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HURGHADA, LUXOR AND MARSAALAMPUBLISHING DATE: 2014-03-25 | COUNTRY CODE: EGContents: Hurghada, Luxor, Marsa Alam, Do & See, Dining, Cafes, Bars & Nightlife,Shopping, Accommodations, Essential Information, Maps

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Like so many of the towns and cities of Egypt, Hurghada as well as Luxor and MarsaAlam are living history museums. These three cities are positioned as three cornersof a triangle in the Eastern Desert. Hurghada, a former shing harbour, stretchessome 15 miles or so along the waterfront and is one of the foremost areas for watersports. Marsa Alam is also found by the Red Sea coast, and tourism is just startingto make an impact. The city of Luxor, with its jaw-droppingly beautiful monumentsbuilt by the hands of ancient craftsmen, lies 150 miles or so inland on the banks ofthe mighty River Nile.

HURGHADA

Photo: Gigi Ibrahim

Hurghada has been home to shing communities for centuries and remained unchanged until the 1990s whentourists discovered this idyllic village. With wide stretchesof beaches along the coastline, sea waters that wererelatively safe and great for watersports, the city was, andstill is, ideal for tourism. Today, it is a busy, sprawling towndivided into two main areas, the Old Town Ad-Dahar tothe north, and Sigala to the south. Each aords a widerange of hotels and restaurants catering for all tastes andtourist attractions.

LUXOR

Photo: S^S

Luxor was the capital of Egypt around 1500-1000 BC and has over the years seen astonishing numbers of palacesand temples been built here. Because the structures werebuilt of granite and sandstone they still remain to this day.Among the must-sees are: the Luxor Temple (whichdates to the Amenhotep III and Ramses II periods), thecomplex of temples known as the Karnack Temples, the

Luxor Museum, the Mummication Museum, (which is rstof its kind in the world), the Funerary Temples and the twovalleys of the Kings and Queens.

MARSA ALAM

Photo: Rob

Marsa Alam still has the air of an unspoilt village, which makes it an ideal base for those looking for a quieterbreak. It is located within a three to four hour drive of bothLuxor and Hurghada. Tourism has found Marsa Alambasically because of its location on the banks of the RedSea. Here you can go on boat trips to watch multi-colouredsh, dolphins, turtles and the coral reefs that lie justoshore. The popularity has grown so much in the pastyears that it now has its own an airport and an increasingnumber of luxury resort style accommodations.

Destination: Hurghada, Luxor and Marsa AlamPublishing date: 2014-03-25

DO & SEE

Photo: Jens-Christian Fischer

Like so many of the towns and cities of Egypt, Hurghada as well as Luxor and Marsa Alam are living historymuseums. These three cities are positioned as threecorners of a triangle in the Eastern Desert with plenty tooer both together and separately.Mummification MuseumThe Mummication Museum in Luxor is claimed to be the best place to learn about the most powerful secrets of thepharaohs. Here you should take your time to reect anddwell about the old Egyptian history, culture and traditionssurrounding the funerary process, the very key element inthe ancient Egyptian belief system.Address: Corniche el-Nil, LuxorMore Info: Opposite Mina Palace Hotel

Luxor MuseumThis museum features a large display of statues and artefacts dating back centuries. Most of the exhibits werefound in local temples, while some originate fromTutankhamums tomb.Address: Center Corniche Ave, Luxor

El GounaEl Gouna is a purpose-designed resort features an award-winning architecture. Here you can nd gourmetrestaurants, nightclubs, sports and leisure activitiesincluding the Red Seas rst marina and a ne golf course,beaches, spas and special attractions for children.

Address: El Gouna, HurghadaPhone: +20 65 3549 702Internet: www.elgouna.com

Blue Paradise Diving CentreBlue Paradise Diving Centre is a diving centre that oers the chance to dive and snorkel in the Red Sea and seecoral reefs, dolphins and turtles. They say there is even thepossibility of seeing sharks.Address: 14, El Korneesh Street, HurghadaPhone: +20 65 354 43 54Internet: www.blueparadise.beEmail: [email protected]

Red Sea Desert AdventuresRed Sea Desert Adventure oers excursions from Marsa Alam. One option is to ride camels or horses into the heartof the desert by day and have a BBQ dinner in atraditional Bedouin village, another is to see the desert andstars by night.Address: Shagra Village, Marsa AlamPhone: +20 122 2309 142Internet: www.redseadesertadventures.com


DINING

Photo: Weldon Kennedy

There is plenty of choice when dining out in Hurghada, Luxor or Marsa Alam. Restaurants that featureinternational cuisine such as Italian, French and Chinesecan be found everythwere. If you want to experience a trueEgyptian experience you should try koshari, a local dishmade from pasta and tomatoes, or dishes such ashummus or fuul made from mashed beans. If you areunsure, try a meze (selection) of dierent dishes.Chez PascalThe Chez Pascal is a European themed restaurant. Here they serve the nest dishes from Belgium accompanied bylive piano music.Address: 21 Mohamed Kamel Morsi Street, Apt 5, 2nd Floor, HurghadaPhone: +20 2 336 5202

