The International Schools Review Forum

Hi,

I am wondering what it is like to live and work in Alexandria, Egypt?
Is Alexandria a nice place in terms of the quality of life there
or is it as crammed and polluted as Cairo ?
I have already read the various reviews on this website
about schools in Egypt ...but I am still
interested in reading about teachers' actual living
experiences in both Cairo and Alexandria ?

Thanks in advance!

I lived in Cairo for a year and then Alex for four. Alex has sea breezes and the Mediterranian moderates the weather. Cairo is a couple hours away by train and the Red Sea resorts aren't far either. The culture in Alex has a slightly more cosmopolitan feel with the European influence. Alex in the summer is crowded and hot, winters are polar fleece weather. While some might see antiquities as tourist sites, others feel a never ending fascination with ancient hands that have shaped and feet that have walked in the same place you are today. Cairo is like going to a movie and getting a large popcorn and large drink. There is just lots and lots and lots of stuff. The reality of either place is that there are people people and more people. Some are friendly to the point of bothersome, but I have seen tremendous generosity and kindness. I would choose Alex, because Cairo is easy to visit from there.

@redster= thanks for the reply.....

I am guessing that Alexandria has a smaller population
than Cairo ?
What do you mean by "fleece like weather" ?
Does it get very cold in the winter?

Text deleted.

I researched Alexandria for a position I was interested in, and it sounded quite nice; unfortunately, the position was filled quickly. I think you could have an enjoyable experience there.

Not sure what PsyGuy has against deserts (note the one "s"); I come from a desert and the climate, topography, and abundance of things to do make it a very easy place to live. And of course, you'll be excited at seeing all the sights in the beginning as it is someplace new to you, but then you'll settle into life as a resident, not as a tourist. That's what makes international living so much fun.