May 16, 2005

From Barb

As a delegation leader, the greatest gift I received was to watch the students learn and grow. I saw them develop into mature, independent, responsible, wonderful, young adults. At the beginning of Peace Camp, many of them found themselves relying on leaders, family, and friends. But by the end of the journey, they realized one must ultimately depend on themselves, and the strength, character, and good judgment that has been instilled in them throughout their life. As teenagers, they did something most adults only dream about. They should be proud of their accomplishments. Each of them, in their own way, contributed to the tapestry that weaved our delegation together. We've all learned, Peace Camp isn't a place you visit, but a place in your heart! These 50 students and 3 junior leaders exemplified what President Eisenhower's dream was all about! I love them all!

Barb Capozzi, Buffalo/Niagara Falls, NY
Delegation Leader for Peace Camp

May 15, 2005

May 10, 2005


Leaving the Peace Camp & returning back Home!

Today is our last day. Everyone started to leave already. It is very hard for us to say goodbye since we just spent the best 10 days of our lives and now we just have to go back to school, to college, to our lives. Many of us were crying and boys were trying to hide their tears but just couldn't since it was a very emotional moment for all of us. Ironically, there was a strike at the airport and many of the people who were flying back had to wait for so many hours and poor Silje she had to go back to the hotel and fly the next day. I guess it was kind of exciting since we got to stay with each other a few more hours but we still wanted to go home. We all missed our family, friends...But each one of us wanted to just take all the other 52 students with him back home in his suitcase. It was a very emotional and moving day. Saying goodbye was one of the hardest things we had to do throughout the whole camp and I would say it was the hardest thing to say. But for us this is only the beginning. It is the beginning of a new chapter in our lives. Randa, Cairo, Egypt

May 12, 2005

May 9, 2005


Releasing 2000 Peace Balloons with Mrs. Mubarak
"Hello everyone!This morning waking up to the beautiful Alexandria sunshine with the Mediterranean Sea in our backyard was truly a magical experience. Although the 6:15 AM wake up call slightly damaged the serenity of the morning, it was well made up for in the exciting events of the day. We all arrived at breakfast in our formal attire, ready to impress Mrs. Suzanne Mubarak, the First Lady of Egypt. We went to the Alexandria Library, and after going through lots of security, participated in "World Quest," a 60 question quiz designed to test our knowledge of global history, geography, and current events. We then took a tour of the library, and saw the reading center, and all of the different museums within the library. There were many old transcripts, artifacts, and different things from recent movies about Egypt. Together with the adults, we released 2000 balloons as a symbol of World Peace as soon as Mrs. Mubarak arrived. We then all assembled into a small auditorium in the library, where we heard speeches from lots of different people, including the First Lady and Mary Eisenhower. Two peace campers, Rinad and Lionel, sang a song for everyone, which was absolutely beautiful! Then all 53 of us got on stage and sang "Ya Salaam" a song about peace and friendship for the whole group. Afterwards, we had a delicious catered lunch, and then we wrote e-mails to leaders around the world telling them about our trip and asking them to work towards peace. We then got back onto our busses and had a three hour trip back to Cairo, during which most of the students took the opportunity to catch up on sleep, which was much needed for the night to come. When we arrived back at the hotel we had our farewell dinner, and then took about an hour exchanging compliments and ribbons. It was very emotional for almost everyone, and the tears started coming. We had our final peace session, which was a Candlelight ceremony where everyone had the chance to say goodbye, read a poem or sing a song to the group. Then, the final goodbyes began. People started to leave, a few at a time, and each farewell was very sad for everyone. For me, I felt like each time someone left, I was losing a best friend. It was so hard to return to our rooms after each person left, knowing our numbers were slowly dwindling. I think that everyone shared countless hugs, kisses and tears, as we all tried to hold on to each other for as long as we could. The trip was certainly the most memorable, unforgettable ten days of my life, and I know that I will hold on to each memory forever. "
Love, Martha, Buffalo New York, USA
“Today was our first day in Alexandria, “the 2nd capital of Egypt”. When we arrived at the train station, the group went straight to the Roman Amphitheatre. After touring for a while, I was requested to give the campus a singing concert since that is on my favorites. Then the whole group sang “Lean On Me”. It was awesome. It was also a real honor to be able to sing in the theatre that is over 2000 years old. Tonight was the farewell dinner, which was a blast. Instead of just eating, we danced music from a band playing American Jazz. Although I am not much of a dancer, I really had a blast tonight. Finally, Happy Mother’s Day to all, especially my mom! Also salam to Dad, Rebew, Liz and everyone else reading the blog today.”
Andrew, Kansas, USA.

May 10, 2005

Meeting the First Lady of Egypt


H.E Mrs Suzanne Mubarak

PTPI Peace Camp and GPI delegates met the First Lady of Egypt, Her Excellency Suzanne Mubarak. What a beautiful and gracious woman who has dedicated much of her time to focusing on peace efforts.Security was tight for the First Lady's visit and no one was allowed to take in purses, cameras or cell phones so notes from this visit were limited.

