Five places to visit in Egypt this Eid

Photo: El Gouna, Egypt / Photo credit: elgouna.com

Still haven’t planned your Eid getaway? Well, worry not; we’ve got your last-minute short break all planned for you. With summer coming to an end and back-to-school season upon us, we know how daunting planning can be, especially if you are based in Egypt!

Here are five holiday staycations (or last-minute short break ideas) to enjoy before the new season kicks in:

THE NORTH COAST

Photo: Rixos Alamein, North Coast, Egypt / Photo credit: Rixos Alamein 

Think of it as the Cabo San Lucas of Egypt. With white sandy beaches; turquoise, crystal-clear waters; and picturesque views all around, the North Coast is a local favourite and a great option if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The downside, though? Accommodation rates. While the North Coast boasts an array of 5-star hotels like Rixos Alamein and Travco’s Almaza Bay, rates for a one-night stay at a bed-and-breakfast start at almost $200.

But there is an alternative in IOS Village, a Greek-inspired boutique hotel that offers rooms starting at $56 a night. At that rate, there’s really no reason not to go! After all, the North Coast was one of Kourtney Kardashian’s hot spots this summer.

El GOUNA

The land of the rich and famous. Take a stroll down the marina and indulge in the city’s best gourmet restaurants with dozens of superyachts docked right before your eyes. The modern resort town is only a few kilometres away from the city of Hurghada and is home to El Gouna International Squash Open. It will soon be home to El Gouna Film Festival as well. Packed with Egypt’s finest restaurants, small boutique shops, and the creme de la creme of Egyptian society, it’s not a place you can get bored in. With a wide range of accommodation options, El Gouna offers plenty of places to stay in that suits every budget. You can find more info at the official website of El Gouna here.

DAHAB

Photo: Dahab, Egypt 

Dubbed one of the best diving spots in the world, Egypt is home to more than one adventure in Dahab and Sharm El Sheikh. Offering from diving with sharks to wreck-diving through sunken World War II ships, Dahab is a must-see. Unlike Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab is very low-key and not flashy. Hotel and hostel rates run anywhere between $10 and $50 a night, depending on the services you pick.

RAS SUDR

Photo: Kitesurfing in Ras Sudr, Egypt / Photo credit: La Hacienda - Ras Sudr  

Located on the Gulf of Suez and the Red Sea coast, Ras Sudr is a small town but its 95-km beach coastline has plenty to offer. Add to that a two-hour ride away from Cairo, and Ras Sudr becomes the perfect weekend getaway. Home to the famous King of the Lagoon kitesurfing competition, Ras Sudr is Egypt’s up-and-coming spot. Learn to kitesurf, hold a beach wedding, meet new people, and maybe even move there; there’s a lot you can learn and do at Ras Sudr this Eid. A variety of accommodation options are available, from hotels to Airbnb rentals. Inside tip: Ras Sudr’s top hotels are La Hacienda Ras Sudr and Matarma Bay.

ALEXANDRIA

Photo: Alexandria, Egypt

Egypt’s most European city, with an unparalleled history. Founded by Alexander the Great and the home of Cleopatra, this seaside city’s atmosphere is just beautiful. While it does get crowded and chaotic in the summer and during the holidays, early Friday mornings are ideal if you want to capture the essence of the city. From the 15th-century Qaitbay Citadel to the famous 19th-century Montazah Palace and even The Greek Club Restaurant, Alexandria is a really good weekend staycation.

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