Real Estate Special

FALL 2008
Real Estate Special
New Developments
El Gouna Resale Market
At Your Service
vintage gouna * four-legged residents * sailing adventures
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
0
0
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
0
contents
F all 2 0 0 8
Dear Readers,
In this issue we take a look at El Gouna’s
real estate with a preview of the town’s next
development project, the Ancient Sands luxury
gated community, and a glimpse of the adventure
that is buying a new to you home on the resale
market. We also hear from the people who
make sure that homeowners get all the attention
they deserve through the voice of the Customer
Services Senior Executive.
Meanwhile, the Holy month of Ramadan
has caught up with us and the Eid holiday
is just around the corner. Expect a plethora
of entertainment, exclusive shows, talented
musicians, and endless nights of fun fueled
by the best international DJs.
Happy Eid!
Departments
8 Restaurants
10 Books
46 What's New
Samih Sawiris
Founder, El Gouna
CEO, Orascom Hotels and Development
Managing Director: Keem Shultz-Fares
Production Manager: Shereen George
Account Executives: Brian Wright, Dustin
Wellbaum, Julianna Smith.
Writers: Francoise Ohayon, Georgina Cole, Laurie
M. Pierce.
Copy Editor: Laurie M. Pierce
Photography: Adel Ibrahim, Georgina Cole,
Francoise Ohayon.
54 Guide
76 Dining
Features
12 Vintage Gouna: a winery in the desert.
18 Navigating the Resale Market: in search of a new home.
22 Ancient Sands: El Gouna’s latest development project.
COVER: Adel Ibrahim, special thanks to Joseph Rey.
El Gouna Magazine is published by Icon
Communications, S.A.E.
© All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form
is strictly prohibited without prior
consent from the publisher.
We welcome your comments at:
(02) 3303-4654 /8 or or (012) 749-3617
info@designbyicon.com
For advertising inquiries, please contact:
francoise_ohayon@hotmail.com
(012) 821-8782
26 At Your Service: making life easier for homeowners.
28 Four-Legged Residents: all furry and wet-nosed.
32 Last Sail to Tawila: yachting adventures.
36 Wakeboarding Champion in Town: world record training.
40 A Good Day for Cheeky Monkeys: brand-new playground.
42 Vacations With a Plus: learning experiences.
R E A D I T online
elgounamag.com
44 Marina Plaza Hotel: OHD expands in Jordan.
restaurant
A Taste of Saigon
The latest addition to the town’s assortment of exotic cuisine
is sure to please the eye, the nose, and the palate.
Review by Francoise Ohayon
The food of Vietnam has been influenced by the cuisine
of neighboring countries like Thailand, China and India as
well as by the French, who were the major colonial power
in Indochina from the mid-18th to the mid-19th century.
The Vietnamese incorporated the most distinctive aspects
of each of these culinary traditions into their own, forging a
cuisine that is subtle, diverse, and characterized by the use
of fresh ingredients and many herbs.
El Gouna’s Saigon restaurant is a family establishment.
The entire staff hails from Vietnam, and many are related
to owner and chef Le Yen, who has decorated her locale
tastefully in keeping with her national heritage. The restaurant’s interior features a bamboo ceiling, mirrored tiles on
the walls, and striking photographs of Asian women. Crisp,
hand-embroidered white napkins give a neat finishing touch
to the tables, and wood parquet and wind chimes decorate
the attractive terrace, which is ideally located for diners who
wish to see the Marina Square Party on Mondays.
In keeping with Asian norms, portions at the Saigon are
small enough that even modest eaters will find it easy to
finish a three-course meal. This allows dining companions a
chance to order a wide variety and sample the many diverse
tastes and textures that comprise Vietnamese food. The
restaurant’s well-designed menu features clear descriptions
8
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
of each item along with a photo, and best of all, the dishes
that come to the table are as attractive as their pictorial representations.
While the tamarind soup with pineapple and fish fillet
sounded tempting, the heat of the summer night inclined
us against trying it. Instead, my companion and I began our
dinner with grilled mussels sprinkled with peanuts, shrimp
batter-fried on a sugarcane stick, and fresh spring rolls. This
non-fried version of the traditional Chinese appetizer was
stuffed with shrimp, pork, lettuce, and herbs. My companion
particularly enjoyed the refreshing touch of mint. For the
more conservative customer, fried spring rolls stuffed with
taro potatoes and pork are also available.
The two of us also ordered a spicy seafood salad with calamari, shrimp, mussels, lemongrass, and ginger fish sauce.
I prefer my food on the mild side, and my companion fancies
spicy cuisine: the salad fell somewhere in between and was
satisfactory to both of us. The aromatic Thai basil is wonderful, and it beautifully complemented the clean, fresh taste
of seafood. Should you opt for the spicy chicken cabbage
salad, take note that the chicken is shredded and resembles
the cabbage; it has not, as two of our friends thought, been
mistakenly left out.
For a main course I chose chicken in a creamy coconut
yellow curry, and it was tender and absolutely delicious. My
companion had a steamed fish fillet flavored with ginger and
served with glass noodles and Chinese mushrooms. It was
presented on a large plate heated by a gas flame that kept
it warm without overcooking it. Other main courses include
sweet and sour pork spare ribs, stir-fried beef or calamari
with curry and lemongrass, or shrimp with garlic and onion
sauce. Accompaniments, including a selection of vegetables
and steamed or fried rice, can be ordered separately. A couple of dishes such as the beef lemongrass on a bed of rice
noodle salad or the stir-fried rice noodles with mixed seafood
already include the whole works.
I was disappointed to find that the dessert selection is
limited to crème caramel, but restaurant owner Le Yen hopes
to increase her cold storage space in the near future, which
would enable her to offer a larger assortment. Fresh juices,
local wine and beer, as well as imported aperitifs and liqueurs
are available. Diners will appreciate the fact that many of the
delicious herbs and vegetables on which they feast, including
bok choy, Vietnamese mint, bird’s eye chili, Thai basil, and
lemongrass, are grown in El Gouna especially for the Saigon
by Le Yen’s sister and cousins.
Saigon’s prices fall in the midrange category for a snack
and in the mid- to upper range for a complete dinner; appetizers go for 28 to 60 LE, salads are between 28 and 68 LE,
and main courses range from 49 to 98 LE. Note that service
charge and tax are not included.
Saigon Vietnamese Restaurant is located in Abu Tig Marina,
open daily from 12 noon till 11pm (last order), Visa and
Mastercard accepted, ext 77854, mob 012 748 8809.
books
On the Shelf: Why We Drive Like We Do, Why
Stay Married, and Why Another Bourne Book?
Laurie Pierce reviews a book about the quirky phenomenon
we call traffic, an examination of the merits of long-term
relationships, and the latest Bourne novel.
Traffic: Why We Drive the Way We Do (and What It
Says About Us) Tom Vanderbilt, Alfred A. Knopf, 2008
Anyone who has spent time in Cairo has cursed the city’s traffic.
Those native to Umm al-Dunya negotiate the chaos with enviable unconcern and jaw-dropping skill. Expatriates say enforcing European-style traffic laws would whip the chaos into shape,
but find themselves driving like Cairenes. Tourists simply hang
on for dear life, mouths agape in terror.
Tom Vanderbilt’s Traffic gives us insight into why our roads
look the way they do. Birthed out of the author’s driving experiences in his native New York City, the book offers lessons in
history, sociology, traffic engineering, and human psychology.
Vanderbilt presents an astonishing amount of traffic-related
information, and posits theories as to why human beings
behave in both stupid and uncannily brilliant ways behind the
wheel. He also proposes various ways in which the risks and
problems of traffic can be reduced.
Having lived in various countries with wildly different traffic norms, I found myself particularly interested in the chapter
entitled “How Traffic Explains the World: On Driving with a Local
Accent.” I came away from the book with the understanding
that variations in “traffic culture,” as Vanderbilt calls it, often
occur for good reasons. For example, the author notes that
“lane discipline” optimizes traffic flow in New York City, where
the vast majority of vehicles on the road are of similar types, but
would only slow things down in Dehli, which has five times the
1 0
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
population density and forty-eight modes of transport to the Big
Apple’s five.
The book’s length and level of detail may be off-putting to
some readers, but Vanderbilt is a good writer and manages to
keep things interesting throughout. At very least you can buy a
copy to keep in your car to pass the time the next time you get
caught in traffic.
The Marriage Benefit: The Surprising Rewards of
Staying Together M. O’Connell, Springboard Press, 2008.
“If marriage is to be anything more than an encumbrance, a
vestigial holdover from another time and another convention,”
says this book’s author, “we’d best ask a question that we
rarely, if ever, ask: why stay married?” O’Connell, a long-time
therapist and instructor of psychology at Harvard Medical
School, says the answer to this question is that marriage can
make us better people, because through it “we can learn to
trade in our at times adolescent self-centeredness for more
real and enduring values.”
Aimed at couples facing the changes and challenges of
midlife, The Marriage Benefit differs from books and articles that
promise to help married people rekindle the passion of the early
days of their relationship. Looking backwards is not the answer,
says O’Connell, who advocates that couples appreciate each
new phase of love as it arrives. “The most life-expanding possibilities imaginable,” says O’Connell, “can be found in the lives
that we already have.” The Marriage Benefit outlines eight resolutions married people can make to build healthy relationships
and cultivate the deep and life-changing intimacy that only longterm commitment brings. Alongside these resolutions O’Connell
narrates the personal stories of couples he has counseled
through the years. The author’s storytelling skills left something
to be desired, but the couples’ experiences have unmistakable
authenticity and illustrate the book’s points well.
The Marriage Benefit is geared primarily towards couples in
their fifties and beyond, but I found it thought-provoking despite
the fact that my husband and I are in our thirties and have been
married just eight years. At first I was a bit put off by O’Connell’s
bias against attempting to rekindle the early flame of love.
Awash in diapers, baby toys, and needy children, my husband
and I crave romance like nothing else (except, perhaps, sleep).
Upon further reading, however, I realized that the author’s vision
for marriage is far broader and richer than the desire to recapture passion (the importance of which he doesn’t discount).
Rather than presenting formulas for better communication or
prescriptions for spicing up one’s sex life, O’Connell challenges
people to “approach the very edges of intimacy from which we
are most compelled to retreat . . . to delve into our worst selves,
always in the hope of growing further into our best selves.”
This book does not offer advice for those in marriages
characterized by abuse or other serious problems (though
O’Connell does tackle the issue of infidelity). Instead, it is
designed to help people who know their relationship is worthwhile but who seek renewed vision for the many benefits
long-term commitment can offer as well as sound advice on
how to achieve those benefits.
The Bourne Sanction Eric Van Lustbader, Grand Central
Publishing, 2008. This is the sixth novel in the series conceived
by well-known author Robert Ludlum, who wrote three books
about action hero Jason Bourne before passing away in 2001.
Following Ludlum’s death, bestselling writer Eric Van Lustbader
picked up the series, and The Bourne Sanction is his most
recent offering.
