A Cool Model Shares Her Little Black Book
@MaiyaYackout_
A great hotel to stay in is Villa Belle Époque in Maadi. It’s a hidden gem with a charming, boutique feel and a beautiful, old-world ambiance. The greenery and peaceful surroundings make it the perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, and the service is always top-notch. I also love staying at the Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo. It’s luxurious and offers an amazing view of the lake – perfect for a relaxing getaway within the city.
In terms of local designers, I’m really excited about The Front Row Studios, a new Egyptian brand with a lot of potential in ready-to-wear. For jewellery, I love Jude Benhalim – her pieces are so unique and elegant. And when it comes to couture, Shahira Lasheen is one of my top picks.
For boutiques and shops, I love exploring the local shops in Khan El Khalili Street. It’s a great place to find traditional pieces, handmade crafts and unique items that reflect Egypt's rich culture and history. I don’t have a specific store that I always go to – I’m all about the experience. Whether it’s jewellery or clothing, I buy from any shop that catches my eye.
My most recent fashion discovery is big bags. I’ve been really into them recently, especially in brown. I feel like we’re going to see a lot of brown this fall, whether it’s in belts, bags or boots.
My favourite fashion memory has to be shooting with Hindash for Vogue Arabia. It was on my vision board for the year, and getting to work with both of them was a dream come true.
The best fashion gift I’ve ever received was the Yves Saint Laurent Catwalk book. I got it for my birthday, and it’s such a stunning collection of fashion history.
My most recent purchase is the Versace Crystal Noir perfume. It’s my new favourite scent.
@Esca.Cueva | @VillaBelleEpoque | @GrandEgyptianMuseum
I’ve been obsessed with a few beauty products lately, including the Simi Haze Hydra Melt Dewy Skin Balm, YSL Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara and Dior’s Rouge Blush Colour & Glow for that perfectly sculpted look.
For interiors, I love to check out places that capture Egypt's rich history and architectural charm. Korba’s old buildings are always a favourite – they have such a vintage, early 20th-century feel that’s hard to resist. The Abdeen Palace Museum is another must-see, with its opulent interiors and royal history. I’m also fascinated by the Citadel of Salah al-Din, which offers a glimpse into medieval Islamic architecture with its stunning fortifications. Each of these spots gives me a deeper appreciation for Egypt's architectural heritage.
You definitely can’t leave Cairo without indulging in some delicious Egyptian food. It’s such an essential part of the city’s culture, and there’s nothing quite like the flavours of traditional Egyptian dishes. The best places to eat are a mixture of more chill and fancier spots. I love Mo Bistro in Tagmoaa for its laid-back vibe, and Esca Cueva in New Giza is a real standout – the interior is designed like a cave, which makes for such a unique dining experience. For something more traditional, Naguib Mahfouz Cafe in Khan El Khalili is perfect if you’re in the mood for authentic Egyptian food in a more oriental setting.
My favourite meal has to be something truly Egyptian. I have a deep appreciation for our local cuisine, and while it might sound unusual to some, I absolutely love grilled pigeon – it's full of flavour and has such a rich history in our culture. I also can't get enough of molokhia, a deliciously unique soup made from jute leaves, garlic and coriander, sometimes cooked with chicken or rabbit. And of course, koshari is always a go-to. This hearty mix of rice, lentils, and macaroni topped with spicy tomato sauce and crispy onions is the ultimate comfort food.
While it’s not exactly a hidden gem, Holm Café is one of my favourite spots. It’s cosy and charming, with great food and a relaxed vibe. A recent find is 30 North Coffee, and the matcha has quickly become a favourite. There are plenty of places in Cairo that serve matcha, but this is so underrated. It's now my go-to spot whenever I’m craving a matcha fix.
For the ultimate relaxation, I love going to Coconut Spa & Wellness. It’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge after a busy week.
My favourite event in Egypt has to be the Cairo International Film Festival. It’s such a vibrant celebration of cinema, bringing together filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts from around the world. It’s a great platform for cultural exchange and a highlight of Egypt’s film industry.
The best place for soaking up culture would be in Downtown Cairo, Korba, Garden City, Khan El Khalili and Zamalek. Each area offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and modern-day life.
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@GrandEgyptianMuseum | @Esca.Cueva | @JUDE.BENHALIM
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