After a tour of the Alexandria Library, we all convened in an auditorium where we heard from a panel of the peace camp participants from Pakistan, the Sudan, Israel, Palestine, the United States, Egypt & Romania. I believe I can speak for just about everyone in the room when we all felt confident in our future generation with the words and actions spoken by these young adults. The questions were given to the delegates by PTPI Director Amr Badr (President of A&K Egypt). Although all the answers were terrific, I'd like to sum up the words of the young girl from Pakistan. Asked if she thought the world seemed larger or smaller after meeting students from around the world, she replied that she didn't think the world seemed larger or smaller rather her perception of the world had changed.

She emphasized that we must celebrate our differences to learn more about each other.There were several other emotional events during this presentation. At one point, after the young girl from Israel spoke, the Palestinian boy took her hand and help it for a few moments. After the ceremony, we were treated to a song of peace by the other Israeli and Palestinian participants.

Seeing these students work together hand-in-hand during this panel presentation and throughout the journey is what People to People International is all about -- peace through understanding!

May 8, 2005


QaitBay Fort In Alexandria

As the end of the Peace Camp approaches, we are starting to realize how deeply it has affected us and what it how means to us. We came in on the first day expecting to take a luxurious tour around Egypt but are leaving with much more thank that. Not only have we learned about several different cultures but also have grown so close that we'll miss each other terribly. Today, between the roman amputates, Pizza Hut, the deep emotional session and the fancy dinner at QaitBay fort, all we could think about was post camp life away from each other. No more stupid jokes and endless laughs together, but rather a longing for each other. However, we also how that every good thing has an end and regret is a bad thing and thus, we chose to look at this situation positively we have met, clicked and became very good friends all while learning a lot and enjoying the wonderful country of Egypt! We are going back home with dozens of amazing memories that will be engraved in our minds & hearts forever. On behalf of ourselves and all the students at the Peace Camp; thank you People to People for providing us with such a magic experience. Alia, Morocco & Patricia, USA

Assalom Aleykum(Hello in Uzbekistan) Blogs readers!!!
It so nice, to get in touch with you. I would like to share with my thoughts and experience what I obtained during this incredible day. So the beginning sounds like that, I got up at 6 o’clock in the morning with passionate feeling to explore all other parts of Egypt as usual.
You know, that when you are in the most ancient country “cradle of civilization” of the world you are looking forward to knowing everything from weaving carpets to building the pyramids.
By 7 o’clock we had a delicious breakfast and packed all our stuff to leave the Cairo.
The next city which we were going to visit was the fabulous city called Alexandria. It took two hours from Cairo to get to Alexandria. During this term I had enjoyable time of speaking with faithful friends from different countries as Bulgaria, Albania, US, Brazil etc.
By 11.30 we arrived in Alexandria (Called after Alexander the Great) railway station. Later we got on the bus and our favourite guide Ahmed started to entertain us with variety of jokes and tricks. Soon we arrived in catacombs of Kom El –Shugafe the largest burial side discovered in Egypt to date, consisting of three tiers of tombs and chambers cut into the bedrock to a depth of about 35 meters. Constructed in the 2nd century A.D. as a single-family crypt, these tombs represented the last existing major construction for the sake of the old Egyptian religion. Our next destination was the marvelous white Amphitheater. Roman Amphitheater has been considered as the only Roman amphitheater in Egypt and has been discovered quite recently. As we reached this Amphitheater we took amazing group pictures and were impressed by the greatest Greco-Roman style. The most interesting experience of the day was however communicating with people I will never forget the wonderful singing of American delegate “Andrew”. It was especially impressive to listen to American songs among ancient Egyptian ruins. It was a fascinating interaction of different times and cultures.
As the crown of the day, was a Farewell dinner which took place at Qayt Bait Fort. I heard before of the 7 wonders of the Ancient World and to see one of them, Alexandria’s Ancient lighthouse was really great and fantastic!
In brilliant speeches during the dinner was sounded the necessity and importance of this Peace Camp in the cause of keeping Peace all over the world. The atmosphere of the festivity was so friendly and bright I’ll never forget picturesque costumes, fiery dances and incredibly beautiful smiling faces of my friends. Having found new friends all over the world was the most magic experience for me.
Coming back to the impressions of the day I can’t help mentioning Pizza Hut where we arranged the imitation of celebration American’s Mother’s Day. It was so fun and at the same time was one more experience of understanding different cultures and traditions.
The Peace Camp session was very touching and emotional on this day. Holding hands of my friends I both felt deepest sadness of the farewell and the thankfulness for sharing these magical 10 days with them.
The Web activity reinforced these feelings and made us even close to each other. I feel even if I leave the land of pharaohs the part of my heart will remain here forever.
Realizing the world peace I arrived at the idea that it is a moving force making us stick together what gives us more than we expected to receive and something what incites us to higher purposes. We need to make effort to make and work to keep . World peace is a dear thing; it is indeed a form of love.
I am sincerely grateful to Mrs. Marry Jean Eisenhower and her Excellency Mrs. Suzanne Mubarek for their dedication toward the world peace and the future of youth generation. I would like to express my gratitude to everybody who assisted this program and made it unforgettable. Leo, Uzbekistan.

