. To the point where I cried my eyes out on the way back to the airport. Don’t you just love trips like that? Alexandrians are all about family, friends, fun and falafels. With not one ounce of materialism in their blood.
The reason for my trip, was to spend the Eid holiday with my boyfriend’s family. On the final day of Ramadan just before sunset, we were walking along the Corniche, on our way to a waterfront café to celebrate the last day of fasting. As we were walking, I remember seeing the cutest elderly couple. They sat down on a bench, directly over-looking the Med, with their Iftar meal packaged up in plastic containers. They looked so happy and content, even though there were thousands of cars beeping behind them and people rushing to get to their families. To think that this couple have probably been coming down to the Corniche together like this for 10/20/30 years. The whole moment right there humbled me to my very core. It was so simple but completely full-filling.
To explain Alexandria briefly - for most famous cities in the world that you visit, there is a high expectation of touristic locations, attractions, fancy restaurants, theatres etc. But here, it doesn’t need all that. Just simple, good old-fashioned fun with friends and family, with the most incredible views of the Med!
Here are 26 photos from my trip back in May 2021 - enjoy!