Fish MarketFish Market oers a wide selection of fresh sh on both set menus and la carte options. They have friendlyservice and excellent desserts.Address: Port Ghalib Marina, Marsa Alam

The Heaven RestaurantThe Heaven Restaurant is considered one of the best restaurants in Hurghada. Here you can enjoy the mostamazing view accompanied by delicious food andexcellent service.Address: Hurghada Marina Boulevard, Hurghada

Puddleduck Bar & RestaurantPuddleduck Bar & Restaurant oers fabulous food and comes well recommend from both tourists and locals.They have great service and a lovely atmosphere.Address: Downtown, Kafr, El GounaPhone: +20 1067168473

El JokerEl Joker is ranked one of the best sea food restaurants in Hurghada. You can choose to eat your sh onsite or haveit as a takeaway.Address: Sakkala Square, Hurghada

CAFES

Photo: Mohannad Khatib

In this historical environment you can easily nd a nice caf and just sit and relax. Enjoy a nice cup of coee andmaybe a delicious Egyptian sweet.Caf MaritimeCaf Maritime is a nautical-themed eatery overlooking the marina at El Gouna. The Caf Maritime serves snacksthroughout the day.Address: El Gouna complex, Hurghada

El Bustan CafEl Bustan Caf oers a wide selection of sandwiches, pizzas and shisha at the El Bustana.Address: El Gouna complex, HurghadaPhone: +2 065 354 97 02


El Zahraa Bakery & PastryIf you have a sweet tooth you will like El Zahraa Bakery & Pastry. Here you can try really nice baklava and fantasticcakes.Address: El Estad St., HurghadaMore Info: Beside el Safwa Mosque

Costa CoffeeThis is a good place to linger of a nice cup of coee. CostaCoee has a cosy atmosphere and a nice selection ofcakes, sandwiches and salads.Address: Sheraton St., HurghadaMore Info: In front of the Seagull Beach Resort

El Terrace CafeEl Terrace Cafe is a cute little, busy caf that serves coeeand tasty treats. This is a good place to catch up withfriends.Address: El Nasr St. Dahar. HurghadaPhone: +20 65 3547 473

BARS & NIGHTLIFE

Photo: Francesco Sgroi

Most lounges and bars are located within a hotel. There are many lovely places to sit down in the warm evening airand enjoy a nice, cooling drink.

Aladdin CasinoThe Casino in Hurghada oers the chance to try your luck at any one of the slot machines that line the walls. Hereyou can also nd roulette, poker and Black Jack tables.Address: El Gouna, HurghadaPhone: +20 65 354 9702

El Gezira HotelThe El Gezira Hotel oers a roof terrace overlooking the Nile. This is a great opportunity to turn a relaxing eveningdrink into a real experience.Address: West Bank, LuxorPhone: +20 952 310 034Internet: www.el-gezira.com

Marina LodgeThere are several facilities at the Marina Lodge ranging from a pool bar to restaurants and a roof top terrace. Allother nightlife or bar experience are located at varioushotels and resorts in the area.Address: Marina Lodge, Marsa Alam

Marsa AlamIf going clubbing until early morning is what you are looking for, Marsa Alam might not be the place. This is onthe other hand a great place for scuba diving or otheradventures. You can ask at your hotel for moreinformation.Address: Marsa AlamPhone: +1284 332 337


Internet: www.marsaalam.com

Nice Lounge BarIf you are in the mood for karaoke, then this is the place togo to. Nice Lounge Bar is also a stylish bar with goodservice and nice food.Address: Block D, Souq Marina, 45, HurghadaMore Info: Hurghada New Marina Boulevard

SHOPPING

Photo: Vincent Teeuwen

Without doubt, it is the bazaars that oer the widest selection of local crafts and artefacts, while designergoods can be found in the larger stores. The area aroundLuxors Corniche el-Nil is one of the busiest in the city, andeverything from jewellery to leather goods can be foundhere. But to experience the true shopping experience inLuxor, as well as Hurghada and Marsa Alam, head for thebazaars along the coast roads. Here, traditional souvenirslike copper ware, brasses, rugs and carpets, crafts such asglass vases and little perfume bottles, leatherwear suchas belts and sandals, and handmade jewellery can befound, along with masses of colourful textiles. Mostbazaars will have stalls selling herbs and spices likecloves, saron and turmeric, which give them theircharacteristic aroma.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Photo: Davidlohr Bueso

There are many nice hotels to choose from in Hurghada, Luxor and Marsa Alam. You can decide if you want to beclose to the beach or stay in the city centre.Hilton Luxor Resort & SpaThe luxurious Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa is a lavishly decorated hotel set right on the edge of the Nile. In thearea you can nd some of Luxors temples and palaces.Address: New Karnak, LuxorPhone: +20 95 2374933Internet: www.hilton.com

