In the midst of desert sands stirred by a line of quad bikes and the vivid orange hues of the setting sun, it’s easy to overlook the fast-approaching ocean, where the last rays of sunlight dance on the rolling waves.
Unexpectedly encountering the Red Sea in the heart of the desert while riding a quad bike through Marsa Alam’s sands was a surreal experience. Pausing at the shore to search for shells and coral, the scene felt like stepping onto a different planet momentarily.
Prior to my visit, Marsa Alam was unfamiliar territory to me. However, embarking on a direct TUI flight from London Gatwick to Marsa Alam International Airport opened up a hidden gem in Egypt for me. Situated on the coast, Marsa Alam is a rapidly developing coastal destination, offering a blend of stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and authentic Egyptian desert adventures.
Despite the lengthy flight, the brief 15-minute transfer to my hotel by TUI-operated minibus was a relief. Arriving at night, the hotel complex’s surroundings were veiled in darkness, hinting at the beauty awaiting in the daylight.
The Jaz Elite Amara, part of the renowned Jaz hotel group, served as my home in Marsa Alam. Boasting numerous pools and swim-up rooms, the hotel’s water-themed ambiance welcomed guests from the moment they entered the lobby.
The following day, eager to explore Marsa’s offerings, I delved into a snorkeling adventure along the Red Sea coast. TUI’s snorkeling trips from Port Ghalib provided a mesmerizing encounter with coral reefs and marine life like dugongs and turtles in the azure waters.
One of the highlights of my Marsa Alam escapade was delving into the desert landscape. Venturing to The Camel Yard on a TUI excursion, activities ranged from quad biking and buggy driving to immersive Bedouin experiences, all under the guidance of a friendly instructor.
After an exhilarating ride through the dunes, we gathered in a traditional tent for a Bedouin evening, where we indulged in unique wellness concoctions and sampled Egyptian perfumes. The desert excursion culminated in a lavish buffet dinner, accompanied by live entertainment and stargazing under the pristine night sky.
Marsa Alam’s allure can be encapsulated in two words – majestic and surreal. Away from the typical tourist spots, this destination offers an array of experiences to captivate any traveler, complemented by TUI’s inclusive packages that cater to exploration within the hotel complex.
The allure of Marsa Alam beckons me back without hesitation, a testament to the enchanting blend of nature, culture, and adventure awaiting visitors on this Egyptian coast.