Hammamet

Hammamet is a busy, popular beach resort on the North African coast in the up and coming destination of Tunisia. It is packed with plenty of shops and restaurants and has lovely, long golden beaches.
Expect huge, well-equipped hotel complexes with all the facilities you might imagine from a Spanish or Greek destination at affordable prices. Culture and history lovers won't be disappointed either.

Hammamet beaches
Hammamet's 10 kilometre long shoreline is said to be the gem of theTunisian Riviera. Colourful fishing boats dot the coast.
There are plenty of watersports options from water skiing to snorkelling and boat trips to view dolphins.

Hammamet sightseeing
You will probably want to visit the ancient medina, the walled old city and shopping district. If you prefer to explore with a guide, arrange one in advance at your hotel.
Otherwise, it's easy to wander around on your own. Browse the colourful stalls or relax in a café for a sip of rich,dark coffee and watch the world go by.Hammamet family attractions
The children will enjoy a trip to Yasmine Hammamet, the new resort just out of town, which has lots of new restaurants, a marina with loads of boats bobbing away, and a walled market.
There's an ice skating rink and an amusement park. Teach the kids to haggle in the markets - they'll be impressed if you manage to knock a few pounds off your bargains.

Hammamet day trips
For a day out choose between the vibrant capital city of Tunis, or the ancient Roman city of Dougga, where you can visit the temple of Minerva. Dougga is about two hours drive away. You can take a taxi - hiring one with a driver is not usually very expensive.
If you want to drive yourself, you could hire a car for the day. Also in easy reach are the Commonwealth War Cemeteries at Medjez El Bab, where the graves of soldiers who died in the North Africa campaign of 1943 are buried.

Hammamet eating
You can find a mixture of international food and traditional Tunisian dishes at the restaurants around Hammamet. Tunisian specialities include tagine, a slow-cooked meat stew with a rich gravy and couscous, a pile of a grainy semolina, nicer than it sounds, served with a veggie or meat sauces.
Lots of the hotel complexes have a choice of restaurants. Yasmine Hammamet is a good area where you can wander around cafes before choosing one. You can even find cafes serving BBQs on the beach. Waiters often speak English.

Hammamet nightlife
Hammamet has plenty of nightlife, with clubs and bars opening until 2am, so if you are in a party mood there's plenty of choice, from Latin music to Arabic to disco, the choice is yours.
Alternatively chill out with a glass of mint tea in an open-air café close to the Medina.

Hammamet shopping
Leather goods and jewellery are good finds. Expect to haggle for anything, and see it is as part of the fun. Try to find a stall in the Medina selling herbs and spices and pick up some good strong spices. It's also worth looking out for lovely carved wooden bowls and excellent bottles of olive oil, much cheaper than at home. At Cap Bon, the souks (old markets) have lots of vibrant pottery and tiles.

El Gouna

Upmarket El Gouna is Egypt's newest purpose-built beach resort on the Red Sea Riviera. Boasting 15 man-made lagoons swirling around an area the size of central London, this desert oasis has 15 hotels draped along a 10 kilometre-long beach.
Other facilities include a 18-hole golf course, a glittering marina with a second planned, 85 restaurants and bars, a casino, a spa centre and 200 shops.
Calling itself the Little Venice of the Red Sea, it offers a more sophisticated, hassle-free and laid-back alternative to party-mad Sharm. It's ideal for couples and families seeking a summer or wintersun holiday. Holidaymakers on a budget can also choose from affordable three-star hotels and self-catering apartments.

El Gouna beaches
El Gouna's 10km beachfront is narrow and stony in places. Although it's not the most attractive strip of coastline on the Red Sea, it is lapped by ankle-deep, iron-flat, aquamarine waters. You have to venture out quite far to enjoy a real plunge.
Zeytuna Beach is on its own island surrounded by the sea and lagoons. You can reach it via a shuttle boat from the Downtown area or by crossing a bridge. A 400m jetty extending into the sea provides access to a coral reef plateau.
Sports-lovers can enjoy kite surfing (the best spot for this is Mangroovy Beach), windsurfing, water-skiing, soccer and beach volleyball as well as rides on a sea-go (like a jet-ski but slower). There are also 40diving and snorkelling sites.

El Gouna sightseeing
There are no cultural sights in El Gouna but if it's your first trip to Egypt, you should consider a day or overnight trip to Cairowhere you'll have time to tour the Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, and visit local markets.
Excursions are also offered to Luxor where you can see the best of the West and East Banks of the Nile with stops at the Valley of the Kings, Ramses Temple, Memnon Colossi, the Alabaster Workshop and Karnak Temple.
Guided tours via bus or plane to both cities can be booked at your hotel or at one of the resort's travel agencies.

El Gouna's family attractions
Take a one-hour boat trip around El Gouna's man-made lagoons - it's a great way to get a feel for the place. You'll have a chance to ogle everything from big five hotel complexes to Nubian-style (traditional Egyptian) luxury villas.
Thrill-seekers should also do the hair-raising, canyon quad biking safari where you can ride at break-neck speeds amid towering desert mountains, meet local Bedouins and smoke a sheesha pipe before watching a spectacular desert sunset.

El Gouna day trips
Boat charters offer regular day trips to Gobal Island, 2.5 hours away from the resort. Once you reach the uninhabited, rocky island with its deserted white sand beaches, you can swim or snorkel to shore where a BBQ lunch will be prepared packed with kebabs, salad, fish , pasta and fresh fruit. This excursion is great for families and divers.

El Gouna eating
The resort offers a Dine Around programme which ensures that, unlike most package breaks, you're not confined to your hotel at meal times. It enables full and half-board guests to feast on everything from Thai to French and Italian in several participating hotels. The seafood buffet at the Sheraton Miramar Resort in particular makes this worth splurging out for. Cheaper cafes and restaurants are dotted around Abu Tig Marina and the Downtown area.
If you want to try Egyptian fare, meat kofta and kebabs are popular. Seafood and fish dishes are excellent while vegetarians will have plenty to choose from with dishes like ta'amiyya (falafel), hummus and baba ghanoug (eggplant and tahina). Egyptian bakeries are wonderful, with numerous breads and sweet honeyed pastries.

El Gouna nightlife
Apart from hotel entertainment, you could head to the smart Abu Tig Marina, which hosts a weekly Friday night street festival featuring whirling dervishes and singers.
There's also a weekly Oasis Dinner where holidaymakers are shuttled from the resort to a giant Bedouin tent in the shadown of the nearby Eastern Desert Mountains. It's a rather tacky affair featuring camel rides, belly dancers and plenty of audience participation.
Clubs, bars, a casino and even an Irish bar can be found in the Downtown area. The marina's also worth checking out for smarter watering holes. If you holiday in the off peak summer months, bear in mind that there will be fewer partygoers.

El Gouna shopping
The best bet for souvenir shopping is Downtown, where there's a cluster of boutique-style stores selling everything from carpets, ceramics and artworks to sheesha pipes, brassware, leather goods, spices and clothes. Bargaining is allowed but the hassle factor is thankfully absent.
Don't forget the outdoor Art Village featuring handicrafts and paintings. Remember that many shops may shut in the afternoon but reopen until well into the evening.

Marrakech

The red city of Morocco, found below the foothills of the Atlas mountains is, for many, the first taste they will have of the African continent. Just a few hours from Europe, you'll discover a world of strange bazaars set around twisting alleyways, behind ancient city walls where mosques, riads, souks and snake charmers all entrance.
Marrakech's magical qualities are intoxicating; it's central square, the Djemma El-Fna is like a circus performance venue, home to fortune tellers and fire eaters where if you stand still long enough someone is quite likely to wrap a snake around your shoulders and expect you to pay them a few dirhams for the privilege of having your picture taken with the snake.
Fringed by endless stalls selling carpets, lamps, spices, tanjine pots and all manner of different potions, it's a microcosm of the bustle and vibrancy of the city itself and an ideal shopping hotspot.

Sightseeing in Marrakech
The Koutoubia Mosque and minaret is close to the main square and is a landmark sight, dating back to the 12th century. It is located along Avenue Mohammed V and can be viewed from the surrounding gardens.
The Sa'adian Tombs with more than 100 mosiac decorated graves, mostly for members of the Sa'adian royal family and dating back 500 years are worth a visit in Rue de la Kasbah. They have been opened to the public only since 1917 and their ornate decoration and surrounding mausoleums are beautiful.
The old city, surrounded by 13th century ramparts is great to wander around, although with such narrow streets and alleys be careful of the many motorbikes and mopeds which come zooming fast around corners. Getting lost in the backstreets can be part of the charm of Marrakech but there is always usually someone willing to guide you back to where you started from for a few dirhams.
Djemma El-Fna, which was once where the heads of criminals of the city were hung on stakes, is today much more lively and less macabre. Ideal to explore in the early evening it's the place to be entertained by endless street performers, story tellers, musicians and other enterprising individuals. Ubiquitous orange juice stands and snack stalls abound in the evening when the air is thick with smoke and smells of whatever exotic dish is being cooked up.
The Palais Dar Si Said (Museum of Moroccan Arts) is a palatial, fascinating building and contains many items of interesting jewellery and costumes worth seeing, while the Ali ben Youssef Medersa and Mosque - a religious studies school - is another building worth exploring, rich in history with endless small student rooms, situated north of the bazaar district.

Family attractions in Marrakech
To escape the city heat and for a bit of fun try an aquatic park called Oasiria along Route de Barrage. Here wave pools, a pirate ship, water toboggan runs and slides will cool the family down. A free shuttle service runs to and from Oasiria, from Djemma El-Fna.
Specialist tour operators like the Adventure Company can organise trips designed specifically for families to enjoy both Marrakech and the surrounding Atlas mountains.
In the mountains the opportunities to go mule trekking along parts of the Ourika Valley and visit remote Berber villages, like Anamer, will prove both exciting and educational. The presence of a guide will put your mind at ease that you and your family are in safe hands and getting the most out of your visit.

