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The Irish Sun
06-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
The Egyptian hidden gem built on 36 interlocked islands with 365 days of sunshine, turquoise waters & luxurious hotels
WITH golden beaches, turquoise water everywhere and 365 days of sunshine a year — it is unsurprising that Egypt is a paradise. El Gouna, dubbed the 'Venice of the Red Sea', was created just 36 years ago - and it offers everything you would imagine a 9 El Gouna is just 25 km from Hurghada Credit: Alamy 9 El Gouna is built on 36 interlocked islands Credit: COLLECT 9 The Steigenberger Golf Resort has 268 rooms Credit: Steigenberger Golf Resort Facebook 9 The Steigenberger Golf Resort boasts playful architecture Credit: COLLECT Built on 36 interlocked islands, surrounded by gorgeous lagoons, on 10km of sprawling beaches - this really was a world I'd never experienced before. Following a 40-minute drive from Hurghada Airport, we arrived at the intriguing gated city. I really felt like I stepped into a movie set in paradise, with the crystal clear waters, palm trees and charming pastel-coloured buildings. From the moment I arrived at the five-star Steigenberger Golf Resort, I was struck by the captivating views, alluring READ MORE IN TRAVEL On check-in, we were informed of the ambassador program in El Gouna's hotels. Each guest has a go-to staff member that will help with everything - from room service to booking tuk-tuks. Just a quick The enormous king-size bed, with plush linens, was incredibly snug. Most read in the Irish Sun One of my favourite features in the room was the balcony, which overlooked the resort's lush landscapes and the sparkling waters of the Red Sea. Each morning, sipping coffee while soaking in the stunning scenery became a cherished ritual. FINE FEAST The buffet at the Steigenberger Golf Resort had a diverse mix of options each morning and night. There was a nice balance between local Egyptian Every time I walked around the buffet I seemed to find more sections. I quickly discovered a new favourite dessert, basbousa – a kind of semolina cake – and I was spoiled for choice with the selection of cocktails. My favourite place to dine in the resort was Harumaki, El Gouna's only teppanyaki restaurant, where talented chefs dished up mouthwatering dishes right in front of us. DINE AROUND With many of the hotels in El Gouna teaming up together, guests have the opportunity to explore the 'Dine Around' options at other resorts, so you can experience life in each hotel. The packages entice guests to try different hotel buffets and restaurants at an all-inclusive, full-board or half-board rate. With 40 per cent of food in El Gouna sourced locally, there's over 100 restaurants to try. Dining at Cook's Club, Casa Cook and The Chedi added a fabulous twist to indulging in El Gouna's foodie scene. The resort boasted numerous facilities and activities for all the family. GETTING THINGS DONE Whether it was lounging by the pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or trying my hand at golf, there was never a dull moment. El Gouna's vast 18-hole championship golf course has attracted golfers from all over the world, and other fun activities nearby include banana boat rides, tube rides, parasailing and wakeboarding. Other fun activities nearby include banana boat rides, tube rides, parasailing and wakeboarding. 9 The gardens in the Steigenberger Golf Resort lead to secluded lagoon beaches Credit: COLLECT 9 Dani explored the Sahara Desert by quad Credit: COLLECT One of the highlights of the trip for me was the treasure hunt, which was not only fun but also a fantastic way to explore the town. From boat trips to kayak challenges, this hunt had our adrenaline pumping while we discovered all El Gouna has to offer. SAFARI ADVENTURE The town hosts an annual treasure hunt for visitors in October, while smaller hotel hunts take place throughout the year. Another thrilling excursion for me was a desert trip with Alex Safari where we learned all about the Bedouin families that live in the Red Sea Mountains. We sped across the Sahara Desert on dune buggies and quad bikes until a magnificent sun set stopped us in our tracks. El Gouna encourages tourists to enjoy all the hotels have to offer - so that's exactly what I did. ADULT-ONLY RESORT An afternoon in the adults-only resort The desert-style oasis boasted gorgeous suites, poolside bars and panoramic views of the Red Sea. I was blown away with my first kitesurfing lesson at Casa Cook's onsite Duotone kite centre. Then it was time to unwind in the Beach Club, where the DJ played the perfect sunset chill-out tunes. Egypt's first-and-only Leading Hotel of the World, PRIVATE BEACH BLISS Unwinding on the private beach and by the tropical-style pools was pure bliss. Sipping a cocktail as the sun went down at the award-winning rooftop speciality sushi restaurant Nihon was the perfect way to end the day. Couples will also love the adult-only With its own private saltwater lagoon, beach and jetty, it's the perfect spot for some water fun. Top activities include yoga classes, kitesurfing, windsurfing, snorkelling, scuba diving and horse riding. There are lots of luxurious and affordable places to stay among Orascom's 18 hotels. SAFE AND SOUND I felt extremely safe walking around the gated community of El Gouna. A great way to explore is by bike and the Baddel app makes it effortless to rent a bike. What I loved most about the area was the pastel colour scheme of pinks, reds, oranges, yellows and earthy tones that all buildings must adhere to. As one of the most sustainable spots in Africa, El Gouna has a dedicated solar plant providing a significant portion of the town's energy needs. SUSTAINABLILITY EFFORTS The town has a zero-waste system, meaning over 85 per cent of all waste is reused and recycled. It also recycles 100 per cent of its water via its onsite management plant. Their commitment to sustainability is seen throughout from bamboo straws in bars to their eco-friendly transport. And the best way to get around is by tuk-tuk, which always costs 80 cent no matter the distance. GO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT GET THERE: We flew to STAY