Cairo lifestyle

Cairo is a shopper's heaven, especially when it comes to traditional hand-crafted mementoes. First stop has to be Khan El-Khalili, the world's oldest bazaar, with its narrow lanes bursting with stalls and workshops selling precious jewellery, leatherware, gold, silver, carpets, spices and trinkets. But remember to haggle - it's part of the fun! Other fantastic souvenir souks are the Khan Misr Toulon and Wekalet al-Balah for crisp Egyptian cotton and fabrics. For modern-day shopping, head for Kasr El-Nil street, stacked with international shops, department stores, brand name outlets and more. And even if you're not buying a camel, go see the Friday camel bazaar - not to be missed!

Whatever your tastes, Cairo has a huge range of eateries from five-star restaurants to intimate coffee houses and fast food outlets. As well as restaurants offering everything from Turkish and Indian to Italian and Chinese menus, you'll find traditional cafes specialising in local dishes like koshary - a delicious concoction of rice, salsa, hummous and lentils - and kofta, tasty kebabs usually served with salad. Drinks-wise, don't miss some refreshing mint tea or the surprisingly delicious local soft drinks like hibiscus juice.

Cairo picks up the pace at sundown. Evenings start with many people shopping and sipping coffee at cafes before heading out proper. And although Egypt is a Muslim country, alcohol is fairly easy to come by. For chic surroundings, most hotels have sophisticated Western-style bars, together with discos, belly-dancing shows and casinos. Otherwise, many visitors choose to simply relax over dinner at the numerous elegant restaurants. And if you're more adventurous, why not sample Cairo's fascinating baladi bars or watch an Arabian classical concert?