Hotels in Egypt

The cosmopolitan resort of Hurghada is the capital of the Red Sea Riviera, where beautiful beaches, vibrant nightclubs and world-class diving destinations await. It’s a world away from its origins as a small fishing village, yet is maintains all of its Egyptian charm. Tucked away in the depths of the turquoise waters are striking underwater coral gardens just waiting to be explored by eager divers; they’re awash with incredible marine life like pretty butterfly fish and glow-in-the-dark anemones.

As well as underwater experiences, the possibilities for family fun are virtually endless on Hurghada holidays, with everything from paddling in the shallow shores of white-sand beaches to diving in the deep, blue sea and sailing on a catamaran

What do I need to pack?

With the ‘Capital of the Red Sea’ sitting on the edge of the Sahara Desert, you can expect the sun to be strong, so be sure to take plenty of sunscreen on your holiday to Hurghada. Unlike other tropical climates, there’s little or no humidity, so cool and airy clothes made from natural fibres like cotton, linen or bamboo are perfect.

Egypt is a conservative country, so it’s advisable for women to cover up once they’re away from the beach. Pack long dresses, long-sleeved shirts and, if you’re thinking of visiting any religious sites, a headscarf is also a good idea. Similarly, men ought to pack some trousers as, even in modern cities like Cairo, too much flesh can cause unintended offence.

For those who want to bring gadgets with them, a plug adaptor is essential, and it can be helpful to have a portable power pack to hand.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Hurghada Resort | Red Sea | El Gouna | Makadi Bay | Sharm El Sheikh 

Hurghada began life as a tiny fishing village on the Red Sea Riviera, and over the years has blossomed into a full-scale seaside resort. As well as its beautiful white sand beaches and world-class diving, Hurghada is a great place to shop and has some of the best nightlife around, with a lively waterfront packed with bars and clubs.

Things to do

Visit Hurghada’s new marina to plan a sailing excursion out to the uninhabited Giftun Island, or go scuba diving in the crystal clear depths of the Red Sea. Pick a comfy spot on the soft, sandy beaches for a little relaxation, or get involved with the water sports; Hurghada’s beach has a reputation for great water skiing and kite surfing.

For family holidays, it’s well worth visiting one of the city’s nearby water sports like Makadi Water World, where you can cool off on a hot day at the slides and wave pool. The city has an energetic nightlife scene, with a buzzing waterfront lined with bars and clubs.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Red Sea | El Gouna | Hurghada | Makadi Bay | Sharm el Sheikh 

Spread around a turquoise lagoon on the Red Sea, El Gouna lies in one of the most picturesque locations on the Riviera. Hurghada’s deluxe neighbour, El Gouna is a modern and self-contained seaside resort with luxury hotels, a championship golf course and white-sand beaches. It’s also one of Egypt’s premier diving and snorkelling locations, with fantastic excursion opportunities and plenty of fun sports and beach activities for kids.

Things to do

The resort’s sun-drenched waterfront has a hive of activity during the day. Pick your perfect spot on the picture-perfect beach and sunbathe on the white sand, before taking a dip in the turquoise water. If you’re eager to explore the Red Sea further, why not book a diving excursion and take a closer look? For golf lovers, there’s the 18-hole golf course, set against magnificent coastal scenery.

Memorable adventures are plentiful, too, including deserts safaris on quadbikes and jeeps. Head for the harbour to enjoy a fresh fish dish and all kinds of local specialties. You’ll also find stylish shops in this part of town. El Gouna holidays are ideal for kids too, with mini golf, go-karting and boat trips going on all year. 

Excellent beaches

There are a number of lovely beaches to spend time relaxing on sun loungers in the hot, Egyptian sun. Most beaches have white, soft sand that shelves gently into the stunning turquoise waters. The beach has a backdrop of fragrant shrubbery, adding a splash of colour to the desert landscape. If you want to relax in an upbeat atmosphere, head over to Mangroovy Beach. The sandy shores have a vast array of water sports available for you to try and it’s said to be the best location in the country for kite surfing and diving. All beaches have great amenities with shops, restaurants and cafés for a break out of the sunshine.

