So, I just got back from Alexandria, and let me tell you, it was an experience. I was kind of hesitant, honestly, at first. I didn't really know what to expect, and I thought, “What could I possibly find interesting in a place I've barely heard about?” But life's too short, right? So, I booked a ticket, packed my bags, and off I went.
This spot? Total surprise.
I arrived, and the moment I stepped into the city, it was like time warped a bit. Cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and all those little cafes you see in movies but never really think are real. I was roaming around with a vague idea of where I wanted to go, but you know how that goes—your GPS eventually becomes your worst enemy.
I stumbled upon this little bistro called Bistro Du Lac when I was just wandering around, trying to find my way to the waterfront. It was an accident, really—a beautiful, accidental detour. I paused outside because they had the most adorable outdoor seating with flower-lined tables. I felt a pull and thought, “Well, it's lunchtime. Why not?”
I sat down, half-expecting mediocre food. But, I ordered the fresh seafood pasta just because—why not go big or go home, right? When it arrived, oh man. The garlic and olive oil just danced in a way I didn't think was possible. I could feel myself sinking into the moment, the afternoon sun shimmering off the water just a few steps away.
There's just something about being at a cozy restaurant when you have no agenda. A glass of local wine in hand, trying a dish that feels crafted just for you. I was like, “Okay, Alexandria, you're winning me over.” I made a mental note to find out more about this place—best things to do in Alexandria? Check!
The afternoon that changed my whole mood
Later that day, I decided to wander toward the Corniche, this waterfront promenade that locals raved about. Honestly, I was feeling kind of out of sorts at first. It was supposed to be this picturesque stroll, but I was grappling with the weight of my thoughts. Sometimes you just need to think about life, you know?
As I walked, a couple of kids were playing nearby, and one of them kicked a soccer ball my way. I don't even know why, but I kicked it back, kind of half-heartedly. They squealed and chased after it, laughter bouncing off the walls. I found myself smiling, completely forgetting about my earlier funk.
Then, I noticed an older man nearby sketching the scene. He caught my eye, smiled, and gestured me over. “You're living in the moment,” he said. I don't really know what he meant by that, but we chatted about art and life and his love for Alexandria. I learned that he frequented this spot to capture its spirit, and how special it was to him.
It hit me then—the literal view aside, the vibe of the place connected people in a way I hadn't expected. The afternoon transformed into this spontaneous joy-fest. Who knew a simple stroll could change your whole mood?
I almost missed this, no thanks to my bad sense of direction
Now, the whole touristy thing isn't usually up my alley—I prefer to stumble into adventures rather than follow a guidebook. But the next day, I thought maybe I should visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina since everyone was talking about it. I accessed Google Maps with determination. Bad idea.
I felt like I was on an episode of Lost for a while, just wandering aimlessly. I'm telling you, I was completely turned around, and my sense of direction is famously terrible. But hey, it was a blessing in disguise, because I ended up at a local market called Souk Al-Saray.
This market was alive—a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and scents that I could get lost in for hours. The locals were all haggling, laughing, and selling everything from spices to handmade crafts. I thought, “Well, I didn't plan on this, but why not?” I ended up trying some local biscuits that were way sweeter than anything I'd had before. A lady from the stall even threw in a couple of extra pieces when I couldn't choose.
When I finally made my way back, I found the library, but the real treasure was the journey—a detour that left me with a heart full of stories. As I walked back, I was cradling my little bag of treats, and I thought about how many small moments I might've brushed off had I not let myself get lost in the first place.
Little moments that leave a punch
One thing I find amusing is how the smallest moments seem to leave the biggest impressions. On my last night, I decided to try a street food stall recommended by a local. I didn't know what to expect and I'm usually not one to eat out like that. But, there was this magical little wrap filled with spicy roasted chicken, herbs, and all sorts of fresh veggies. It was messy, the kind of messy that you have to lick off your fingers and gives you that blissful feeling of indulgence.
While I was devouring my makeshift dinner, I struck up a conversation with another solo traveler, a guy from Denmark. We shared travel stories, laughed over our respective clumsiness with directions, and debated which local dish was better. It felt like I had connected with a piece of humanity in a city that I barely knew.
I realized in that moment—one of those little lightbulb moments—that this is what travel is really about. It's finding connections even when you're in a strangers' world. It's messy and chaotic, just like the food, and I loved every second of it.
I don't know. It may feel like a long ramble, but I think I've figured out a nugget of truth about travel: It's not planned itineraries or polished experiences that make a trip remarkable; it's all the silly twists and turns along the way.
As I sit here over my last sip of coffee, the mood is still swirling in my head—Alexandria, you've won me over in ways I didn't expect. I'm still processing it all, and honestly, I can't wait to see where I might wander next.
