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If you are a traveller who loves to take something special back home to remember your trips and the places you have been, you will love Cairo. You will find many great things to buy, including beautiful, handmade items that represent Egypt’s rich culture and history. Whether you want something to decorate your home or just something small to hold on to for memories, Cairo has the perfect souvenir for you. Here is a guide to the best things to buy on your holiday in this magical city.
Papyrus is a special paper that was used in ancient Egypt thousands of years ago. Today, you can buy hand-painted papyrus scrolls that show Egyptian gods, pyramids, and other scenes from old stories. You can also get scrolls with your name written in hieroglyphs, the old Egyptian alphabet.
Real papyrus scrolls are sold at shops in the Khan el-Khalili Market or special papyrus galleries. Always be careful, especially with the cheaper scrolls, as some are made from banana leaves. Real papyrus has a crisscross pattern and feels firm but smooth.
Alabaster is a smooth, white stone that is often used to make bowls, vases, and small statues. You can also find carvings made of darker stone shaped like pyramids, pharaohs, or the famous Sphinx.
Real alabaster is slightly see-through when you hold it up to the light and feels cool to the touch. These carvings are a beautiful way to take a piece of Egypt’s ancient art home with you.
Perfume has been used in Egypt since the time of the pharaohs. You can buy perfume oils in many beautiful scents, like jasmine, sandalwood, and rose. These oils are natural and don’t have alcohol, so they last a long time on your skin.
There are special perfume shops near the pyramids or in Islamic Cairo where you can try different scents before buying. Many shops also sell small bottles in pretty glass containers.
Cairo’s spice markets are packed with different types of fresh traditional spices, including cumin, saffron, coriander, and even special mixed herbs. You will also find teas like hibiscus, mint, and chamomile.
These are great for cooking, taste good, and are beneficial for your health too. Khan el-Khalili and Ataba Market are great places to shop for these. Try to get them in sealed packs if you plan to carry them in your luggage.
If you want to dress like a local, look for a galabeya. This is a long, loose dress that is very comfortable and keeps you cool even in hot weather. You can also buy traditional scarves and pashminas. These are often colourful and made from soft cotton or silk. These clothes make great gifts or keepsakes. You will find them in Old Cairo or local fashion shops.
If you love history, you might want to take home a tiny obelisk or statue like the ones in Egyptian museums. These souvenirs are small copies of famous things, like the death mask of King Tut or canopic jars used by ancient Egyptians.
They are often made of resin or stone and look very real. You can buy them at museum gift shops or souvenir stalls near the pyramids. Try to avoid plastic versions, as they don’t look as nice and authentic.
Cairo is full of amazing things to see and buy. From ancient-looking scrolls to tasty teas and handmade souvenirs, there is something for everyone. These souvenirs are more than just gifts. They are memories of your journey through a land of wonder and history. Always remember to haggle a little when you shop. It is a part of the experience and will get you even better deals.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
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