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

Ever since Eid has become the official kick-starter of the summer and almost everyone we know heads to Sahel to enjoy the holiday. If you happen to be one of those who dn’t follow the crowd, and enjoy the less-crowded version of Cairo, then head to one of the city’s top-notch hotels, Semiramis InterContinental, where Eid is celebrated the right way.

The celebration begins with a classic lunch buffet from 1.00 to 6.00 PM at the hotel’s Night & Day, where an array of Oriental delicacies, as well as live-cooking and carving stations are awaiting, at the price of 390++LE per person. 

When it’s tea time, there’s nothing better than relishing on some delicious Oriental and French treats with a hot drink at hand, from the exclusive High Tea menu (220++LE per person)at the lobby’s Café Corniche , where Eid’s classic dessert, ka7k and ghourayeba, are also available for sale.

But if you are craving a delicious shisha with a dazzling view, then look no further than the hotel’s renowned Nile Terrace, which is open daily from 6.00 PM to 3.00 AM to serve you your favourite shisha and drinks, as well as a variety of Oriental delights from the à la carte menu. The place also boasts mega screens, so you won’t miss your favourite sport event, in addition to daily live entertainment that starts at 10.30PM, including a belly-dance performance and live music.

Speaking of live entertainment, this Eid also sees a lineup of stars taking to the stage of Semiramis InterContinental’s Haroun El Rashid. We are talking about performances by belly dancing diva, Dina, who is set to join the likes of Essam karika and Abdel Basset Hamouda. Haroun El Rashid is open daily from 6.00 PM to 1.00 AM.

Missing the sea and sand already? Head to the hotel’s fourth level, where an on-going cool poolside party takes place daily from 12.00 to 5.00 PM, thanks to the groovy tunes of the resident DJ, the delicious BBQ variety on the à la carte menu and the ever-refreshing drinks and cocktails. 

Alternatively, Semiramis InterContinental comprises a colourful spectrum of culinary options that will satisfy every craving; Lebanese cuisine lovers can enjoy the latest creations of Chef Walid Baz at Sabaya (open from daily 1.00 PM to 1.00 AM), while Italian food fanatics are sure to find their taste-buds heaven at Pane Vino (open daily from 12.30 PM to 2.00 AM).

Thai restaurant, Bird Cage (open daily from 12.30 to 3.45 PM and from 7.00 to 11.45 PM), is also there to bring unique and authentic tastes, all the way from Thailand to Cairo, with its special Bento Menu (250++LE per person). As for the exquisite taste of India is found at India along the Nile (open daily from 1.00 PM to 2.00 AM), where Chef Harish Tiwari presents a round of authentic dishes, in addition to a selection of Indian street eats that are served at the restaurant’s lounge and bar area everyday from 10.00PM.

Now you know where to go this Eid in Cairo!