Situated by the Red sea is a superb town called Marsa Alam, which is in South Eastern Egypt. It was once a fishing village, but now it has an International Airport that was built in 2001 making Marsa Alam a popular tourist’s destination. Where the Arabian Desert meets the Red Sea this lush Desert climate make it the idyllic hot spot to visit. All year round it has hot weather ranging from 20 to 45 degrees in the summer and 18 to 35 in the winter. With crystal clear turquoise waters as warm as bath water makes it irresistible and inviting. You won’t be able to resist taking a dip in the sparkling water called the Red Sea.This tremendous Red Sea getaway has the appearance of a tropical getaway with its palm trees, mangroves, and spectacular coral reefs which makes Marsa Alam known as the one of the seven underwater wonders of the world. The coral reefs are abundant with colorful vibrant fish which attracts many divers and snorkelers to explore the nature’s wonderful creations. Be sure to have an underwater camera to capture this magnificent work of art. When you are on the beach relaxing take the time to look at the splendid panoramic view of the turquoise waters framed by cinnamon mountains while listening to the sound of the water washing up on the warm sand.
When you visit Marsa Alam there many great resorts and luxury hotels to stay at like the Kahramana Resort Hotel that was mainly built out of natural stones that complement the desert landscape and it also has a natural ambiance to help relax and relieve your stress. The hotel has 150 luxury rooms, restaurant and bar for you to enjoy while staying at the resort. Then there is the Iberotel Coraya Beach Resort that offers great amenities and sea-viewing rooms. Or if your more for adventure then you would like to stay the Abou Dabbab Diving Lodge that is located at the southern coast of the Red Sea, the Lodge has Horse and camel rides as well as other excellent recreational facilities. Or looking for a more peaceful location, stay at the large and elegant Sol y Mar Solaya resort. It has air conditioned rooms, its own restaurant and a childern’s pool.
When you want to eat in Marsa Alam there are many different delicious cuisines and restaurants to choose from. You can choose from international to traditional food such as African and Eastern, herbs and spices are liberally used. There is an Green House restaurant and Panorama Restaurant located in the Akassia Swiss Resort. Also there is another restaurant called the Beach Barbeque which serves excellent cuisine and food on the seashore during the summers. If you want to enjoy a drink before or after you eat you can enjoy it at the Waves Beach bar. In the mood for pastries or pizza? Try the Brayka Bay Reef Resort or fancy a bottle of beer, glass of wine or a cup of tea then venture over to the famous Tiffany bar located in the resort. Or satisfy your taste palate with pasta, steak, or sea food at one of the two famous restaurants located in the Abu Nawaz Hotel and Three Corners Fayrouz. Experience a little bit of Lebanon at the Budour’s Court that has excellent cuisines.
While visiting Marsa Alam you won’t find yourself board or wondering what to do. Go see the main tourist attractions. There are many to choose from like the Emerald Mines, Bir Umm Fawakhir, Mons Claudinus, Quseir Fortress, Temple of Seti I, Wadi Hammamat, Myos Hormos, and the most popular tourist destination the Wadi el Gemal National Park. Experience the magic of the dance that the belly dancers provide for you or go to a disco in the hotels where the low key of the night life is mainly held. Satisfy the urge to shop by buying local goods like the most popular jewelery, leather goods and items made from Egyptian cotton. Don’t forget to bargain for the better prices. If you are planning on doing some water adventures you may see sightings of hammerhead sharks, spinner dolphins and dugongs. If you want a true Egyptian experience while in Marsa Alam try riding a Camel or Arabian Horse. See the red sun rise on the Red Sea, but be sure to arrive 30 minutes early to catch the many vibrant colors of the sky as the sun makes its graceful arrival.
Got yourself wondering how to get around? Well wonder no more. You can travel within, around and outside the city by bus, mini-bus, taxi or a rented car. The mini-buses are cheap and perfect for getting around the city. Taxis are very convenient and quick, they also have air conditioning. You can call for a taxi anywhere in the city. Buses are inexpensive, and comfortable. Some may have air conditioning and a toilet. If you want to travel alone and be in charge of the driving then you can get a rented car. But be sure to check up on the rules and regulations before renting a car.
Wondering when is the best time to go? You can go anytime of the year. But when it comes to water activities and adventure there are some better months than others. You can scuba dive anytime of the year but the best time would be the summer months usually during April to May you can see the Plankton Bloom more visible. If you want to have encounters with whale sharks then the best time to go to Marsa Alam is in the beginning the summer and the end of spring. The hottest month is August and the coolest month is January. Marsa Alam is usually windy and the sea can get rough in November and the waves can be large at times.
If you want to go a place of great culture, excellent food, sun, sand and sea. Get relaxed or rejuvenated at the spa or by the sea then go to Marsa Alam. Many magical, fun, and adventurous days and nights awaits you in the beauty of the Egyptian and Arabian atmosphere. Don’t forget to bring your camera, sunblock, sunglasses and walking shoes. But most of all don’t forget to bring your heart because it will be stolen by the love of Marsa Alam.
By Melanie Doucette
Photo By Melanie Doucette
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