History and culture

The relatively new build was brought to life in the 1990s to ensure holidaymakers have everything they may need in one neatly placed paradise. The small town is home to over 22,000 residents and is spread across islands around cool lagoons. You’re able to explore Egypt’s historic wonders and archaeological treasures with the ancient temples of Luxor and Aswan within easy enough reach. Conveniently located 25 kilometres north of Hurghada, the airport is also easy accessible.

Vibrant nightlife

The picturesque resort is made up of All Inclusive complexes so you wont have to travel far as the majority of the nightlife is focused in the hotels. Enjoy a cocktail whilst sitting outside under the stars after dining in one of the restaurants and sampling traditional cuisines. You may find that the evening entertainment consists of live music, cabaret or dance shows, which can be enjoyed no matter what your age.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Red Sea | Hurghada | Makadi Bay | Sharm el Sheikh 

Makadi Bay is a modern seaside resort developed around a picturesque bay on the Red Sea Riviera. A quieter option to neighbouring Hurghada, Makadi Bay is popular for its idyllic palm-fringed beaches, spectacular diving and an 18-hole golf course. The resort is the ideal base for sailing and diving excursions, with a buzzing waterfront filled with quality hotel resorts gazing out across the bay.

Things to do

Explore Makadi Bay’s breathtaking Red Sea coast with a day’s sailing trip, either in a fishing boat, leisurely catamaran or glass-bottom boat tour. Keen divers can venture out to sea to experience the region’s wrecks and reefs, or snorkel in the vibrant waters surrounding Giftun Island. Next, head to the beach and pick a good spot on the silky, white sand wrapped around the turquoise bay. The water sports in Makadi Bay are excellent, with everything from parasailing to speed boat rides. If golf is your thing, then make a beeline for the resort’s championship golf course, with top-class facilities and magnificent scenery.

Excellent beaches

The beautiful coastline of Makadi Bay is made up of pale, golden sand that lies in a unique horseshoe shape. The beach is popular in the daytime, but you’ll still be able to find your own spot of paradise on the beach. If you fancy a more upbeat activity, there are a large variety of water sports to try, including jet skiing, windsurfing, paragliding and even pedal boats. Snorkelling is a must in Makadi Bay as the vibrant reefs are a haven for exotic fish.

Shopping

Shopping is popular in Makadi Bay as you are able to experience a mix of western and traditional culture in one afternoon. Enjoy haggling at the grand bazaars found in the heart of Makadi.

Purchase unique Alabaster statues and handcrafted art, including beautiful hieroglyphics and illustrations on ancient papyrus paper. Walk through the bustling bazaar and browse the fragrant stalls of specially made perfumes, oils and spices.

Nightlife

The Makadi Bay nightlife is fairly low-key with the majority of after dark activities focused in the resort hotels. Dine on a delicious meal and sip on a cocktail in the beautifully warm evening climate. Enjoy nightly entertainment from the comfort of your All Inclusive hotel in this purpose built resort. If you are in need of something a little livelier, just a short drive away is the bustling town of Hurghada where you’ll be able to find plenty of buzzing bars and clubs.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Red Sea | El Gouna | Hurghada | Sharm el Sheikh 

One of Egypt’s oldest and most popular holiday resorts, Sharm El Sheikh wins fans for its breathtaking location on the Sinai Peninsula. The Red Sea coast provides white-sand beaches and some of the finest diving in the world, with crystalline waters teeming with underwater life, wrecks and coral reefs. As well as the diving, Sharm El Sheikh is the ideal place for desert safaris, where you can ride camels through the dunes and camp out under the stars.

Things to do

Start your romance with Sharm El Sheikh on the coast, where the miles of white sand are at your disposal for soaking up the sun, getting stuck into water sports or swimming in the warm sea. Diving excursions are a must, as the Red Sea is one of the finest diving destinations in the world. If you’re away with kids, spend the day at the local water park, which has a staggering 44 water slides and lots of swimming pools to enjoy. Explore the bustling souls in Sharm El Sheikh’s old town to pick up unique Bedouin souvenirs, or plan an excursion through the desert by camelback. 

