D o you remember the first big trip you took with a loved one? The journey, whether a quick ride over state lines or a flight across continents, likely changed your relationship forever, offering both a deeper understanding of your companion and new experiences to keep close.
For Tiffany Ferrette, a D.C.-based policy analyst working in childcare and early education, the regular car rides with her father, Ivan Ferrette Sr., to visit her grandparents in Charleston, South Carolina, left a mark on her early memories. She eagerly awaited the three-hour journeys from her childhood home in North Carolina, and every trip ignited a desire to travel more with her family, and preserve the stories from each adventure. More than 20 years later, it’s Tiffany’s turn to take her father on the road.
The two will journey to Cairo, Egypt, for a stay at the historical Marriott Mena House. “With its own rich and colorful history, the Marriott Mena House, established in 1886, is one of the oldest and most unique hotels in Egypt. Surrounded by 40 acres of verdant green gardens, this palatial hotel is located in the shadows of the Great Pyramids of Giza in Cairo and has played host to kings and emperors, heads of state, and celebrities.” For father and daughter, it’s a dream vacation that has been years in the making—Tiffany has never traveled internationally with her father, and Ivan has never taken an international trip. While learning about the city’s history and discovering its contemporary legacy, they will stroll through Al-Azhar Park, make their way through the alleys of the centuries-old Khan El-Khalili market, and set eyes on the Pyramids of Giza.
Ancient civilizations carved their stories into the world around them. Today, that tradition is an inspiration for Tiffany and Ivan as they embark on their trip and create new memories along the way.
What first drew you to Egypt?
It’s always been a place I wanted to visit. Learning about the pyramids and pharaohs while I was growing up was very special. They intrigued me. My dad and I would have discussions about the history, culture, and all the things that could be learned from ancient civilizations. Last summer, I went to the Egyptian exhibit at the British Museum in London and was left with even more questions. This trip is an opportunity to learn more and create new memories with my dad as we explore Egypt together.
What has been the most compelling thing you have learned about the ways ancient Egyptians lived and preserved their family stories? Do you see parallels to your own family?
Strong family ties are important in Egyptian culture, and these connections have been carefully documented and celebrated across time. In my own family, we have also worked to protect our stories. One example is my great-grandmother, who people always compare me to. She was spirited, socially engaged, and she made an impact in her community. Preserving her stories by sharing them with family and collecting newspaper clippings about her work will help future generations connect the same dots across history. In my research about Egyptian society, I’ve learned that the same kind of historical preservation is cherished.
What are you most looking forward to seeing when you arrive in Cairo?
We are really excited to sail on the Nile and see the city from that vantage point. Rivers have so much history in terms of how they bring people together, and also create livelihoods. It will be interesting to see how the Nile has impacted and shaped the city. We are also looking forward to visiting the pyramids, which are very close to our hotel [Marriott Mena House], and learning more about the lives and history of the people who built them.
You’ve been a Marriott Bonvoy® member for quite some time and have found ways to maximize your travel experiences using member benefits. How does the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card help make travel a reality you can enjoy with your family and friends?
Wherever I go—whether I’m traveling to a new place, discovering a different culture, or reconnecting with my family, I can count on there being a hotel participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. It’s an international brand that I love and trust. When I use the card, I earn points on everyday purchases that I can later redeem for free stays and incredible experiences. It’s what makes traveling so easy.
How do you think this experience will change your relationship with your father?
Now that we live in different places, we don’t get to spend as much time together. This trip will give us the space to reconnect and offer us an opportunity to soak up new information. We have never taken an international trip together, so this will be life-changing.