Day trips around Marrakech
Head out to Setti Fatma and cool off in the waterfalls above the red clay village here which lies at the end of the Ourika Valley. The 40 mile journey there and back from the city can be covered at a reasonable price by a grande taxi - but make sure you negotiate the price in advance. A guide can then take you around the waterfalls but make sure you have good footwear and a head for heights.
Essaouira is about 102 miles away from Marrakech but situated on the coast, this once strongly fortified town and fishing harbour is a real joy to wander around in, not least to escape the city heat and enjoy a more relaxed environment. It's a place for windsurfers and for long camel treks across the sandy beach.

Eating out in Marrakech
Tangines are commonplace - the choice of a meat or vegetarian type casserole dish in a tangine pot is a staple of most restaurants. Couscous, endless varieties of spices, humous, sweet mint tea and fresh orange juice are typical favourites to be found on stalls and restaurants throughout the city.
In the evening, Djemma El-Fna square comes alive with numbered food stalls selling everything from sheep heads to French Fries. Eating here is a seriously cheap alternative to the restaurants but just be careful with some of the salads and meat on offer.
Among the restaurants worth noting is the Dar-Es-Salaam close to the main square.This is one of the city's oldest restaurants and has been described as looking like something out of the Arabian Night Tales. It's where Hitchcock also filmed scenes for The Man Who Knew Too Much.
Dar Moha, along Rue Dar El Bacha is highly recommended. This riad style restaurant offers great Moroccan food in a perfect setting - just make sure you are seated outside beneath the shade of the banana palms next to the pool, and expect to get sernaded by musical lutists as you eat.
Le Yacout in Sidi Ahmed Soussi offers dinner in different settings including being beside a pool, in a cushion filled saloon or an upstairs room near the rooftop where pre dinner drinks are usually served. The food portions are vast and vegetarians are well catered for.
Cafe Argana overlooking Djemma El-Fna offers one of the best views of the city and restaurant Le Jardin along Rue Oum Rabia is also recommended.

Nightlife in Marrakech
Folk music and belly dancing are popular in many restaurants and other venues around the city. Fantasia, Chez Ali on the Safi road, just a few miles outside of the city centre is one such place where you can dine in royal tents and watch dancers and horse riding displays.
As an Islamic country, alcohol is frowned on in certain areas but for the most part, especially in many of the western style hotels it is easy to get a drink and find a dancefloor.
In terms of big name clubs, Pacha Marrakech offers decadence from its cocktails, and swimming pool to top name DJs. If casino is more of your thing, head to Es Saadi Hotel in Avenue El Qadissa where there are a number of games and other live entertainment shows on from 4pm to 4am daily.

Shopping in Marrakech
Hire a guide to take you through the many labyrinthine alleys, as each one tends to specialise in different products such as spices, carpets, jewellery, furniture or brasswork.
The main souks are located through the north sector of Jeema-el-Fna square, staring with Souk Smarine. They'll prove fascinating and colourful even if they can be a little claustrophobic at times. But among the many items here worth buying are wooden boxes and trays, belgha leather slippers, lanterns and tangine pots, spices, carpets and rugs.
Haggling is all part of the fun but try not to feel too pressured into buying items you don't really want and expect obligatory mint tea to be served as part of the charm offensive by many sellers who want you to see their products.
For craft gifts head also towards avenue Mohammed V where a small shopping centre offering goods at fixed prices indicates roughly what you should be expecting to pay back in the souks.

Mauritius

This Indian Ocean gem is a favourite for honeymooners and A-listers from all over the world and is justly famous for its pristine coral reefs and sparkling white beaches. But that's not all there is to Mauritius.
Indian, African, French and British influences mean that the island's architecture, history, culture and cuisine are as interesting and diverse as its population. Add nature reserves, stunning scenery and wildlife galore to the mix and you have a varied holiday destination which is perfect for a bit of winter sunshine.

Beaches in Mauritius
The north-west coast is where you'll find most resorts including Grande Baie and the smaller, quieter and cheaper Pereybere. Grand Baie is one of the best areas for sailing, windsurfing and water skiing. Pereybere, a small cove half-way between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux is one of the best sunbathing spots on the island. If you want seclusion, try the Baie de L'Arsenal and if you prefer a chic beach retreat, head to Troux aux Biches.
On the east coast, the village of Poudre d'Or not only has the golden powder beaches of its name, but is also rich in history and character. To the west, laid-back Tamarin is the surfers' hang-out, whilst the Grande Riviere Noire is the centre for deep-sea fishing. Flic en Flac and Belle Mare have the best swimming on the island.

Sightseeing in Mauritius
In the capital, Port Louis, head up to Fort Adelaide for some wonderful views and to get your bearings. The city is also home to the interesting Natural History Museum, where you can see the last dodo – these days it's stuffed of course. Elsewhere, the town of Goodlands is worth visiting to see the Historic Marine boatbuilding factory and Troux d'Eau Douce is a village that has lots of character and charm, with steps leading down to the sea and the spring-fed sea pool that gives the town its name. The southern town of Mahebourg has a fascinating Naval Museum.
Watch out for some of the island's spectacular festivals which are always colourful and sometimes alarming. Not for the faint-hearted are the Cavadee festivals (Hindu), where men put skewers through their cheeks before the procession of a flower-decorated wooden arch (cavadee). A lot more fun is Holi, held every February/March, as it involves lots of coloured powder and liquid being thrown – don't forget to duck.

Family activities in Mauritius
The beaches should keep your children occupied and some of the bigger resort hotels have kids clubs where they can join other youngsters for a few hours. The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolan Botanical Gardens in Pamplemousses is a wonderful place to see exotic flora.
If your family enjoy wildlife then look out for the odd mongoose and Java deer by the roadside. Otherwise, head to the huge Riviere Noire Gorge national park to catch sight of wild pigs and macaque monkeys. There's a viewpoint from which to admire the gorge itself and it's worth the trip as the countryside is stunning. In the west there are more animals at Casela Bird Park, where one of the tortoises is rumoured to be 150 years old and in the south, the Domaine du Chasseur gives you a taste of tropical forest, as does the nearby La Vanille Crocodile Park.

Day trips in Mauritius
In the centre of the island, visit Moka town and its surrounding area, home to waterfalls, forests and mountains. The lovely Tamarind falls are definitely worth a visit, as is the Troux aux Cerfs crater with its incredible views over the whole island.
A popular way to spend a day or half day is aboard a catamaran or yacht. Lots of companies organize tours and most include a round trip off the coast with stops for snorkeling and swimming, some dolphin-watching (if possible), lunch and as many drinks as you want. The unlimited drinks can certainly liven things up a bit and it's a good excursion for those wanting a bit more action after days spent on a quiet beach.

Eating out in Mauritius
The top luxury hotels cater for all tastes and Mauritian food itself is something of a mixed bag thanks to the island's varied influences. Creole cuisine is a kind of spiced-up French cuisine, often featuring the delicious seafood, which has of course been caught that day. If you're out and about, try street food such as samosas, curried rolls and rotis. Make sure they're piping hot to avoid any tummy trouble.
When it comes to something to wash it all down with, rum is very popular, with Green Island, Powers No1 and Anytime the best brands. South African wines adorn many menus and the locally brewed pilsner lager is called Phoenix. Yoghurt drinks are everywhere too, so try a lassi or an alouda.

Nightlife in Mauritius
There aren't many people who come to Mauritius in search of thumping nightlife as it's more of a laid back place. You'll find live music and entertainment at most of the big hotels, and displays of the local rhythmic music that accompanies sega dance, which blends many musical influences over African beats. Audience participation is often encouraged. Many hotels will host a beach barbecue once again and some nights are themed.
In Port Louis, you'll find bars, restaurants and a casino along the swish Le Caudan Waterfront development. In Grande Baie and elsewhere, go for your own sega dance, either in a hotel or in town.

Shopping in Mauritius
The main market in the narrow alleys of Port Louis is a real highlight as it'll give you a true taste of local life. Colourful spices, clothes, medicinal herbs and handicrafts are all on offer, but keep an eye out for pickpockets.
Model ship-making is big business in Mauritius - you'll find intricate miniatures of The Bounty and other famous sailing vessels; the best place to buy is Voiliers de L'Ocean in Curepipe, or the Historic Marine factory in Goodlands. Otherwise rum, tea and vanilla are all good buys.

Tunisia

Tunisia may not be everyone's first thought when it comes to choosing a holiday destination, but there are plenty of reasons to give the North African country a try, not least its proximity to Britain and its Mediterranean climate.
The country's popularity with tourists is growing, no doubt also due in no small part to its rich history, enticing cuisine and relaxed way of life.

Tunisia beaches
If you're after a relaxing break away in the sun, you could do a lot worse than give Tunisia a try - there are 700 miles of beaches along its Mediterranean coastline.
The country is also home to a proliferation of purpose-built resorts, such as those at sophisticated Port El Kantaoui and Hammamet to affordable Sousse and Skanes.

Tunisia sightseeing
If you've had enough sunbathing or swimming for the day, there are plenty of sights to see in Tunisia, many of great historical or cultural significance. The capital, Tunis, is home to the remains of the ancient city of Carthage, not to mention a host of mosques and souks or local markets.
The Roman ruins at Dougga and El Djem, particularly the colosseum at the latter, provide a fascinating insight into what life was once like in the area. And the country should excite film buffs: classics such as The Life of Brian, Star Wars and Raiders of the Lost Ark were filmed in the area.

