Spotlight on Hurghada

Blue O Two Recommends: Spotlight on Hurghada

From Fishing Village…

When we first worked in Hurghada, we rented boats from local providers for our guests. We escorted most trips with a team from the UK. When we would arrive at the airport, it wasn’t much more than a portacabin. Pizza Hut, a Marriott Hotel and a branch of HSBC were the only recognisable brands. Even in the early noughties, Hurghada wasn’t much more than a village, servicing fishermen and avid divers. In fact, Hurghada once was ‘just’ a fishing village.

Sun, sea and some of the best diving in the world

…to a Major Red Sea Resort

It is now a major Red Sea resort. In just 20 years, Hurghada has been transformed due to Egyptian and foreign investment. It is well known for its watersports with hotels and resorts providing facilities for many sports from windsurfing to kitesurfing to SCUBA diving. It also has great bars and a variety of restaurants. The marina area is a favourite of locals and tourists.

Hurghada Marina

Why not take advantage?

We are seeing more and more requests from guests who want to extend their holidays by staying in the resort. They take advantage of anywhere from a day or two, up to a week in the city. Some choose to do this before boarding their liveaboard and some after disembarking. Either way, there is plenty to do and see in Hurghada – and a wide variety of hotels and resorts to choose from.

So what to do with your time?

As a resort full of attractions, you may wonder where to start when planning a trip to Hurghada. Sarah Kelly-Nasr is one of our Dive Travel Consultants. She has lived in Hurghada for many years and has some top tips for you if you are planning to extend your trip.

What to see

• • • El Mina Mosque – next to the Marina; open daily outside prayer time
    • Hurghada Museum – airport road opposite Steigenberger Aqua Magic; open daily
    • Stroll the local streets of Sekalla or Sherry Street both off Sheraton Road – here you’ll also find local cuisine such koshary, hawalshi or try a glass of refreshing sugar cane juice

Mosque El Mina Masjid, Hurghada

What to eat and drink

• • • • • The Marina – has a wealth of restaurants of all different cuisine – One of the Egypt team’s personal favourites is Grill and Chill
        • Along Sheraton Road you’ll find café bars and restaurants in abundance – for those carnivores among you, check out Moby Dick if you’re wanting to try your first camel steak
        • Caribbean Bar at the back of Bella Vista hotel is a waterfront setting and offers some super cocktails and menu of Italian flair
        • Looking for a local ‘pub’ and wanting to watch some sport? Then check out Retro Pub on Mamsha Esplanade – a popular hangout for tourists and residents alike

      Getting around

      Orange and Blue Street cars are plentiful – make sure you have some small Egyptian money for payment or you’ll find UBER easily available if you are connected.

      Sarah says…

      “We hope you find the above of some interest. If you require any further information don’t hesitate to ask one of our Dive Travel Consultants.”

      Why not enquire about extending your liveaboard trip to spend some time in Hurgahda? We can advise on hotels, resorts and activities to suit everyone. It’s a great option if you have non divers in your group too.