Tayeb used Josef's car to pick us up. #411 that MES used in 2015. He does not trust his car any more and so will not use it except very locally. He is looking to buy a new one soon and trying to scrape together a deposit.
The car park at Luxor Airport was full - Tayeb cannot remember the last time it was so busy, but with about 2000 passengers from Cairo during the morning it was no surprise to me. Some were the long-term guests returning after the summer but most were heading for the cruise boats. A fair mix of nationalities.
At the hotel my room was ready so I was able to rest for a few hours before visiting the Ramesseum Rest House (RRH) for a couple of Stellas. Very quiet up there. Of course I was greeted like a family member.
Later I ate at Fayrouz. Hani has replaced the natural awning along the south side with a tall, airy arcade with steps to an upper terrace (not yet finished). My initial reaction was negative, but that part of the garden had little vegetation and the cats used to urinate on the matting which was annoying to guests sitting below. I will take some photographs in daylight but can see that it will be useful if it allows another 4 or 5 large tables. There were times last winter when all tables were in use, although not fully occupied.
My 2 suitcases, stored in the hotel since April, have not yet arrived. It is very hard to find a member of staff who understands much English outside of the small vocabulary needed for their normal job.
I don't usually post my food pictures here, but I ate the Turkey steak pané with French fries and followed by ice cream, fresh fruit and whipped cream. The garnish on the plate has been slightly enhanced, with the addition of a few thin slices of lemon. And the bread baskets are more hygienic than the old wickerwork ones.