Shams Alam ResortShams Alam Resort is a lively, family-orientated beachside resort. This hotel oers a pleasing accommodation andgood diving. Other amenities onsite include massage, pooland sauna.Address: South Marsa Alam Road, Marsa AlamPhone: +20 2 224 44 931Internet: www.shams-dive.comEmail: [email protected]

Desert InnThe Desert Inn is a popular hotel in central Hurghada, located only 250 metres from the beach. Amenities at thehotel include a spa, pool and restaurant.Address: Sheraton Road, HurghadaPhone: +20 2 241 779 70Internet: www.samakahotels.comEmail: [email protected]


Heliopolis ResidenceIdeally located in downtown Hurghada you can nd the Heliopolis Residence. This hotel features a pool, retailshops and a sun terrace. All sportive guests can play agame of billiard or table tennis.Address: Sheraton Rd., HurghadaPhone: +20 65 3446013

Beirut Hotel HurghadaBeirut Hotel Hurghada is located right next to the beach and oers 148 rooms, featuring a terrace or balcony. Atthe hotel you can nd a pool, but all guests can choose ifthey want to relax in a sun-lounger here or at the privatebeach area.Address: El Corniche Rd. Dahar, HurghadaPhone: +20 65 548905Internet: www.beiruthotelseg.com

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

Photo: Jens-Christian Fischer

Hurghada AirportAll airports are centrally located and served by a network of the national and international airlines.

From Hurghada Airport can easily reach the city centre by bus or taxi. You can nd the bus next to the airportpassenger terminal and start lled up. They journey takesabout 20 minutes.

Taxis can also be found next to the airport passenger terminal.Address: Hurghada Airport, HurghadaPhone: +20 65 443 976Internet: www.hurghada-airport.co.uk

Luxor International AirportLuxor International Airport is located 6 kilometres from the city. You can reach the city by taxi. Car rentalcompanies are represented at the airport.Address: Luxor International Airport, LuxorPhone: +20 95 232 4455Internet: www.luxor-lux.airports-guides.com

Marsa Alam AirportMarsa Alam Airport is the rst privately owned airport in Egypt.Address: Marsa Alam Airport, Marsa AlamPhone: +20 65 370 0107Internet: www.marsa-alam-airport.com

Public transportTo get around these cities you can either walk or order a taxi. Mini-buses are common if you want to ride with thelocals.

Trains, which fall into two categories, one with air-conditioning the other without, are ideal for travelling tonearby towns and cities.TaxiTaxis are available from outside the airports and the bus


and rail stations in Hurghada, Luxor and Marsa Alam.Always check the price to your destination. Drivers willleave when the taxi is full, although you can have a vehicleto yourself if you are prepared to pay extra. Pay extraattention so you arrive at your destination and that you donot get scammed when you pay.PostPost oces in Egypt are generally open from 8.30-2.30 pm daily (except Friday) but can be a mineeld if Arabic isnot spoken or read. Hotels all oer postal services, whichis a safe option to ensure letters are sent and deliveredsafely.

Main Post Oce:Address: Sharia an-Nasr, Ad-Dahar, Hurghada

PharmacyPharmacies can be found in abundance in Hurghada, Luxor and Marsa Alam, and they sell cosmetics as well asmedicines. They are generally open from 9 am to around10 pm most days.TelephoneCountry code: +20

Area code, Hurghada: 065 Area code, Luxor: 095 Area code, Marsa Alam: 012Electricity220 volts with two-hole sockets.PopulationHurghada: 261,714Luxor: 506,588Marsa Alam: 10,000Currency1 Egyptian Pound (LE) = 100 piastersOpening hoursOpening hours vary. Most shops in Egypt are open from 9 am-10 pm Monday to Saturday. Banks are open daily from8.30 am-2 pm except for Friday and weekends.Newspapers

Egyptian GazetteMiddle East TimesAl-Ahram WeeklyEgypt TodayEgypt InsightEmergency numbersEmergency: 123Police: 126Fire Brigade: 180Tourist informationTourist Information Office HurghadaResort Strip, HurghadaOpen: 8 am-8 pm+20 65 344 4420

Tourist Information Office LuxorCorniche an-Nil, LuxorOpen: 8 am-8 pm+20 95 928 0004


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HURGHADALUXORMARSA ALAMDO & SEEMummification MuseumLuxor MuseumEl GounaBlue Paradise Diving CentreRed Sea Desert Adventures

DININGChez PascalFish MarketThe Heaven RestaurantPuddleduck Bar & RestaurantEl Joker

CAFESCaf MaritimeEl Bustan CafEl Zahraa Bakery & PastryCosta CoffeeEl Terrace Cafe

BARS & NIGHTLIFEAladdin CasinoEl Gezira HotelMarina LodgeMarsa AlamNice Lounge Bar

SHOPPINGACCOMMODATIONSHilton Luxor Resort & SpaShams Alam ResortDesert InnHeliopolis ResidenceBeirut Hotel Hurghada

ESSENTIAL INFORMATIONHurghada AirportLuxor International AirportMarsa Alam AirportPublic transportTaxiPostPharmacyTelephoneElectricity

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