May 7, 2005


Dr. Zahi Hawas

At the start of this morning we were addressed by Dr. Zahi Hawas. In his speech and slide show he gave us a small taste of what was to come this afternoon. Before lunch we visited the special Olympics where many of the students are handicapped but despite this they do carpet weaving, candle making and knitting. We were shown around the school and treated with wonderful hospitality. We then saw what Egypt is most famous for! To stand at the bottom of the Great Pyramid and gaze up at its enormous spenders was, put simply, amazing ! We, as peace camp delegates received special admission by Dr. Zahi to go right in to the fenced area around the sphinx. No pictures or postcards can compare to the real deal! Dr. Zahi Hawas spoke of his most current findings of the old Egyptian worker tombs & he kindly allowed the youth to visit where no tourists were allowed to this new site. This has been the most incredible day. Overall, camp has been something that cannot be expressed in words, only if you have experienced what I have will you truly understand the impact this has on the individual. I have made friends with people from 21 countries around the world and nothing can compare or replace this opportunity! Love & Peace to you all from Laura, South Africa

I can't describe how wonderful was today. First we had a speaker, Dr. Zahi Hawas, secretary general of the supreme council of antiques ties, that told us about his work. So, we went to see the pyramids and the Sphinx. It was amazing! To finish our day we went to an Egyptian house and had dinner there. Peace Camp is great! Kisses for all, Jaqueline, Brazil.

Today was the first day that many of us began to realize that peace camp 2005 is drawing to a close. This has been and continues to be, a truly unique and amazing experience. Today alone we met Dr. Zahi Hawas, the world famous Egyptologist, visited the pyramids of Giza and ate dinner with an Egyptian family. One of the most meaningful parts of the day was our visit to Misr Language School, which teaches children of all ages in English, French & Arabic. The School also specializes in teaching both mentally and physically challenged children. These students use their artistic skills to create intricate works of art, including rugs, candles and poetry that are then sold to help finance the school. I was very glad and admittedly surprised to see how much individual attention the teachers provided to their students with special needs. There is also a physical center which works towards correcting physical handicaps. Now only was I impressed with the special education aspect of the school but also with the performances of the regular education students. They even performed a skit about promoting Peace and conflict resolution! Believe that if more schools excited like this around the world, we would be closer to achieving peace through Understanding. Seeing the pyramids and the Sphinx was absolutely inspiring. All my life I have seen the photographs of the pyramids in text books and on post cards but to see them in person was indescribable. What made the experience even more wonderful was the fact that I was not only seeing the Pyramids but I was seeing them with 52 friends I have made from around the world. Ginger, USA

The 7th of May was one of the best days I ever spent, one of my dreams came true. I always wanted to meet the great famous Egyptologist, Dr. Zahi Hawas. Dr. Hawas was a great a speaker he made me appreciate more the Egyptian Paranoiac history and learned a lot. Dr. Hawas gave us a brief lecture about how they find the tombs and how they transfer it and preserve it in airtight glass boxes. It was very kind of him to give us a special treat to go around the sphinx which no one is allowed to go there. After we went to a special place my school that I was so excited to show every one. When we arrived at the school the principle and her colleges greeted and welcomed us graciously. One of the stuff members took us on a guided tour to all different divisions of the school. I was so proud to show my 52 friends that in Egypt and in my school we care very much for the children with special needs. After that we went to the theater where some of the students had prepared a wonderful show. Included in the show was very nice song about peace after the show ended we went to have a traditional Egyptian lunch. I was so proud of what the school offered to People to People Delegates and I hope all of you enjoyed the day at my school as much as I enjoyed it.
After a long morning we still had a lot to do we had to go to the pyramids but the weather was very hot but still we went and we all enjoyed the beautiful view and we saw the sphinx. Although the pyramids and sphinx are here in my country and I can go any time but this time was so special because I went with you guys. Still the day didn’t end we were invited to one of the Egyptian families house we all dressed out and went to a beautiful house where they welcomed us and they served a delicious food. Overall the camp was great it was one of the best experience I have ever had its enough to me if I want to travel any place in the world I could find a friend. Luv u all and thanx a lot. Amina, Cairo, Egypt.

