Egypt Beyond History and Civilization: A Journey to Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada

My voyage to these two coastal cities began in Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital. After exploring the pyramids and museums of Cairo, I set my sights on the Red Sea. My first destination was Sharm El-Sheikh, the city of peace and tranquility.

Sharm El-Sheikh: The Luminous Pearl of Sinai

Sharm El-Sheikh, a radiant gem in the Sinai Peninsula, is situated approximately 500 kilometers southeast of Cairo. Once a small fishing village, it has now evolved into one of Egypt's and the world's most luxurious tourist destinations. The name Sharm El-Sheikh translates to "Sheikh's Bay" or "Sheikh's Haven," with its origins tracing back to the Ottoman era. Various narratives exist regarding the naming of this region, but what remains certain is that Sharm El-Sheikh has consistently been a safe and serene haven for residents and travelers alike.

Upon arriving in Sharm El-Sheikh, the cool Red Sea breeze instantly swept away the Cairo heat and hustle from my mind. A city with wide avenues, towering palm trees, and modern, colorful buildings unfolded before me. I felt as though I had entered a world distinctly different from historical Egypt.

Sharm El-Sheikh is celebrated for its idyllic beaches and pristine waters. Naama Bay, the beating heart of Sharm El-Sheikh, teeming with luxurious resorts, restaurants, and numerous cafes, is always vibrant and alive. Strolling along this beach, watching the sunset, and enjoying the pleasant evening air was an unforgettable experience.

However, Sharm El-Sheikh's main allure lies beneath its waters. The transparent waters of the Red Sea are a paradise for divers and underwater enthusiasts. The water clarity in this area is exceptional, allowing divers to enjoy a clear view of colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life down to depths of tens of meters.

As a diving enthusiast, I seized the opportunity and visited one of the reputable diving centers in the city. After a brief training session, fully equipped, I descended into the depths of the Red Sea. What an amazing world! Coral reefs in shades of red, orange, yellow, and purple, like a floating garden underwater, were a feast for the eyes. Colorful fish, schools of small and large fish, swam rhythmically around the corals. Sea turtles, calm and dignified, moved among the corals, occasionally approaching me, as if to say hello. Witnessing such beauty underwater was truly breathtaking. I felt as if I had entered a magical world that I had previously only seen in movies.

Beyond diving, Sharm El-Sheikh offers a diverse array of water sports. Jet skiing, boating, parasailing, and snorkeling are just a few of these activities. For those seeking relaxation and sunbathing, the sandy beaches and comfortable sun loungers of the resorts are ideal.

Sharm El-Sheikh isn't confined to water-based activities alone. The Sinai Desert, with its sand dunes and deep valleys, provides other adventurous opportunities. Safaris in SUVs, quad biking, and camel riding in the desert are thrilling and unique experiences. In the heart of the desert, you can visit Bedouin villages and become acquainted with the local culture and lifestyle. Moreover, stargazing in the desert at night, far from city light pollution, is deeply gratifying.

Life continues in Sharm El-Sheikh into the night. Beachfront restaurants and cafes, with live music and varied cuisines, create a delightful atmosphere for dinner and socializing. The city's traditional markets, selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and fragrant spices, are captivating places for browsing and shopping.

Accommodation in Sharm El-Sheikh, catering to every taste and budget, is diverse. From luxurious 5-star resorts with comprehensive amenities to budget-friendly hotels and rental apartments, various options are available. Sharm El-Sheikh resorts typically feature private beaches, swimming pools, diverse restaurants, and evening entertainment programs, providing a comfortable and luxurious stay for guests.

During my stay in Sharm El-Sheikh, besides water activities and city exploration, I also found time to visit nearby historical and cultural attractions. St. Catherine's Monastery, one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, is located near Sharm El-Sheikh, and visiting it was both a spiritual and historical experience. Additionally, Ras Muhammad National Park, a marine protected area with unparalleled biodiversity, is another must-see destination near Sharm El-Sheikh.

Hurghada: The City of Colors and Recreation

After a few days in Sharm El-Sheikh, I headed towards Hurghada, another Egyptian coastal city along the Red Sea. Hurghada is approximately 450 kilometers northeast of Cairo and slightly further from Cairo than Sharm El-Sheikh. Like Sharm El-Sheikh, Hurghada has transformed from a small fishing village into a large, bustling tourist city. The name Hurghada means "the Moringa tree" and refers to the abundant Moringa trees that once grew in this region.

