Bikinis to Burkas and all points inbetween

One of the more pleasant surprises of our location is the fact that we are smack bang next to the largest shopping centre on the entire continent of Africa. Admittedly Burkina Faso, Sudan and Niger probably don’t feature on the Shopaholics Grand Tour but the Cairo City Stars Mall should.

We have yet to visit the Khan al Khali (main souk) in downtown Cairo, but the City Stars currently supplies all our immediate needs. Eating out is not true Egyptian style, there is plenty of time for white beans and pigeon, but the kids appreciate the familiar joys of Wagamama, Fuddruckers, Johnny Rockets, TGIs, Ruby Tuesday, and I enjoy Costa Coffee and all those other staples that were absent from Holland.

There is a large supermarket called Spinneys. Egyptians shop and drive with the same style and panache. The general state is one of chaotic melee and rugby-like scrummages on each aisle. The only thing missing is the constant tooting of horns. Choice is very good, and lifes luxuries and essentials like Heinz Tomato ketchup, Worcester Sauce and Frozen Short crust pastry can be purchase if a little expensive.

There is also a great collection of clothes shops, some which I know and others that look good, from bikinis to Burkas, and all points inbetween (which is where my wardrobe lies!!). Most impressive is what we term the Bling Bling shoes shops, these Egyptian ladies like more bling than your average West Coast Rapper and the heels require a step ladder to climb into them. Once we get a house sorted, Inshallah, and the boys start school then I’ll be down there faster than Usain Bolt to have a good mooch around and find some bargains, as prices seem very reasonable, compared to Holland. Plus unlike Holland women are not all 7ft tall so I might be able to buys some trousers and dress that fit!