May 7, 2005


The sphinx

Today was the day that one of my dreams came true. Ever since I was a child I dreamed of visiting the pyramids at Giza. It was such an amazing experience almost inexplicable! We also visited a wonderful school that has a part for the children with special educational needs, It was GREAT. The kids always touch my heart. All the people here are absolutely amazing. I am having a great time and cant wait to get home and share my experiences. Rayna, Pennsylvania, USA

May 6, 2005


Peace Walk in Cairo, led by Mrs. Mary Eisenhower

Today I participated in a tree planting ceremony, commemorating everlasting peace and friendship around the globe. It was so exciting to plant my first tree in the "Land of Peace". While my tree is growing it will symbolize that "Peace could be achieved only through understanding" Einstein. In the Afternoon we managed to prepare for an hour 2,500 hygiene care bags for the personal hygiene camping in Egypt. The care bags will be distributed to several primary schools of needy children. My friends from the Peace camp & I worked enthusiastically because we were aware that we could change the reality, helping some children. In the evening we took part in a walk for Peace from the Hotel to the Felicia docking area. The walk was led by Mrs. Mary Eisenhower. Walking through the streets, we sang the Arabic song, that we came with Peace & we wish Peace & Friendship to be part of everyone's life. Polia, Bulgaria

Visiting the High Dam

The three Student Leaders with Mrs. Mary Eisenhower

The Guys & Barb

Lunch on the Boat

May 7, 2005


Peace Campers are climbing the mountain in Luxor =)

May 6, 2005

11:55 I am sitting on the hotel perch overlooking the Nile and thinking about the exciting day we had. Up early for a flight to Cairo, planted peace tress, Peace Marathon and had a romantic magnificent dinner on the felucca tonight. I forgot to introduce myself, I am from Israel when I came to Egypt I had nothing to expect, I expected nothing but I got everything I could ever dreamed of. “Imagine all the people living life in Peace” This was sang on the Peace Walk today with this I end my blog. Peace Out from Egypt. Mirit, Israel.

Here LIVE from Cairo, Egypt. Grand city, Grand People, Grand spirit. In my heart I am no longer the young spoiled teen from Casablanca, but rather an incredibly honored and dedicated “Pyramid”, as Barb likes to call us. Together we can make an amazing team. To all the parents reading Thank You all for raising such incredible kids. As Barb also likes to say, “Keep it short & sweet”, I will do so, because she is definitely right, but also because I left this until the last minute. Salam Aleykom or May Peace Be Upon You! Chafy (Charaf), Casablanca, Morocco.

It was a dark and stormy night. Or perhaps…it wasn’t. Perceptions vary and, yes, that’s truly and most simply okay. Perhaps perception, in communicating and understanding its depths, is an individual instrument, a tool. And that instrument can only finds its harmony when accompanied by an orchestra of other instruments, different instruments, all beautiful – all striving for one goal: accord. Today was glorious. We left the cruise boat early to head for the airlines. At around 12:30 p.m. we arrived in Cairo and tore apart our boxed lunches. We were honored to then plants trees of peace and harmony to symbolize an everlasting friendship and dreams of peace. Accordingly, the “Land of Peace” was where they were planted. Afterwards we all checked in to our hotel and right away got to work on loading a total of 2,500 care bags filled with colored pencils, books, toothpastes, toothbrushes, pens and pencils for several primary schools of children in need, sponsored by the Personal Hygiene Campaign in Egypt. We were exhausted shortly afterwards! But what an accomplishment. Around 7:00 p.m., we all sporting our People to People International peace t-shirts, gathered to greet two People to People International Student Chapters from Egypt, The Pharaohs of Peace and Egypt’s Angels. Mrs. Mary Eisenhower presented the Egyptian Chapters with certificates of authenticity and appreciation. And, of course, thanks. From there, we ventured on to walk from our hotel to the Felucca docking area, on a Peace Walk led by Mrs. Mary Eisenhower herself. Dinner was served on the boat where we sang, dances, and just took in the serenity of the Nile at night. Bravo! Love to all my friends and family. Samantha, USA

May 5, 2005

“Today was the most passionate and touching day of the trip. It was the Holocaust Day for the Israel Jews. We changed our schedule in order to learn about Holocaust Day and shared the morning with the two Israelis and discussed the Holocaust and genocide in general. Everyone was touched and deeply moved. It was all summed up in a moment of silence followed by an emotional group hug. We all were able to turn such a sad day into an emotional learning experience.” Brandon, Bethesda, Maryland USA

“In my opinion, the following quote by Rumi said by one of our presenters today perfectly summarizes Peace Camp: ‘Beyond ideas of wrong-doing and right-doing, here is an open field. I’ll meet you there.’ Today, I was moved to tears three times, and I think that just goes to show how amazing, inspiring, and intense Peace Camp has really been.

We started out this morning by going to the Kom Ombo temple, a temple that was created for the crocodile god. It is absolutely amazing, and my favorite part is running my hands over the carvings and imagining what it must have been like when the priests were praying in the temple or when the architects were constructing them.

