Cinnamon Star Wars

Damascus probably isn't the best spot on earth if you want to follow some European Christmas traditions. The other day I decided to prepare cookies for Christmas and asked my mum to send me a recipe for Cinnamon Stars. Or rather, I had that idea spontaneously and called her right from somewhere between the grocery shelves in the biggest supermarket in town.

My motivation was high, and I decided to buy everything I need on the spot. But then I started to realise the extent of the logistical problem: no icing brush, no ground almonds, no non-grease paper, etc. Procurement of money through ATMs is difficult here already (that'll be another story here sooner or later) but shopping for anything specific is a real nightmare here. Search for something specific and you will never find it easily. In July it was a toilet seat, and the only place where you could get it in all Damascus is Baghdad Street. The Souq concept where merchants selling similar items are all in one area probably isn't too bad in general because it allows you to compare quality, choice and bargain a good price. Plus it saves the livelihoods of the small shop owners. For a modern shopper it is a hassle, though.

In a few moments I will go to the Souq and try to get the last missing ingredients and tools. Some bargaining coming up I guess. Should I ever find the stuff I need. Inshallah.