The book begins as Jason Bourne has resumed his former
life as linguistics professor David Webb. Bourne being who
he is, a situation so mundane as this lasts approximately five
seconds before bedlam and carnage ensue. The book barrels
through five hundred pages of international intrigue and harrowing fight scenes as Jason races against the clock to foil a
terrorist strike against the United States. Meanwhile, elements
within the US government seek to assassinate him in order to
secure their plans to takeover Central Intelligence. The plot is at
times difficult to follow, but the various threads come together in
a reasonably satisfactory manner at the end.
I’ve long been a Bourne fan, but as I read this novel I began
to think Van Lustbader would do well to retire Jason soon, lest
he beat the proverbial dead horse. The use of Islamic extremists as bogeymen, while all-too-acceptable in Hollywood and
popular fiction, is old-hat and more than a little annoying, though
I suppose it is as much a product of the times as were the commie villains that peopled American fiction in the 1980s. In the
end The Bourne Sanction is decent entertainment; it serves well
to pass a quiet evening.
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
11
Vintage Gouna
Francoise Ohayon tours a unique winery in
a surprising location: the desert.
1 2
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
The subject of winemaking evokes mental images of the feddans (a local measure unit roughly equivalent to an acre),
rolling hills of Tuscan vineyards and bucolic châteaux in the an area due to increase to 700 feddans by 2010. Chardonnay
south of France. The industrial plant located on a sandy and Vermentino grapes are grown to produce white wine,
stretch of land in El Gouna's backyard may be a far cry from the Montepulciano and Grenache varieties are used to make
such scenes, but the people who run it are as serious about rosé wine, and Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and
Syrah grapes are transformed into red wines. “Everything is
making good wine as their counterparts in Europe.
The Egyptian International Beverage Company (EgyBev) locally grown,” says Kallas. “We do not import grapes or conwas founded in 2004 by André Hadji-Thomas, who hails centrates, and we are proud of the uniquely Egyptian wine
from Lebanon but now makes his home in El Gouna as the that we produce.”
The heat and arid nature of Egypt’s climate create a host
company’s managing director. Lebanon has a history of
wine producing that dates back as far as recorded history, of challenges that must be overcome by the vintners, of
so it should come as no surprise that EgyBev’s wine fac- which irrigation is the greatest. The company has elected to
tory manager is also from the Pays du Cèdre. Labib Kallas use a method known as “limiting qualitative irrigation,” which
joined EgyBev in 2005, the year the company’s first prod- entails tightly controlling the amount of water distributed to
ucts hit the market. Kallas, an oenologist and agronomist the plants during the various growing phases. However the
specialized in viticulture who trained in France, is a walking same dryness that makes irrigation a problem also has its
encyclopedia of winemaking, and he was kind enough to advantages. For example, the fungal diseases that plague
devote the better part of an afternoon giving me a tour of vines in wetter climates are not a problem here, and thus
local vineyards require no phytosanitary treatments. The
the factory and answering my many questions.
As is the case with most things
in life, when it comes to wine, you
“At first we merely wanted to make drinkable
get out what you put in. An excelwine; now we have set higher expectations for
lent vintage depends on both
quality ingredients and the savoir
ourselves!” Labib Kallas
faire it takes to transform them
into wine. Much can go wrong in the winemaking process, but
even the most skilled vintner won’t get far without the right
grapes, which depend on the right cépage (type of vine) and
terroir (the soil in which the vines are planted). All of EgyBev’s
wines are produced exclusively from grapes grown in the
company’s own vineyards, which are situated approximately
50 kilometers north of Cairo on the Alexandria Desert Road.
These vineyards are the result of extensive efforts and
careful planning. Twenty varieties of grapes were planted
beginning 2000, and after four to five years of testing, the
types that fared best in the Egyptian climate and yielded the
fruit most suitable for winemaking were selected and planted
on a much larger scale. Today EgyBev’s vineyards cover 500
quality of grapes has improved over time through trial and
error, remarks Kallas, as well as through the support of a
French consulting firm. All grapes grown by EgyBev are
organic, as the company decided early in its endeavors to
ban the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in the vineyards. Kallas informed me that his team is working towards
obtaining a bio label as of 2009.
Grapes from the vineyards are harvested, sorted, and
packaged by hand on site, after which they are transported
overnight to El Gouna in 20-ton refrigerated trucks. The harvesting season is much earlier than that of Europe, and truckloads of freshly picked fruit can be seen entering El Gouna on
a near-daily basis from the last week of July through the first
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
13
juice is left to sit for a day to allow small particles to collect as
sediment. Then, as a result of adding yeast and keeping the
mixture at a stable temperature, the process of alcoholic fermentation (which is the transformation of sugar into ethanol)
occurs over the course of 12 to 16 days. The resulting wine
then undergoes several stabilization and filtration operations
before being bottled and distributed, which usually takes
place between four and twelve months after the harvest.
Unlike white wines, red wines are produced by the steeping (maceration) of red grape skins and solids to extract
tannin, color, and aroma. After the grapes are de-stemmed
and crushed, the mixture of juice, skin, flesh, and seeds is
transferred into a tank for pre-fermentation maceration, which
lasts between two and four days.” Yeast is then added, and
alcoholic fermentation takes place in eight to twelve days.
Maceration continues for another ten to fifteen days, according to the judgment of the vintner. Only then is the liquid separated from the solid matter, after which the wine undergoes a
second fermentation, known as the malolactic fermentation.
During this phase, which lasts three to ten days, malic acid
(the same as that found in apples) is transformed into the
smoother lactic acid (that of milk) under the influence of lactic
bacteria. This chemical reaction renders the wine less aggressive. After receiving the finishing touches, red wines are gen-
after de-stemming; the colored juice is then left to sediment
and fermented like a white wine. The other method follows
the path of red wine production with skin contact maceration
taking place over a short period of 24 to 30 hours, after which
approximately 20 per cent of the juice contained in the tank is
collected, left to sediment, and fermented like a white wine.
The second method is particularly suited to large grapes
with clearer juice as removing some of the liquid allows the
remaining red wine to be more concentrated.
You won’t find an EgyBev bottle of Merlot or Syrah on
the shelves; due to the instability of Egyptian vines, single
varieties are not yet a realistic option. Instead, wines are
blended to emphasize the qualities of different grapes and
add complexity to the final product. “Good wine isn’t defined
chemically,” explains Kallas, “it’s a balance between different
components.” Blending is done on finished wines after fermentation, but fine-tuning continues during various maturation stages until the vintage is ready for distribution. Bottling,
which takes place on site at a rate of 2,500 bottles per hour,
is carried out according to standard requirements.
The total wine production of EgyBev amounted to 15,000
hectoliters in 2007, and the 2008 harvest is expected to yield
just under 20,000 hectoliters. Production of rosé wines, which
comprise 30 per cent of EgyBev’s output, is growing. Well
EGYPBEV
erally bottled six to twenty-four months following the harvest.
Sweet red wines are made from aromatic grapes that
contain high sugar levels and require that the fermentation
process be artificially arrested at the point when the density of
sugar and alcohol is optimal. Alcohol is utilized to stop fermentation, and EgyBev uses eau de vie (a clear fruit brandy) of its
own making for this purpose. The addition of alcohol preserves
both the fruit and wine aromas and keeps the remaining sugar
from being transformed into alcohol, hence the sweetness.
The wine is then pressed, stabilized, filtered, and bottled without going through the process of malolactic fermentation.
Rosé wine can be produced in two ways, both using red
grapes. One method involves the pressing of whole grapes
EGYPBEV
week of September. Upon arrival at the winery, grape crates
are emptied off the truck directly into a crusher/de-stemmer.
This funnel-like machine removes and separates the stems
before crushing the grapes, which are then pumped through
large flexible pipes towards their next destination.
Red and white grapes are processed differently after the
initial step of crushing and de-stemming. White grapes go
directly into the press, where the juice is separated from the
skin, flesh, and seeds. The juice that naturally drips off the
press is considered the highest quality juice and is called
“free run juice.” Juice extracted by pressing is called “press
juice,” and the wine it makes is considered to be of lower
quality than that made with free run juice. After extraction, the
1 4
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
suited to hot climates and spicy, exotic cuisine, rosé wines
are becoming more and more popular in Egypt. Less than
ten percent of EgyBev’s total wine output is consumed in
El Gouna; the remainder is shipped throughout the country,
principally in the Red Sea area. The highest quality blends
are sold under the Jardin du Nil brand, which is available
in red and white varieties and represents approximately 20
percent of the total output. Shahrazade white, rosé, red, and
sweet red wines comprise between 55 and 60 percent of total
production, while the remainder is sold under the name Moon
Reef. The latter consists of downgraded wines normally sold
to restaurants and hotels for use as house wines. These
wines are perfectly acceptable, but separating them from the
reddish-pink color. Ripe fruits and a whiff of fresh herbs
are perceptible to the nose. Well bodied for its kind, the
Shahrazade rosé is dry and balanced with sufficient acidity
and tart strawberries in the finish. The Shahrazade red 2007
has an inky purple color with reddish violet glints. Attractive
red fruit aromas make it pleasant to the nose. Ripe and
mouth-filling, its fruity character is shaped with a moderate
acidity for balance and gentle tannins in the finish.
The Jardin du Nil white 2006, continued Kallas, has a clear,
transparent pale straw color. Fresh and aromatic, it boasts a
good blend of lime and pineapple, as well as a discreet touch
of stony minerality. Plenty of fresh, juicy lime and ripe melon
will be discerned by the palate, and the wine is crisp and
“Everything is locally grown. We do not import
grapes or concentrates, and we are proud of
the uniquely Egyptian wine that we produce.”
Labib Kallas
clean with a very long
finish. The Jardin du Nil
red 2004 is dark reddish
purple in color with a
clear garnet edge. It has
earthy and ripe intense
aromas with a touch of
spice in the background.
Jammy fruits are dominant on the palate, with
plenty of food-friendly
acidity and savory tannins. The Jardin du Nil red 2005 is clear though a very dark
blackish purple. It gives off fresh fruity scents reminiscent of
cherry and berries with subtle notes of smoke and vanilla.
This is a well-structured, nicely-balanced wine with fresh
acidity and perceptible smooth tannins. Dried tart red fruits
with a hint of spices linger in a long finish.
In addition to sampling these wines, I also had the privilege of tasting the Jardin du Nil red 2007, and while I don’t
know my jammy fruits from my tart fruits, I could tell it was
very promising. The vintage will increase in smoothness
over the coming months, and I am looking forward to the
first bottles hitting the shelves next year. My afternoon at the
wine factory ended with a friendly schmooze in Kallas’ office,
where he treated me to a glass of Shahrazade sweet red
2007, saying “this one is to clink glasses and enjoy, not just
sample!” It is pleasant with chocolate and desserts and would
be worth a try with foie gras.
Reflecting on the road traveled, Kallas remarked that starting a winemaking business in Egypt has been a challenge,
and the quality of the wines was modest in the early days. He
and his team, however, remain determined to make the most
of local conditions and bring the country back on the winemaking map. “Meanwhile, we are very happy with the quality
level attained,” he remarked. “At first we merely wanted to
F. OHAYON
Jardin du Nil and Shahrazade wines enables consumers to
recognize differences in wine quality.
