All Things Egypt!
The chicest Dahabiyas, hipster Cairo street food, and my favorite design hotel, ever.
Today we’re talkin’ Egypt, one of the most magical trips I’ve ever taken. Everything about the Egyptian aesthetic speaks to me; the grandeur, the sandy limestones, the painted murals, the alabaster light fixtures…I feel…right at home. And when you layer in lots of history, artisans, architecture and culture, Egypt becomes my dream destination. That said, it’s a spot that needs help planning as there are internal flights and annoying logistics, so I wanted to share how to do a classic Nile-centric trip. Luckily, my travel partner for this one was my beautiful mom, Ronni, who loves all the same things as me, so we booked and re-booked and re-booked again until we made the trip happen. And yes, everyone should go once.
Mini Cairo City Guide:
To Stay:
Immobilia apartments: I stayed in two of these apartments and they were an aesthete’s fantasy; curated with art deco, vintage, and European furniture, each one sings in a different way.
Mena House: Originally built in the 1800s, this was once a hunting lodge for Egyptian royalty and home to the first swimming pool in Africa. Today it’s a Marriot but with great service and a plum location.
Villas D’Egypte: Two curated villas in a gated estate that can accommodate guests across five bedrooms and a family suite. A real hidden treasure in a tough crowd of hotel options.
Mazeej: This is the newest kid on the block. With only five rooms (so think ahead people!) she gets the award for most attractive. A great boutique option.
Villa Belle Epoque: The OG boutique option in the city. It’s cool, maybe dated.
Numero Cinq: This easy-to-miss boutique hotel is nestled in Zamalek, Cairo’s greenest neighborhood, but that’s the point. The house is multi-storied and deeply textured with Egyptian heritage and European flair.
Four Seasons: If you just need to be in your comfort zone, you’re staying here.
Insider Intel: A five star hotel is coming to Giza by 2028, backed by Saudi and Kuwaiti investors. Stay tunes.
To Eat:
Zeeyara: In the heart of Islamic Cairo, surrounded by minarets and domes, is this majestic rooftop restaurant that feels both old-world and “of place.” Vibes.
Khufus: If you want brekkie before a Pyramids tour, this is your spot. Insiders say to get the baked eggs glaya.
Cafe Riche: Where artists and writers used to come to hang and chow down. The food is meh, the ambiance, on-point.
Pier 88: Come here for views of the Nile, Mediterranean cuisine, and Cairo glamour.
Crimson: A buzzy lunch spot with lively evenings - expect International food.
Almeria: You’re here for delicious Lebanese food in an elevated and cozy space. This one you’ll want to return to - it’s a real winner in a tough food city.
Zooba: This chain has trendy dishes born from street food and is cheap AF. Think slow cooked fava beans and green falafel. A must while you’re in Cairo.
