The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Over the past week, a degree of calm has seemingly managed to blanket the busy streets of Cairo. Even though the city’s still on lock-down after sun-set, there’s never been a better time to appreciate the daylight hours.

Since the curfew hours have been shortened, we’ve seen a number of businesses operating as usual, hoping to bring a sense of normality back to our lives. Mystical night-spot, Alchemy, is swapping its delicious dinner menus for an even more tempting brunch menu between 12PM and 6PM. Bar D’O is opening its doors from 5PM to 8PM to make room for some pre-curfew cocktails and, never one to be left out, Amici in Zamalek encourage customers to rave the night away from  4PM – 3AM, while its Heliopolis counterpart will be operating during slightly shorter hours between 6PM and 3AM.

To help ease the curfew blues, some of our favourite luxury hotels are offering relaxing city breaks on a budget. Zamalek’s Nile-side retreat, Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah, is offering a getaway for the whole family; book one room, get another free. The Fairmont Nile City is combining a great night’s sleep for two (600LE+) with dinner at O Bar, Saigon or Bab El Nil for just 150LE. Meanwhile, the Fairmont Heliopolis & Towers is advertising up to 50% off of its room rates, along with 25% off dinner at any of the hotel’s restaurants. Elsewhere, the Ramses Hilton in Downtown Cairo is offering double rooms with breakfast for 550LE with tax.

Cairo Jazz Club is embracing the curfew tonight – from 5PM – 9PM – with an uplifting performance from local band, Bluenotes. Not much is happening on Friday but on Saturday, Jazz Mate welcomes British vocalist, Jennie King, for an evening of soulful sounds starting at 6PM.

Cairo’s art scene has suffered recently, with many post-Ramadan-scheduled exhibitions on temporary hold. But there are still a few spots where Cairenes can digest some art; head over to Zamalek Art Gallery to check out ‘Masterpieces XI’, Al Masar Gallery to examine the work of  ‘Gallery Artists’ and GIZ for ‘Urban Visions’.

If all else fails, sunbathe. Or sleep. We wish all Cairenes a safe, and pleasant weekend.