Family attractions in Tunisia
There are plenty of activities in Tunisia to keep the family happily occupied, especially around the resort areas, where parents can sunbathe, have a drink or play some golf while the kids enjoy the various water sports on offer.
The Bardo Museum in Tunis has some great mosaics on show, while the weird and wonderful bargains to be had at the many colourful markets will keep the kids fascinated.
And when the family are tired out from the day's exertions, try one of the many spas that specialise in thalassotherapy, a relaxing treatment that uses hot sea water and is very popular in Tunisia.

Day trips around Tunisia
Aside from the beaches and Roman ruins, there is plenty worth setting a day aside for in Tunisia. The port of Bizerte, Tunisia's oldest city, is worth a visit, especially its Old Town, which is littered with cafes and shops. Fans of Star Wars, meanwhile, will be interested in a trip to Matmata, where the opening scenes of the film were shot.
While the Sahara may not seem like an obvious tourist attraction, the vast swathes of sand - the desert covers an area almost as large as the USA - are quite breathtaking in person, a real sight to behold. And once you're there, you can actually be quite adventurous, if you're in the mood: activities on offer include quad-biking, sand-surfing and camel trekking.

Eating out in Tunisia
Tunisia's resorts have a wide range of restaurants on offer, including French and Italian, but the local cuisine is well worth sampling. Among the many delights on offer are chorba, a spicy soup; kammounia, a meat stew; and salade tunisienne, which includes onion, tomato, tuna and egg.
Wash it all down with some Celtia beer or boukha, a local hot fig brandy.

Nightlife in Tunisia
If you've had a long day and don't feel like exerting yourself, you can go for a leisurely walk or just sit down at one of the many pavement cafes and have a refreshing drink or two.
If, however, you feel like letting your hair down, it's best to get to one of the resort towns, such as Sousse. Apart from the bars and clubs on offer, you may find some traditional Berber dancing on show.

Shopping in Tunisia
You'll have no problems in Tunisia getting presents for those back home - the souks are full of great items, often at favourable prices. If you shop around you can find some wonderful locally-made ceramics, baskets and lanterns, plus some attractive jewellery and charming Hand of Fatima pendants.
Keep your eye out also for rugs, scented oils and local leather products.

Sousse

Sousse's great beaches and reliable sunshine record make it a popular Tunisian resort. Excellent sandy beaches have made it increasingly popular as a winter sun getaway destination, but it's also ideal in spring or autumn.
The area retains plenty of history and its ancient medina offers a glimpse of traditional Tunisia, making Sousse a beach break with an exotic twist.

Sousse beaches
Sousse has excellent long, sandy beaches with sun umbrellas to shelter under in the heat of the day. The beaches are well kept, so it is ideal for families.
Watersports fans looking for more activity can try windsurfing or parascending.

Sousse sightseeing
Don't miss the ancient heart of Sousse, with its medina, 9th-century grand mosque and remains of the historic walls of the city. You can climb up the tower to get an excellent view over Sousse and the surrounding area. The Kasbah Museum also offers panoramic views.
Just along the coast is the fashionable purpose-built resort of Port El Kantaoui, with its cobbled streets, marina and gardens.

Sousse family attractions
Visit the town's ancient Ribat, one of a chain of coastal fortresses which helped to protect the town. Enjoy wandering around its interior, looking up at its imposing walls and contemplating battles from years past.
The remnants of the Great Mosque, which features some incredibly ornate tiles, are an impressive sight to behold.Sousse day trips
Take the direct train to Tunis to explore Tunisia's bustling capital city, a contrast to the laid-back Sousse. Visit the beautiful Sidi Bou Said district, where houses are painted blue and white, and check out its zoo, medina and Zitouna mosque.

Sousse eating
Plenty of restaurants in Sousse serve international as well as Tunisian food. As a port, it's no wonder the restaurants serve excellent fish dishes.
Try a tasty traditional dish of fish dusted in salt. You will also see meze, the Tunisian version of tapas, which often features a plate of houmus, flat bread, olives and other appetisers. Port El Kantaoui's Neptune restaurant, which boasts replica pirates, is especially child-friendly.

Sousse nightlife
The Muslim tradition in Sousse means there are fewer bars than cafes here, but that doesn't stop the town getting busy in the evening when families come out to play, stopping for an hour's shopping or sipping some mint tea.
Expect to see hubbly-bubbly pipes, enormous pipes made from glass. These are traditional and often available in cafes, where you can order them along with a cup of tea or coffee, and choose your tobacco. Apple-flavoured tobacco is a favourite. Sousse is more of a family resort than a party town, so don't expect heaving clubs or all-night bar action.

Sousse shopping
Silver jewellery, leather bags, perfumes, clothes and carpets are popular purchases from the shops and stalls in Sousse. Expect to haggle with street vendors for the best prices.
Enjoy old-fashioned shopping in the winding passageways of the souk in the medina, where you can find anything and everything. If your tastes are more contemporary, however, there is a modern mall.

Sharm el-Sheikh

This Red Sea beach resort at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula attracts legions of British holidaymakers. It offers guaranteed sunshine, a wide range of hotels and is one of the world's premier scuba diving spots, with breathtaking coral reefs and abundant marine life.
You don't have to be a diver, though, to enjoy Sharm el-Sheikh, as the resort has everything you could want from a holiday: reliably fantastic weather, international hotel chains, bars, discos, casinos, golf courses, restaurants and boutiques. Look out for some fantastic deals too - even five-star hotels can sometimes be snapped up at bargain prices.

Beaches in Sharm el-Sheikh
The majority of the big hotels have their own strip of private beach, while the public beach at Ras Um Sid is fairly narrow.
If you want better-quality beaches, there are several small but stunning sandy stretches in the nearby Ras Muhammad National Park, including Quay Beach, Yolanda Beach and the imaginatively named Main Beach.

Sightseeing in Sharm el-Sheikh
Sharm el-Sheikh isn't big on cultural attractions and the main reason for a visit to the resort is to experience some of the world's best scuba diving, again in the Ras Muhammad National Park. The park's nutrient-rich waters attract tons of marine life and you can dive on sites such as Jackfish Alley, Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef.
If you're not into your diving, you could hike up to the 2,285 metre-high summit of Mount Sinai, where God was said to have delivered his Ten Commandments to Moses. It's a spectacular place to watch the sun rise.

Family attractions in Sharm el-Sheikh
Enjoy a four-wheel drive, quad-bike or camel ride in the desert for a day or half-day tour. Ramping up over the massive sand dunes is as good as any theme-park rollercoaster and you can also watch the sun rise or set behind the nearby mountains.Day trips from Sharm el-Sheikh
A great way to escape the resort for the day is to charter your very own yacht. Visit Hurghada, explore the Gulf of Suez or head up the coast along the Tiran Strait. You're the boss, so you can decide exactly how long or short you want your trip to be. Alternatively, many hotels offer day trips to Cairo by plane.

Eating in Sharm el-Sheikh
Many of the hotels have lots of western-style food. The resort is dotted with pizzerias, fast-food outlets, international restaurants offering Chinese, Indian and Mexican food, plus recognisable names such as McDonald's, Hard Rock Cafe and Pizza Hut.
If you do fancy trying some of the local cuisine, get yourself a meze platter, a selection of small dishes. These might include falafel (fried chickpea balls), sambusac (pastry stuffed with meat), pitta break dipped in houmus and koftas (spiced meat kebabs). The seafood is normally excellent, and for dessert try the deliciously sweet and sticky pastries known as baklava.

Nightlife in Sharm el-Sheikh
Most of the action can be found at the neon-lit Na'ama Bay. If clubbing's your thing, try The Bus Stop and the world-renowned Pascha, which is open every night of the year.
One place where you won't struggle for your own spot at the bar is at Little Buddha. This sushi bar and nightclub has the longest bar in the Middle East.

Shopping in Sharm el-Sheikh
There's a big commercial centre in Na'ama Bay with lots of new shops that cater for tourists, but for real bargains head for Sharm el-Sheikh's Old Market (which isn't actually that old).
Gold and silver jewellery, hieroglyphic drawings, woodwork, copperware, ceramics, baskets, clothing, papyrus illustrations, perfumes, traditional musical instruments, leather goods and perfumes are all good buys, as long as you're prepared to haggle.

Agadir

This modern city has everything you could want from a holiday - year-round sunshine, a huge beach, excellent luxury hotels, bars, discos, golf courses, tennis courts, restaurants, shops and markets. Look out for some fantastic deals, too - a bargain stay in a four- or five-star hotel is a real possibility.
However, it's probably not for those who want a taste of the real Morocco. The bustling fishing port is authentic enough, but if you want to experience the truly exotic side of Morocco, you'd be better off going to Marrakesh.

Beaches in Agadir
It's highly likely that your hotel will be right near the main beach, which is long, wide and very clean - it's swept every morning. The sand's fine and soft, the sea's calm and safe for swimming in and there are tons of watersports on offer. You can hire jet skis, pedalos and surfboards.
If you get bored of the same beach every day, there are other smaller beaches and they're all equally immaculate.

Sightseeing in Agadir
Agadir's not really the place to go for cultural attractions and most of your time will be spent at the beach. It's worth visiting the ruins of the kasbah (citadel), about nine kilometres out of town, for great views of the area.
It's also worth strolling around the fishing port, especially at dusk, when it's hustle-and-bustle time as the boats return with the day's catch.

Family attractions in Agadir
Away from the beach, you could try the Valley of the Birds - named because it's a popular resting spot for many species of migratory birds throughout the year. Set in a small stretch of parkland, it's also home to a zoo, a waterfall and a children's playground.Day trips from Agadir
It's worth taking a day of your holiday to visit the lovely, laid-back resort of Essaouira, just up the coast. It's a UNESCO World Heritage City, with narrow, winding streets and a long beach. It's a windsurfer's paradise and is also a great place to kick back and do nothing - Bob Marley and Jim Morrison both did just that in years gone by.

