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White Desert

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Grocery Shopping in Egypt

Convenience stores in Egypt vary in size and location; whether you seek International brands or that of the local, you are bound to navigate through a large range of items that include diverse American brands; imported Italian products; African and Asian brands; German baked goods and local packed food. The large stores that focus on International and ‘high in demand products,’ for the residential expats, are mostly located in Maadi, Zamalek, Dokki, Heliopolis and shopping malls that include Carrefour (a mall and/or a supermarket that consists of a variety of retail stores; jewelry boutiques and grocery stores). The local grocery stores are visible throughout Egypt with items that vary from: poultry; dairy; cold beverages and ‘junk food.’ Although the prices of items here are budget friendly as opposed to most products at the larger food-outlets, these local stores offer quality brands that serve true to your cooking needs and appetite.

When in search of specific and imported items; the four most beneficial, and serving stores, are known to be: Metro Supermarket, Seoudi Supermarket; Gourmet grocery store; Alfa supermarket and Carrefour—all of which are located in different areas within Cairo. Metro and Seoudi can both be found in the same neighborhood (e.g. Maadi) where both offer a large list of American, Italian and local brands that Alfa, Gourmet and Carrefour may lack in availability. In these stores, one could also purchase fashion and lifestyle magazines; specific organic food; cigarettes; cigars; toys; games and cosmetics.

The distribution of fresh Organic brands and products (brown rice, vegetables, organic honey and more) are either found on online stores that deliver the items; at farms that are strategically placed or in bazaars in Cairo where owners of the organic farms advertise and sell their products. You can order your Organics from: Offah.com, Egyptian Hydro Farms or Nature’s Gifts stores (ngs-egypt.com).  There is also the option of visiting one of the farms to view and purchase their products; two of these include: Makar Farms and Aunt Mahmoud’s Mulberry farm Ismailia.  Fruit and vegetable vendors around the country are an alternative to shopping at stores due to the quick and easy access to the products; they are mostly medium sized and consist of apples, watermelons; bananas, cabbage, kale, and much more.

Contrary to edible products, the item most requested or sought after by expats and locals (yet not widely available for purchase in Egypt due to the complexity in attaining the Alcohol ‘sales’ license), is liquor. This item can either be purchased in licensed bars or at two of the most known alcohol stores: Drinkies and The Duty Free Shop (where it is compulsory that you show your ID and boarding ticket or flight itinerary that proves a 24-48 hours of stay within Egypt—before your purchase).

By Sabrina

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On the Nile

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Central hall of Boulaq Museum “Old Egyptian Museum”, created by Auguste Mariette, photographed by Délié and Béchard, 1872. Bibliotheque des Arts Decoratifs, Paris.

The Boulaq Museum housed the country’s Egyptological collections as (1858 - 1891), succeeding the Giza Museum (1891 - 1902), and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo (1902 - present).

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The Egyptian Currency (LE)

The Egyptian Pound (gineh) coin was advanced and circulated in 1885 as the primary means of purchase and trade for gold due to its strength as opposed to the piaster (gerish)—an older currency that, although of value, did not possess financial strenght in the prospect. The coin was later upgraded to bank notes in 1899 by the National Bank of Egypt before the Central Bank of Egypt (the current, and official centre of issuance) became the Primary source of financial administration where it later introduced diverse bills including the 100 and 200 Egyptian pound (LE) bank notes that vary in color and design. The notes and coins, in collection, contain the imprints of different Ancient Egyptian statues and figures (including the famous Spinx, Mosque of Muhammad Ali, Cleopatra and Tutankhamun); Islamic buildings and texts in Arabic and English that can either be found in its anterior or rear.

In addition to the appearance of the Egyptian Pound, large sums (varying from LE1000-LE1billion) carry casual nicknames in reference to the amount in hand. The total of LE1000  is referred to as a “pack” (baku); LE1,000,000  is known as a  “rabbit” (arnab) and the LE1,000,000,000 was introduced as the “elephant” (feel). Although these alias’s are not formally used in banks, it is quite common to hear of it (the baku in particular) when inquiring about exchange rates or when purchasing items.

The current exchange rate of 1 US Dollar to Egyptian Pound is 17.82 whereas 1 sterling pound amounts to 23.29 Egyptian Pounds. When exchanging currencies, and depending on the rate and amount, one is usually given LE50,  LE100 and LE200 bills although the most commonly used (on a daily basis) notes are: LE5; LE10; LE20; LE50; LE100; 50 piastre and 25 piastre.