THERE: Live in luxury at the 5 H DO THERE: Lagoon boat trips, desert trip and kite surfing are all so much fun, and try the scavanger hunt. The Mega EAT THERE: Try the I loved strolling around Abu Tig Marina - lined with impressive yachts and bustling restaurants. Fanadir Marina and Abydos Marina were perfect spots to catch some rays while people-watching. While exploring the marinas, I learned about The El Gouna Float Fest with boat parties, live DJs, and gigs - and I will definitely be returning to sample that. BAZAAR BUZZ For those who love to shop, there's plenty of boutiques and bazaars dotted around. Egyptian House has a selection of homemade items and gifts which help support local women. A must-see is the El Gouna Conference and Culture Centre with its striking archways set against the backdrop of neighbouring mountains and nearby traditional-style homes. This captivating space, that's perfect for selfies, hosts Egyptian and multinational events. I now understand El Gouna's official motto, 'You will never want to leave', and have proudly become a 'gounie'. 9 Alex Safari has a selection of amazing tours Credit: COLLECT 9 El Gouna experiences warm weather year round Credit: Alamy 9 Orascom has 18 hotels throughout El Gouna Credit:
The Independent
25-02-2025
- The Independent
The best budget-friendly holidays for 2025, from Spain to Albania
Still recovering from an expensive period of the year, most of the country will want to save their pennies during these first few months of 2025, yet still have their eyes on a holiday. It's a good idea to swap popular, high-demand holiday spots for up-and-coming regions, or take advantage of places where currencies are weak. Fortunately, there are quite a few options to choose from if you want to save money without compromising on sunshine or the quality of experiences. Here we look at how to escape the price hikes with budget-friendly destinations. 1. Best for beaches: El Gouna, Egypt Far cheaper than the Canary Islands but with even higher temperatures and more hours of sunshine, this purpose-built Red Sea beach destination has undergone a large amount of development since the first marinas and artificial islands were constructed in the early 1990s. Now there are 18 hotels and resorts and more than 100 restaurants and bars lining the 10km of coastline. Recently renovated, the five-star Steigenberger Golf Resort has rooms from £67 per person per night with breakfast – a bargain compared to most winter sun resorts. Due to favourable exchange rates, cocktails cost less than £2 while a meal for two is just over a tenner. A five-night inn break at the Captain's Inn costs from £403 per person including return flights from London. Departs 19 March. Visit 2. Best for adventure: Albania Whether strolling through cobbled streets, gazing up at mountain peaks or swimming in sparkly blue waters, it's easy to mistake Albania for its chic neighbour across the Adriatic Sea. But compared to Italy, the beaches are quieter, hidden spots are more plentiful, and the prices are significantly cheaper. Specialising in trips for 18-35-year-olds, Contiki is the first youth tour operator to offer an escorted journey across the Balkan country. Learn about the past through capital city Tirana's Ottoman, Fascist and Soviet architecture, hike trails in Valbonë National Park and relax on the golden beaches of the Albanian Riviera. 3. Best for families: Galicia, Spain While the mercury is rising to uncomfortable levels during summer in the southern Med, destinations along the north-western Iberian Peninsula are hotting up in demand. Low-cost flights from the likes of Ryanair and Vueling have made it easier to access areas along Spain's Galician coast, where green hills roll into cool Atlantic waters. Specialising in villas with pools, Vintage Travel has added several new properties in the region. Head to the cathedral city Santiago de Compostela to marvel at one of Europe's finest pieces of religious architecture, where dozens of pilgrims gather after multi-day walks. Alternatively, visit the ancient fishing port Coruna, also famous for its Roman lighthouse known as the Tower of Hercules, and dine out on excellent seafood. 4. Best for skiing: Voss, Norway A few years back, it would have been inconceivable to see Norway feature on a list of 'affordable' destinations. But a drop in the value of the Norwegian krone has made it a more economical and appealing destination to visit – at all times of the year. Winter tourism to the Nordic country has always been dominated by the northern lights, but glowing reports for the region's many ski resorts are attracting even more travellers. Located 100km from Bergen, Voss is one of the largest ski resorts in Western Norway with 40km of groomed alpine trails and 24 varied descents, including an international giant slalom course and a SuperG course. Yet it's far better value than many Alpine winter resorts and promises good powder with the support of snow cannons. Being so far north, snow tends to last longer in Norway and some resorts – including Trysil on the Swedish border – even promise a refund on your lift pass, accommodation, ski rental and tuition if the coverage isn't sufficient. A seven-night half-board stay at Park Hotel, Voss, costs from £1,224 per person (two sharing), including flights. Departs 23 March. Visit 5. Best for nature: Bosnia and Herzegovina Born from a history as colourful and complex as its diverse landscapes, this relatively undiscovered Balkan nation only attracts 3.6 million tourists per year – almost six times less than Croatia. Yet the scenery, beaches, food and culture are equally attractive, while prices are much lower. According to flight aggregate site Skyscanner, capital city Sarajevo has seen the largest drop in airfares across Europe, with new routes recently launched from London Stanstead with Ryanair. Set along the Miljacka River and surrounded by the Dinaric Alps, the city features several museums and historical buildings from eras of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian rule. Further afield, it's the country's natural beauty that shines – from the fairy-tale Kravica Waterfall to the never-ending Tara Canyon which runs into Montenegro.