Eating in Agadir
Many of the hotels cater for all tastes and have lots of Western-style food. The city is dotted with fast-food outlets as well as international restaurants serving French, Italian, Chinese and Mexican food. You'll find plenty of recognisable names too, such as McDonald's and Pizza Hut.
If you fancy trying the local food, specialities include spicy sausages, beef patties, lamb cutlets and harissa, a fiery pepper sauce. Be sure to try a tagine too, a kind of casserole cooked in a heavy clay pot. Popular varieties include mqualli (chicken and lemon), kefta (meatballs and tomato) and mrouzia (lamb, plums and almonds).

Nightlife in Agadir
Most of the action is found along the seaside promenade, which is lined with bars, cafes and nightclubs that stay open until the early hours. There are sports bars, too, so you'll be able to catch up with some Premiership football action on the TV.
Hotels often put on evening entertainment where you can check out traditional Moroccan music and dancing.

Shopping in Agadir
A visit to the souk is a must as it's a bargain-hunter's dream. You'll find big clothing brands at knock-down prices as well as Moroccan souvenirs. It's a good idea to remember the number of the door you enter the market through, as there are 21 of them and if you leave by another door it's easy to get a bit lost.
The Medina d'Agadir Coco Polizzi is also a great place to buy souvenirs - you can watch the local craftsmen work before buying their products. These include leather shoes, clothes, wooden boxes and stone carvings. A bus going to the medina stops at many of the major hotels.

Nuweiba

Nuweiba is one of Egypt's top beach resorts on the eastern coast of the Sinai Peninsula. Located 180 kilometres north of Sharm-el Sheikh, Nuweiba is also renowned for its colourful underwater life and stunning mountains.
A relaxing resort and typical Bedouin town, Nuweiba is popular with all nationalities for its guaranteed sunshine and clear starry skies than its nightlife.

Nuweiba beaches
Expect lovely, warm, sandy beaches which can get incredibly busy in the peak season, when bagging a sun lounger can be quite an achievement. The water is wonderfully clear.
The snorkelling is excellent, and scuba divers can get access to local reefs as well as more remote dive sites.

Nuweiba sightseeing
The sunrises and sunsets are absolutely stunning, and there is lots to see under the waves too. The Red Sea is renowned for its rich marine life – look out for sea turtles and dolphins. Divers will appreciate the relatively unspoilt coral wall at Maagana Beach, along with stunning canyons at Devil's Head.
There are plenty of opportunities to ride camels and the mountains are truly beautiful. Explore The Dunes, the connection between the town and the port. There are pleasant walks and the views are impressive.

Nuweiba family attractions
Choose the hotel wisely as some can be shabby. Many offer plenty of activities from archery and beach volleyball to crazy golf, snorkelling, pedalos, kayaks, croquet lawns, tennis, squash and light-hearted family evening entertainment.
Nuweiba is popular with families who want an out of season break to relax and enjoy the sand and sea or to use it as a base to explore the Sinai coast and further inland.Nuweiba day trips
A jeep trip to the foot of the Coloured Canyon, about 45 minutes away, is absolutely amazing. Guides lead you past towering columns and cliffs of every hue - from white and yellow through ochre to red. The path is rocky and sometimes narrow but the views are magnificent.
Visit St Catherine's Monastery, which is said to date back to the 4th century AD and was built on the sight of the Biblical Burning Bush. You'll get to stroll around the museum while gentle Byzantine hymns play.

Nuweiba eating
Virtually all the British favourites are available here, particularly in the many hotel complexes and no-one minds if you fancy burger, chips and ketchup rather than the chef's special.
There is ample chance to try Middle Eastern cuisine too, from hummus and grilled aubergines to incredibly sweet pastries.

Nuweiba nightlife
This is a remote resort so most night time entertainment will be provided by your own or a neighbouring hotel. But there are local bars and beachside restaurants where you can watch the world go by while smoking a fruit-flavoured water-pipe – or have a beer and join the beach party discos.
Head along to the northern Tarabin area for more of a party atmosphere.Nuweiba shopping
There's plenty of duty free shopping in the port area, while the town centre has supermarkets and bazaars. It's easy to find a pyramid replica or a china camel to take home. Be ready to haggle for great deals on Egyptian goods such as copperware, leather, fabulous bed and table linens, spices and jewellery.

Cape Verde

Imagine a cluster of 10 paradise islands, all still relatively undiscovered, surrounded by translucent, turquoise waters, with acres of unspoilt beaches, pristine white sands and spectacular natural scenery. That's exactly what you'll find when you visit the Cape Verde islands.
It's an exquisite archipelago, on the Atlantic ocean, located just 600km off Senegal, off the west coast of Africa.
All the islands combine a tantalising mix of African, Brazilian and Portuguese cultures. But, each island also has its own unique attractions. Santiago is the largest and most populated island, and home to the capital city, Praia. The tiny Brava, or 'island of flowers', is known for its beautiful hibiscus, jasmine and bouganvillea flowers. The other islands include: the Windward islands in the North - Sal, Boa Vista, Santo Antao, Sao Vicente, Sao Nicolau and Santa Luzia. And, the Leeward islands, in the South - Maio, Santiago, Fogo and Brava.
Until recently, Sal, attracted the most visitors, as it was the only island to have an international airport. But, over the last two years, things have been changing rapidly. A general push to attract more holiday makers, means that Praia now has a large airport. Another one is due to open shortly on Boa Vista. Transfers between islands are also easier, and there are more hotels. So, if you're tempted to visit - now's the perfect time. Go while the islands are still totally unspoilt and idyllic.

Cape Verde beaches
It's hard to believe that the beauty of the Cape Verde beaches has remained a secret for so long. But, that's exactly what makes these spectacular shores so alluring. There aren't many places left where you can walk for miles along wild, deserted 'Castaway' style beaches. Even in the more popular resorts, Santiago and Sal, you'll only ever see the odd hotel dotted along the coastline.
You'll find the most enchanting, white, sandy beaches on the islands of Santiago, Sal, Maio and Boa Vista. The main beach resort on Sal is Santa Maria, a picturesque coastal town, with Portuguese style buildings and windy, cobbled roads. The azure waters, palm- fringed, flat, rolling beaches with powder soft sands make this an idyllic spot for sun bathing and to enjoy watersports such as windsurfing and diving.
The endless, white sands of Boa Vista, have a more dramatic, desert like quality. You'll also find plenty of sand dunes here. The beaches on Maio are similar, only even more serene and peaceful. Santiago, has a mixed landscape with green, lush vegetation, banana and coconut plantations, mountains and miles of stunning white, sandy beaches.
The beaches on mountainous Sao Nicolao, are wild, rugged and encircled by sheer cliffs. This is the best island for deep sea fishing. The wild beaches on Santo Antao, are more desert -like in the west, and surrounded by greenery and mountains in the east. This is a great place to go hiking. Tiny Santa Luzia is the only island to be totally uninhabited. The only way to get here is if you can hitch a boat ride from a local fisherman.

Cape Verde sightseeing
Ideally, try and plan your trip so that you can experience four or five different islands. Santiago, or Sal are both good starting points. Santiago is rich in history and culture. Many world famous explorers such as Captain Cook, Sir Francis Drake and Vasco de Gama, sailed into the old harbour at Cidade Velha. Other places of interest include the old capital, Cape Verde, where you can see the Grand Cathedral and Forte Real de Sao Filipe, once a main slave trading point. Visit too the botanical gardens at Sao Jorge.
In Sal, take a wander round the cobbled streets of Santa Maria and admire the delightful, colourful Portuguese style houses. Also worth visiting is the salt lake that lies within the extinct Pedro de Lume volcano, on the north side of the island. If you're based in Santiago, the closest island is Maio, which is only a 12 minute flight away. Visit Vila do Maio and see the wonderful Portuguese and British colonial style buildings. There is also a pretty lagoon in the north of the island. Other islands nearby, are Fogo, where the main attraction is its live volcano. The last eruption was in 1995. And, if you're a nature lover, visit Brava, the 'island of flowers'.
The nearest island to Sal is the desert like Boa Vista, where one of the main attractions is the old ceramic factory, in Praia de Chaves, which is completely covered in sand. Also near, is the lush, fertile island of Sao Nicolau, which is still almost totally untouched by tourism. Come here to see the wildlife. Also, to do some fishing.
If you're a music lover, Sao Vicente, is a must. Many of Cape Verde greatest artists and musicians live here. The main town is Mindelo, where you will see some stunning colonial style buildings. There are also lots of great bars where you can listen to live music. From here, you can take a boat to Santo Antao, the greenest island. So, a great place for nature lovers.

Eating out in Cape Verde
Expect to feast on a fantastic mix of African, Brazilian and Portuguese style dishes. The National dish is Cachupa, a stew made with corn, beans, maize, vegetables such as sweet potatoes, cabbage and pumpkin, and a selection of meats, or fish, usually tuna. Also try the local pastries, or corn paddies with papaya, red currant or coconut jam. Diable Dentro, pasties stuffed with tuna, onion and potatoes are also delicious. The local drink is Grog, a potent brew, made from sugar cane. Or, try the local beers.
Cape Verde is also renowned for its sensational seafood including lobster, octopus, giant prawns, rock barnacle and tuna. Good seafood restaurants to try, in Sal, are Barracuda and Restaurant Americos, which also offers traditional Cape verdean dishes. Or, for some Creole cooking, try Cafe Criol.
If you're in Boa Vista, try Parque das Dunas, for some authentic, Cape Verdean cuisine. This restaurant is also fantastially located overlooking the sea. Or, dine with the locals at Sodade di nha Terra. Other good restaurants to try include the Alkimist, for seafood, in Santiago. Also, Alex's, at Pestana Tropico Hotel, in Praia. Also, for fish and meat dishes, try Hotel Porto Grande, in Sao Vicente.