EgyBev’s winery also produces arak, a traditional Lebanese
anise liqueur. This allows the company to utilize valuable
winemaking byproducts that might otherwise go to waste.
Downgraded white wines and particles remaining after the
sedimentation process are distilled in a steam-heated pot still
(known as an alembic) in a similar fashion to that used to produce cognac or brandy. The “heart,” or best part of the resulting eau de vie, is distillated again and macerated overnight
with green anise. After being distilled a third time, the arak
reaches an alcohol concentration of 73 percent. After ageing,
it is diluted with demineralized water and brought down to 50
percent before bottling. EgyBev’s arak is named Kesrouan
after the mountain region of the same name in Lebanon. The
liqueur is best served on ice, diluted with water, as an aperitif
or an accompaniment to fish or seafood.
Enough with the chemistry lesson—how good is the wine?
Wine tasting can be an intimidating exercise for the novice,
especially with connoisseurs in our midst waxing lyrical about
the various properties of a given vintage. My response to
tasting a wine usually runs along the lines of “Yes! I like it!”
or “hmm, not so much.” Kallas assured me, however, that
practice can make all the difference, and the more you drink
the more you know. The direction of an expert is also most
helpful. I don’t take kindly to being told what to think, say, or
wear, but when it comes to wine, I gladly defer to a professional opinion of what I should taste. Thus I listened eagerly
to what Kallas had to say about the wines I tasted that can
currently be found on the market.
The Shahrazade white 2007, said Kallas, is bright with
a rich straw color and a touch of gold. Expect a mouthwatering acidity on the palate, punctuated by apple and lime
notes. Although it is a completely dry wine (as opposed to
a sweet one), a hint of sweetness shows up in the finish.
The Shahrazade rosé 2007 has an attractive, transparent,
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
1 5
Tips for the amateur oenophile
I don’t take kindly to being
told what to think, say, or
wear, but when it comes
to wine, I gladly defer to
a professional opinion of
what I should taste.
make drinkable wine; now we have set higher
expectations for ourselves!” The enthusiastic
oenologist went on to declare his intention
to enter international competitions next year:
“Let’s see how we fare. We may not win medals yet, but we should be able hold our own!”
The EgyBev winery shares an industrial
compound with El Gouna’s brewery. The plant
is divided into a tank farm area, which houses
45 stainless steel 250-hectoliter tanks in which
the wine is made and matured, and a packaging area where it is bottled and shipped out.
The winery employs a staff of 40 that includes
production engineers, lab technicians, quality
control personnel, and a maître de chai (tank
farm master), along with technical and labor
employees. The brewery’s central lab is used
when elaborate and highly accurate measurements and analyses are needed, and the
winery cooperates with El Gouna’s recycling
plant to compost all waste.
Since its opening, the wine factory has
undergone several extensions. A new building
to be added in 2009 will double the size of the
facility and allow an increase in production of
up to 30,000 hectoliters. As part of this next
phase, the winery plans to formulate a tour for
visitors and create a tasting room. Until then,
visits can be organized upon request; contact
Rania Kallas (the wine factory manager’s wife)
on ext 32360 or 32361, or call 065 358 0750.
Wine made in El Gouna (as well as other beverages) is distributed by Cheers (free delivery
in town), ext 32587, mob 19131.
1 6
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Storage: Store your bottles horizontally so that the cork stays moist,
which will prevent air from spoiling your wine. Don’t store large quantities
unless you’re dedicated enough to invest in a temperature- and humiditycontrolled cellar conditioner or wine cabinet; the Egyptian climate isn’t
kind to ageing bottles. Egyptian white wines should be drunk within 12 to
18 months after the harvest; red wines can be kept up to five years for
top quality vintages.
Pairing: It used to be said that white wine goes with fish and red wine
with meat, but experimenting with new combinations can be worthwhile.
When in doubt, use a light wine with appetizers and subtle tasting dishes,
and choose a fuller wine with heavy or spicy foods. Some conventions
deserve our respect, however. For example, it is best to start with white,
then serve rosé, then red wine. Progressing from a young to an aged
wine, from a light to a full-bodied wine, and from an ordinary to a superior
vintage are all good rules of thumb. Tasting a new bottle should never
make you long for one you just drank.
Temperature: Winemakers who advise us to serve their vintages
at room temperature didn’t have Egypt in mind. White, rosé, and sweet
wines should be served between 8 and 12 degrees; dry red wines
between 14 and 18 degrees. Cool it in the refrigerator, not in the freezer.
In the summer, you may want to stick the bottle into a cold sleeve or an ice
bucket at the table, but unless you are making sangria or schorle please
avoid the heresy of adding ice cubes to your wine.
Serving: Young wines (less than a year old) and old wines (above
ten years old) should be decanted, i.e. poured into a carafe. As most
Egyptian wines fall between those two categories, decanting them is
not a necessity. However, it never does harm to let a wine breathe,
and all wines can be uncorked up to one hour before serving. When
uncorking at the table, make the fuss as minimal as possible and try
to avoid breaking the cork. Pour a small amount to the person who
chose the wine so that s/he may try and approve it before serving
other guests. While it is easier to identify a defect when knowing
how a particular wine usually tastes, an unpleasant, musty smell of
mushrooms or damp earth is a telltale sign of corkage. Once satisfied
of the wine’s quality, only fill glasses to half of their capacity as it
permits the aroma to develop better.
Tasting: Begin the ceremony by looking at the glass to observe the
color and clarity of your wine. Then swirl it and plunge your nose in the
brim to appreciate its smell. Take a small sip and breathe some air in
through your lips, or take a larger sip and swish it around your mouth to
let the taste develop fully. Then comes the question: to spit or not to spit?
While not a particularly graceful practice, it is common for the pros to spit
at wine tastings; it doesn’t mean that the juice is bad, only that they can’t
afford to get drunk before the end!
Leftovers: Should you have wine remaining, replace the cork and
store the bottle in the refrigerator for a couple of days. If the wine is
no longer satisfactory for drinking, it can be used to deglaze pans and
pots, add to sauces or salad dressings, or reduce together with sugar
and fruits and pour over cheesecake or ice cream. You can also make
your own vinegar by adding one part of mineral water to three parts
of wine and two spoons of non-pasteurized natural vinegar. Store in a
receptacle covered with a cotton towel or cloth and place in a warm
environment such as a kitchen; the transformation should occur within
approximately one month.
Navigating
the Resale Market
Francoise Ohayon shares what she learned
while home-shopping in El Gouna.
1 8
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
The first decision faced by the El Gouna homebuyer is
whether to purchase a previously owned home or a new
piece of real estate. Buying a new home off-plan can actually be cheaper than purchasing one second-hand, with the
added advantage that the first option allows the prospective
owner to choose custom finishing. Why then, you might ask,
would anyone choose to buy a previously-owned home?
There are several reasons. One is time, for up to two years
can pass while buyers wait for construction to be completed
on a new home. Another reason is location: homebuyers with
a preference for a particular El Gouna neighborhood in which
new properties are no longer available must opt instead for
a resale property.
I was thrust into El Gouna’s resale market for both of
the above reasons: I wanted a home now, and I wanted
one within walking distance of both downtown and Abu Tig
Marina, with a beach at its doorstep. Demanding, you say?
I readily admit that I am. Having spent several years in El
Gouna, I knew what I wanted and, even more, what I didn’t
want. Despite this I kept my parameters broad as I started my
search, narrowing it only as I further honed my sense of what
was out there, what appealed to me, and what I could afford.
Here is what I learned.
Where to start?
Finding the home perfect for you is much like buying a pair
of trousers: you might be lucky enough to spot the perfect
one on display and buy it on the spur of the moment, but
most of the time you will have to shop around. Legwork pays
off, and thus you’ll want to visit each real estate and property management office in town, both Orascom-operated and
privately-owned. Next, get the word out that you are on the
market for a home. Tell friends and acquaintances, but don’t
limit yourself to the circles in which you usually move. You
may find interesting leads as a result of a simple conversation
with a fellow customer or salesperson at a shop or restaurant.
El Gouna is still a small town, and more often than not the
words “I am thinking of buying a home” prompt responses
such as “Why don’t you call so-and-so, I think he was trying
to sell,” or “Hold on—didn’t that woman say that her neighbor
was looking to move?”
Most people who offer advice and connections are acting
as good neighbors and don’t expect any form of payment.
Beware, however, of the small number of people who consider this a business despite the fact that they are not registered
real estate agents. I can’t speak for all of them, but the one I
met didn’t know the difference between the Italian Compound
and New Nubia.
House-hunting can be carried out even if you don’t live in
El Gouna, mainly via the internet. Many sellers utilize a real
estate agent, in which case the agent is likely to have listed
the property on his or her website. Those realtors who don’t
keep an updated list of homes for sale online will usually
email it upon request. Some owners choose to advertise their
property on their private webpage, so entering “villa/apartment for sale in El Gouna” into an internet search engine is
always worth a gander. Alternatively you can present your
criteria to a real estate professional, who will then search for
appropriate properties. A complementary strategy is to advertise yourself and let the seller find you. I found my apartment
in this manner, when the seller contacted me in response to
my posting on a Yahoo forum read by many El Gouna residents and homeowners.
What to look at?
Even if your dream house isn’t among those on offer, scrutinizing every list of homes you can get your hands on will give
you an idea of what is available, where, and for how much.
Don’t be afraid to visit houses and apartments that don’t correspond exactly to the criteria you have set for yourself. I am
not advising you to waste real estate agents’ valuable time,
but rather suggesting that looking at options outside what you
have in mind may broaden your ideas about what you want
in a home or raise your interest in neighborhoods you hadn’t
considered. Beyond obvious factors such as location, size,
amenities, etc, be sure to check out things like how many
times a villa or apartment has changed hands over time and
the use that was made of it. Although this is by no means a
set rule, I have found that homes that have changed ownership several times tend to be in better shape than those
which belonged to the same owner for many years. This
could be explained by the fact that each new owner fixed
the wear and tear upon purchasing the property. In addition,
homes inhabited by their owners or rented out on short-term
basis to fairly up-market holiday clientele seem to fare better than those which are rented out on a long-term basis. I
should reiterate that these are merely my personal observations, and I am sure there are many homes on the market
that contradict them.
How much is the house worth?
Ah—now that is indeed the question! New homes in El
Gouna are priced per square meter in a standard amount for
each project according to building type, area, and facilities
included. A new property sold off-plan is priced lowest before
construction starts, and once construction has begun, prices
increase progressively as the completion date approaches.
On the resale market, however, standard pricing per square
meter doesn’t apply. Although the original sales price of
homes in a certain neighborhood might be an indication, the
current value of a property has much more to do with its furnishings and upkeep. Prices of comparable homes in similar
areas tend to vary more as those properties age because
differences in upkeep and renovations can justify a large gap
in price between otherwise similar objects.
