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

With less than 48 hours ‘til Christmas, that last minute shopping has never been so last minute. As the panic sets in, it can be difficult to keep a clear head about where to go; but worry, not we’ve put together a list of shops so that no time is wasted.

Although their maze of outlets might get your head spinning, when looking for a range of different presents, the colossal malls of Cairo are always a good place to start. Citystars, Mall of Arabia and Sun City Mall are some of the most popular – beware though, you might have to fight through the crowds to find what you’re looking for.

Now, what to buy?

For Her: we’d suggest just about anything fabulous. If you’re really looking to impress, you can’t go wrong with designer names; bags – or anything else – from the fashionable Michael Kors will bring tears to her eyes, as will any gift from Ego. Le Nez Fragrance Bar provides a range of exclusive Parisian perfumes, whilst Victoria’s Secret offers up well-known scents, too. For something more reasonably priced, Bath & Body Works and the Body Shop are fail-safes when it comes to bath time pampering, while  Accessorize stock a range of bags and outfit accessories. When it comes to clothes we’d always recommend vouchers – women are fussy creatures – but Zara or H&M will usually do the trick.

For Him: why not treat your man to a console game or two from Play N Trade, or some other boys toys from Virgin Megastore. If he’s musical, the Yamaha showroom stocks a wide range of professional quality instruments and electronics. Kryptonite appeals to a niche market, taking men back to their childhoods with a range of old school comics and collectable items. Of course, as total opposites of women, most men love receiving clothes as gifts; try Superdry or Jack & Jones for some simple items.

For Him and Her: You can never go wrong with home accessories; newly weds and neighbours are often particularly house proud and every little helps. Zara Home has a large collection of chic accessories to please even the fussiest of shoppers, whilst IKEA stocks just about everything that anyone could need. In Zamalek, quaint home store House & Garden offers up some charming items, or pick up some modish, quality products from 50A Concept Store. For something a little more unusual, try Gezazy in Maadi for some quirky lighting and other accessories made from recycled materials.      

In a chaotic city, for both men and women, gym memberships or spa treatments never go a miss. Why not treat that special someone to a luxurious gym membership at Fiber’s newest gym. Women’s only gym, Hers,provides a private work out space for the self-conscious and Bliss Spa is perfect for ladies’ beauty treatments. Up-market spa treatments can be found at a number of the city’s hotel spas; So Spa at the Sofitel, the Fairmont Nile City’s Willow Stream Spa and The Spa at the Kempinski Nile are renowned for their sumptuous, relaxing massages and facials.

For the Kids: Almost anything – and lots of it – will suffice for a very merry Christmas. Head to Toys R Us or Top Toys for a mind-boggling array of toys, guaranteed to keep the kids occupied through Christmas lunch at least. On the other hand, if ou’re looking to impress the parents, pricey, mini-me clothing can be found at Burberry Children. If all else fails, think sugar; both The Candy Shop and Sugar Spell sell a huge range of candy, ready to make those angels that bit sweeter. 

Whatever happens, have a very Merry Christmas!