Don't get a rental car in Egypt

With one week to go in my summer program, three of my friends and I rented a car and headed up to the North Coast along the Mediterranean. Known for its teal-colored water and white sandy beaches, the beach itself lived up to the hype.

Beautiful beaches of the north coast

However, our Airbnb had no Wi-Fi, no AC, and only one working shower (or more accurately, one working hose). That, combined with our rental car, which, after passing a pack or two of wild camels, decided to break down on the side of the road an hour out of the city in the middle of the Sahara Desert. Was quickly followed by us being scammed by a tow truck driver and spending an extra five hours total at a mechanic shop, all helped to create an unforgettable weekend. Truly one of those memories where you cry a little in the moment and laugh a lot later on.

Getting towed on the middle of the highway

Forgot some sunscreen

The last week of summer was weird for me. I was sad to say goodbye to the friends I had made, but I also knew I was going to be returning in a short four weeks for the fall semester, so I was extremely excited to come home and spend as much time as possible with my friends and family before the long haul of two straight semesters abroad.

Even just two months into my journey, I was already so grateful for having picked International Business to give me the opportunity to study abroad for as long as I have (if you’re not IB, don’t let that stop you). This past summer, I was constantly amazed by the many acts of kindness shown to my friends and I by complete strangers and was already in love with this country and the city of Cairo, and I was looking forward to being back for a longer stint in the fall.