Other factors influencing an asking price are circumstantial. Some owners are in a hurry to sell and will be open for
negotiation, while others set a fixed price and are prepared to
wait for as long as it takes for the requisite offer. Owners who
bought in El Gouna’s early years purchased their property for a
comparatively small amount and can make a reasonable profit
without asking an unrealistically high price. On the other hand,
investors who bought off-plan with the intention of furnishing it
and putting it on the market immediately upon completion may
have different expectations. In that case, buyers will pay more
but have the advantage of getting a home that is both practiE L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
1 9
cally unlived-in and ready for immediate habitation.
Lastly, commissions received by any real estate professionals involved in the process figure into the asking price of
a home. Therefore buying directly from the owner is usually
cheaper. Despite this fact, real estate agents are very often
worth the extra expense: not only can they bring together a
seller and buyer who otherwise might never have found each
other, but they also provide valuable additional services such
as handling the legal aspects of contracting and payment.
Whatever your individual situation and desire may be, I
can’t stress enough the importance of shopping around. By
gaining as much information as possible about the market,
you will be knowledgeable enough to dismiss unreasonable
offers, question bargains too good to be true, and have a
pretty good idea of what a fair deal would be for the kind of
property you are after. And remember that market price is
defined by what people pay when a deal is concluded, not by
what sellers ask for and don’t get!
I will now briefly digress to reveal one of my pet peeves:
please don’t ask me how much I paid for my apartment!
Having no patience for know-it-alls tut-tutting about how
much I overpaid, I have a policy of not answering that question. Moreover, I’m sure the previous owner likewise has no
desire to hear how much more he could have gotten for it.
You’ve found your dream home—now what?
Don’t let your excitement get the best of you! Check out all
aspects of the “perfect” home to make sure that it is all you
think it is. Meet the neighbors and listen to what they have to
say about the area. When considering my apartment, I visited the place at different hours of the day and night to check
noise levels, and I
even went so far as
to ask to spend a
couple of days in the
apartment to really
get a feel for it. You
can also have OHD
engineers check out
the plumbing and
electrical
installation. Common sense
should prevail: when
buying a pre-owned
property as-is there
is always the possibility that the future
will contain surprises, pleasant or otherwise. Nonetheless,
your purchase should
be an informed decision rather than a leap of faith.
Once seller and buyer have come to an agreement, the
seller must inform OHD Real Estate. A clause in every property owners’ contract stipulates that OHD must be informed
prior to the sale, since the town’s developer has a preemptive
right to purchase the property for the same amount as that
offered by the prospective buyer. I was told, however, that
2 0
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
OHD does not exercise this right at the present time due to
the fact that it still has plenty of new real estate on the market. Once this formality is accomplished, the two parties can
decide whether to draw up a private sales contract, which is
optional, and must agree on payment terms.
The sale is concluded when both parties sign a document
known as an “assignment,” in which the seller confirms having received full payment and handing over the object to the
buyer, and the buyer confirms his or her acceptance of all
rules pertaining to property ownership within El Gouna. This
is a standard procedure, and the documents’ contents are
non-negotiable. To draft an assignment, OHD Real Estate
requires the following: a copy of both the seller’s and the
buyer’s passport, a statement from the accounting department showing that all utility bills (water, electricity, and public
services) have been paid, and a “full payment statement”
obtained from OHD Real Estate by the first owner of the
property, proving that said property was paid in full and no
outstanding debts remain (if the owner has misplaced this
document, a copy can be provided by OHD Real Estate).
The signing of the assignment can take place at the El
Gouna Real Estate office but must be confirmed by a stamp
from OHD Real Estate’s headquarters in Cairo, which usually
takes four to eight weeks. For the assignment to be final, a
fee of three per cent of the original sales price must be paid
to OHD by the seller (or by the buyer if so agreed). This fee
is calculated on the sales price paid by the very first owner
to OHD, regardless of the number of times the property has
changed hands since.
I found the whole procedure surprisingly simple and efficient compared to the heap of paperwork and notary fees that
accompany real estate transactions elsewhere. I consulted a
local lawyer recommended by my embassy about the validity
of this registration with the owning company. He assured me
that this procedure is perfectly common and legal in Egypt.
However, once the developer—in this case OHD—has registered the land with the government, which usually happens a
number of years after the project is completed, property owners can also register their house with the government, either
individually or in bulk through the developer. In El Gouna,
the land registration is completed for Phases I and II, and is
scheduled to start soon for Phase III and Old Nubia, as per
OHD Real Estate.
Welcome to the homeowners’ club!
New homeowners can count on the support of El Gouna’s
Customer Services department. Their first step should be
to obtain an Owner Card, which will grant them a number of
privileges and discounts with many of the hotels and outlets
in town. Customer Services is a convenient place to direct
one’s questions and concerns, not only as a new owner, but
also with any issue that might arise in the long run. Finally,
should you decide to undertake maintenance or renovations
in your villa or apartment, you can refer to OHD Real Estate
for information on the kinds of work that are permitted and
those which are subject to the approval of a designated engineer. Conveniently, a growing number of interior designers
and furniture shops in El Gouna provide inspiration to decorate your new home. Enjoy the experience – I sure did!
Special thanks to: Melanie Braun and Daniela Di Sabatino
Di Diodoro at Magic Property Management, who shared their
in-depth knowledge of the El Gouna market and provided
me with valuable tips, even though I wasn’t one of their clients. Marwa Zein El-Dien and Therese Fahmy at OHD Real
Estate, for patiently answering my never-ending questions
about the formalities involved. Makram Frensis, who beautifully furnished and decorated my new apartment.
Ready to make a move!
Should you wonder what’s out there for you, here are
some examples of pre-owned properties recently put
up for sale:
- Studio transformed into a 1-bedroom apartment in
Kafr El Gouna, 50 sq m, furnished, Euro 70,000
- Studio in Rihana Compound, 69 sq m, furnished,
near to the lagoon, USD 130,800
- 1 BR apartment in West Golf, 57 sq m, fully
furnished, lagoon and golf course view, USD 140,000
- 1 BR apartment in Abu Tig Marina, 90 sq m, fully
furnished, bathtub in master bathroom, Euro 180,000
- 2 BR apartment in Phase IV, 98 sq m, furnished,
roof terrace, Euro 180,000
- 2 BR villa on the Hill, 180 sq m, fully furnished,
pergola and barbecue pit, Euro 375,000
- 3 BR duplex villa in Upper Nubia, 220 sq m,
unfurnished, terrace and large garden, Euro 406,000
- 3 BR Nubian villa in Old Nubia, 424 sq m, fully
furnished, large roof terrace and garden, Euro
509,900
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
2 1
Ancient Sands
IFB Resort Developers and Orascom Hotels & Development (OHD)
are working together to turn a patch of desert into sparkling golf
greens and a luxury gated community with first-class amenities.
By Francoise Ohayon
2 2
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Ancient Sands Golf Resort is the latest development project in El Gouna, and it represents a continuation of OHD
Chairman Samih Sawiris’ dream to “carve paradise out of
the desert.” The patch of desert that will soon be home to a
600-acre golfer’s paradise is located to the northwest of Abu
Tig Marina, adjacent to the Fanadir neighborhood beyond the
marina’s new super yacht basin. A majestic hill will stand at
the heart of the development, surrounded by an 18-hole golf
course that overlooks azure lagoons. The unique management scheme of Ancient Sands sets the community apart as
a resort within a resort, but the development will remain an
integral part of El Gouna, with its facilities open to the town’s
residents and visitors.
Buildings will cover only 20 per cent of the 2.1 million
square meters devoted to the project, leaving room for
ample open space and lush greenery. Lagoons will cover 18
per cent, while the golf course will cover 39 per cent. The
resort’s focal point will be the hilltop village with its array
of exclusive restaurants, stylish bars, boutique shopping,
and beautifully-sculptured pools. Five residential buildings
will feature the distinctive domes, towers, archways, and
terraced galleries of Nubian-influenced architecture. Twobedroom townhouses and apartments ranging in size from
studios to three-bedroom flats will overlook open courtyards,
and three- to five-bedroom villas will spread out on desirable
plots around the lagoons and throughout the golf course.
Twin villas with optional plunge pools, interspaced with twoand three-bedroom penthouse-style apartment buildings, will
form the Fairways neighborhood built into the hillside.
The master plan for the golf resort was designed by the
American firm EDSA, one of the world’s leading urban design
and planning firms. EDSA has been the recipient of many
prestigious awards, and its portfolio includes the Amelkis
resort and residential community in Morocco as well as the
Arabian Court Hotel at the One and Only Royal Mirage in
Dubai. In planning Ancient Sands, EDSA operates with the
belief that “residents are seeking communities with an identity that offer a higher quality of life, with designs that . . .
address their desire for privacy, security and convenience.”
Ancient Sands’ championship par 72 golf course was
designed by Karl Litten, one of the world’s preeminent real
estate golf course designers. The course will be well integrated into its surroundings, offering undisturbed views of
the lagoon, sea, and mountains. Litten’s impressive resume
includes the Dreamland Golf Course in Cairo, the 27-hole
Emirates Golf Club in Dubai, and the $100-million 18-hole Aoki
Golf Club at Hyogo, Japan.
The developers have also secured the services of SB
Architects, known for their site-sensitive, contextually-appropriate designs as well as their vibrant, livable residential
communities. By blending Arab architectural influences with
a Mediterranean sense of massing and scale, SB has striven
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
2 3
for a concept that will be beautiful, timeless, and functional.
“Our intention is to create an environment in which people can
absorb a combination of traditional Egyptian style and contemporary comfort,” says Principal Architect Joe Andriola.
Great attention to detail has come to bear on supplying
the finishing touches to Ancient Sands’ high-end properties.
Karim Mekhitigian and Risa Kato of the Cairo interior design
studio Alchemy have created three sets of finishing specifications from which buyers can choose: Cool White, a modern,
fresh, and chic interior concept with high gloss and lacquered
finishes, Modern Classic with velvety wall finishes with exquisite coffee sandstone floors and walnut paneling, and Yacht,
the height of sophistication with black African granite kitchen
counters, rich oak paneled walls, and boat deck flooring.
Villas will be sold with basic landscaping included in the price
so that the community retains its well-kept atmosphere.
Each construction phase is expected to last 30 months,
and care will be taken to complete all of a given section at
the same time to ensure that people will not be moving into
a construction site. The developers have guaranteed that
the golf course and all communal areas will be finished when
the first properties are delivered. Phase I of the construction
will include the Hilltop Village, which will be completed by the
middle or end of 2011. Currently 73 units are for sale, with
additional units to be released soon. Phase II, which will be
launched in January 2009 will consist of the villas area, with
first deliveries expected towards the end of 2011. The third
and final phase will be comprised of the Fairways neighborhood’s semi-detached properties.
Ancient Sands’ facilities and services will include a stately
Golf Club Estate House, a holistic spa and wellness center,
kids’ club, library and business center, tennis academy, and
a water taxi service to transport guests from the marina to
the Hilltop Village. Dedicated on-site concierge service will
be provided by Quintessentially, the world’s leading luxury
concierge service and private members’ club. From solving
pressing logistical problems to VIP after-parties, the service
caters to every whim of its membership base. Newly opened
in Egypt, Quintessentially is already providing services to
most of Cairo’s movers and shakers.
