After many years in the shade Hurghada is finally emerging as the main player on the Red Sea Riviera as it’s rival Sharm becomes less popular. Unlike the primarily tourist resort of Sharm el Sheikh, Hurghada is a functioning town in it’s own right with a traditional centre, market & bazaars which are not just aimed at attracting the tourists.

Things here have remained un-changed by recent events in Egypt, whereas Sharm is suffering from negative publicity largely due to President Mubarak going to ground here in his luxury villa. Mubarak bestowed presitge on Sharm & encouraged other government figures to do the same. Adding to the negativity are the recent shark attacks which left one tourist dead & many others terrified of entering the water.

Traditionally prices have been higher in Sharm which is another contributing factor leading Hurghada’s rise in popularity. Hurghada is situated on the Egyptian mainland, a boat ride away from the Sharm on the  Sinai peninsular, making the tourist hot spot of Luxor just 3 hours drive & the capital Cairo 5 hours away. Tourists can easily visit the Valley of the Kings, Pyaramids & Sphinx without taking too much travelling time.

The excellent mainland location of Hurghada & it’s international airport has led to other tourist resorts springing up, namely El Gouna which lies to to the north of Hurghada. El Gouna is famous for it’s championship golf courses & marina, it is a mix of high end hotels,luxury villas & apartments & is becoming increasingly popular with toursists.

Lying to the south of Hurghada is the purpose built luxury resort of Sahl Hasheesh. Sahl Hasheesh is built over an area of 40 sq km & has a 12km stretch of coastline – the most beautiful on the red sea. The resort is carefully planned with boutique hotels, grand 5* palaces & luxury apartments. The resort is self contained & has a marina, shopping centre, bars & restaurants & even a sunken city for the divers!

The next resort is Makadi Bay, not as luxurious as Sahl but still a gated self contained community with many affordable properties available for holiday makers or those who wish to linger in the sun for a little longer.

For more details on properties available in & around Hurghada please visit Sun Homes.