Nightlife in Cape Verde
You'll find the liveliest nightlife in Santa Maria, on Sal Island, with plenty of bars to choose from. Most hotels here also have bars where you can enjoy a drink and listen to some local music. There are also bars in Praia, Santiago, but these are more low key. Of the main islands, Boa Vista, is the quietest.
The best place to listen to music, see live bands and go dancing is in Sao Vicente. This is the cultural hot spot of all the Cape Verde island - where all the major musicians, poets and artists live and hang out - including the world renowned musician, Cesaria Evaron. You'll find plenty of great bars and clubs in Mindelo, where you can dance salsa, samba, zouk, funana or coladeira.
Cape Verdean music combines Brazilian and African tribal influences to create a powerful and unique sound. Two of the most important music events are the Baia de Gatas - a three day musical festival in Sao Vicente, that takes place in August. Also, in February, starting on Ash Wednesday, Mindelo has a big Carnival, similar to the Rio Carnival.Shopping in Cape Verde
Cape Verde isn't exactly the hottest shopping destination. So, don't expect lots of shops - as there simply aren't any. Instead, you'll find each island has local markets where you can buy things like carved, wooden masks, beautifully crafted local jewellery, clothing, local arts and crafts, local produce.
One of the most colourful markets is the African market, at Assomada, in Santiago. There is also a large indoor marker at Santa Maria where you will find clothes, jewellery, coloured canvas goods, baskets, pots, ceramics, clay figures, kitchen utensils, fruit and vegetables.

Family attractions in Cape Verde
You'll find plenty to keep the whole family occupied on the islands. Forget theme parks though. Tourism is still in its infancy here - so, family attractions tend to centre around the huge variety of outdoor activities that are available. You can do every type of water sport, go dolphin watching, deep sea fishing and snorkelling. And, if you're lucky you might see some hump back whales.
The greener islands, more mountainous islands, such as Santo Antao area are also great to go hiking. Of all the islands, Sal with its lively beach resort at Santa Maria, has the most to offer for kids - great beaches, watersports, swimming. They will also enjoy a visit to the salt-water lake at Pedro de Lume volcano, where they can float around in the salty water.

Day trips around Cape Verde
For a surreal experience, take a trip to the famous mirage at Terra Boa, in Sal, which appears as an 'ocean' in the middle of the desert. if you're staying on Santiago, take a trip to Fogo, and see the live volcano. If you're in Sal, visit Sao Vicente, where you can listen to the best music. Then take a relaxing one hour boat trip to Santo Antao. Visit the mountain village of Fontainhas, where the houses are built on a rock with a sheer drop beneath them.

Gambia

If you're bored of the same old package destinations on the Spanish Costas, the Algarve, Turkey's west coast or the Greek islands, then this West African gem could be exactly what you're looking for.
Just a six-hour flight from the UK, The Gambia boasts gorgeous sandy beaches, friendly people and some lush countryside. There are lots of good quality resorts which cater for most budgets and a wide range of activities, whether you're a sports or wildlife-lover. The weather's pretty good year-round so it's an ideal destination for a week or two away.

Beaches in The Gambia
Around half of The Gambia's 50-mile long stretch of coastline is home to some top quality beaches. Most of the resorts are grouped around the best ones and offer a wide range of watersports. Bijilo beach is long and sandy but there are only a couple of nearby hotels so it's a great place to really chill out. Kotu beach is sandy but fairly narrow while Kololi beach is much wider. The area around Bakau beach is dotted with res stone cliffs and many other small beaches and Cape Point is one of the biggest and best beaches with an excellent watersports centre.

Sightseeing in The Gambia
If you can tear yourself away from the beach, visit the small capital Banjul. There, you'll find Arch 22, built to commemorate the country's independence, and the National Museum, which provides an interesting insight in the culture and history of the country. The city is situated on St Mary's Island at the mouth of the River Gambia and is quite a strange place, given the mix of colonial architecture, shanty towns and modern office blocks. Beer-lovers can take a tour of the Banjul Brewery and sample a sip of the locally produced Julbrew.
Jufureh is a popular small town. It rose to fame as the home of Kunte Kinte, the ancestor of Alex Haley in Roots, the book and 1970s TV series. There's a popular, half day 'Roots' tour which takes in the village itself, a former French trading post and the former slave fortress, James Island. If you're lucky, you may spy the odd dolphin on your way out there.

Family attractions in The Gambia
A great place for a family day out is Abuko Nature Reserve, about 15 miles inland from the west coast. It's a bit of an ornithologist's paradise, but even if you're not interested in our feathery friends, there are monkeys, crocodiles and lizards to look out for. There's also an animal orphanage with enclosures for hyenas, antelopes, monkeys and a lion. Book yourself a guide for a two-hour walk around the reserve, and keep your eyes peeled. Before heading home, visit the nearby Brikama Wood Carving Centre to observe the local craftsmen at work.

Day trips in The Gambia
If you want to get away from the beach for a day or two, you could set off on an inland safari. There are a few camps in rural Gambia where you'll find basic accommodation. Camps like Tendaba act as a great base from which to explore. In the Gambian bush, you'll find more birds, bush hogs and lots of other wildlife and you can venture out in a 4x4 or along the river in a canoe. Back at the camp, the Bamboo Bar is the perfect place to compare notes with other guests over a cold beer.
In the capital, you could also take a sunset cruise along the River Gambia's tributaries (known as bolongs) or paddle along in a wooden pirogue to Oyster Creek, the main stretch of water separating Banjul from the mainland.

Eating out in The Gambia
They like their food spicy in The Gambia, so if you do have a delicate stomach, you'll be better off sticking to the international cuisine that you find in many of the big resort hotels. Or you could indulge yourself with all manner of deliciously fresh fruit, including mango, papaya, orange, grapefruit, pineapple and watermelon. A delicious local juice is called Wonjo, which is squeezed from the sorrelflower.
If you are feeling a little adventurous, then specialities in The Gambia include grilled chicken marinated in onions and lemon (yassa poulet), and rice baked in a sauce of fish and vegetables. If you're after fast food, Gambian-style, then look out for the little shacks known as afra. Not for vegetarians, these are the places to get yourself a spicy meat snack.

Nightlife in The Gambia
Most tourists find their evening entertainment confined to one of the many resorts dotted along the Atlantic coast. The big hotels put on full entertainment programmes and you can expect to be treated to performances of African ballet, Djembe drums, fire-eating, Kora and Balafon (traditional instruments), karaoke, fashion shows and 'dance with the locals' nights.
There are some wonderful beach bars, should you fancy a tipple with the sound of reggae and lapping waves in the background. For a bigger night out, head to Banjul while you'll find upmarket clubs like the Melicana Nightclub or more raucous venues such as the Soto-Koto. If you fancy a flutter, there are several casinos in the Senegambia area.

Shopping in The Gambia
The Gambia's great for holiday souvenir shopping as there are markets everywhere. Popular items include colourful baggy trousers, tie-dye and batik fabrics, wood carvings, jewellery, leather goods, sand painting, masks and baskets. Many markets are found in the resort towns and haggling is the norm, so make sure you have an idea of what you are prepared to pay before you start to barter.
You have to be very careful with your purchases as anything you buy that's made from the skin, ivory or feathers of any protected creature will be confiscated at customs. You'll also generally receive a large fine. If the rhythms you hear throughout your holiday hit the right note then invest in the CDs of local artists.

Cape Verde

Imagine a cluster of 10 paradise islands, all still relatively undiscovered, surrounded by translucent, turquoise waters, with acres of unspoilt beaches, pristine white sands and spectacular natural scenery. That's exactly what you'll find when you visit the Cape Verde islands.
It's an exquisite archipelago, on the Atlantic ocean, located just 600km off Senegal, off the west coast of Africa.
All the islands combine a tantalising mix of African, Brazilian and Portuguese cultures. But, each island also has its own unique attractions. Santiago is the largest and most populated island, and home to the capital city, Praia. The tiny Brava, or 'island of flowers', is known for its beautiful hibiscus, jasmine and bouganvillea flowers. The other islands include: the Windward islands in the North - Sal, Boa Vista, Santo Antao, Sao Vicente, Sao Nicolau and Santa Luzia. And, the Leeward islands, in the South - Maio, Santiago, Fogo and Brava.
Until recently, Sal, attracted the most visitors, as it was the only island to have an international airport. But, over the last two years, things have been changing rapidly. A general push to attract more holiday makers, means that Praia now has a large airport. Another one is due to open shortly on Boa Vista. Transfers between islands are also easier, and there are more hotels. So, if you're tempted to visit - now's the perfect time. Go while the islands are still totally unspoilt and idyllic.

Cape Verde beaches
It's hard to believe that the beauty of the Cape Verde beaches has remained a secret for so long. But, that's exactly what makes these spectacular shores so alluring. There aren't many places left where you can walk for miles along wild, deserted 'Castaway' style beaches. Even in the more popular resorts, Santiago and Sal, you'll only ever see the odd hotel dotted along the coastline.
You'll find the most enchanting, white, sandy beaches on the islands of Santiago, Sal, Maio and Boa Vista. The main beach resort on Sal is Santa Maria, a picturesque coastal town, with Portuguese style buildings and windy, cobbled roads. The azure waters, palm- fringed, flat, rolling beaches with powder soft sands make this an idyllic spot for sun bathing and to enjoy watersports such as windsurfing and diving.
The endless, white sands of Boa Vista, have a more dramatic, desert like quality. You'll also find plenty of sand dunes here. The beaches on Maio are similar, only even more serene and peaceful. Santiago, has a mixed landscape with green, lush vegetation, banana and coconut plantations, mountains and miles of stunning white, sandy beaches.
The beaches on mountainous Sao Nicolao, are wild, rugged and encircled by sheer cliffs. This is the best island for deep sea fishing. The wild beaches on Santo Antao, are more desert -like in the west, and surrounded by greenery and mountains in the east. This is a great place to go hiking. Tiny Santa Luzia is the only island to be totally uninhabited. The only way to get here is if you can hitch a boat ride from a local fisherman.

