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Enticing Egypt
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Egypt. To the Islamic world, there is Mecca. In the Jewish religion, there is Israel. To Catholics, there is Rome. For a belly dancer, there is Egypt.
The cradle of civilization is the center of the belly dance world, where the world’s oldest dance originated. To this day, Egypt is the dream destination of every belly dancer.
Some of us get to live out our dream. To get to experience the wonders of the ancient world is once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The great pyramids of Giza and the tombs of the Pharaohs await exploration. The Cairo Museum with its mummies, a desert oasis, famed Alexandria and the Nile River, Luxor with the temple of Karnak are sites to behold.
For a dancer, the ultimate is to attend the annual Alhan Wa Sahlan Dance Festival at the base of the Pyramids, the world’s largest gathering of belly dancers. Every summer, the historic Mena House hosts a week of dance lessons and performances by the world’s greatest and best dancers. How often can one study with Randa or Dina? To study with the masters of this ancient art form is an honor. Every dancer, no matter what skill level, should be the consummate student. As with any art form, one must continue the study of it for one will never know everything. Studying in Egypt also lends a fresh perspective to the dance and dispels many of the myths. Besides, how can you teach or perform an art when you haven’t first-hand knowledge of its origins? Egypt will change you and enhance your dance. You will also meet dancers from around the world and forge new friendships.
The Festival also offers an amazing opportunity to purchase costumes at a major discount. I was shocked to learn that Isis wings selling for $120 or more in the U.S. can be purchased for $12 in Egypt. Hip scarves selling for $50 can be had for $15. A beautiful, quality complete cabaret costume can cost $250 or even less when $700 and up is not unusual in the States. Yes, you do need to bring an extra empty suitcase or pack light. You also need to have cash to exchange for Egyptian pounds. Well worth it.
Life is a journey. Travel is an adventure. Getting out of your comfort zone broadens your horizons, creates lifelong memories and affords amazing experiences. Take the leap … obtain a passport … budget some money (Egypt is incredibly inexpensive) … buy a ticket to a destination outside of the United States to experience another culture. Whether it’s Egypt or even Canada … go!
The right moment is NOW!
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