By Sabrina

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11 December 2015 • 3:42pm • Islamic Cairo/Khan Al Khalili

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The Khan al-Khalili Bazaar

The Khan El-Khalili: an open market known to tourists and locals as a Souk, or a Bazaar, caters to those interested in spices; Gold jewelry; oriental lanterns; fabric; Arabian carpets; antiques and more while located in the midst of the historic, and royal, Islamic District of Cairo. Although founded in 970AD by Al-Khalili, and rebuilt in 1511 due to demolition; the Bazaar introduces its modern visitors to the Ancient grounds that were once graced by the Royal Fatimid Caliphs (an archaic Islamic family who were intrigued by Astronomy; research and Science); it is also in this location where the Fatimid were laid to rest at the Saffron Tomb—now known as the Mausoleum, before the demolition of the tomb by general Al Khalili, (in 1382) who saught to build a Khan (Caravanserai) where merchants could reside with their goods.  The Caravensarai was then later defaced, and rebuilt, by Sultan Al-ghuri (in 1511) who added roofed streets that were parallel and the Islamic Bab al-Badistan; Bab al- ghuri and the Wikala al-qutn gates that still stand ground today.

The Bazaar’s history extends to the Ottoman period where Turkish merchants traded their goods with the market’s shop-owners due to their importance, high demand, and unique trade of slaves and marvelous stones. The Khan now boasts with local Egyptian shop-owners who continue to serve to tourists, and locals, who are fascinated by the large, and diverse, quantities of items that are available for negotiable purchase, varied from the expensive to the affordable. In this large, and open Bazaar, one could either lounge at one of the many cafe’s (including the Fishawi’s cafe built in 1773) whilst enjoying shisha and gahwe (Black turkish/Egyptian Coffee); explore the diverse stores while surrounded by exquisite chandeliers,  luxurious fabric, dazzling gems and gold , or discover the Bazaar’s Islamic background that once was cherished by the archaic Sultan’s who were known for their intellect and entrepreneurship.

However, due to the unfortunate and inconvenient incidents that occurred at The Khan al-Khalili in 2005, and 2009, and lead to 21 deaths and non fatal injuries; the Bazaar, and Egypt, were both slightly avoided by tourists who feared yet another destructive incident. Nevertheless, the Khan now continues to function in a hopeful and inviting manner that has not only attracted visitors, but has also assisted in the growth of employment. 

By Sabrina

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Columns of the colonnade decorated with polychromed reliefs. Temple of Ramesses III. Medinet Habu.

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Bust of Queen Nefertiti, from the studio of Thutmose at Tell el-Amarna. Egyptian Museum of Berlin.

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The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities

Located in the midst of Downtown Cairo is The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities (commonly known as the Egyptian Museum); although established in 1902, this appealing architectural design is where Ancient Egyptian history and artifacts are showcased with gratitude and security. With its substantial shape, salmon colored exterior walls and two-story height; this museum includes 120,000 various artifacts with many still kept in storage. Some, if not most, of these items are seen in protective glass cases while others including large statues of former Pharaohs and Queens are located, without a barrier, on the ground floor. Here is also where viewers can find ancient Egyptian pottery; clothing; cutlery; jewelry; weapons; sarcophagus’s; paintings and many small sized statues that, although are not placed within protective glass, require a glance from a distance so as to not deface any of the Ancient beauty.

The Egyptian Museum consists of statues of ancient deities, palm trees and a pond in its exterior (with strategically lit lights at night) while the interior reveals tall and large pillars on the ground floor and captivating Arch designed ceilings and walls that almost enclose the second floor. One could also site benches and seats where one could rest to examine exhibits as well as the stairway that leads to the famous and celebrated Golden Mask of Tutankhamun; a magnificent mask with hieroglyphic inscriptions in the back view and a pharaonic beard and ancient multicolored beaded necklace in the front view.

Other than antiquities of past civilization, the Museum also holds a memorial in its garden that caters to former and famous Egyptologist including but not limited to: Zakaria Goneim, Auguste Mariette and Emmanuel de Rouge.

Regardless of past obstacles that may have lead to the demolition and theft of certain antiquities, including the destruction of two mummies during the Revolution in 2011, the Museum succeeded in obtaining  twenty-five of them that were later featured at the “damaged and restored” exhibition held in 2013 where two statues of King Tutankhamun (made from cedar wood and gold); a statue of King Akhanatan; a mummy of a child and a small polychrome vase were introduced to the public.  The Egyptian Museum continues to receive International and local viewers who anticipate its architecture, Ancient findings and the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum in 2018.

