Marsa Alam holidays

Egyptian fare bears a striking resemblance to its Middle Eastern neighbours with the likes of hummus, falafel, stuffed grape leaves and flatbread appearing on most menus. Despite its similarities, the country still has some flavours of its own. Try ful medames a dish as old as the Pharaohs, which is basically a stew made from fava beans, or Konafa a shredded filo pastry dessert with a creamy nut centre. Those looking to eat outside their hotel will be welcomed by a host of traditional and international eateries. Head for Port Ghalib Marina and make a beeline for Hakuna Matata where an international a la carte menu awaits, not to mention local performers and live music. For a taste of Egypt, Al Sultan Restaurant and Lounge Bar serves warm kebabs stuffed with grilled meat and comes equipped with shisha pipes for the ultimate authentic evening.

Known for its lengthy, picture-perfect coastline stretching for 50 kilometres, spread out on golden sands surrounded by tropical palm trees. As one of the finest shores in the region, Abu Dabbab Bay is best loved for its diving adventures with giant sea turtles and dugong, or as they are nicknamed ‘sea cows’ calling its waters home. Likened to the Maldives, Sharm El Luli has been ranked among the best beaches in the world on Tripadvisor. Sitting south of Marsa Alam town, this white sand paradise complete with serene lagoon waters is quite the day trip. Wadi Gemal National Park is also home to two stunning coastal spots, where you’ll most likely see camels transporting tourists up and down the beach.

When you’re not discovering its magnificent underwater world or exploring its vast desert, Marsa Alam has something to suit every travel style. Shoppers will love the historic city El Quseir, the best local town in the area for some retail therapy, while revellers will love the late-night bars found in Port Ghalib. Those looking to delve into the country’s famous past can book trips to Luxor and Aswan, where some of the finest examples of ancient Egyptian history are hiding, from underground tombs to grand carved temples.

Get lost in its incredible reefs: Housing some of the world’s best dive sites and coral reefs, which remain undamaged by the environment, snorkelers and divers will be in their element. Always wanted to swim alongside wild dolphins? Then, Samadai Reef is just the spot. Although not guaranteed, you’re bound to see plenty of other amazing sea life if you don’t bump into these beautiful mammals. And you don’t have to be a pro to get into the water either. Elphinstone Reef is one of the world’s most fascinating diving destinations, not only will you be compelled by its vivid colours, but it’s also home to two shark species – the whitetip and hammerhead. However, it is only recommended you visit if you’re an experienced diver.

Discover Wadi El-Gamal National Park: As one of the largest valleys in the Eastern desert and considered one of Egypt’s most striking protected areas, take a safari tour through this nature-filled treasure trove. With a name that translates to ‘Valley of the Camels’ don’t be surprised if you see a few of these two-humped animals roaming the land. Covering around 5,000 square kilometres, keep your eyes peeled for engaged species, not to mention it habitats a 120 kilometre coastline housing an astonishing coral reef. For a slice of history, it also features the world’s oldest emerald mine and Cleopatra Temple. Your trip will usually end with a traditional Bedouin meal, before taking part in an authentic tribal dance.