Discover Egypt's Hidden Gem Before Everyone Else Does..

By Author: Sean Gerrie
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The Red Sea Riviera has burgeoned in popularity in recent years. Coral reefs, great value hotels and the desert climate tick all the boxes for holidaymakers looking for an affordable holiday in the sun. Flagship resort Sharm el Sheikh offers an abundance of beach front, resort-style hotels and a lively resort centre with bars, cafes and chain restaurants. The only thing the Red Sea coast lacks is the sightseeing opportunities that many holidaymakers expect when they travel to Egypt. Luckily, there's a newcomer on the Egyptian holiday scene that lets tourists combine relaxation with exploration: the Mediterranean Coast.

Northern Egypt

Northern Egypt resorts are unspoilt compared to their Red Sea coast counterparts. Visitors will still find spotless beaches, inviting azure seas and palm trees but things here are just a little more low-key. There's barely any evening entertainment apart from the odd hotel-based cultural show, making the Mediterranean coast ideal for holidaymakers with absolute tranquillity in mind. ...
... The main resort here is Marsa Matruh, which has been popular with Egyptians for years. Situated on a beautiful stretch of coastline between Libya and Alexandria, these are Egypt's secret sands . As well as the beautiful beaches, Marsa Matruh also maintains a traditional main street with carpet shops and markets – a true taste of Egypt that's difficult to find on the Red Sea Coast. Now, the secret is out and UK holidaymakers can fly direct to Marsa Matruh from both London and Manchester.

The hotels on offer in Marsa Matruh are similar to many of the popular properties in Sharm el Sheikh: beach front, luxury and all-inclusive, but guests will find much more places of interest in the surrounding area. According to the Holiday experts at Hays Travel, this is important to many holidaymakers considering a break in Egypt:

"We often get clients asking how easy it is going to be for them to visit the pyramids on a trip to Sharm el Sheikh," says Emily at Hays Travel. "It is possible, but it is a big, relatively expensive trip by air. Customers want to holiday in Egypt because of the great weather and value-for-money, but they feel it is a shame to visit without seeing anything of the fascinating ancient history for which the country is renowned. Visitors to Marsa Matruh can take a day trip by coach to Cairo, which is much cheaper and more convenient than taking the plane from Sharm el Sheikh."

Marsa Matruh close to Cairo, Sharm el Sheikh and city of Alexandria

As well as being closer to Cairo than Sharm el Sheikh, Marsa Matruh is near to the ancient city of Alexandria. The former capital of Egypt is packed with interesting historical sites like the Citadel Quibal, built on the site of Pharohs Lighthouse and Pompey's Pillar. Marsa Matruh is also close to El Alamein, site of the World War 2 battle with its rows of memorials against a dramatic desert backdrop.

"We're really excited about the new flights to Marsa Matruh," says Emily, "It's a chance for those interested in ancient Egypt to combine some sightseeing with beach relaxation. We recommend you go soon though, before everybody realises what a brilliant destination it is!"

Indeed, with big plans in place to develop the resort, it won't be long before Marsa Matruh changes beyond recognition. Go now and experience a piece of traditional Egypt, before it changes forever.

About Author:

Hays Travel have been established for 30 years and are the UK's largest independently-owned travel agency. They offer a wide selection of deals on flights to and accommodation and package holidays in Marsa Matruh. Visit Hays Travel Egypt Travel Guide