OK so i just called Contiki and asked about the hot air balloon - they no longer offer it as an option.. =( They said the first day speak with the tour manager and tell them you want to do that and see if it can fit into the schedule somewhere.. I am going to look into it a bit because that was something I was looking forward to. Ariel view of Egypt would be beautiful at sunset..

I didn't think the hot air balloon ride was offered this time. I saw pictures and it looks amazing. I hope we can find time to fit it in!

Dee, I guess I'll be going to the airport the same time as you and your friend. My flight is at 9:15 a.m. Jodi, what time do you leave on the 14th? You're from Nova Scotia, right? I live in Toronto, but I have a lot of family on the east coast.

Quick question: did anyone get shots or have any pills they're taking in preparation for the trip?

Dee, I'm definitely interested in the hot air balloon ride! I hope we can fit it in!

Danielle, I leave at 5:30am on the 14th! So who knows how early I have to get up to go to the airport then! Yes, I'm from Nova Scotia. Actually, I got a stop-over in Toronto on the way down. I lived in Toronto for a year and a half and loved it there!

I already had my Hep A shot, but also got my Hep B shot. I was already up to date on Tetanus and a few others. I did get Dukoral (for traveller's diarrhea). I don't usually have stomach issues when I travel, but someone recommended it, so I thought I'd get it. It's just something you drink 2 weeks before you go and then again 1 week before you go.

I bought a package of Travelan. I haven't had stomach problems in the past but I've really only been to Western Europe. It was pretty inexpensive so I thought I'd give it a shot. You just have to take a pill before each meal.

I got a Hep Vaccine, Tetnus, and an antibiotic prescription just in case I get sick. I plan on getting the Travelan as well as some Immodium and Pepto.

Hi Everyone - I can't wait a little over a week to go. I did not get any shots.. I am bringing tummy stuff though and some vitamins to keep my immune system up. Of Course I will be mindful of what I am eating when there. Is anyone bringing a bathing suit??? I was not planning on it - but was not sure if the ship had a pool and if would would be traveling on it during the day?

I think the ship has a pool so I am planning on bringing a bathing suit, just in case.

The cruise ship has a small pool to cool off during the day. Travelan will certainly prevent any potential problem with food.Also if you can build your immunity prior to your trip via increased consumption of beneficial probiotics like Yogurt or Yakult it will also help.

Check them out on
www.travelan.com

Which can also be bought from pharmacies in Australia.Its non prescription.

I am bringing a swimsuit just in case. It won't take up much space so I decided to.

Bring a swimsuit, there is a pool and it doesn't take up much room. Everyone ended up at the pool on my trip at some point, especially one night, though few were brave enough to go in the pool. There is also a nice pool at the hotel in Cairo if you have any free time there.

OK so NY got hit with about 6 inches of snow over the night and another 6 is anticipated throughout the day.. I can't wait to be egypt bound this Friday..