Following this visit, we returned to the ship where I experienced one of the most moving moments ever. From sundown last night until sundown today, the two Israeli students at Peace Camp, participated in a Holocaust remembrance day. Last night we had an Egyptian costume party but because of his day, the two Israeli’s could not participate. Today they told us about the Holocaust, their personal experiences, and their story. You had to be there because I can’t express what happened in words. Their stories shared the grief and suffering of war and human pain and misery, and I think it emphasized our mission here.

After lunch today, we went on a felucca boat ride, an Egyptian sailboat. We got henna tattoos and just had a great time singing, dancing, an relaxing. One of the coolest things was that when we stopped, we climbed a HUGE mountain of SAND, and after finally making it up to the top, we took pictures of the Nile. We also visited the Aswan Dam and learned about its history and role in politics.

Following dinner we listened to a presentation by a coordinator in a program called “Seeds of Peace,” a program designed to promote conflict resolution among teenagers in countries with extremely dissenting political views. It currently works with Arab-Israeli relations, India-Pakistan relations, and North and South Cyprus relations. The quote of the beginning of this entry is from the presentation tonight.

I can’t describe how amazing Peace Camp has been, and I hope that this entry can give at least a tiny glimpse into this life-changing experience.” Salina, USA

“I am really lucky to write my thoughts for the blog today because this day was one of the most wonderful days of my life. We had really unforgettable moments today. The first thing we did was visit the Kom-Ombo Temple dedicated to the crocodile god and right after that we visited Aswan’s High Dam which is considered to be Egypt’s contemporary example of building on a monumental scale. I have to emphasize that as we visit more and more sights everyday and we get deeper and deeper into Egyptian culture and mentality, our tour guides are converting us from simple tourists, who just appreciate temples and pyramids, to people who try to understand the reasons why the Egyptians built these unique sights. Something totally unforgettable happened today. An Egyptian man invited us and showed us his house and he gave two necklaces to our leader and a peace camper. After enjoying our delicious lunch in the boat, we had a relaxing felucca (typical Egyptian boat ride) and got tattooed with symbols of peace and friendship. (Henna tattoos) on our ride, we stopped for a while to discover the real concept of desert and we had a chance to climb a dune, another unforgettable experience, which I am certainly going t tell my friends. All these experiences got the peace campers closer to each other and helped to learn more about each other, besides getting to know Egyptian culture. I could go on and on for hours to write things and feelings, but I just did an overview of our day and actually words are a bit poor to describe what we saw and what we feel when we are with another, discussing culture, diversity, and peace.” Endri, Tirana, ALBANIA

“I was lying on the chair which is on the Sun Deck of our boat – Nile Adventurer and enjoying the beautiful sunshine in Egypt. Today was a great day and we had a conversation about the Nazis and Jews and we got to know that yesterday was the memorial day for Jewish in Israel and we had a presentation today. I just feel so sorry about that and it remind me of the things Japanese did to Chinese in the 2nd World War. I don’t want to say anything horrible about it cause history will tell you all that. Anyway, we just don’t want any war for any reasons. At last, I think we all should understand the tragedy and honor the memory!” Anggie, Beijing, CHINA

“At the first, I’m very lucky to participate in Peace Camp 2005 and to have the opportunity to gain new friends. Today was very exciting and also exhausting, but I enjoyed my time a lot. In the morning we visited a historic temple called Kom Ombo and that was the first time that I saw a mummified crocodile (haha). Also today was the Holocaust anniversary so we gathered in the meeting room and the Israeli delegates told us the story of this occasion and how the innocent Jews were killed by Hitler… they cried, so I was very sad because I could feel their feelings… why?? The Palestinians are suffering a lot from settlers who killed innocent people and damaged houses. After that we went on a tour on the Nile River on a felucca so I enjoyed my time. We returned back to the boat and there was a key note submitted by Adel, when she finished explaining about Seeds of Peace, I thanked her and I gave her a PTPI pin and sign. I can’t describe my feelings… It’s a nice experience everyone here is fabulous, especially Barbara, Brooks, and my three friends.” Rinad, PALESTINE

May 5, 2005

Today was the most passionate and touching day of the trip. It was the holocaust for the Isreali Jews. We changed our schedule in order to learn about the Holocaust Memorial Day, share the mourning with the two Israelis and discuss the holocaust and genocide in general. Everyone was touched and deeply moved, all summed up in a moment of silence followed by an emotional group hug. We all were able to turn such a sad day into an emotional learning experience. Brandon, Bethesda, Maryland

Hearing the Israeli students talking about the holocaust, so these 4 students were very affected !

May 6, 2005


Charaf with Mrs. Mary Eisenhower, President & CEO of People to People International

May 5, 2005

Pictures!


Happy Birthday to Ginger & Andrew

Glabya Party

Egyptian Wedding by the Peace Campers

A Great photo of the 2 Egyptians & Jordanian with an awesome view from the Nile Adventure boat!

