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

As one of the most unique hotels of its kind, Cairo 360 Editors' Choice Award winner, Cairo Marriot Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino, is engrained in many a Cairene memory as providing one of the most distinctive luxury experiences in the city – especially when it comes to occasions.

This Ramadan, the hotel’s uber popular Ramadan kheima, Som3a Basha, is back with a bang, offering Cairo the kind of unique sohour experience than only the Marriott can. Taking cues from its historic, palatial backdrop, if last year is anything to go by, then Som3a Basha is set to come one of the hottest hangouts this Ramadan.

Said palatial setting is set to extend to the tent, offering the best of what is a historic surrounding that, last year, set the tone for one of the best sohour atmospheres in the capital. Though the folk at the Marriott are keeping their cards close to their chest, they’ve promised a bigger and better version of their trademark Ramadan kheima, that builds on previous years’ success and popularity, with live entertainment (think Oriental takht) and screenings of the key games in the upcoming European football championship, Euro 2016, set to add a colourful bustling touch to the tent, as will the sohour buffet featuring street-style food stations, which last year earned a glowing review from Cairo 360 staff.

While Som3a Basha is the main attraction at the Marriott, there’s plenty more around the hotel marking the Holy Month. Omar’s Cafe is offering a fetar buffet (280LE++ per person, 140LE++ for children between 5 and 10), while Egyptian Nights is taking full advantage of its theme, with a la carte fetar, a special ‘Al Qahwa] corner, live music in the evenings andmini-shisha giveaways, as well as other traditional touches such as an erkesous drink man (pictured below), masharaty shows and Khan El Khalili-inspired kisosks.

No Ramadan would be complete without kahk, though, and the Bakery is more than obliging with the traditional cookie and other Oriental sweets available.

For more information about Som3a Basha and all of the Marriott’s Ramadan specials, check out the hotel’s official Facebook page, or call 02-2728-3000.