As we await the slow arrival of winter in Egypt, it’s hard not to give into the season’s biggest guilty pleasure: lazy days spent cozying up for warmth. While the cold can be hard to bear and the shorter days make our couches and beds all the more inviting, all it takes is a small nudge to get yourself up and moving in the chilly season — a season that comes as fast as it goes. This is your guide to help you ditch that couch and spend your winter more energetically.

MAKE THE MOST OUT OF EGYPT’S SUN (DAY TRIPS & OUTINGS)-

The sun is your best friend in winter, not just for its much-needed warmth, but for its power to increase serotonin levels, a natural remedy for those of us who struggle with seasonal depression and low motivation in the darker months. Psychiatrist Norman Rosenthal, who first identified the condition seasonal affective disorder (SAD), says daylight exposure is key to beating its symptoms. And what better way to do so than to bask in the glorious Egyptian sun?

#1- Skip the gym, take your workout outside: For the frequent gym-goers, switch up your routine by taking your workout outside — instead of heading to the stuffy enclosures of an indoor gym, get your workout done in fresh air, either at the nearest park or sporting club, or even from the comfort of a sunny balcony at home. Look for local group workout or yoga sessions to encourage you.

If you’re a runner, opt for the block around your house or the nearest park or outdoor running track. Studies show that running and walking outside makes for a better energy release, improves mental health, and strengthens your muscles. If you get your active hours in while the sun’s still out, you’ll feel much better about staying in when it’s gone early.

#2- Take a tour through Cairo’s historical gems: Cairo is a rich, lively city, and for many of us, its historical areas remain unexplored. If you’ve been looking to do some sightseeing, but the intense summer heat has made you reconsider, a sunny, mildly chilly morning offers the perfect weather to do so.

While the Pyramids and museums rightfully draw mns of visitors each year, the true heart of Cairo beats in its less visited corners. You can wander through the vibrant alleys of Khan El Khalili and Moez Street, or visit Darb 1718 and Cinema Radio while getting your daily steps in.

Don’t know the best spots to explore? Check out our guide to Cairo, or join one of Qahrawya’s famous walking tours across the many historical and cultural sites of our capital city.

#3- Shop at winter bazaars: Racks of fuzzy sweaters, winter coats, and scarves — an undeniably warm and cozy sight on a chilly morning. For those of us who thrive on a little retail therapy, the season brings no shortage of bazaars, especially around Christmas time. Head to a local bazaar on a free weekend like the upcoming winter Cairo Flea Market, KMT house’s Garage Sale, Bazarna’s Winter market, or even Arkan’s Famer’s Market and splurge on some cozy treasures or just take in the vibes and the pleasure of being out in the sun with friends.

#4- Plan a day of fun rides: While theme parks are often associated with summer fun, who says we can’t enjoy an adrenaline rush during the winter? Going on a few exhilarating rides is a sure way to warm yourself up and have some offbeat winter fun.

STAYING ACTIVE INDOORS-

While braving the weather and spending time outdoors is great for us all, some activities are simply better enjoyed indoors. Afterall, winter wouldn’t be winter without a little cozy downtime. There are some indoor pastimes that can keep you active and lift your mood without taking too much of your energy.

#1- Ski Egypt: Our winter can seem a little dull in comparison to other countries without an elegant blanket of snow. The closest we can get to this is the popular Ski Egypt. The indoor ski resort features a 22k-square-meter snow park and an indoor ski slope, for which they offer skiing and snowboarding lessons. The “icy utopia” is a perfect simulation of a textbook winter moment and a more budget-friendly way to hit the slopes.

#2- Get crafty: Not in the mood for sports but still want to feel productive? Artsy workshops are the way to go. Nothing screams winter more than slowing down and getting creative with your hands. El Ashry Studios and Darb 15 are two hotspots that offer unique hands-on workshops across a variety of crafts. If you’re into painting, BrushIt hosts group painting sessions for a fun and laidback escape with brush and canvas. Feeling a bit too lazy to commute? You can always get crafty at home with the help of a few online tutorials and makeshift supplies.

#3- Get your inspiration at local art galleries: For the more passive art lovers among us, there’s always the leisure of walking through an art gallery. Put on your most aesthetic outfit and head to one of Cairo’s abundant art galleries. When the season brings cloudy skies, less sun, and shorter days, engaging in the colorful and vivid world of art is the perfect way to restore your creative spark.

#4- Stay warm with a dose of arcade nostalgia: Arcades are where you and your friends and/or family can get your adrenaline kick without having to deal with cold weather. It’s a fun way to spend time with your friends in a digital play world instead of doing it on your couch alone. Boom Room, Magic Galaxy, Ground Control, Xtreme Land, and Cosmo City are some of the many arcade spots you and your loved ones can enjoy together.

EMBRACE THE SEASON: CULTURAL EVENTS-

The winter season might bring a chill to the air, but it also brings joyful festivities and an unmistakable magical spirit. Every time winter comes around, Cairo fills up with events that capture its quiet charm and feel all the more warm against the chill.

#1- Classical warmth at the Cairo Opera House: A quintessential winter affair is a classic one — and it doesn’t get more classic than The Cairo Opera House. If you’re a lover of grandeur paired with the sound of strings, spending an evening watching one of the historic venue’s famous ballet shows or orchestral performance is perfect for you. It’s also a fun excuse to put on your fanciest winter outfit and escape from the day-to-day mundanity.

#2- Keep your energy up with a live show: If the extravagant atmosphere is not your cup of tea, catching live shows by local bands and artists is another relaxing way to spend a chilly evening. You can stay on the lookout for Cairo Jazz Club’s new year and Christmas specials, as well as seasonal shows at Room Art Space and El Sawy CultureWheel.

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