The Girls infront of the kom Ombo Temple

Kom Ombo Temple

A group of students with Ahmed our Egyptology

May 4, 2005

“Today was a marvelous day! At the temple, which was the first part of the day tour, I had this really amazing feeling about Egypt and my amazing friends. My feelings towards my friends can NOT be downsized into words. It’s beyond defining. I am surrounded by many diverse and different people who brought with them to share their amazing customs and traditions. Now I feel I am not only Egyptian but a bit of each culture. We might be socially and physically different but we are, deep inside, all the same. We have a goal that we believe in and are peacefully achieving it. I think that we are coming together to form this body that is capable to make a positive change in this violent jungle that we live in and turn into a heaven for all.”

“I came to this camp knowing almost nothing about People to People International and now after 5 days I feel that I learned so many things in such little time. Today we visited the Esna Temple which is the downtown of Esna and we bought galabeyas for the party tonight. To shop in a bazaar is a really funny experience. You have to bargain. After the “bazaar experience” we cruised down the Nile and topped at the Edfu Temple and it was so beautiful. I really can’t find the right words to express its beauty. Following what the pharaohs did after every victory, we had a galabeya party. So many different cultures and dances in their own different ways. I don’t think I’ll ever forget this party and this camp. I’ll always keep these beautiful memories in my heart.” Adina, Romania

“Overnight our shipped docked in Esna, a small town with a magnificent 2300 year-old treasure: the Temple of Khnum, god of creation. This fascinating structure from the Roman Era, uncovered from beneath centuries of silt build-up, is held up by wonderfully decorated pillars that host a unique mixture of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences. After a tour of this great glimpse of the past, we were off to prepare for the hear future, tonight’s galebeya party. Bargaining with these experienced merchants as a young and unexpecting foreigner can be a hassle, but thankfully, with the invaluable assistance of my new friends, I was able to find a good deal. As I admired my new costume, I could not help but think about the fun that would come later tonight. When we arrived back aboard the ship, we were divided into groups to discuss each other’s religious beliefs. I found it very interesting to learn about all of the many faiths represented on the trip and I liked that I was able to share my own with everyone as well, without being judged.

For lunch we had American food in the Egyptian interpretation. It was great to see hamburgers and French fries once again, but I wanted to experiment with Middle Eastern culinary styles so I ate my hamburger on Egyptian bread with some of the different sauces to dip in. Following our meal we pulled in to Edfu, which is home to one of the most well-preserved temples in the country, built by the Greeks and dedicated to the god Horus. We learned an ancient tale of good versus evil at this massive ancient wonder, which can be paralleled to our mission of ending the problems that divide our world and promoting world peace. After more time spent exploring the site as well as the bazaar outside, we went back to our cruise to hold our next peace session.

Our discussion groups this time talked about where we must draw the line between humanity and the right privacy. We also discussed the topic of France banning religious symbols in public schools. Though I myself had mixed feelings towards this, I enjoyed hearing the many strong and conflicting views present around the table.

The 2nd part of the meeting featured Egyptian cooking lessons, taught by the head chef of all four boats used by People to People, who Barb amazingly convinced to join us. We took a quick tour of the kitchen, where we saw how each of our delicious meals was prepared by the excellent, top-notch staff on board. Soon enough it came time for dinner, in which we all dressed in our galabeyas and feasted on an enormous gourmet Egyptian buffet. This all led way to a fun-filled night full of partying and dancing. It was really cool to see that no matter where we came from or what kind of lives we lead, we’re all able to have a good time together at the end f the day. Even though we follow a well-planned and organized itinerary, half of the trip’s excitement stems from the complete randomness of each passing day. I’ve learned much about this incredible nation we’re gathered in, the world, and myself along this indescribably amazing journey, and I cannot wait to see what the next day will bring.” Tim, Philadelphia, USA

“I used to think that peace was the equivalent of sashaying in fairyland amidst pink flowers and butterflies and Miss World beauty pageants. For once, I’m glad to be proven wrong. There are few things as comforting as the knowledge that we are not alone to face the world (as unextentialist as it may sound). Throughout our years, we meet people and through them we create pieces of ourselves. In the past 5 days, 49 other kids from all over the world have given me the honor to create a part of their country and their lives in myself through their exuberance, their vitality, and their diversity. And suddenly, I’m not just one person. I am the essence of 49 different people. It is this unity amidst the diversity in us as human beings that builds peace and it is this that I have experienced in the last five days. I could tell you about how beautiful Egypt is, how great our cruise ship is, the amazing food, the fun we have interacting and talking and learning and sightseeing every day. But I would rather talk about the people. They matter. In the end, they are all that matter. I think what I have experienced through this interaction in the last five days is that peace has to be personal to work. My roommates have had American and Indian roots and I had a blast shopping with another friend from Lithuania. You see this converging of what are supposed to be irreconcilable gaps in the cultural backgrounds of people and you being to really understand. This is peace. This is our mission. This is what people die fore. Real. Tangible.

Today, at the bazaar, Armando from Albania, was helping me bargain. The shopkeeper said, “Please come in, you’re my sister. And I felt Armando come up behind me and he says, “No, she’s my sister.” I don’t have the words to explain what that meant to me. In the end, I believe it doesn’t matter how successful we are or how intelligent we are. What matters is how you touched people. What matters is whether you are remembered.

I laugh, I cry, I run and smile,
And I know you do the things too,
So we are really not that different, me and you.” Saleha, Pakistan

May 3, 2005

“It has been a marvelous start of the day. We, the Peace Camp Group, visited a local school in Luxor named Om El Mimereen Prepatory School. Wow! It was just for girls, they were really nice. They talked to us all the way from the school gate to the yard and from their classrooms to the library. We walked together, talked together, took pictures together, and laughed together. When we left, they said “See you soon!” with sweet smiles on their faces. Then we sung our song “Salaam to You.” I came to realize that we’ve planted trees with the seeds of peace.” Zi, Beijing, China (May 3, 2005)

“I had been asked to write something for you for the blog. My name is Lionel. I’m almost 18 and I’m Israeli. This morning I woke up with a smile on my face and a feeling that today is going to be even better than yesterday, and so it was. We woke up for an amazing breakfast. We are treated so good around here, you can’t even imagine. It feels like we are kings! After breakfast we went to visit an Egyptian all-girl public school and we were welcomed with some English and Arabic songs by the music class. After being in school we went back to the amazing cruise boat for a lot of free time sitting by the pool, swimming, sun tanning and burningJ. After free time we had a speaker called Iman that talked about a group of women that fight for women’s rights, peace, and to improve the situation our world is in. After the speaker we had an activity about team work, working in/with a team and leading a team. After that we had group discussions about “How far should the government interfere in our lives?” During the day I talked with a few of the people here, mostly about me being Israeli and going into the military service in less than 6 months. It was very important to me to give my opinion and point of view and listen to other people’s opinions and points of view. People here at People to People are unbelievable. They are so amazing, some of the best people I have met. Well folks, now it’s dinner time so I’m going to eat. “Beteavon” ) (Bon Appetit in Hebrew) Until next time, keep smiling – there’s still an opportunity for peace.” Lionel, Israel

“Besides my vocabulary, mind and perception of the world experiencing an extensive expansion, my heart and soul are forever changed. I can truly contest to my innocence. My yearning to know each and every delegate in the way they want the world to see them accompanied by my new awareness of truth and real need for the “people to people” connection. I now have a greater awareness of the dangers of propaganda. I never felt safer. Je suis… jene sais quoi.” But I love you. Monique, Buffalo, New York, USA

LUXOR

Today we had a fantastic time in Luxor. It was a busy day filled with the wonders of the Ancient Egyptian world as well as some true bonding and reflection time. Below are student reactions to the day.

"It was so wonderful time that I haven't ever experienced before. Every student looks so nice. Although we come from other countries, we have lots of common things. This is a chance not only to understand Egyptian culture, but also to share our opinions. The temple and sculptures we saw today were beautiful! I love Egypt Peace Camp but I miss my mother's food. I hope to learn a lot of things from Peace Camp." Joo, South Korea

"Thoughts for my dear ones, thoughts for THE world! Peace Camp 2005 is a second step to what we have as a goal: Peace Through Understanding. Dear friends, do you know what I learned today? That we have too many qualities and good aspects but in the same time we have a very big aggressive aspect- we have the habit of destroying what our predecessor created. Isn't that a loss of HISTORY? During the visit today the sun smiled a lot to the point that we were all fried, but the breathtaking images and landscapes are WOW! Hatshepsut, Ramses, the obelisc... I am in the moment of digesting my memories so you will definitely hear about me! Have a peaceful day!" Gina, Roman, Romania

"Today after an early arrival in Luxor, we immediately headed to the Valley of the King. Its simple beauty showed just how much panoramic imaging is lost through film or video. The temple of Hatshepsut was carved out of the mountain and looks like a modern building, but one built 3,000 years ago! The temple of Luxor had the same impact. The cruise is also exposing the beauty of the Nile. Egypt is truly the Jewel of the Nile."
Michael, Modesto, California, USA

"Yesterday never ended so I just found myself in the second day of the Peace Camp. This day was great I enjoyed every moment and every second of it. We traveled by plane to Luxor and the landing of the plane was amazing. Then we just went to the historical places were I gained so much information. Then we went to the cruise ship, where I was so happy because I knew Zi from China, who is my roommate. He is great! The whole trip just made my thoughts spread in the air like a bird who just gained his freedom back. Thanks Barb for this amazing experience." Motaz, Amman, Jordan

Luxor

Today we had a fantastic time in Luxor. It was a busy day filled with the wonders of the Ancient Egyptian world as well as some true bonding and reflection time. Below are student reactions to the day.