By Sabrina

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A Painting in the Tomb of Minnakhte (TT87)

It shows a Theban villa surrounded by a garden planted with different kinds of trees, including the sycamore. Minnakhte was Superintendent of granaries of Upper and Lower Egypt, an appointment of prestige and importance of the state, during the joint reign of Thutmose III. He was also Overseer of Horses of the Lord of the Two Lands. New Kingdom, 18th Dynasty, ca. 1479-1425 BC. Sheikh Abd el Qurna, West Thebes.

Who’s Who in Ancient Egypt, by Michael Rice

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Dahab & Dahab Town

Dahab: An enchanting town surrounded by golden toned mountains, turquoise blue waters and white sands that appeal to the minds of tourists and locals; it is here where one can explore the oriental and local aspects of Egypt and it is where the inviting clear air permits one to further enjoy the tranquility whilst the morning breeze caresses your face. Regardless of its compact size, Dahab offers a variety of affordable excursions (starting from LE50 or less) that one could partake in including diving; snorkeling; (glass) boat trips; The blue hole (an attraction for snorkeling); camel rides; wind surfing and more before or after visiting Dahab Town where restaurants; antique stores; alcohol licensed bars; clothing and accessory stores await you. In comparison to Cairo, Dahab has a minimum amount of white Taxi’s although pick-up trucks; jeeps and (hotel) shuttles are available to transport you to Town where the Bus station, convenience stores; hotels; bicycle rental stores and Hospital/Clinic are also located.  

With its safe environment and exquisite scenery, many tourists and foreigners who reside in Dahab travel by foot or on a rental bike throughout the day due to the inviting rays of the Dahab sunshine. It is also quite common to sight street dogs and cats here, and although not violent or provoking, these animals may be motivated to approach you once your sandwich or grilled seafood has caught their attention.  Other factors of nature in Dahab also include: sparrows; dragonflies; exotic fish; dolphins; turtles; crickets; frogs; palm trees and many green bushes that emphasize Dahab’s beauty and cultural environment.

Although Dahab is known to be a resort for hostels and luxury hotels with private beaches, it also consists of many villa’s for rent; cabins and apartments (where locals and tourists reside); public beaches and isolated grounds where prospect construction is anticipated. Whether you opt for a night trip in Dahab with a view of the moon and its reflection on the sea; a day trip cycling around town or a memorable excursion in the Red Sea, Dahab offers activities and a landscape that permits you to grasp its beauty and charm.

Dahab is yet to possess an airport; one can either travel by bus to Dahab Town or by airplane to Sharm El-Sheikh where a taxi or bus can transport you to Dahab. An alternative to this is a ‘tour package’ that is offered by various agencies that organize your journey to Dahab. One of these agencies (although based in the UK and is in possession of the 2017 Traveler’s Choice Gold award granted by Tour Radar.com),  is ‘Timeless Tours.’ This agency offers great tour packages that include luxury or standard accommodation and travel; one of their package is a 15 day  trip to Dahab, Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and a 5 star Nile (boat cruise)—at an extraordinary price. Their itinerary caters to individuals and families (including children) who are interested in exploring Egypt in an unprecedented way; Timeless Tours offers professional and bilingual tour leaders as well as tours that permit you to understand Egypt and the lifestyle of the locals living in it. For more information on this package or for booking, please browse the Timeless Tours profile on Tour Radar: http://www.tourradar.com/timeless-tours or the Timeless Tours website: http://www.gotimelesstours.co.uk/

By Sabrina

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Red Sea Jellyfish by Balazs Kurucz

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Timeless Tours granted a 2017 Traveler’s Choice GOLD award

Timeless Tours is a travel agency based in the UK that caters to travelers interested in exploring Africa, Europe and Turkey with Egypt being one of the most attractive destinations. With its outstanding tour packages and intriguing prices, Timeless Tours continues to satisfy the needs of travelers with its trustworthy and reliable services, expert profile and growing reputation while holding the 2017 Traveler’s Choice Gold Award recently granted to the agency by Tour Radar (a popular and respected International platform for booking tours and travel packages). This Award permits travelers interested in Timeless Tours to understand the agencies professionalism; prompt customer service; its tour operators who possess over 7 years of experience in the Realm of tourism and are also highly devoted in ensuring you receive a high quality package that will satisfy you and your budget.