The Independent
22-02-2025
- The Independent
The best holidays to go on this year that won't break the bank
The start of the year will often bring escalating prices, and these, in turn, will hit our travel plans. Moist of the country will want to save the pennies after an expensive January, but still have their eyes on a holiday this year. Savvy travellers can still find affordable escapes in lesser-known regions or countries with weaker currencies. Here we look at how to escape the price hikes with budget-friendly destinations. Swap popular, high-demand holiday spots for up-and-coming regions, or take advantage of places where currencies are weak. Fortunately, there are quite a few options to choose from if you want to save money without compromising on sunshine or the quality of experiences. Best for beach: El Gouna, Egypt Far cheaper than the Canary Islands but with even higher temperatures and more hours of sunshine, this purpose-built Red Sea beach destination has undergone a large amount of development since the first marinas and artificial islands were constructed in the early 1990s. Now there are 18 hotels and resorts and more than 100 restaurants and bars lining the 10km of coastline. Recently renovated, the five-star Steigenberger Golf Resort has rooms from £60 per person per night with breakfast – a bargain compared to most winter sun resorts. Due to favourable exchange rates, cocktails cost less than £2 while a meal for two is just over a tenner. How: A four-night B&B break at the adults only Cook's Club El Gouna from £309 per person including flights. Departs January 13. Visit Whether strolling through cobbled streets, gazing up at mountain peaks or swimming in sparkly blue waters, it's easy to mistake Albania for its chic neighbour across the Adriatic Sea. But compared to Italy, the beaches are quieter, hidden spots are more plentiful, and the prices are significantly cheaper. Specialising in trips for 18-35-year-olds, Contiki is the first youth tour operator to offer an escorted journey across the Balkan country. Learn about the past through capital city Tirana's Ottoman, Fascist and Soviet architecture, hike trails in Valbonë National Park and relax on the golden beaches of the Albanian Riviera. Best for families: Galicia, Spain While the mercury is rising to uncomfortable levels during summer in the southern Med, destinations along the north-western Iberian Peninsula are hotting-up in demand. Low-cost flights from the likes of Ryanair and Vueling have made it easier to access areas along Spain's Galician coast, where green hills roll into cool Atlantic waters. Specialising in villas with pools, Vintage Travel has added several new properties in the region. Head to cathedral city Santiago de Compostela to marvel at one of Europe's finest pieces of religious architecture, where dozens of pilgrims gather after multi-day walks. Alternatively, visit ancient fishing port Coruna, also famous for its Roman lighthouse known as the Tower of Hercules, and dine out on excellent seafood. How: Casa de Descanso, a newly restored three-bedroomed house in Galician village Mosende, costs from £798 for a week in May rising to £1150 in August. Visit A few years back, it would have been inconceivable to see Norway feature on a list of 'affordable' destinations. But a drop in the value of the Norwegian krone has made it a more economical and appealing destination to visit – at all times of the year. Winter tourism to the Nordic country has always been dominated by the northern lights, but glowing reports for the region's many ski resorts are attracting even more travellers. Located 100km from Bergen, Voss is one of the largest ski resorts in Western Norway with 40km of groomed alpine trails and 24 varied descents, including an international giant slalom course and a SuperG course. Yet it's far better value than many Alpine winter resorts and promises good powder with the support of snow cannons. Being so far north, snow tends to last longer in Norway and some resorts – including Trysil on the Swedish border – even promise a refund on your lift pass, accommodation, ski rental and tuition if the coverage isn't sufficient. How: A seven-night half board stay at Park Hotel, Voss, costs from £1,195 per person (two sharing), including flights and transfers. Departs March 16. Visit Best for nature: Bosnia and Herzegovina Born from a history as colourful and complex as its diverse landscapes, this relatively undiscovered Balkan nation only attracts 3.6 million tourists per year – almost six times less than Croatia. Yet the scenery, beaches, food and culture are equally attractive, while prices are much lower. According to flight aggregate site Skyscanner, capital city Sarajevo has seen the largest drop in airfares across Europe, with new routes recently launched from London Stanstead with Ryanair. Set along the Miljacka River and surrounded by the Dinaric Alps, the city features several museums and historical buildings from eras of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian rule. Further afield, it's the country's natural beauty that shines – from the fairy-tale Kravica Waterfall to the never-ending Tara Canyon which runs into Montenegro.