Cape Verde sightseeing
Ideally, try and plan your trip so that you can experience four or five different islands. Santiago, or Sal are both good starting points. Santiago is rich in history and culture. Many world famous explorers such as Captain Cook, Sir Francis Drake and Vasco de Gama, sailed into the old harbour at Cidade Velha. Other places of interest include the old capital, Cape Verde, where you can see the Grand Cathedral and Forte Real de Sao Filipe, once a main slave trading point. Visit too the botanical gardens at Sao Jorge.
In Sal, take a wander round the cobbled streets of Santa Maria and admire the delightful, colourful Portuguese style houses. Also worth visiting is the salt lake that lies within the extinct Pedro de Lume volcano, on the north side of the island. If you're based in Santiago, the closest island is Maio, which is only a 12 minute flight away. Visit Vila do Maio and see the wonderful Portuguese and British colonial style buildings. There is also a pretty lagoon in the north of the island. Other islands nearby, are Fogo, where the main attraction is its live volcano. The last eruption was in 1995. And, if you're a nature lover, visit Brava, the 'island of flowers'.
The nearest island to Sal is the desert like Boa Vista, where one of the main attractions is the old ceramic factory, in Praia de Chaves, which is completely covered in sand. Also near, is the lush, fertile island of Sao Nicolau, which is still almost totally untouched by tourism. Come here to see the wildlife. Also, to do some fishing.
If you're a music lover, Sao Vicente, is a must. Many of Cape Verde greatest artists and musicians live here. The main town is Mindelo, where you will see some stunning colonial style buildings. There are also lots of great bars where you can listen to live music. From here, you can take a boat to Santo Antao, the greenest island. So, a great place for nature lovers.

Eating out in Cape Verde
Expect to feast on a fantastic mix of African, Brazilian and Portuguese style dishes. The National dish is Cachupa, a stew made with corn, beans, maize, vegetables such as sweet potatoes, cabbage and pumpkin, and a selection of meats, or fish, usually tuna. Also try the local pastries, or corn paddies with papaya, red currant or coconut jam. Diable Dentro, pasties stuffed with tuna, onion and potatoes are also delicious. The local drink is Grog, a potent brew, made from sugar cane. Or, try the local beers.
Cape Verde is also renowned for its sensational seafood including lobster, octopus, giant prawns, rock barnacle and tuna. Good seafood restaurants to try, in Sal, are Barracuda and Restaurant Americos, which also offers traditional Cape verdean dishes. Or, for some Creole cooking, try Cafe Criol.
If you're in Boa Vista, try Parque das Dunas, for some authentic, Cape Verdean cuisine. This restaurant is also fantastially located overlooking the sea. Or, dine with the locals at Sodade di nha Terra. Other good restaurants to try include the Alkimist, for seafood, in Santiago. Also, Alex's, at Pestana Tropico Hotel, in Praia. Also, for fish and meat dishes, try Hotel Porto Grande, in Sao Vicente.

Nightlife in Cape Verde
You'll find the liveliest nightlife in Santa Maria, on Sal Island, with plenty of bars to choose from. Most hotels here also have bars where you can enjoy a drink and listen to some local music. There are also bars in Praia, Santiago, but these are more low key. Of the main islands, Boa Vista, is the quietest.
The best place to listen to music, see live bands and go dancing is in Sao Vicente. This is the cultural hot spot of all the Cape Verde island - where all the major musicians, poets and artists live and hang out - including the world renowned musician, Cesaria Evaron. You'll find plenty of great bars and clubs in Mindelo, where you can dance salsa, samba, zouk, funana or coladeira.
Cape Verdean music combines Brazilian and African tribal influences to create a powerful and unique sound. Two of the most important music events are the Baia de Gatas - a three day musical festival in Sao Vicente, that takes place in August. Also, in February, starting on Ash Wednesday, Mindelo has a big Carnival, similar to the Rio Carnival.

Shopping in Cape Verde
Cape Verde isn't exactly the hottest shopping destination. So, don't expect lots of shops - as there simply aren't any. Instead, you'll find each island has local markets where you can buy things like carved, wooden masks, beautifully crafted local jewellery, clothing, local arts and crafts, local produce.
One of the most colourful markets is the African market, at Assomada, in Santiago. There is also a large indoor marker at Santa Maria where you will find clothes, jewellery, coloured canvas goods, baskets, pots, ceramics, clay figures, kitchen utensils, fruit and vegetables.

Family attractions in Cape Verde
You'll find plenty to keep the whole family occupied on the islands. Forget theme parks though. Tourism is still in its infancy here - so, family attractions tend to centre around the huge variety of outdoor activities that are available. You can do every type of water sport, go dolphin watching, deep sea fishing and snorkelling. And, if you're lucky you might see some hump back whales.
The greener islands, more mountainous islands, such as Santo Antao area are also great to go hiking. Of all the islands, Sal with its lively beach resort at Santa Maria, has the most to offer for kids - great beaches, watersports, swimming. They will also enjoy a visit to the salt-water lake at Pedro de Lume volcano, where they can float around in the salty water.

Day trips around Cape Verde
For a surreal experience, take a trip to the famous mirage at Terra Boa, in Sal, which appears as an 'ocean' in the middle of the desert. if you're staying on Santiago, take a trip to Fogo, and see the live volcano. If you're in Sal, visit Sao Vicente, where you can listen to the best music. Then take a relaxing one hour boat trip to Santo Antao. Visit the mountain village of Fontainhas, where the houses are built on a rock with a sheer drop beneath them.

Mauritius

This Indian Ocean gem is a favourite for honeymooners and A-listers from all over the world and is justly famous for its pristine coral reefs and sparkling white beaches. But that's not all there is to Mauritius.
Indian, African, French and British influences mean that the island's architecture, history, culture and cuisine are as interesting and diverse as its population. Add nature reserves, stunning scenery and wildlife galore to the mix and you have a varied holiday destination which is perfect for a bit of winter sunshine.

Beaches in Mauritius
The north-west coast is where you'll find most resorts including Grande Baie and the smaller, quieter and cheaper Pereybere. Grand Baie is one of the best areas for sailing, windsurfing and water skiing. Pereybere, a small cove half-way between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux is one of the best sunbathing spots on the island. If you want seclusion, try the Baie de L'Arsenal and if you prefer a chic beach retreat, head to Troux aux Biches.
On the east coast, the village of Poudre d'Or not only has the golden powder beaches of its name, but is also rich in history and character. To the west, laid-back Tamarin is the surfers' hang-out, whilst the Grande Riviere Noire is the centre for deep-sea fishing. Flic en Flac and Belle Mare have the best swimming on the island.

Sightseeing in Mauritius
In the capital, Port Louis, head up to Fort Adelaide for some wonderful views and to get your bearings. The city is also home to the interesting Natural History Museum, where you can see the last dodo – these days it's stuffed of course. Elsewhere, the town of Goodlands is worth visiting to see the Historic Marine boatbuilding factory and Troux d'Eau Douce is a village that has lots of character and charm, with steps leading down to the sea and the spring-fed sea pool that gives the town its name. The southern town of Mahebourg has a fascinating Naval Museum.
Watch out for some of the island's spectacular festivals which are always colourful and sometimes alarming. Not for the faint-hearted are the Cavadee festivals (Hindu), where men put skewers through their cheeks before the procession of a flower-decorated wooden arch (cavadee). A lot more fun is Holi, held every February/March, as it involves lots of coloured powder and liquid being thrown – don't forget to duck.

Family activities in Mauritius
The beaches should keep your children occupied and some of the bigger resort hotels have kids clubs where they can join other youngsters for a few hours. The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolan Botanical Gardens in Pamplemousses is a wonderful place to see exotic flora.
If your family enjoy wildlife then look out for the odd mongoose and Java deer by the roadside. Otherwise, head to the huge Riviere Noire Gorge national park to catch sight of wild pigs and macaque monkeys. There's a viewpoint from which to admire the gorge itself and it's worth the trip as the countryside is stunning. In the west there are more animals at Casela Bird Park, where one of the tortoises is rumoured to be 150 years old and in the south, the Domaine du Chasseur gives you a taste of tropical forest, as does the nearby La Vanille Crocodile Park.

Day trips in Mauritius
In the centre of the island, visit Moka town and its surrounding area, home to waterfalls, forests and mountains. The lovely Tamarind falls are definitely worth a visit, as is the Troux aux Cerfs crater with its incredible views over the whole island.
A popular way to spend a day or half day is aboard a catamaran or yacht. Lots of companies organize tours and most include a round trip off the coast with stops for snorkeling and swimming, some dolphin-watching (if possible), lunch and as many drinks as you want. The unlimited drinks can certainly liven things up a bit and it's a good excursion for those wanting a bit more action after days spent on a quiet beach.

Eating out in Mauritius
The top luxury hotels cater for all tastes and Mauritian food itself is something of a mixed bag thanks to the island's varied influences. Creole cuisine is a kind of spiced-up French cuisine, often featuring the delicious seafood, which has of course been caught that day. If you're out and about, try street food such as samosas, curried rolls and rotis. Make sure they're piping hot to avoid any tummy trouble.
When it comes to something to wash it all down with, rum is very popular, with Green Island, Powers No1 and Anytime the best brands. South African wines adorn many menus and the locally brewed pilsner lager is called Phoenix. Yoghurt drinks are everywhere too, so try a lassi or an alouda.