Owners will have the option of entering Ancient Sands’
unique rental management program. Under the rental pool
system, all income will be combined and redistributed
amongst participating owners quarterly. Rentals will be managed similarly to a hotel, with services including airport transfers, reception, housekeeping, room service, babysitting,
and kitchen stocked upon arrival. This format is expected to
appeal to the short term rental market—one and two week
holidays—while long term rent will be considered for townhouses and villas.
Investor Highlights
RED SEA
Villa Plots
Fanadir
Six Star
Boutique Hotel
Fairways
Neighbourhood
Golf Club
Estate
Hilltop Village
Super Yacht
Marina
Abu Tig Marina
2 4
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Twenty-two units were sold in four weeks in the development’s pre-launch phase in July. The investment memorandum predicts “a steady capital growth of at least 15
per cent per annum,” which Ancient Sands’ Head of
Sales and Marketing Martine Trebucq remarks is “a
most conservative figure, definitely realistic for at least
the next two years with steady growth expected.” The
estimated 14 per cent gross rental yield within the rental
management program is based on 75 per cent occupancy, “again conservatively calculated as El Gouna’s
hotels achieved an occupancy of 83 per cent in 2007.”
Concerted effort to promote the resort, teaming up with
high class tour operators and airlines, should have the
desired effect of boosting rental opportunities.
Ancient Sands’ developers are currently negotiating with
Egyptian and foreign banks to provide financing. Meanwhile,
they keep abreast of government reforms and have provided clear, up-to-date information on applicable taxes and
fees in their sales documents. Last but not least, they will
support property registration at clients’ will. “We guarantee
that if someone declares their intention to register their property with the Egyptian government, we will provide all the
needed documents in order to register it with the Hughada
authorities,” says Trebucq. “We have full rights to transfer
the property title to the owners.”
The Ancient Sands sales office is located in Abu
Tig Marina, ext 77870, mob 010 068 0110, enquiries@
ancientsandsresort.com, www.ancientsandsresort.com
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
2 5
At Your Service
Where can I find a good dentist? Who can fix the water leak in my bathroom?
And by the way, how do you cook molokheya?
For years now, the staff of El Gouna’s Customer Services
Department has been hard at work answering questions
like these. El Gouna Magazine’s Francoise Ohayon interviews Senior Cust omer Services Executive Laila Agag, who
explains that the department’s job is not only to serve as a
liaison between residents and Orascom, the town’s parent
company, but also to be a resource for homeowners as they
encounter difficulties or questions about life in El Gouna.
EGM: Laila, what are the most common requests you and your
team encounter?
LA: We are involved in everything. People ask us for general
information about shopping, local laws and regulations, practicalities such as sending a bank transfer from abroad, and
even cooking recipes. Once a lady came in with a bunch of
fresh green leaves and asked how to cook molokheya. I was
in trouble as I normally use the frozen stuff, but I did my best,
and when I called to check up on her the next day she was
happy with the result.
EGM: What is the primary role of the Customer Services
Department?
LA: We act as a liaison between El Gouna homeowners and
2 6
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
all of Orascom’s departments. Owners may ask for modifications or renovations in their units, have issues related to landscaping and private gardens, or require day-to-day services
such as plumbing, carpentry, and electrical work. We help
them with all these things and also give directions on where
and how to settle their utility bills.
EGM: What makes going through Customer Services more
effective for a homeowner or tenant than approaching a given
department directly?
LA: First of all, we provide our services in English, which is a
huge asset for many of El Gouna’s foreign residents. We see
what can be done to address a particular request or concern,
get quotations, and follow up on work progress. It isn’t so
much about pointing people in the right direction as it is making sure everything gets done from beginning to end.
EGM: Do clients still receive personal service when the system is so centralized?
LA: Of course! Centralizing allows us to understand what
people want, to be familiar with their needs, their expectations,
and the issues that concern them, and to best represent their
concerns to the respective departments.
EGM: How do you handle complaints?
LA: We empathize with the client and try to fully understand
the situation. We then get in touch with the appropriate department to advocate the owner’s position. If a course of action
is within the scope of our responsibility, which is the case for
most situations, we keep on top of it until the issue is resolved.
In cases involving policy changes we refer to our superiors.
EGM: What else do you do?
LA: We keep the community informed of the latest news via
email and keep them abreast of developments in regards to
power cuts, road closures, construction, etc. This service is
particularly appreciated by owners who live abroad as it keeps
them connected to the place.
EGM: That doesn’t sound like an easy job…
LA: It’s not, but I love it because I feel useful. We are serving
a community we have come to know and appreciate.
EGM: Is there anything you don’t like about your work?
LA: I love El Gouna, and I don’t like it when the whole project
is criticized for the mistakes of a few employees. Most people
in Orascom from top to bottom do their very best to perform
up to the highest standards. We are all working very hard to
preserve the reputation of our hometown.
EGM: Anything you would like to add?
LA: The customer must come first because without owners
there would be no El Gouna.
Words of praise
Meet the team
Laila Agag: Originally from Cairo, Laila made her home
in an El Gouna white villa in 2005. As the senior executive
of the Customer Services Department, she has built up
a strong team striving for excellence over the past three
years. Laila’s welcoming smile and genuine desire to help
have become legendary in El Gouna. Mob 012 173 5406,
laila.agag@elgouna.com
Wessam Al Galaly: After a brief stint in Taba, Wessam
joined El Gouna’s Customer Services in 2006. He has garnered a reputation for assisting homeowners beyond the
scope of his duties, including interpreting and facilitating
contacts with the authorities in Hurghada. Wessam and his
wife Hoda recently welcomed newborn daughter Malak.
Mob 010 544 7080, customer.services@elgouna.com
Asta Grimasevskyte: Hailing from Lithuania, Asta is
Customer Services’ latest recruit. Before joining the team
last February, she had already worked in the hospitality industry in El Gouna for eight years. Asta’s mastery of
Arabic is as impressive as her knowledge of local customs.
Mob 010 638 9968, customer.services@elgouna.com
The Customer Services offices, located in Downtown
El Balad next to El Gouna Limousine, are open daily from
9am to 4pm, ext 34455 or 34466
The Customer Services department launched a satisfaction survey last spring, and feedback on the quality of the
services they provide was overwhelmingly positive, as
evidenced by this small selection of testimonies:=
“Since we received our property almost a year ago, we felt
part of the ‘big’ El Gouna family because of the sincere, passionate care and follow up we get from Customer Services.
Thanks for your attentiveness, promptness and proactive
cooperation and assistance. We truly appreciate it.” Tamer
Nadim, Phase IV
“When we have needed your help it has always been at
short notice. On each occasion, you have been helpful, professional and polite, and where action was needed it was very
quick to occur and, if it was not possible to find a solution, then
you have suggested alternatives. Many thanks!” Dave and
Jenny Cooper, Kafr El Gouna
“The service we received from Customer Services is 'first
class'. Laila and her team are always so polite and helpful and
they truly do a magnificent job representing Orascom. Laila
often uses the phrase ‘In shaa allah’ but we put our trust in her.
Unlike some people in El Gouna, if Laila makes a promise, it
happens!” Beverley and Graham Lucy, West Golf
“We have never once asked for help without receiving
an immediate response. Furthermore, the response and help
received has always managed to solve our problems. Also,
when popping in to the office to renew our owners’ cards or to
collect a new magazine we have always been greeted most
courteously.” Enid and Kevin Barnett, East Golf
“I have always found the Customer Services personnel
extremely helpful and always willing to go that extra mile (or
kilometer).” Dorothy Mitchell, West Golf
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
2 7
G. COLE
Keti and Sofia in the marina.
Four-Legged Residents
Setting up home in a new country is never easy, and for some the long
list of challenges includes uprooting the family dog. How will Rover cope
with the hot Egyptian sun? Will he survive the stress of the journey? Long
time resident Georgina Cole catches up with furry friends who have made
the move to El Gouna as well as dogs adopted from right here in town.
Walking around the beaches and lagoons in El Gouna it is not
long before you are greeted enthusiastically by the wagging
tail and wet nose of one of the town’s four-legged residents.
Many of El Gouna’s inhabitants bring their pets when they
make the move from other countries to Egypt. This is no easy
task. Even before the move, microchips, vaccinations, blood
tests, pet passports and health certificates must be up to
date, and a suitable pet carrier or crate must be purchased in
compliance with conditions laid down by the International Air
Transport Association. Once all this is in place one is faced
with the equally challenging feat of getting the pet into the
crate. A friend of mine once spent ages at the airport coaxing
her springer spaniel into the carrier, only to realize after he
went in that she had left the door to the cage at home!
2 8
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Arrival in Egypt tends to be much less complicated, and
most pet owners freely walk out of the airport with their pets
and set off for their new home. Hurghada Real Estate Agent
Peter Mitry arrived from Spain accompanied by three dogs
and four cats and is happy to say that his pets adjusted
swimmingly. “They are so happy,” he said with relief. Peter
remarked that his dog Tio, whom he calls a “dyed-in-the-wool
Spanish street urchin,” is never happier than when he can
roll in camel dung and come home smelling of anything but
roses. One of El Gouna’s landmark watering holes is named
for man’s best friend. Owners Andy and Janice call their establishment Boxers Bar, after the name of their favorite breed. "I
have always had a passion for boxing as a sport and also for
boxer dogs, so the name stuck," explained Andy. The couple
Dogs enjoy the sea as much as
heir owners
Christina and her daughter take a walk
with Marshmellow.
has had two boxer dogs in El Gouna. The first, Jake, moved sitting happily on her lap, and Sofia would accompany Keti
with them to El Gouna with the help of a company called Jet- around the marina from the cozy vantage point of her owner’s
A-Pet. Their second boxer dog was purchased in Hurghada. handbag. Now fully grown, Sofia travels with Keti on her weekly
Andy and Janice had been looking for a puppy with white journey between Cairo and her home in El Gouna.
Rather than obtaining a dog from a breeder, some of
markings and a small tail, but ended up going home with a
El Gouna’s pet owners have chosen the more difficult, but
scrawny black female with no tail that captured Jake’s fancy.
Some people find their dogs, but in the case of resident ultimately rewarding route, of adopting strays. Captivated by
Roy Cooper, his dog found him. In the course of running a the dog’s beautiful dark eyes and white coat, Nelleke Van
quad bike business in the desert, Roy was always surrounded Kempen of the Netherlands took in Shaman when he was a
by wild dogs looking for food. One dog in particular stood out stray in Downtown El Gouna. "The first year was horrendous"
because of her long hair, which is
unusual in a desert dog. "She was
Rihana compound resident Christina Hawari
only six months old but would walk
brought her white dog Marshmallow all the way
like a wolf, prancing, with her head
down," Roy remembered. One day
from the USA at great expense. "It cost me nearly
he heard loud screaming and went
to investigate. The young dog had
300 dollars for the vet's fee,” she recalled, “and
gotten her paw caught in some
500 dollars for the flight ticket."
ironwork and everyone apart from
Roy was afraid to go near her to
help. "I freed her, and in doing so we developed a real bond,” remarked Nelleke. "Shaman was very difficult because dessaid Roy. Lucy now lives full time in El Gouna, where Roy ert dogs are so nervous and scared of everything." However,
Nelleke’s hard work and training has paid off, and Shaman is
built her a house on his balcony.
