High winds and crashing waves did not manage scaring off some of Egypt’s marine view lovers who rushed, namely in Alexandria, to see the northern coast on a rainy day.
Soha Salah, who recently moved to Alexandria, says that she and her husband choose to take regular seaside strides even if weather forecasts warn incoming heavy showers.
“Ever since we moved to Alexandria I eagerly wait for downpour to go out for a walk. Winter here has a unique accent. I love gazing upon high waves breaking and crashing against coastal rocks and the feel of a mix of wind and rain gusts brush against my cheeks,” Salah told Asharq Al-Awsat while citing the awe found in the occasional post-storm rainbows.
“We can walk for hours and I wouldn’t feel tired,” Salah said.
Alexandria locals find exceptional joy in the calm-accompanied winter visiting their city, which is otherwise packed with tourists for the summer.
Alexandria’s waterfront was built back in 1925 over six strenuous stages that birthed what today has become one of the city’s precious jewels. Restaurants, cafes and kiosks breathe live to the whole marine view as well.
The waterfront has also secured itself a special place at the heart of the works of many writers and artists who cite the location as a characteristic feature of Alexandria.
Renowned British author Lawrence Durrell in his The Alexandria Quartet tetralogy mentions the significance of Alexandria’s promenade corniche.
Street food sellers are another highlight not to be missed when exploring the waterfront. Despite winter’s freezing temperatures, Mohammad Saber pushes his cart packed with ice cream.
“My work starts at 8 in the morning and lasts till sunset, and cannot be halted even in extreme weather. Ice-cream buyers seek the treat whether it be during hot summers or a cold winters,” Saber tells Asharq Al-Awsat.
“I need every pound, so that I support myself without needing to ask anybody for help,” Saber added.
Unlike Saber, other street-food vendors choose to offer passers-by the comfort of a hot baked potato, freshly roasted peanuts, and warm tea during a rather frosty weather.
