As the end of Ramadan draws ever closer, the time comes to prepare for the three-day Eid Al Fitr feast. Eid traditionally provides a good opportunity to get out of town and see even more of this country you call home. Whether you are feeling adventurous or in sore need of beachside relaxation, know that there are options for that traditional Eid trip which will leave you satisfied. We have decided to give you a list of options well in advance, to allow you to enjoy the remaining of Iftars and Sohours, contentedly knowing your vacation is all set and booked.
If you do not want to venture too far, or wish to get your dose of sun and fun without being too inaccessible, look no further than Ain Al Sokhna. With a name that literally translates as ‘the hot eye’, expect to tan like no other while still being no more than an hour or so from the capital. Panoramic views of the Red Sea and summer nights are in abundance. Great Sokhna hotels include Stella di Mare, Cancun, the Moevenpick and Porto Sokhna.
For a one-size-fits-all vibe, head a bit further out to the thriving town of El Gouna. A comparatively recent endeavour, El Gouna claims to have something for everybody. Whether it is golf for dad, lunch by the pool for mum or one of several nightspots for junior, it is almost guaranteed that no-one will leave dissatisfied. Notable hotels include the Sheraton, the Three Corners Rihana, the Steigenberger and the Sheraton.
For the liveliest nights, head on over to the glitz and kitsch of Sharm El Sheikh. Pools and beaches are the order of the day, while world-class clubs like Space and Dolce Vita run the night. For a somewhat multicultural Eid, pick Sharm for the hordes of Eastern Europeans and English who descend on the resort town. For accommodation try the Novotel or Sofitel, although we get the feeling you will not be spending much time in your room.
For a more subdued yet just as magical experience, try Marsa Alam on for size. Relative obscurity and a harsh policy when it comes to noisy and destructive things like jet skis or banana boats help Marsa Alam retain some of the most mind-blowing dive sites in the world. Coral reefs, mangroves, assorted underwater flora and fauna and even shore-side nurseries for baby fish exist in multitudes. For a great Marsa Alam diving experience, stay at Utopia Beach, the Iberotel or Lahami Bay.
Finally, for an alternative Eid, try Nuweiba or Luxor and Aswan. In Nuweiba you will find the largest array of eco-lodges and camps this side of Woodstock. Enjoy the simple life with basic amenities and spend the time taking in Nuweiba’s wonderful lifestyle, replete with white beaches and almost no people. Luxor is much on the same track, with lush green islands and amazing Nile views while Aswan is the place to soak up some culture by visiting the Pharaonic landmarks and the High Dam.
In conclusion, reserve while you can because Eid is notorious for being a no-holds-barred race out of the city. Once you get to your chosen destination, however, assuming you have followed our advice, rest assured it will all be worth it as you feel the stress of the daily routine melt away.
