This is one of the only times in which Sam leaps outside of the United States into another country, most other incidents being on planes, ships, or deserted islands.
Hotep is an Egyptian word, translated as being satisfied and/or being at peace. It was part of many Egyptian names, both royal and not. Among the most notable names of this sort were Hotepsekhemwy, Mentuhotep, Sobekhotep, Neferhotep, Merhotepre, Rahotep, and Amenhotep.
Ptah-hotep is credited with writing "The Maxims of Ptah-hotep", a 24th-century BCE book. It is a candidate for the oldest book ever written. It is a collection of maxims and advice addressed to his son.
This episode takes place in Saqqara, Egypt from March 2 to March 4, 1957.
Ptah-hotep was a vizier during the reign of Pharaoh Djedkare Isesi (reigned during the late-25th to mid-24th century BCE). His son was also a vizier.