Shopping in Egypt is an exciting and rewarding experience. Stroll through the shops and markets of this mysterious eastern country – you will definitely find something that will remind you for a very long time about the time spent under the hot African sun.
The Art of Bargaining
The shops and markets of Egypt are filled with a huge amount of a wide variety of products at an affordable cost. Do not forget that you are in an eastern country and it is customary to bargain here, so even if you are completely satisfied with the prices of goods, take your time. If you bargain properly, you will be able to purchase the right item at half the price. Then shopping will be not only pleasant but also will save some of your funds.
What to buy in Egypt?
Mini Pyramids
The pyramids are the symbol of the country and therefore they are the most popular souvenir to buy from Egypt. Being the only remaining wonders of ancient world buying a miniature of the three pyramids and Sphinx remains your best option for remembering your trip. There are many other miniature and popular statues of stone, depicting the ancient Egyptian mythological creatures and pharaohs that can decorate your house. The prices of these items vary greatly depending on the material used and the size they can be bought from Bazaars. Better ask your guide for advise and buy from trustful place.
Gold and Silver
Gold and silver in Egypt are also very cheap. One of the most demanded souvenirs in Egypt is the Cartouche. The Cartouch is an elongated oval-shaped piece with a horizontal line below it. The Cartouch is an emblem of kings and pharaohs where they used to write their names on it and carve it on their temples and tombs. Nowadays Catrouch can be made with different materials. You can ask for your gold or silver cartouch with your name engraved in Hieroglyphic letters. These are customized and the shape and size you want and you can combine it with a suitable necklace. The cartouch can be a gift for both yourself or your beloved ones back home.
Galabeya and Belly dancing costume
In Egypt Jalbeya or Galabeya is the main costume of Egyptians. Although itis not commonly worn now in cities but in rural areas, it is the main costume. Men version of galabeya is wide and wide sleeves while women galabeya is embellished with bright colors and is tailored tight. Many people are fascinated with oriental dance and if you are looking for a belly dance costume then Egypt is the right place. A wide variety of different shapes, materials, and colors are available.
Figures of Egyptian gods and pharaohs
Figurines of gods and pharaohs are classic tourist souvenirs from Egypt. Often the gods are depicted in the form of animal figures. Especially popular are the busts of the pharaohs and sarcophagi with the pharaohs.
Quality products are made from traditional Egyptian ornamental materials: alabaster, basalt, or granite. Such figures look expensive and do not lose their appearance over time.
Along with real goods in souvenir shops, there are painted gypsum crafts. The paint peels off quite quickly, and some protruding part may break off even on the way to their homeland. Recognizing the fake is very simple: swipe your fingernail along the base of the figure. If a white scratch forms on the surface, then you have a plaster product in your hands.
Hookah
Hookah or “shisha” is a good functional souvenir and a colorful gift to friends. You can buy a machine in Egypt, as well as tobacco
A real Egyptian “shisha” costs from $ 25. A pack of fruit tobacco will cost a dollar. The real “shisha” is a prefabricated structure of several parts. The cheap assembled option is an obvious fake.
Hibiscus tea”
The most delicious Egyptian souvenir is Hibiscus tea. This drink is made from Sudanese rose or hibiscus flowers. Hibiscus is also called “tea of the Pharaohs.” It tastes a little sour, and its appearance looks bright red. Hibiscus tea is drunk both hot and cold.
Jewelry
In each shop chains and earrings made of precious metals and stones are served, but still it is better to bring bracelets or pendants with national-historical motives to the memory of the country. On the pendants are often depicted anka crosses, scarabs and profiles of the pharaohs. Bracelets are painted in the style of Egyptian fresco art.
The price of gold is from 40 to 50 dollars per gram, silver will cost three times cheaper.
Aroma oils
Egyptian aromatic oils have always attracted the attention of travelers. Based on recipes of essences for the Egyptian nobility, French perfumers have created many classic masterpieces.
Sellers in perfume shops in Egypt will be happy to share the secrets of mixing oils and clearly show on the basis of what smells these or those popular perfumes are created.
The highest prices can be seen in the store at the quarry and papyrus factory. But only here you can be absolutely sure of the quality of the goods. In addition, here you will find the maximum selection of what you can buy in Egypt.