Nightlife in Mauritius
There aren't many people who come to Mauritius in search of thumping nightlife as it's more of a laid back place. You'll find live music and entertainment at most of the big hotels, and displays of the local rhythmic music that accompanies sega dance, which blends many musical influences over African beats. Audience participation is often encouraged. Many hotels will host a beach barbecue once again and some nights are themed.
In Port Louis, you'll find bars, restaurants and a casino along the swish Le Caudan Waterfront development. In Grande Baie and elsewhere, go for your own sega dance, either in a hotel or in town.

Shopping in Mauritius
The main market in the narrow alleys of Port Louis is a real highlight as it'll give you a true taste of local life. Colourful spices, clothes, medicinal herbs and handicrafts are all on offer, but keep an eye out for pickpockets.
Model ship-making is big business in Mauritius - you'll find intricate miniatures of The Bounty and other famous sailing vessels; the best place to buy is Voiliers de L'Ocean in Curepipe, or the Historic Marine factory in Goodlands. Otherwise rum, tea and vanilla are all good buys.

Kenya

Choose from the call of the wild or the call of the luxury beach-side hotel. Kenya is a bit of a dream holiday destination. As well as being one of the world's top safari destinations, it's blessed with a stunning stretch of coastline, dotted with gorgeous beaches and paradise islands.
It's the perfect place for those who love the great outdoors, and the Central Highlands and Rift Valley areas, with Mt Kenya at their heart, combining dreamy landscapes and fabulous walking trails. Packages aren't always cheap, but there aren't too many places in the world where you can spot one of the 'Big Five' one day, and kick back on the beach with a cocktail on the next.

Beaches in Kenya
When it comes to beaches in Kenya, Mombasa, the country's second largest city, will always be your first port of call. From there, you can either head north or south along the coast in search of your favourite idyllic beach spot. To the north, you'll find lots of big hotels with luxury accommodation, excellent facilities and fine wining and dining. Shanzu and Kenyatti are among the best, which are more developed with all the facilities you'd expect of a modern resort. There are great watersports and you can try your hand at windsurfing, snorkeling and scuba diving. Even further north are the islands of the Lamu Archipelago, where you'll find no cars and some truly wonderful beaches.
To the south of the city, swathes of coastline which were once fairly inaccessible are now also open to mass tourism. Again you'll find a wide range of resorts offering excellent facilities, but also lots of much less developed hideaways, which are great if you're on a budget. Explore coastal caves or try a bit of deep-sea fishing.

Sightseeing in Kenya
The capital, Nairobi, certainly isn't dull and there are vibrant markets and some interesting sights. Along River Road, you'll find lots of colourful stalls where you can buy lots of weird and wonderful gifts. The National Museum is well worth a visit to find out more about the country's history. In Mombasa, the Old Town is home to some interesting Islamic artefacts.
However, when it comes to sightseeing in Kenya, the wildlife is the most popular attraction. The Masai Mara National Reserve is home to wildebeest, lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras and hippos and if you time your trip right, you can witness the great annual migration through the park, when millions of animals could cross your path. One of the most incredible ways to see the animals is from the comfort of a hot-air balloon. Soaring over the vast plains at sunrise is a magical experience.

Family attractions in Kenya
Obviously, the wildlife will keep any family entertained and your kids are unlikely to ever forget their first elephant sighting. In fact, if they're fans of the BBC series, Elephant Diaries, then a visit to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, near Nairobi Park, is a must. They can watch the nursery elephants come in for their daily mud-bath between 11am and midday every day.
At the beach resorts, many hotels have kids clubs, which will keep your children entertained for at least couple of mornings a week. And older kids will love the range of watersports on offer at most of the top-end hotels.

Day trips in Kenya
Head to the highlands and the Rift Valley if you really want to get away from it all. The Cheragnai Hills are popular with hikers and the numerous stunning lakes in the area will provide endless superb photo opportunities. Around lakes such as Elementeita and Nakuru, you'll also find lots of amazing birdlife.
If you're feeling particularly energetic, trek your way up to the summit of Mt Kenya, at 15,000ft, the country's highest peak. The views will be worth the reward.

Eating out in Kenya
Kenya is a meat eater's paradise, especially in Nairobi. So, expect plenty of beef, chicken, lamb, goat – even buffalo – on the menu. One dish to try is the Nyama Choma, barbecued goat meat, which is a delicious, spicy, national delicacy. Another delicacy is Mishikaki, spicy pieces of lamb or beef on a skewer. Further along the coast, seafood - fresh sea fish, shrimps, prawns and lobster - is more popular.
If you're in Mombasa, try the Tamarind. This is a lovely restaurant, overlooking the Indian Ocean, where the fresh seafood is superb. Key dishes include the Lobster Swahili, Chilli Crab and Prawns Piri Piri. The restaurant even has its own Tamarind Dhow. So, you can enjoy a meal as you cruise along the water.
Kenya is also renowned for its delicious fresh fruit – including guavas, mangos, papayas and bananas. And, don't leave without trying the local brew, Tusker Beer. There is also a traditional beer, Uki, made with honey. Or, if you fancy something a bit more stronger, try Kenya Cane, a potent liquor made with sugar cane.

Nightlife in Kenya
If you're looking to let your hair down, you'll find plenty of entertainment in the beach resorts on the coast. Mombasa is the liveliest. Most hotels have a bar, and the larger ones also have regular live music nights and dancing.
If you're on safari, it's a different story. You won't want to be nursing a hangover, if you're getting up at the crack of dawn. So, evenings tend to be more low-key with a sundowner or two, at sunset, followed by an early night.

Shopping in Kenya
The best bargains are to be had at the markets that you'll find in every town. You can buy so many great things here such as Kikoi, the traditional Kenyan cloth, in a myriad of different colours, fantastic pieces of hand crafted jewellery, bags stained with natural dyes, wood carvings, spices, woven baskets. Kenya is also famous for its soapstone, which is made into everything from soap dishes to chess boards.
The main markets to look out for in Nairobi include the Masai market, the Covered City Market, The Village Market and the Kariokor Market. If you prefer fixed prices, head to the African Heritage, Libra House, Mombasa Road. The best places to find a bargain in Mombasa are the markets and bazaars in the Old Town. Amongst everything else, you will find the best selection of khanga and kikoy here (Kenyan style tassled sarongs).

Morocco

From medinas and minarets to deserts, beaches and mountains, Morocco's appeal lies in its wonderful diversity. For culture vultures, there are the Imperial Cities of Fes, Marrakech and Rabat - with their bustling souks - to explore. Beach fans should head to Agadir or Essaouira.
Activity-lovers can go hiking amid Berber villages in the snow-capped Atlas Mountains in summer or ski in winter, enjoy jeep safaris and camel rides in the rippling Sahara or tee off on some of the world's best golf courses.
With ambitious plans to develop six new beach resorts by 2010, Morocco's appeal is likely to grow. Visit now before the crowds do.

Beaches in Morocco
Agadir is probably one of the best known package holiday resorts on the Atlantic coast. Its sandy beaches, sunshine and hotels are ideal for families and couples all year around. Watersports include swimming, jet skiing and surfing.
Essaouira is also popular and can be combined with a trip to Marrakech. Its white-washed medina and ochre-coloured ramparts means it offers more of an authentic Moroccan atmosphere compared to Agadir. Other Atlantic coast resorts include Mohammedia, El Jadida, Oualidia and Safi.
Six new beach resorts are planned over the next three years. They will focus on Saidia, Tangier and Tetouan as well as Agadir and Essaouira and are likely to include marinas, hotels, spas and golf courses.

Sightseeing in Morocco
City and history lovers should explore the great Imperial cities. Fes – the ancient capital – has a maze of stunning medieval buildings in its old town, while Marrakech is home to Djemma El-Fna square, an extraordinary place packed with snake charmers, fortune tellers, musicians, fire-eaters and food stalls. Casablanca is less remarkable although Rabat, the capital, reflects modern Morocco's French influence.
The country also boasts some excellent fairways, with golf courses available in most of the major city areas. If you're looking for more action, enjoy camel safaris, quad biking, hiking or mountain biking.
A 4WD tour is the best way to appreciate the spectacular 300 metre deep Todra Gorge, the giant sand dunes of Merzouga and the Berber region of Ouarzazate. Remote Chefchaouen is also the gateway to the green, unspoilt mountains of Rif.

Family attractions in Morocco
Morocco is well geared up for children, with specialist and adventure operators offering packages throughout the country.Toubkal area, an hour's drive from Marrakech, is popular with trekkers who set their sights on scaling Jebel Toubkal, 4,167 metres high. Whitewater rafting is also possible on the rivers in the High and Middle Atlas ranges – particularly the Oum er Rbia.
Desert safaris are popular. Enjoy typical Berber meals and a camel expedition from Todra Gorge to see the vast Erg Chebi sand dunes. Car-free Essaouira is also typically offered as part of family tours.

Day trips around Morocco
It's easy to book day trips from Marrakesh to the Atlas Mountains for a glimpse of Berber villages, snaking valleys and hiking trails.
From Agadir, there's a nearby nature park where flamingos, cranes and bald ibises can be spotted.
Day-trippers from Fes can journey to nearby Meknes, a less spectacular but hassle-free Imperial City, which is also close to several wineries, a legacy of French rule.
From Ouarzazate, check out the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou comprised of numerous kasbahs and ochre-red ramparts where the Hollywood film Lawrence of Arabia was filmed.

