"Exploring another country through its national dishes, street foods, and drinks can transform your trip into a rich sensory and cultural experience. And while few tourists depart without gifts like magnets, handicrafts, or clothes, there's another type of souvenir to be considered: delicious snacks and beverages that may not be widely available back home. As a Lebanese and East Mediterranean foodie who has traveled extensively across Jordan, Egypt, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Türkiye,"
"Coffee culture is prevalent in many tourist cities around the world, including Beirut and Istanbul. There, neighbors, families, friends, and coworkers alike gather around a strong arabica brew, be it bitter or sweetened, plain or cardamom-flavored. That daily ritual is a sign of hospitality and appreciation, not to mention an invitation to slow down. In the Levant and in Türkiye, freshly prepared coffee is typically poured from a long-handled, narrow-necked pot into small cups."
Travel through Middle Eastern and Turkish destinations can be enriched by collecting local foods and drinks as souvenirs. Travelers often bring home magnets, handicrafts, or clothes, but snacks and beverages offer unique, edible keepsakes. A wide range of flavorful goodies across Jordan, Egypt, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Türkiye make excellent presents. Coffee plays a central cultural role in Beirut, Istanbul, the Levant, and Türkiye, with strong arabica brews served bitter, sweetened, or cardamom-flavored. Traditional vessels and serving sets are widely available, and vacuum-sealing roasted or ground coffee helps preserve freshness for travel.
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