Director of Egypt's Sphinx Festival Keti Sharif acquired her now well behaved and the perfect companion.
One of the biggest problems encountered by El Gouna’s
beautiful dog Sofia from Cairo when her friend’s prize-winning
golden retriever had a litter of seven. The puppies were 40 pet owners is what to do with their dogs when they go on
days old when Keti visited the kennel, and Sofia, the only holiday or visit their home countries. When I first moved to
female of the litter, ran into Keti’s lap and refused to budge. The El Gouna I could see there was quite a demand for a relidog has been a fixture of El Gouna life ever since. In Sofia’s able dog sitter. I offered my services, and before long I was
puppy days Keti would fly from Cairo to El Gouna with the dog overrun. Excited puppies took up all my time and destroyed
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
2 9
A day at the beach.
Sebastian and Chanel take time out for fun.
my beautiful apartment, and I found myself moving into other
people’s homes for weeks at a time in order to keep their pets
in the same routine and environment.
On one occasion I had a large rottweiler and a tiny street
kitten living with me for three weeks while their owner traveled to Germany. Robin the rottweiler was the gentlest, best-
Andy and his boxer friend.
Veterinary Clinics
Like humans, pets must be kept in good health. Hurghada has
several clinics offering everything from general check-ups to
vaccination programs, X-rays and ultrasounds, neutering, traveling procedures and 24-hour emergency services. Vets also
offer grooming services including nail clipping, fur trimming,
and shampoo. Several
vets make regular house
Another familiar furry face in El Gouna is the lively
calls to residences in El
Chanel, who was found by her owner Sebastian Berger
Gouna. Dr. Sameh Shata,
who set up a clinic in
in a garbage bin in Agadir, Morocco. The local marble
Hurghada in 2002, offers
full services as well as
expert and owner of Shining Stones Development transselling supplies and orgaported the dog back to Germany and then brought her
nizing animal adoption.
Dr. Sameh estimates that
along when he moved to El Gouna.
there are approximately
200 pets in El Gouna.
natured dog you could ever hope to meet, and he happily Supplies
slept away most of the day on my lounge floor. Sam the kitten Supermarkets in El Gouna have noticed an increase in
was another story. He used Robin as a springboard to reach demand for supplies of pet food, toys, leads as well as
unexplored shelves and spaces, and when bored with that products like grooming brushes and bowls. Larger suppliactivity he would launch himself at Robin’s head and start ers in Hurghada import items from abroad, and it is now
chewing his big ears. Despite rottweilers’ fierce reputation, possible to buy most products locally. Following the bird flu
Robin was astonishingly patient with the kitten. I enjoyed my outbreak a ban on certain animal foods resulted in a shortwork as pet-sitter but was forced to stop as there were simply age of canned dog and cat food. This problem has now been
too many dogs and cats in need of a temporary home, and I resolved, and Best Way Supermarket is expecting shipments
found it impossible to say no to some and yes to others.
of Pedigree brand products soon.
3 0
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Bluemoon Animal Center
In March 2007 Monique
Carrera and husband
Salah Gad El Karim took
over agricultural land
south of El Gouna with
a vision for transforming
the space into an animal
shelter. Since then the
couple has cared for countless desert animals and
strays, neutering animals to control the population
and vaccinating them against rabies. The shelter
also houses pets who lose their homes when their
owners move away.
When I met Monique at Bluemoon Animal
Center she was busily feeding three tiny newborn
kittens. She showed us around the shelter, which is
currently home to some 200 animals. Bluemoon is
divided into three large enclosures, each of which
contains houses and toys for the animals, branches
to climb, and plenty of space to run around. On our
tour I saw not only cats and dogs, but also an owl,
a hawk with a broken wing, ducks, chicken, geese,
goats, sheep, one donkey and two camels.
Bluemoon welcomes help in a variety of areas.
Volunteers are needed to accompany animals on
flights to Europe, where homes have been lined
up for them, and others are needed to bring
donated items from Europe to Egypt. The shelter
can use help walking the dogs, and donations of
old blankets, towels, pillows, newspaper, and dried
bread are welcomed. Monique and Saleh are currently building new enclosures and an aviary, and
they are also growing corn and fruit trees. Newlyplanted palm trees are labeled with the name of the
person who donated money to buy the tree.
The shelter boards cats and dogs for a fee of
LE 25 per animal per day. On Mondays a volunteer veterinarian neuters animals, and the shelter
urges pet owners to be responsible and have their
animals sterilized. Bluemoon welcomes visitors
between 9am and 12 noon every day but Monday
and Friday, and it can be found just south of El
Gouna, beyond the wind farm and behind the
Mubarak 7 development.
Dr. Sameh Shata
Clinic (+2) 065 354 4009, Mob (+2) 012 166 4628
sssh77@hotmail.com, www.drsamehshata.com
Dr. Markos Naeem
Mob (+2) 012 458 0052, drmarkos2@yahoo.com
Bluemoon Animal Centre
Mob (+2) 010 549 0046, www.bluemoon-animalcenter.com
For pet transport from the UK:
Leigh Kovarik, Pet Relocation Specialist
Toll Free 888-JET-A-PET
leigh@jet-a-pet.com, www.jet-a-pet.com
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
3 1
Last Sail to Tawila
With nearby islands now placed under military restriction, Georgina
Cole’s sailing experience becomes an exceptional memory to treasure.
One of the nice things about living in El Gouna is meeting
the yachties who pass through Abu Tig Marina on their way
around the world. Some spend the entire winter here away
from the cold of the Mediterranean, taking advantage of
the dry Egyptian climate to catch up on boat repairs. Most
yachties appreciate an invitation to a home on dry land after
being confined to living on a small boat for months on end,
and when the opportunity presents itself I can listen for hours
to their tales of travel and adventure, wondering whether that
life would be for me.
3 2
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Not too long ago I was invited to a dinner party aboard one of
the yachts after discovering the owners, Katy and Doug, were
from my hometown in the UK. The evening aboard the Casa Tu
was lively, and we were joined by a Swiss gentleman named
Gunter who had just brought his yacht up from Thailand. Given
the small size of galley on Katy and Doug's yacht, the dinner
of fresh artichokes, stir-fried prawns, and chicken with cashew
nuts was quite an accomplishment. Dinner was washed down
with copious amounts of local wine freshly purchased from the
El Gouna winery, and we soon found ourselves dancing round
Photos by Georgina Cole
the yacht to Mick Jagger. Hours later, as we wound down from
the exertion, Gunter suggested that he and I sail out to Tawila
Island early the next day.
My prior experience sailing had been limited to a crossing of
the English Channel from Poole to Cowes that had taken place
20 years before. The conditions of that crossing were horrendous; only two of ten crew members were fit enough to remain
on deck, while the remainder joined those of us dying of sea sickness below. The fear of repeating that experience led me to avoid
small craft for the next two decades, and I ventured long distances offshore only in large “gin palace”-style diving boats. Gunter
was persistent, however, and my resistance was weakened by
the wine. Comforted by the knowledge that only light winds were
forecasted for the next day, I agreed to the adventure.
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
3 3
ON BOARD
I woke at six the next morning with a hangover from hell,
remembering what I had promised the night before. Jumping
out of bed in a panic, I searched desperately my wet suit,
snorkel, and fins. Once my bag was packed I swallowed a
hefty dose of painkillers and sneaked back to bed for forty
winks before setting off to meet Gunter. At nine I found him
waiting bright-eyed and bushy-tailed aboard his 38-foot yacht
at the marina, showing no ill effects from the previous night’s
festivities. He gave me a quick tour, completed the crew list
paperwork for the marina office, called for assistance with
departing the berth, and we were on our way.
As we left the marina the fresh sea air cleared my head. The
sea was beautiful—flat calm in varying shades of turquoise.
Navigating the Red Sea is never easy. Coral reefs are both
fragile and hazardous to boats, and the sea floor rises close to
the surface in unexpected places. Traveling in a straight line
is impossible, and our route, which Gunter had shown me on
the chart, involved navigating to various way-points, zigzagging around potential threats. Fortunately my BSAC Advanced
Diver training and seven years at the Guildford branch of the
British Sub Aqua Club had given me some experience using
charts and a GPS, so I felt useful shouting bearings and
courses up to Gunter. After we had successfully negotiated the
Sha'ab abu Sha'r reef close to the harbor entrance, the winds
picked up enough to allow us to switch off the motor. I wound
winches and pulled ropes according to Gunter’s instructions,
and once the sail was up we sat back and enjoyed the peace
and quiet of the open sea.
Bobbing along at the gentle speed of six knots, we were in
danger of getting too relaxed when a fishing boat appeared
a little too quickly on our starboard side. Jumping into action,
Gunter soon had the yacht on a different course to avoid collision. Next we had to find passage through the Sha'ab Tawila
and Sha'ab Shiban reefs, avoiding the pinnacles rising close
to the surface. Gunter navigated our way perfectly, but the
crystalline water gave us a clear view of the corals close below,
showing us just how treacherous the sea can be.
After clearing the reefs we headed towards the Shadwan
Channel, changing our course to enter Endeavor Harbor at
Tawila Island, where we dropped the sail and returned to using
the engine as we made our way into the sheltered azure lagoon.
Endeavor Harbor’s large sheltered bay is a popular destination
for sailing boats and motor yachts from El Gouna, but we were
lucky enough to have the whole lagoon to ourselves. Having
moored the boat, Gunter disappeared into the galley below to
prepare a Swiss-style buffet lunch. In no time at all we were
tucking into dried meats and salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, and
fresh-baked Swiss-style baguettes courtesy of 7th Star Cafe.
Washed down with El Gouna Brewery’s Luxor beer, it made for
a wonderful feast, and I enjoyed getting to know Gunter better as
he told me about his sailing adventures and life in Switzerland.
Tawila Island
Tawila Island is a low-lying island 17 kilometers from the
mainland that has white sandy beaches, a fringing reef, and
little wildlife apart from the various species of birds that use it
as a breeding ground and stopping-off point during migration.
3 4
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Gunter had previously explored the island extensively on foot,
taking care not to upset nesting birds. Ospreys, herons, turns,
and gulls are some of the birds that can commonly be found
on Tawila and other Red Sea islands. After lunch Gunter and
I relaxed on deck and soaked up the sun. Our peace was
temporarily disturbed by a tourist boat from Hurghada full of
excited Russians looking for a place to stop for a swim and
enjoy lunch. The boat moored right next to us, music at full
volume. Watching the tourists’ antics as they dove off the top
deck of the boat and swam ashore was entertaining, but we
were glad when they moved on, leaving us to the peace and
tranquility of the mirror-like lagoon.