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Hurghada is a vibrant and colorful city, full of life. Colorful buildings, bustling markets, street restaurants and cafes, and warm, hospitable people lend the city a unique charm. Hurghada seemed slightly more traditional than Sharm El-Sheikh, and the authentic Egyptian feel was more palpable.

Hurghada’s beaches are as beautiful and clear as those of Sharm El-Sheikh. Hurghada Marina, one of the city's most famous beaches, with recreational boats and seafood restaurants, is an attractive place for leisure and dining. El Gouna beach, located near Hurghada, is a luxurious coastal town with waterways, opulent hotels, and golf courses, often referred to as the "Venice of Egypt."

Diving in Hurghada is as popular and sought-after as in Sharm El-Sheikh. The Red Sea in this area also boasts high biodiversity, and divers can observe beautiful coral reefs, shipwrecks, and various marine creatures. Numerous diving centers in Hurghada offer diving courses and tours for both beginners and professionals.

In Hurghada too, I didn't miss the opportunity to dive, heading to one of the famous diving sites near the city. This time, I had the experience of diving at a shipwreck. The SS Thistlegorm, a British cargo ship sunk by German bombers in World War II, is now a renowned diving site, allowing divers to explore the ship's remains, military equipment, and underwater cargo. Diving at the SS Thistlegorm was a thrilling and unique experience, sparking curiosity and adventure in me.

Besides diving and water activities, Hurghada offers other attractions. Islands around Hurghada, such as Giftun Island and Mahmya Island, with pristine beaches and untouched nature, are ideal destinations for day trips, perfect for enjoying tranquility and natural beauty. Boat tours to these islands typically include diving, snorkeling, sunbathing, and beachside lunch.

In Hurghada, traditional and local markets are a fascinating part of the city. Dahar Market, the city's main bazaar, selling a variety of goods from handicrafts and souvenirs to spices and foodstuffs, is a vibrant and colorful place. Strolling through this market, observing local vendors, hearing the sounds of haggling, and smelling fragrant spices, offers an authentic taste of Egyptian life.

Hurghada's nightlife is vibrant. Beachfront restaurants and cafes, with live music and local dances, create a cheerful and energetic atmosphere. Nightclubs and discos offer diverse options for those seeking nighttime entertainment.

Accommodation in Hurghada, similar to Sharm El-Sheikh, is diverse and caters to different budgets. Luxury resorts, mid-range hotels, and budget hotels are all found in Hurghada. Many of Hurghada's resorts feature water parks, swimming pools, international restaurants, and entertainment programs for both children and adults.

During my stay in Hurghada, beyond beach leisure and city exploration, I also had the opportunity to visit nearby cultural and historical attractions. The city of Luxor, with the Karnak Temples and the Valley of the Kings, is about a 4-hour drive from Hurghada, and day trips to Luxor from Hurghada are feasible. Additionally, the city of Qena, with the Dendera Temple, is another historical destination near Hurghada.

Egypt, Beyond Expectations

My trip to Egypt exceeded all expectations. Before traveling, I only knew Egypt for its ancient history and civilization. But on this trip, I witnessed another face of Egypt-a modern, beautiful, and vibrant one. Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada, two radiant jewels on the Red Sea coast, introduced me to a world of natural beauty, modern recreation, and rich Egyptian culture.

Diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, witnessing colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life, was an unforgettable experience. Sunbathing on sandy beaches, strolling through bustling city streets, exploring traditional markets, and enjoying delicious Egyptian cuisine all created sweet moments for me.

Egypt is not just history and civilization; it is a complete and diverse tourist destination that can satisfy various tastes. From enthusiasts of history and culture to lovers of nature and beach recreation, everyone can find something to enjoy in Egypt.

My journey to Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada taught me that Egypt is far more than just history and civilization. This country holds a treasure of beauty and wonders that amazes every traveler. If you seek a unique and exciting trip, Egypt, and especially Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada, are fantastic choices. This journey will not only create pleasant memories for you but also transform your perception of Egypt. Egypt is a land to be visited repeatedly, discovering a new facet of it each time.