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Red Sea | El Gouna | Hurghada | Makadi Bay

Perfect for watersports lovers - or if you're looking to get started - Sharks Bay is a quieter part of the wider Sharm el Sheikh area. It's pretty laidback and is mostly centred around the great diving that's on offer. Explore the underwater drama of this idyllic spot.

Things to do

Sharks Bay is all about its dazzling coast, so head down to the golden beach and prepare yourself for a little adventure. The water sports are fantastic, with parasailing and speedboat rides to keep you busy. Take snorkelling trip to experience the tranquil Red Sea or plan a scuba diving excursion further afield. Back on dry land, the desert is another part of Egypt ripe for exploration, with camel treks or quad bike excursions around the rolling dunes. Sharm El Sheik’s popular water park is a hit with kids for its choice of pools and slides, and while you’re there, browse the old town’s lively souks.

Bustling cities, laid-back beaches and historic sights galore; you’ll find all this and more on a holiday to Morocco, served with a generous helping of North African sunshine. Morocco offers all the exotic attractions of a holiday to the Middle East, combined with some unique African character. Souk-filled Marrakech (or Marrakesh if you prefer) is a popular destination, where you’ll discover a fascinating medina and the towering Atlas Mountains within easy reach.

The city’s not far from the Atlantic coast, where Agadir holidays promise a long sandy beach and crumbling Kasbah. Or, you could choose the chilled-out seaside town of Essaouira if you really want to get away from it all. That all comes together to make Morocco holidays a dazzling feast for the senses, and a great spot for some serious sunbathing, too!

Things to do

Looking for the best beaches the country has to offer? Visiting them tops the list of things to do in Morocco! Head south to discover vibrant resorts and pristine white sands. You’ll find a 10km stretch in Agadir, which is a wonderful place to try your hand at windsurfing or take a leisurely boat trip.

You’ll only be a stone’s throw from the maze-like souks and nightlife in Agadir town centre, too. There are also some great nightclubs in Marrakech, but if you’re after a traditional Moroccan experience, you’ll love getting lost in the city’s medina (old town) and exploring the ancient sights. And don’t forget to look out for the magnificent minarets and energetic street performers while you’re there.

Where to go

Morocco’s southwest coast is known for its year-round sunshine, with temperatures rarely dipping below 20°C. It has fantastic beaches characterised by classic white-gold sand and upbeat, modern resorts. Holiday resorts like Agadir and Essaouira are considered the best in the whole country for a beach break. You’ll find a range of family-friendly hotels, plus some great shopping and top water sports.

Up in the northwest, dip your toes in the Mediterranean at Tangier, where there’s a more multicultural vibe. Meanwhile, the famous bustle of Jemaa El Fna square makes Marrakech holidays a must for a more traditional place to experience Morocco’s culture. There are other alluring cities, too, including Fez (aka Fes) and coastal Rabat. Wherever you stay, make sure you pack some kind of cover-up - Morocco is a Muslim country that follows Islamic laws and customs, and it’s important to respect these at all times.

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Ready to find out more? Check out our other Morocco holiday guides: Agadir | Marrakech

A land bursting with souks and spices amidst desert dunes. A place for romantics, beach-lovers, barterers and adventurers, this sun-kissed land entices and delights many people for many reasons. The Romans loved it, and so do we, and it's not hard to think why with our great selection of Tunisia holidays.

Things to do

A land bursting with souks and spices amidst desert dunes. A place for romantics, beach-lovers, barterers and adventurers, this sun-kissed land entices and delights many people for many reasons. The Romans loved it, and so do we, and it’s not hard to think why with our great selection of Tunisia holidays. Echoing with the regular call to prayer, Hammamet will give you a rich taste of the exotic.

Places to stay

With crystal blue waters, sandy bays and a rich, cultural history, Tunisia is the perfect place to go on holiday. On your holiday to Tunisia, you can choose to explore Hammamet’s resort or the city of Monastir. Both places are home to some amazing history, like Monastir’s Forte El Ribat castle which sits on the seafront, or the 13th century Kasbah in Hammamet. If you prefer to soak up some traditional culture on your holiday to Tunisia, wander down to Monastir’s marina to look at the pretty boats and mingle amongst locals, or pick up a bargain at Hammamet’s Medina.

What should I pack?

Your holiday wardrobe will depend on what time of year you’re travelling and the activities you’re planning. It’s wise to check the weather forecast before you go.

During the summer, loose, cotton clothing can help keep you cool when the temperature rises. Dressing conservatively is also advised (Tunisia is a Muslim country). For example, women shouldn’t wear mini-skirts, and a headscarf must be worn when visiting a mosque, while men should avoid shorts and vest tops when visiting religious sites.

Even though it’s hot during the day, it’s worth packing something a little warmer to wear in the evening; in certain parts of Tunisia, temperatures can actually fall below 0°C when the sun goes down, especially in the more mountainous areas.

Planning on hiking? You’ll need hiking boots to take on those sandy deserts and rocky paths, so make sure they’re sturdy and comfortable.

Don’t forget sun cream

You can expect lots of glorious sunshine in Tunisia, so be sure to pack your sunglasses. Bring plenty of sun cream, too, as it can be very expensive to buy when you’re out there. A sun hat can is great for keeping the sunshine at bay, especially for the kids.

Bring mosquito repellent

Be sure to bring mosquito repellent with you, just in case you can’t find any while you’re out there. It’s always sensible to wear it in the evenings.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Djerba | Hammamet | Port el Kantaoui | Sousse

Untouched sand, year-round sunshine and amazing wildlife sightings, Cape Verde holidays offer that off-the-beaten-track feel without traveling too far. Africa’s answer to the Caribbean, this exotic chain of 10 islands is only a short six hours from the UK. From its fascinating mix of cultures to the verdant meets volcanic landscape, there are few places that dish up so much diversity. With an incredible coastline, Sal tends to come out on top, while Boa Vista is often favoured by families thanks to its choice of Blue Flag beaches.

Things to do

Whether you want to relax along the sand, soak up the vibrant music scene or test out the exhilaring watersports, you certainly won’t run out of things to do on your Cape Verde holidays.

Everyday is a beach day here, and we suggest you start your shore-hopping adventures in Sal. From its oceanside drinking spots, to its impressive set of watersports and swim-friendly waters, Santa Maria’s coast is a fantastic option for families. Wander east and you’ll come to the aptly named Kite Beach.This windy spot attracts some of the world’s best riders, all waiting to catch the perfect wave. Want to get involved with the surfing action? There’s a school where you can book lessons right on the sand. For quiet sunbathing stints surrounded by rolling sand dunes, Boa Vista’s Praia de Chaves is a great spot for romantic strolls.

Sightseeing on the sand is also an option on your Boa Vista holidays. Head to Praia de Atalanta and you’ll find an old Spanish cargo ship deserted in the water. Today it is a must-visit attraction, not to mention one of Cape Verde’s most photographed spots. Those looking for a relaxing float should swap Cape Verde’s beaches for the salt pans of Pedra de Lume. Home to an extinct volcano, the water is said to be saltier than the Dead Sea, while the mud from the lake will do wonders for your skin.

If you like your Cape Verde holidays with a slice of action, don’t miss out on the long list of adrenaline-fuelled activities. Scuba diving is a great way to see the local marine life with opportunities to swim alongside turtles and mantas. Buracona (or, Blue Eye) is a natural cave and a must-visit for submerged adventures. And even if you don’t dive in, it’s worth a visit just for its incredible waters, which change to a beautiful turquoise colour under the sunlight. 

If you don’t fancy getting wet, there’s plenty of land-based action too. Ride a quad bike across its mars-like desert or hop on a saddle and enjoy a horse ride along the beach at sunset.

After all of the activity, it’s time to slow things down in the island towns or fishing villages. Santa Maria in Sal is a great place to start with its local market and fantastic restaurants, where you can tuck into dishes influenced by Portugal, Africa and Brazil. If you come here after-dark, the place has a totally different vibe, so don’t be surprised if you get drawn into one of the bars playing Cape Verdean ‘morna’ music. This combination of guitar, violin and soulful lyrics, is a musical experience you won’t want to miss.

Unsure of the best time of the year to visit? Check the weather in Cape Verde to see which month is right for you.