A snorkeling trip was next on the agenda, and the two of
us climbed into our wet suits and swam away from the yacht,
far into the lagoon, to the shallow edges of the reef. Sadly,
much of the coral there has been damaged, and the marine
life is limited. The long swim back to the yacht gave us a
good excuse to have a cocktail on deck as the sun dropped
slowly behind the mountains. Everything was still, and I reveled in our quiet isolation. After the sunset, Gunter returned
to the galley and prepared a wonderful mushroom risotto for
dinner. By the time he finished night had fallen, and the sky
was full of stars. Fishing boats illuminated to attract their prey
twinkled on the horizon, and we lied back on deck counting
shooting stars and feasting on Swiss chocolate. I grew very
sleepy and opted to spend the night out under the stars as
Gunter retired to his cabin below. It took three blankets to
keep the chill of the cool night at bay, but I fell asleep peacefully counting the stars.
I woke the next morning when the sky was still dark and
watched a tiny sliver of a moon rising in the east. The large red
sun soon followed, and I heartily welcomed the warmth it spread
over the yacht. Gunter was soon awake, and for breakfast he
prepared his specialty of homemade Swiss muesli. I sat on the
steps to the galley watching him grate apples, squeeze juice,
and add yogurt and other wonderful ingredients to a large bowl
before proudly presenting it to me to try. It was a wonderful way
to start the day. After sunbathing on the deck we took the dinghy
in search of a better place to snorkel. Close to the mouth of the
lagoon we found a small reef full of colorful clown fish, angel
fish, box fish, wrasse and a large trigger fish, to name a few.
The time to return to El Gouna came all too soon, and we
packed up and raised anchor. The wind was light, so we used
the motor to leave the lagoon. As we passed Siyul el-Saghira
we could see a group of dolphins in the distance, and we
whistled to entice them closer. We were in luck, because they
joined us and swam alongside the yacht, surfacing to breathe
and then diving back into the water, turning on their sides to get
a better look at us. The yacht deck was not high, and the clear
water afforded wonderful views—I counted seventeen dolphins
in total. They stayed with us for thirty magical minutes.
Having safely navigated our way back through the reefs, we
entered Abu Tig Marina by mid-afternoon and were welcomed
by the marina staff as they helped us ease into our berth and
secure the yacht with the mooring lines. It was a truly wonderful experience for me to see the quieter, less touristy side of the
Red Sea, and I bid farewell to Gunter, wishing him bon voyage
as I returned to my home on El Gouna soil.
Adam Dodd, Boarder X Productions
Wakeboarding
Champion in Town
Australian wakeboarding legend Josh Sanders chose El Gouna as
a training location as he prepared to set a new world record.
Josh Sanders has garnered ample media attention since
1996, when he became Australia’s first Junior National
Champion. Since that time he has carved out his niche
among the best wakeboarders in the world, performing feats
like riding the killer barrel wave at Teahupoo, the worldfamous Tahitian surfing location, and repeatedly finishing in
the world’s top ten. Josh’s most impressive achievements
include winning the US Open, the Asian X Games, the
3 6
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Planet X Xtreme Games, and Melbourne’s Moomba Masters
(four years consecutively). After winning the prestigious
Wakeboarding Pro-Tour and becoming world champion in
2005, Josh Sanders walked away with the first ever King of
Wake title, thereby entering wakeboarding legend for winning all of the major titles in one year.
When Josh isn’t competing, he travels the world looking
for ultimate wakeboarding spots and seeks to raise public
awareness of the sport. His all-consuming enthusiasm
recently took him to Alaska, where he rode an iceberg,
and then on to Egypt to attempt breaking the world
record for longest rail slide. Josh was sponsored by Red
Bull Energy Drinks for this endeavor, which took place
on a 30-meter long, three meter high rail slide set up
between two pools in front of the Pyramids of Giza. Red
Bull is known for backing athletes in their pursuit of new
and obscure stunts in exotic locations. Perhaps the most
fascinating location in which Josh has wakeboarded thus
far is Bonne Terre Mine, a retired lead mine in Missouri,
USA that is the site of the world’s largest subterranean
lake. Sponsored by Red Bull, ten wakeboarding champions competed deep underground, pulling off dozens of
tricks while avoiding the low ceilings and rock pillars of
the dimly-lit caverns.
In August, in preparation for the attempt to set a new
world record, Josh Sanders and his team traveled to El
Gouna. The town is home to the Orange Concept, a watersport center Josh had chosen as the best place in Egypt to
train and test the winch that was to be used in Cairo. The
wakeboarding champion’s team of ten was comprised of
rail slide builders, photographers for major wakeboarding
magazines, and two cameramen for the television series
known as “Josh’s Idea,” a show starring the wakeboarder
that is set for broadcast in America, Australia, and Europe.
During his time in El Gouna, Josh went out each morning at
sunrise to wakeboard behind the Orange Concept’s newlyacquired Moomba Outback V, which was piloted by owners
Marcel Aartsen and Wouter van Gent. A chase boat was
utilized by the photographers.
On the second day Josh sustained a muscle injury
to his bicep in the course of attempting a hootchie (an
inverted jump with a board grab). This mishap didn’t
stop him for long; after consulting with his physician and
undergoing an MRI scan at El Gouna Hospital, he elected
to carry on testing the slider winch. The slider itself was
built with wood provided by Juergen Sparnicht from El
Gouna’s Biergarten and installed at the Arena Inn, where
Josh jumped from the hotel pool onto the slider in the
lagoon. The experiment, carried out before a delighted
public, was a huge success, and the wakeboarding team
left for Cairo with full confidence in its winch system.
Josh and his team praised El Gouna’s architecture
highly and spoke words of appreciation for the hard work
of Marcel and Wouter of the Orange Concept as well
as Dorothee Picht of Orascom in making the program a
success. “This is the best set up I have ever seen,” he
commented in regards to the Orange Concept’s location
and equipment. “The boarding I am doing here is against
the sickest backdrop ever!” Josh also announced his
intention to come back in the future for a real holiday.
Sponsorship for the El Gouna event was provided by
the Orange Concept, OHD, Steigenberger Golf Resort,
Biergarten, and Zenith boats. Josh Sanders is sponsored
by Red Bull, Moomba Boats, and O’Brien.
The Orange Concept, ext 77976, mob 010 010 2949,
office 010 010 2952
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
3 7
0
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
0
A Good Day for Cheeky Monkeys
Cries of delight and grinning faces abound in this house of
amusement dedicated to the littlest members of our community.
El Gouna Magazine welcomes Cheeky Monkeys! By Francoise Ohayon
Cheeky Monkeys, a massive indoor play area that has taken
over the area between Ali Pasha Hotel and the Ocean View
extension in Abu Tig Marina, offers endless entertainment for El
Gouna’s little ones. Fully air-conditioned, the play area is carpeted with soft mats, surrounded with solid walls, and topped by
a white circus tent. The facility is conveniently located near an
array of outdoor activities and play spaces, including the minigolf course, a football pitch, picnic area, a water play installation,
and Kurt Voeltzke’s Fish House sculpture.
At the heart of the indoor play area stands a two-level play
system complete with slides, a ball pool, and plenty of twisted
passages and hideaways for little explorers. A bouncy castle
invites kids to hop till they drop before moving on to the giant
trampoline. A network of crawl tubes provides the ideal setup for
endless games of hide-and-seek, and monkey bars give cheeky
chimpanzees a chance to show off their climbing skills. Options
for the smallest children include mini-swings and baby-relax
seats, and older kids can have a go at mini-billiards and table
football. A relaxation corner featuring a television and comfortable cushions offers tired youngsters a break from active play.
When the facility opened its doors to the public in late July of
this year, staff of the Three Corners Rihana Resort’s Trixie Club
showed up with 23 children in tow. “It’s nice for a change,” said
4 0
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
animator Annelies, “and it will be a great outing for the children
in both the summer and the winter.” Fellow animator Tamara
agreed, citing the need to have a variety of activities and outings
available for the hotel’s pint-sized guests, especially those staying longer than a week. Rikke, resident mother of two-year-old
Jonas, was impressed by the safety standards of the installation. “This is beautifully done,” she remarked. “The quality of the
building and materials is excellent, and I am confident that my
son will be safe here.” Rikke pointed out the nets surrounding
the trampoline (Jonas’ favorite activity) that prevent children
from falling out, as well as the many openings in the crawl tubes
allowing a parent to intervene should something go wrong. She
also conveyed appreciation for the fact that parents are allowed
to enter the playing field and interact with the kids. “Big kids like
playing too,” she remarked after a joyride on the slide.
Azza, mother of two, found the place very nice if a bit expensive, and announced her intention to come again. Meanwhile,
her six-year-old son Fady enjoyed the trampoline and the threeyear-old Oliver enjoyed the swings. Harry, who came with his
four-year-old grandsons Jack and Oliver, praised the new facility.
“We love it,” he exclaimed. “Look at the beautiful wall paintings—
it’s much brighter and nicer than the one in Hurghada.” He added
that having this facility in El Gouna saves him a two-hour round
F. OHAYON
trip. Although the twins were a bit intimidated by crowds on opening day, grandmother Victoria complimented the prompt opening
of the facility. “I am amazed that they managed to open on time,”
she remarked.
An on-site café serving snacks catered by 7th Star bakery
augments the play equipment, and Cheeky Monkeys also has
clean restrooms with baby seats and a shaded picnic area
where blankets, small tables, and cutlery are provided. Birthday
parties can be organized upon request, saving parents the
chaos of having small children on a sugar high wreaking havoc
in their house. At present children visiting the facility must be
supervised by an adult at all times, but Cheeky Monkeys plans
to introduce a drop-off babysitting service soon.
Cheeky Monkeys was founded by Englishwoman Aimee
Ford, who lives in Hurghada with her three-year-old son Cole. “I
saw a gap in the market when I realized there was little for my
child to do and thought I couldn’t be the only parent thinking that
way,” she recalls. Cheeky Monkeys Hurghada opened in April
2007 and was an immediate hit. The El Gouna outlet is a 50-50
partnership with Orascom. “When [El Gouna founder] Samih
Sawiris saw the playground, he said ‘Yalla, I want one!’ and here
we are,” concluded Aimee cheerfully.
Cheeky Monkeys is open daily from noon to 9pm, and
there is no age limit. Entrance is LE 40 per child, and infants
under 9 months enter free with one paying child. Long-term
memberships are available.
Abu Tig Marina, ext 77012
Aimee Ford (Owner), mob 016 883 3555
Gigi (Manager) mob 010 080 0686
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
4 1
Vacations with a Plus
Summer opportunities give eager youth a window to the world
and opportunities for the future.
Pristine beaches, funky entertainment, and a myriad of sports—
El Gouna has everything it takes to satisfy the traditional vacationer. These days, however, a new breed of holidaymaker is
coming to the resort: teens on a mission. In search of more
than a beach holiday, these youngsters come to town to gain life
experience, discover a new culture, receive formal training, and
prepare for a promising future.
The SPARK summer camp was sponsored by Samih
Sawiris, Orascom Hotels and Development, and the Onsi
Sawiris Scholarship program. Yousriya Sawiris, secretary general of the Sawiris foundation, was one of the camp’s honorable
guest speakers. Another SPARK camp is scheduled to take
place next summer along with a new leadership and entrepreneurship camp for college students. spark@mit.edu
SPARK!
