When visiting Alexandria a look at the Al-Haramlik Palace should not be missed. It is at the end of the Cornish, next to the Helnan Palestine Hotel which overlooks the Palace and the Montazan Gardens.

It was built in 1932 as a summer residence for King Fuad. In modern times it was a summer home for King Farouk who died 1965.

Since then it has been used for official functions like visits of foreign dignitaries. But since I am not a dignitary and was ignorant of that fact the answer of the receptionist at the Helnan Palestine Hotel, where I stayed, made sense. I asked her, “What are the hours to visit the Palace?” Looking at me with  surprise and indignation, she answered, “It is only for people like Mr. Obama, your President who can stay there or visit.”

Feeling the sting I went walking in the Montazan Gardens instead. They are very beautiful and surround the Palace.

More from Egypt soon

Brigitte