When choosing to travel to Egypt, Timeless Tours offers highly trained, bilingual and local tour guides who ensure your security and comfort—as well as a memorable journey. Whether you choose to explore the Great Pyramids of Giza (Cairo); wander the historic temples in Luxor and Aswan whilst on a 5 star Felluca (boat) ride on the nile or opting to snorkel in the Red Sea, Timeless Tours offers excellent child-friendly packages for groups, individuals and families who seek an adventurous and cultural expedition. While the packages start from $301 for a 10 day “Egypt Explorer” tour to $781 for a 15 day 5 star “Egypt Experience” journey, Timeless Tours offers outstanding, high standard and worthy packages inclusive of accomodation and ‘tour’ transport(s). Many entertaining activities included in the packages are: hot air balloon rides, scuba diving, camel rides, jeep safari’s and more.  

Timeless Tours is where your safety, comfort and quality of service is not compromised—our 4.5/5 star ratings and reviews on Tour Radar will further confirm this. Booking your journey with us on Tour Radar ensures 24 hour customer service from us; an itinerary on our profile (for each tour) that you can either download or scan through; travel credits that you can earn and a “no booking or credit card fee” prior to your travel—you can pay upon arrival. Our packages are accessible all year round with 11 tours available for you to choose from; each package contains an itinerary that will permit you to understand the beauty that is Egypt as well as why travelers trust Timeless Tours. We do it the Timeless Way.

By Sabrina

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 Explore our profile on Tour Radar: http://www.tourradar.com/timeless-tours

Learn about Egypt and what it has to offer on our blog: https://timelesstoursegypt.tumblr.com/

Browse our website at: http://www.gotimelesstours.co.uk/

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the God Ra-Harakhty, human-headed, wearing the Solar disk with the Uraeus. Inside the Sun is represented the sacred scarab of the God Khepry. “Great Temple” of King Sethi I at Abydos, Inner Shrine of the God Ra-Harakhty, detail from the north-west wall (lower register

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Egyptian sweets

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Oriental & International Cuisine

Local and International Cuisine are both factors within Egypt that can be located in most areas; the most sought after cuisine include Indian; Chinese; Lebanese and Japanese food although most tourists, and residents of Egypt, resort to Local Egyptian food so as to  indulge in its unprecedented taste and texture. Egyptian food consists of edibles that range from the heavy and solid to the light and deliciously slimy that are available nationally on a daily basis, and at different prices (starting from LE2 to LE200 or more depending on location). If one were in the mood for a thin yet fulfilling, local, meal that oozes oriental mixtures of herbs, spices and meat it is recommended that you try the Muloghiya. This soup-like dish, although similar to okra and is thought of as an appetizer,  can either be used as a dressing for rice and meat or can be consumed, by hand, with Arabic bread more commonly known as Aiysh Beladi. Chicken or rabbit meat are alternatives to add to the recipe to further enjoy this mouth-watering meal.

Other local and oriental edibles to sooth and quench your hunger include, but is not limited to: the falafel or falafel sandwhich (a deep fried patty made from chick peas or fava beans); fried or grilled seafood with sea bass, salmon, shrimp and bolty (tilapia) being the most popular; Grilled chicken; Tahina (sesame paste that can be eaten with arabic bread); Koshari (a delicious rice mixture consisting of chick peas, chicken/meat and macaroni), and Foul madamas/Foul Soudani (a nourishing dish made from cooked fava beans; vegetables; spices, oil and/or eggs). With this also comes the most International yet locally known food: The Shawarma; it can be purchased throughout the country as well as cooked at home with ingredients that are seen as less complex as opposed to that of the Koshari and Foul madamas. Whether you choose to indulge in these local edibles in the privacy of your home or at an orientally decorated restaurant that emphasizes the diversity in its menu with its Arabian furniture and candle light environment, you will undoubtedly return for a second taste of the Egyptian Cuisine.  (Reference to Egyptian food and Culture can be found on my former articles on this blog entitled, “Egyptian Culture” or “Cafe’s in Egypt.”).

International, yet oriental, restaurants in Egypt such as the Lebanese; Chinese; Indian; Turkish Japanese and Greek (with a chef from the mentioned countries) are mostly found in areas where expats or the wealthy reside although it is common to find compact ‘pop up’ restaurants that serve a tasty and affordable dish from these countries regardless of the restaurant being in possession of a local chef. These restaurants range in location with some on boats by the Corniche and others at 5 star hotels although resorts by the Red Sea (including Sharm El-Sheikh and Dahab) seem more intriguing to residents or tourists since the beach, the breeze and clean air are catalysts for satisfying an empty and ‘craving’ stomach.

By Sabrina