Marsa Alam, called also Marsa al-Alam, is a relaxational town in southern East Egypt. Situated on the Red Sea, it attracts every year thousands of divers from all over the world, that want to see one of the best-preserved coral reefs. The town itself is not oozing with monuments or history, but it is a perfect starting point not only to other seaside resorts, but also to located in the heart of the Eastern Desert old mines of emeralds and gold, or a temple Seti I in Khanais.
Rocky shores in the area of Marsa Alam with crystal sea, beautiful coral reed, sea fauna and flora makes for perfect conditions for diving. The most interesting spots for lovers of that sport are Abu Dabur Reef, Marsa Asslai, Dolphin Mouse, as well as the reef Elphiston. The city itself is a bit of a sleepy hollow and definitely not touristic. It is a great accommodation base, on the other hand, and starting point for trips to, among others, the famous beach Abu Dabab, where you can see sea turtles, octopuses or even crocodiles.
In the region, it is worth to see, among others, Barnis (known as Berenice), a city with remains of the ancient port and a temple of Semiramida. Lovers of history can also go to a fort in El Quseir or a village Bir Umm Fawakhir, where used to be a gold mine. A huge impression make views of legendary valley Wadi Hammamat and a national park Wadi El Gemal. An interesting experience can be participating in a traditional Arabic souq, which are fairs, for instance, a town Bir Shalatein takes place market of camels.
What to eat in that region? Egyptian cuisine in the area of Red Sea is mainly based on seafood and fresh fishes, for e.g. Sayadiya (rice with onion and tomato sauce served with fried fish). You can also find there typical Arabic dishes, like Kushari (pasta with tomato sauce, rice, lentil and chickpea), Ful Medames (past from beans, oil, garlic and lemon sauce), Falafel (fried balls or cutlet from seasoned chickpea or bean with sesame). Where to eat? We recommend Mara's Dolce en Salato Gastronomia, La Perla Del Mare and Stella del Mare.
