Shopping

Luxor:
Luxor is vibrant with shops, cafes and restaurants. The crowded markets in Luxor are a great place to find souvenirs, but are also often the best places to observe the local culture.

Antiques are very popular among tourists, and the Comiche book stalls have an excellent collection of books at fair prices. The Fair Trade Center, located near the Emilio Hotel on Karnack Street, also offers wonderful souvenirs with the added bonus that the families who create these handicrafts earn a living wage in exchange for their goods. Be sure to browse the small shops located near the banks of the River Nile, and treat yourself to the bargains that abound at the Oriental Market, which is less visited by tourists.

Aswan:
Shopping is one of the delights that Aswan has in store for all those who visit. But in order to get the best deals, you must be prepared to bargain. The Aswan Souq, a market located in the city center, is one of the most popular places to shop. Catch a sight of the local bazaars, which feature a range of perfumes and colorful local products. One of the most popular items which are definitely worth a try are the peppermint and hibiscus tea leaves.

Cairo:
The Downtown district of Cairo features a number of Egyptian department stores. These department stores were full of the world's best products until July, 1961, when all of Egypt's department stores were nationalized. Those days are long gone, but the quality shopping has moved to the upscale neighborhoods of Heliopolis, Nasr City, and Maadi. Today, downtown is the place to go for cheap knock-offs, local produce, and the full range of Arabic pop music and films.

Please note that some excursions may include a stop at a market or specialty store. Go Ahead Tours has no relationship with these vendors and encourages you to research specialty items you’re interested in purchasing abroad before you leave to ensure you’re receiving the best quality.