I have been there four times and I dig it. Also, the Egyptians I know (four in this office) are really good people. Completely agree with you about patriotism though. It is just as emotive and divisive as religion. I find it amusing when people talk about how great their countries are and how wonderful their countries' history and achievements are as if it was anything to do with them.

Victory attained by violence is tantamount to a defeat, for it is momentary. Mahatma Gandhi