ElderTreks

Tunis, Tunisia

20 March 2026

May your morning be as radiant as a blooming flower. 

EgyptAir

EgyptAir blessed us to have a good day as it transported Gabrielle and I from Cairo. We return to Tunis. The plane departs slightly late, allowing for the crew’s Call to Prayer on this auspicious holiday of Eid Al-Fitr.

We arrive into the Carthage-Tunis Airport on Fête de l’Indépendance. March 20 marked the end of 75 years of French protectorate rule in 1956. We celebrate Tunisian Independence Day!

Brilliant Tunisian flags fly beneath a bright blue sky. The air is clear and clean, a very welcome change after the smog of Cairo.

Everything runs smoothly as we speed thru customs and are met by Kamel, the guide for our ElderTreks tour. For the next few weeks, our lodging, meals, and activities will be the onus of someone else. It always seems a relief as I surrender myself to my one responsibility of each day: “What time am I to be on the bus?” 

(more…)
By Pat, ago

Tokyo: Thunder Gates, Tower Views and Floating down the Sumida

26 September 2025

Om Mani Padme Hum

Buddha give me serenity and patience

Carrying my backpack, I walk to a new hotel, bracing myself to join a tour group. It feels a bit like handing over my freedom at the front desk. For two glorious days, I’ve wandered at will— strolling gardens, decoding menus and train signs, and chasing Godzilla.

Now, I’ll swap independence for a local guide arranging logistics and doing headcounts. Don’t get me wrong, I’m ready for the fun, but I can’t help wondering if I’ll be the lone Godzilla nerd in a sea of temple and teacup enthusiasts

(more…)
By Pat, ago