Souvenirs at the Historical Sites:
The Great Ibis Swap

Much has changed, but on our first trip to Egypt there was always a mob of souvenir sellers at the exit of the historical sites. They would cluster around you, talking and showing you their sourvenirs. Now they are confined to a designated market space, but the old way was definitely more exciting.

At the Temple of Hatshepsut I bought a soapstone Ibis with sand cast beak and legs. It was probably made in Egypt and maybe locally. It was heavy, but I loved it and tucked it into my shoulder bag while we went on to the Valley of the Kings.

At the exit of the Valley of the Kings, Ken was tired of the souvenir sellers so he was dragging me along. As I passed one who was selling a soapstone Ibis I said "I already have one, just bought it, see.." and pulled it out of my bag.

"Oh, dear lady, this one is much better, more decoration, more beautiful." and it was!

I was hesitating and Ken was pulling my arm, urging me toward the care, so the vendor proposed a swap. He said, " Give me only 5 pounds and I will swap you for the more beautiful one!" I was astonished, but it was a better piece, and I took his offer, paid the 5 pounds, and swapped!

The Souvenir Business: All in the Family

The Tourist and Souvenir Business in Egypt is the main source of employment. You will often find that the Egyptians refer you to someone else or even escort your courteously to a particular shop. This is because the business is all in the family!

On our first visit to Egypt we were referred to the owner of a perfume shop by someone who had just returned and had formed a friendship. So we became a part of his business network, so to speak.

He was very courteous and helpful, arranging guides, drivers, cars, trips to belly dancing nightclubs, and many other things. But..in return we were shown around to the shops that he chose.

This papyrus was bought at a shop that was obviously opened just for us that day. The Papyrus Seller's Widow waited on us herself.with the help of her family. The business was her legacy and that of her children, and our Egyptian contact referred us to her to ensure that on the day she had some business.

Egyptian Souvenir Stories from 1989

Index 1989 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |