Hurghada

HURGHADA is one of Egypt's major Red Sea resorts. Once an isolated and modest fishing village, it is now home to more than 35,000 people and packed with more than 100 hotels and holiday villages. The resort attracts sun seekers and diving enthusiasts from the four corners of the globe.

Situated 395kms south of Suez, Hurghada is noted for its perfect weather year-round. Its warm sea and unmatchable formations of coral reefs and rare fish species make it a haven for divers and snorkellers. Even those who do not dive or snorkel can still enjoy the fascinating coral reefs and the abounding marine life on board of one of the numerous bottom glass boats.

Underwater sights are not all that Hurghada offers to sea lovers, as it also provides them with a variety of water sports such as swimming, sailing, water-skiing and wind surfing. Most hotels and holiday villages also offer their guests a wide range of sports activities like tennis, squash, beach volleyball and basketball.

For those who want to swim or dive in peace, there are 25 small islands around Hurghada that offer excellent getaways for travelers wishing to escape to private, secluded beaches.

Hurghada offers the ideal combination of sea, sun and sand. Visitors can go on a desert safari by four-wheel drive or camel, camping overnight in the mountains nearby. By day excursions into the desert hills offer access to the Monasteries of Saint Paul, on Ras Ghareb-Zafarana road; and Saint Antonious on Zafarana-Korayymat road.

Hurghada town is split into three main areas: Al-Dahhar -- where virtually all the budget accommodation is located and many of the locals live -- is at the northern end of the stretch of resorts that make up the area. The area is also known for its vibrant souq. Separated from Al-Dahhar by a sandy mountain is Sigala, the fastest growing part of town, where five-star hotel resorts jostle for sea frontage and smaller two-star and three-star hotels fill the spaces inland. The main thoroughfare through Sigala is Sheraton Road. Most of Hurghada's best restaurants are clustered at the northern end of the Sheraton Road and the area is bustling and lively at night. South of Sigala, a road winds down along the coast through the resort strip.

From Hurghada, travellers can also make daily excursions to numerous nearby resorts. Luxor is accessible by road -- a three-hour ride takes visitors to the Upper Egyptian city where one third of the world's ancient monuments are located.

Hurghada facts

This popular Red Sea resort is home to magnificent coral reef formations, various fish species and rich marine life.

Population: 35,000

Industries: Tourism-related industries include artwork and lamps made from sea shells; and embroidery of cotton-wear with Pharaonic and marine drawings.

Sights: The Aquarium, which houses magnificent marine species, including the elusive mermaid; and the Monasteries of St Paul and St Antonious, which date back to the fourth century.

Hotels: A wide range of hotels and holiday villages that cater to all types of travelers -- from the deluxe and lavishly furnished, to the basic backpacker-type options. Hilton Plaza (+2065) 549-745; Inter-Continental (+2065) 446-911; Hurghada Marriott Beach Resort (+2065) 446-950; Sofitel (+2065) 447-261; Three Corners Village (+2065) 547-816; Tabia Hotel (+2065) 442-350.

Restaurants: Fish restaurants include Red Sea I and Red Sea II, Joker and Hefny. Coffee shops offer snacks and soft drinks. Fast food includes McDonald's and Pizza Hut.

Stadium:Hurghada International Stadium. (Planned)