"It was so wonderful time that I haven't ever experienced before. Every student looks so nice. Although we come from other countries, we have lots of common things. This is a chance not only to understand Egyptian culture, but also to share our opinions. The temple and sculptures we saw today were beautiful! I love Egypt Peace Camp but I miss my mother's food. I hope to learn a lot of things from Peace Camp." Joo, South Korea

"Thoughts for my dear ones, thoughts for THE world! Peace Camp 2005 is a second step to what we have as a goal: Peace Through Understanding. Dear friends, do you know what I learned today? That we have too many qualities and good aspects but in the same time we have a very big aggressive aspect- we have the habit of destroying what our predecessor created. Isn't that a loss of HISTORY? During the visit today the sun smiled a lot to the point that we were all fried, but the breathtaking images and landscapes are WOW! Hatshepsut, Ramses, the obelisc... I am in the moment of digesting my memories so you will definitely hear about me! Have a peaceful day!" Gina, Roman, Romania

"Today after an early arrival in Luxor, we immediately headed to the Valley of the King. Its simple beauty showed just how much panoramic imaging is lost through film or video. The temple of Hatshepsut was carved out of the mountain and looks like a modern building, but one built 3,000 years ago! The temple of Luxor had the same impact. The cruise is also exposing the beauty of the Nile. Egypt is truly the Jewel of the Nile."
Michael, Modesto, California, USA

"Yesterday never ended so I just found myself in the second day of the Peace Camp. This day was great I enjoyed every moment and every second of it. We traveled by plane to Luxor and the landing of the plane was amazing. Then we just went to the historical places were I gained so much information. Then we went to the cruise ship, where I was so happy because I knew Zi from China, who is my roommate. He is great! The whole trip just made my thoughts spread in the air like a bird who just gained his freedom back. Thanks Barb for this amazing experience." Motaz, Amman, Jordan

May 1, 2005

before we leave...!

Tomorrow, we leave for Luxor early in the morning, so if you dont hear from us, it will be because our ship on the river nile doesn't have an internet access! sorry for that! we will post again as soon as possible...!

Peace Campers at the ballroom.

Peace Campers having dinner at the Nile Pharaohs.

May 1, 2005

My homeland, Egypt, never ceases to amaze me. In the Egyptian Museum, we got to unravel the mystery of King Tut. Today, I found out more than I ever knew about my ancestors. Their intelligence, creativity and beliefs are extraordinary. Such moments really make to pursue learning about my history, and in all histories as a fact. During dinner, we marveled at the talent of a Russian belly dancer. She knew all the right moves which made me proud of being Egyptian to see others pursue such an interest in my culture. I even taught all the girls how to belly dance, and even got the guys moving! I was very proud of everyone and I'm planning to keep teaching you all more about my culture past belly dancing. From the 'famous Egyptian belly dancer', Pensee, Cairo, Egypt.

May 1, 2005

Hello everyone. Our first day in Egypt and what a day! Cairo is a gorgeous city with charming people. In the morning, we were welcomed by Mary Eisenhower and listened to an insightful speech by Dr. Ahmed Tibi about the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. This highlighted the importance of what we're doing and was an excellent way to kick off the trip. Next we were guided through King Tut Ankh Amun's treasures. We were all wide-eyed in wonder as one of our Egyptologists recounted history. My first day in Egypt has left a very favorable impression. In all honestly, I've been swept off my feet. Above all it has been very amazing meeting all the different students! And to think its only just begun! We ended with a bang at night. We had a police escort to the Pharoahs restaurant where Egyptian musicians waited for us playing live music. We were even entertained by Egyptian dancers. Some of us even braved dancing ourselves! Tons of love, Rose, Ottawa, Canada.

May 1, 2005

What an amazing day! It all started with a lecture by Dr Ahmed Tibi, who held an insight speech about the conflict between Israel & Palestine. Later on we went to the Egyptian museum. I have seen the artifacts on pictures, but seeing them in real life was surreal. I stood there in front of King Tut's mask & stared at it for 5 minutes admiring its beauty. After lunch at the Nile Hilton Hotel our private buses took us to the Khan El Khalili Bazaar.. We were divided into groups of 5. Everyone got a list who managed to bargain the most won. Honestly, I don't think my group won, but we had lots of FUN, so it doesn't really matter. I have learned some belly dancing today. It is hard to describe how I feel, but ! Have been walking around with a continuous SMILE =) on my face. The food was great, the weather is perfect & the people are wonderful. Special greetings to my friends and family in Norway. Love from, Silje, Norway.

Messages from Delegates

Today was my first full day in Egypt & it was nothing short of amazing. It was able to see years worth of reading history text books in school come to life in the Egyptian museum of antiquities. We also had a treasure hunt at the bazaar in search of items. Needless to say, the shop owners refuse to take NO as an answer. Tonight we had dinner on the Nile River with traditional dance & music. From USA to Iraq to south Africa to eighteen other countries in the world, we came together with a brighter future for the World & its people on our minds. We are all THANKFUL for this amazing experience. Josh, Missouri, USA