Eating out in Morocco
Saffron, cumin and coriander are popularly used in Moroccan food. Tagines, a meat, vegetarian or fish stew served in a terracotta pot, is served everywhere, while pastille, a sweet/savoury chicken concoction encased in flaky pastry, is also traditional.
Coucous, harira soups, flat breads, humous and seafood are excellent. Moroccan pastries accompanied by sweet mint tea are more-ish.
One of the best places to eat out in Marrakech is the touristy Dar Moha, featuring attentive staff, well presented food and musical entertainment. Dar Yacout's is located within a riad - traditional Moroccan building based around a central courtyard - and offers set meals. Vegetarians are well catered for.

Nightlife in Morocco
Despite being an Islamic country, Morocco has a relaxed attitude to alcohol although drinking is not permitted in the old towns.
There are modern nightclubs in all the cities and resorts around the country. Marrakech now boasts a renowned branch of Pacha nightclubs, reflecting its cosmopolitan status. There are also casinos in Marrakech, Tangier and Agadir as well as traditional entertainment, from folk music to belly dancing, in every town.
In Agadir, most of the action can be found on Boulevard du 20 aout. The resort has everything from open-air clubs to cabaret shows.

Shopping in Morocco
Haggling in the warren-like souks that are an intrinsic part of life in most of the major cities and towns is one of the highlights of a Moroccan holiday. It's best to hire a guide to lead you through the labyrinthine alleys, each one specialising in specific wares such as spices, jewellery, furniture or brasswork.
Marrakech's souks are touristy and arguably pricier compared to elsewhere but look out for cotton, silver, silk and cotton clothes and carpets. Fes is renowned for its leather goods, while Tangier's Grand Socco has rich pickings.

Egypt

Summary

Egypt boasts some of the world's best ancient sights, fabulous beaches and hotels and some of the most amazing dive sites on the planet, which means there's something to appeal to everyone.

Whether you want a short break in bustling Cairo, a cruise on the Nile or the chance to top up your tan, you can't go wrong. Best of all, a holiday in Egypt is great value for money.

Egypt beaches
Beach lovers are spoilt for choice on the Red Sea Riviera. Sharm el Sheikh has become so popular with Brits that some have even dubbed it "the new Benidorm". An upmarket alternative is El Gouna, which is less than one hour from Hurghada. With international hotels, affordable accommodation, child-friendly facilities and year-round sunshine, the Red Sea offers everything that you'd expect for a short haul holiday.
If you want an alternative, head for some of the new resorts along Egypt's Mediterranean coast such as Almaza Bay and its up-and-coming neighbours, which are served by Marsa Matrouh airport.

Egypt sightseeing
First-time visitors should head to Cairo, which is also an unforgettable short break option for culture vultures. Gawp at the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, devote hours or even days to the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities featuring ancient relics including Tutankhamun's famed Gallery, stroll through Coptic Cairo, the oldest part of the city and haggle your way around the local markets.
Luxor is another must-see - its temples, and the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, are outstanding.
Nile cruises are also popular and vary in duration and standard, depending on your budget. Most trips incorporate the must-sees - Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae temples, Aswan's old and new dams, and Egypt's greatest treasure, the wonderfully preserved temples of Abu Simbel. Cruises on Lake Nasser can also be tagged on.
Bear in mind that if you're staying in Sharm or Hurghada, most hotels and agencies can organise day-long or overnight trips to see the top attractions in Luxor and Cairo.

Eating out in Egypt
Expect Middle Eastern fare, often described as Oriental buffets in the larger hotels. Staples includes breads, salads, dips, fuul which is a type of bean, stewed pigeon, spit-roasted lamb and black, strong, sweet coffee. One of the most scenic places to eat in the capital is 180 metre high Cairo Tower which has a revolving restaurant.
International cuisine is also readily available in the larger cities and coastal resorts.

Nightlife in Egypt
Most evening entertainment for tourists in cities like Luxor and Cairo involve floor shows with whirling dervishes, musicians and belly dancers.
In Sharm and Hurghada, there are plenty of British-style pubs, clubs and discos. The nightlife in El Gouna is more sophisticated and is centred around a glittering marina, while most evening entertainment in Taba Heights is based around the hotels.

Shopping in Egypt
Souvenir hunters will be spoilt for choice. In Cairo, head for the sprawling and somewhat bewildering Khan al Khalili, a vast market place selling gold and silver jewellery; perfumes, papyrus pictures, alabaster pots, statues, and trinkets. Expect some hassle from stall holders.
The Red Sea resorts offer touristy markets and souks, with some of the larger hotels piled high with tacky and overpriced souvenirs.

Family attractions in Egypt
Apart from watersports, beaches and snorkelling on the coast, enjoy a spot of camel trekking. In cities like Luxor and Cairo, hot air balloon flights provide bird's eye views and are worth the early morning wake-up call.
Cairo boasts an overly dramatic but informative Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids. There is an equivalent at Luxor's Karnak Temple too.

Day trips around Egypt
Day-long boat trips are available in most Red Sea resorts - depending on where you are stay, they involve bbq lunches on deserted islands, plus plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, snorkel or dive. Hair-raising quad biking trips into the Western Desert or the Sinai Desert are also fun and safe but check before you book about age restrictions if you're planning to take the kids along.

If you're in Sharm el Sheikh or Taba Heights, trips can be arranged to climb Mount Sinai and to see St Catherine's Monastery, site of the Moses' Burning Bush. In Luxor, Aswan or Lake Nasser, book a felucca (traditional sail boat) trip. And for some romance, pick a sunset cruise.

Red Sea

Summary
The Red Sea Riviera is one of the most popular short-haul destinations for British holidaymakers - and for good reason. Fantastic beaches, beautiful blue seas, year-round sunshine and a wide selection of affordable accommodation mean it offers a great-value beach holiday.
Popular playgrounds such as Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Hurghada have been joined by new purpose-built resorts such as El-Gouna, Taba Heights, Marsa Alam, Safaga and El Quseir, each with their own distinct characteristics.
The Red Sea is also renowned for its world-famous dive sites. If you're a novice, many of the larger hotels have on-site dive centres and operators offer cheap learn-to-dive packages. For more experienced divers, live-aboard cruises are available to more remote, challenging and unspoilt reefs.
Other activities include snorkelling, horse riding, sailing, golf, quad biking, camel treks and spas. From families to couples, there's something for everyone on the Red Sea.
Beaches on the Red Sea
On the Sinai peninsula, most hotels in ever-popular Sharm boast their own stretch of private beach. Further up the coast, Dahab attracts divers, windsurfers and holidaymakers looking for a quieter, less crowded atmosphere, although burgeoning hotel expansion here means this may not be the case for long. Nuweiba and Taba Heights boast luxury hotels.
Elsewhere, privately-owned El-Gounaoffers affordable three-star and self-catering accommodation close to the lively marina. The beach is long, narrow and stony in places but has plenty of shallow waters which are great for kids.
Nearby Hurghada is a bit tatty compared to glittering neighbours such as Safaga, El Quseir, Makadi Bay, Soma Bay and Sahl Hasheesh.Further south, Marsa Alam has benefited from the opening of a new airport and is a growing resort. It is also the gateway to live-aboard dive cruises to the southern Red Sea.
Sightseeing on the Red Sea
This is not the place to come if you're seeking ancient history. But if you stay in Sharm, Hurghada or El-Gouna, it's possible to enjoy day and overnight trips to Luxor (Thebes), Cairo or the temples of Abu Simbel overland or by air.
The only real point of interest on the Sinai coast is the Coloured Canyon, named after its technicolour rocks, and St Catherine's Monastery. Tours can be arranged to climb the peak above the building, Mount Moses, in time to see the sunset but the route is arduous and can get crowded.
Family attractions on the Red Sea
Most kids will be happy splashing around in their hotel pool or enjoying on-site kids' clubs and facilities.
At the beach, there is a vast range of water sports to entertain them. Older kids will enjoy camel treks, snorkelling and quad-bike safaris.

Day trips around the Red Sea
You can't visit the Red Sea without catching a glimpse of its underwater treasures - from most resorts, dozens of boats offer snorkelling and diving trips out to the reefs and world-famous marine parks. The day-long cruises are packed and typically involve an early start. In peak season, divers can expect to be fighting for space on some coral reefs, which can be frustrating.
Day trips to islands are also possible. From El-Gouna, boats depart for uninhabited Gobal Island, where you can swim and snorkel to your heart's content in uncrowded waters, or sunbathe on deserted beaches and coves.
Eating out on the Red Sea
Resort hotels offer a wide range of global food as well as Middle-Eastern cuisine. Buffets are typical at breakfast and dinner. In Sharm and Hurghada, there are numerous British-style pubs offering homely comforts, if that's what you'd prefer.
El-Gouna offers upmarket dining choices including French and Moroccan, thanks to its luxury hotels. The Sheraton hotel's seafood buffet is particularly excellent.
Nightlife on the Red Sea
Egyptian entertainment usually takes the form of an oriental show, with local musicians, endless whirling dervishes and Egyptian dancers. If you want to join in, there will be plenty of opportunity but if you've seen one, you've seen them all.
You'll also find discos, casinos, bar singers and pianists. Sharm and Hurghada have a particularly lively nightlife scene, whereas El-Gouna's is far more low-key.
Shopping on the Red Sea
Popular souvenirs include shisha pipes, statues of cats and Egyptian gods, spices, papyrus pictures, fake designer clothes and handicrafts.
Hurghada and Sharm have souks which resemble nothing like those found in Cairo. Most of the seafront shops in Dahab sell cheap, kitsch souvenirs. El-Gouna has its own outdoor arts and crafts markets, as well as upmarket boutiques.