CISV
This summer saw the launch of a leadership and business
summer camp called SPARK! Created at the Massachusetts
Institute of Technology (MIT), this program is designed to help
shape a new generation of young leaders. SPARK’s debut in
Egypt took place from June 26 to July 4, 2008, when 14 of
Egypt’s finest high school students were selected from over a
hundred applicants and brought to El Gouna for an experience
that helped them develop life skills, passions, and interests.
They were also given instruction in how to build a competitive
application to one of the world’s top ten universities.
Students from MIT, Stanford University, and Harvard Business
School, and consultants from leading firm McKinsey and Co. led
a series of morning workshops and lectures. Afternoons featured a variety of sports and activities, and camp participants
enjoyed watersports, football, volleyball, paintball, go karts, and
horseback riding. They also sampled nightlife on offer during the
Marina Street Festival, Kafr El Gouna Live and Oasis Night as
well as at Moods, Chiringitos, DuPort Pool Club, Peanuts Bar,
Palma Karaoke Café, and Mangroovy Beach.
4 2
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
The Children's International Summer Villages (CISV) is a
global community of volunteers promoting cross-cultural
peace and friendship through educational programs for children and youth. Respect for cultural differences and the
development of self-awareness are the core values promoted
by the organization, which aims to empower participants to
become global citizens. One of this year’s CISV interchange
programs involved ten Swedish and ten Egyptian kids aged
12 and 13 who discovered each other’s countries over a
period of two weeks.
Lara and Rina, twin daughters of El Gouna homeowners
Dina Nashed and Nabil Tadros, took part in the program,
prompting their parents to invite the entire group for a “minicamp” in their Italian Compound villa. Delegates from both
countries accompanied by adult group leaders enjoyed a
leisurely weekend by the lagoon in July before embarking on
new adventures in Sweden.
International site: www.cisv.org, Egypt site: www.eg.cisv.org
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
0
Grand Opening of the Marina Plaza Hotel
The Orascom family’s newest member in Tala Bay
A four-star establishment, the Marina Plaza Hotel is the
largest in Tala Bay, Taba Heights’ sister resort in Aqaba,
Jordan. Representatives of the Jordanian government and
members of prestigious media outlets such as CNN and
MBC were on hand for its introductory event.
Located next to the main entrance of the Tala Bay
development, the recently opened Marina Plaza Hotel
boasts over 260 guest rooms, including eight suites and 78
interconnected rooms designed for families. Dining options
include a main restaurant with a daily themed international
buffet and the Beach Club's restaurant and bar where
customers order a la carte. Two heated swimming pools,
a playground, and exclusive access to the nearby Beach
4 4
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Club provide guests a top-of-the-line holiday experience.
The hotel’s health and fitness club caters to guests
who prefer to stay active during their stay, and it offers
a wide range of workout machines and qualified instruction. Hospitality staff are on hand to arrange excursions
to Petra and Wadi Rum, and water-based activities on
offer include diving, windsurfing, snorkeling, fishing, and
boating. The Marina Plaza Hotel is easily reachable from
Taba Heights via an international ferry that operates
between the two resorts’ marinas.
For reservations contact reservations@marinaplaza.org
www.marinaplaza.org
el gouna what's new
EID EVENTS
Sneak Peak at Eid Parties
With the Eid holiday just around the corner, here is an
overview of the exclusive entertainment slated for the first
extended weekend of October:
Wed, Oct 1: Jazz Trio and Mezmar
group, Abu Tig Marina
Thur, Oct 2: Latin Trio during the
day, Abu Tig Marina
Fri, Oct 3: Crazy Feet Co. and
CubanaSon live concert during the
Street Festival in Abu Tig Marina
Sat, Oct 4: Hazem in concert during Kafr Downtown Live
Sun, Oct 5: Trio live band & folklore show, Tamr Henna Sq.
Sun, Oct 5: Moon Walk live concert, Abu Tig Square
For information and event details contact the Info Center,
ext 32100 or infocenter@elgouna.com
AROUND TOWN
Hollywood blockbusters under the stars
Mirage disco in Downtown El Balad has been transformed
into a cozy open air movie theatre where some of this
year’s best international film releases can be viewed.
Screenings take place Tuesdays and Sundays at 8:30pm
and on Thursdays at 8:30 and 10:30pm. A new movie is
featured each week, and entrance is free. Light snacks
are catered by Arena Inn. Movies are not shown in the winter. Contact the Info Center for movie listings, infocenter@
elgouna.com, ext 32100.
New prices for Shuttle Bus
The prices of the Taf Taf shuttle bus transportation within El
Gouna have been aligned with the increasing cost of fuel.
New prices, effective June 1st, are as follows:
Daily Ticket
5 LE
Weekly Ticket
20 LE
Monthly Subscription
50 LE
Lagoon Trip
35 LE
Tickets are available for sale from your hotel reception, at
the Information Center, at the Downtown Kafr boat jetty,
or on board the bus from drivers. Monthly subscriptions
available from the Info Center only; please bring a passport
photo. For info contact ext 32100, infocenter@elgouna.com
Library now open to public
The El Gouna Library is now open
to the public. An entrance fee of 1
Euro or 8 LE allows visitors to read
books onsite, consult the digital
book repository connected to the
Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and use
the library’s PCs or connect a laptop to
the WiFi internet service. Membership cards will be issued
in the near future for those who wish to borrow books. The
4 6
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
library is located next to the hospital and has a cafeteria for
guests. Open Sat-Thur 10am- 6pm, ext 32589.
Street names
In keeping with the effort to name El Gouna’s streets, the
thoroughfare running from the North Golf intersection to the
roundabout has been dubbed Naguib Mahfouz Street. This
is the third street in town to receive a name.
Candles for every occasion
A tiny new shop tucked between Tambel Irish Pub and
Biergarten shines a soft light on El Gouna. The Candle
House offers candles in every conceivable shape, including
Roman-style masks and columns, Egyptian gods, pyramids,
hieroglyphs, kitschy beer glasses and bananas. An elegant
assortment of aromatic candles can also be found, along with
a good selection of birthday candles. Glass, copper, and silverplated candleholders are also on sale. All items are made
in Cairo and come at a fixed price; special orders from the
catalogue can be delivered within one week. A 15% discount is
granted to residents and homeowners. Downtown Kafr, open
daily from 10am-2pm and 5-11pm, +2 010 339 8800.
B. Tech Opens in El Balad
Electric and electronic equipment retailer B. Tech now offers
a wide range of products
at two new branches in
Downtown. International
brands such as Sony,
LG, Nokia, Carrier, Ideal,
Ariston, and Philips are on
offer. The branch that stocks
household appliances such
as refrigerators, washing
machines,
dishwashers
and other white goods is conveniently located opposite the
electronics branch, which sells televisions, LCDs, home
theaters, laptops, personal computers, HiFi, and all manners
of mobile devices. Building H10/Shop 5 and Building H11/
Shop 18/19 in El Balad. Open Sat-Thu 1pm-12am, and Fri
6pm-12am, ext 34477.
Body care at Mangroovy
After taking over Buzzha Beach, the Captain’s Inn
massage and beauty parlor is now extending its services
to Magroovy Beach. Massage, manicure, pedicure, hair
removal, rasta, and henna tattoos are all available, and
gel nail extensions are the latest addition to the pampering
menu. By appointment or walk-in, mob +2 010 660 1913.
Canon products available at ALAM’s
ALAM Writing Materials has become an official vendor of
Canon products and now offers a wide range of technological devices for home and office with a focus on printers,
ink, and toner. Other Canon products including scanners,
copiers, and cameras can be ordered. Printers start at just
227 LE. Abu Tig Marina, next to Carrier, ext 77943.
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
0
el gouna what's new
Housekeeping services
The Housekeeping department, a subdivision of Orascom
Housing, offers its cleaning services to housing units, villa
owners, and businesses including banks, shops, recreational areas and terraces In the past, the department
relied on external providers to supervise and clean most
sites in El Gouna, but its resources have now expanded
to meet the needs of the community. Special rates and
discounts are available for contracts lasting longer than six
months. Downtown El Balad, Building 15, ext 32052, +2
010 984 1831. For service complaints or special requests
contact maged.lialy@elgouna.com.
SPORTS
Football team season debut
The El Gouna Football Team made its season debut on August
6 and it will be playing on the home field roughly every other
week through April 2009. Come and join the fan club at the El
Bustan Football Stadium
to enjoy live games.
Entrance is free. For
match schedules, email
maged.lialy@elgouna.
com or call Customer
Services, ext 34455 or
34466.
Kids Kite Camp
Kiteboarding Club El Gouna offered special beginner courses
for kids ages 12 and up in the form of a summer camp. Each
of the one-week sessions in July attracted two participants.
The alternative program for no-wind days included skimboard, handlepass trainer, volleyball, billiards, table football
and table tennis. Organizers were somewhat disappointed
by the small number of participants but would consider
doing the camp again next year if there is sufficient demand.
Meanwhile, equipment for kids is available and standard lessons continue. +2 012 884 2839, www.kiteboarding-clud.de.
The Orange Concept goes Moomba
In an effort to raise already high standards at their watersport
school by purchasing a new boat, The Orange Concept
recently went through the process of testing craft of various
brands and types to find the one best-suited for towing their
adventurous patrons through Abydos Bay. Wakeboarders
and waterskiers will be happy to learn
that the establishment’s owners settled
on the Moomba Outback V, imported to
Egypt by Zenith Boats. The new highperformance speedboat went into operation on August 1st at Abydos Marina.
Stop by to check out the sleek new vessel or visit www.moomba.com. For reservations, ext 77976, +2 010 010 2952.
4 8
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
FOOD & DRINKS
Chez Chantal
The newly renovated restaurant & bar that opened with a
bash in July features white and turquoise tones, mashrabeya, and fer forge, giving the rooftop venue a bright and
airy feel. An open kitchen allows diners to see owner and
chef Chantal Lenoir busying herself with food preparation.
Her Belgian specialties include chicken croquette appetizers, beef fillet à la Chantal flambéed with whiskey and
black pepper cream sauce, poultry in creamed stock, and
freshly caught fish cooked Ostende-style with white clams,
shrimp, mushroom, and cream. Her Escoffier beef filet
with a creamy mushroom and tomato sauce flavored with
tarragon is simply amazing! A selection of tapas including
smoked salmon, foie gras canapés, white cheese toast,
and fried calamari is served at the bar. All patrons are welcomed with a complimentary salad and fresh-baked bread.
Situated on the Turtle’s Inn roof terrace, it is the perfect
place to sip a drink while enjoying a refreshing breeze and
amazing views over Abu Tig Marina. Residents and homeowners enjoy a 10% discount, ext 32219.
Oasis Café
Linda and Graham Lewis’ all-new, all-English Oasis Café
promises a taste of home to El Gouna’s British expatriate
community. The Birmingham couple’s specialties include
an English breakfast of bacon, sausages, eggs, and beans
or tomato that is served from 10am to noon, and a cream
tea with fresh scones and jam served from 3-5pm. Guests
can entertain themselves with darts, cards, and domino
games and are sure to enjoy quiz nights. Music videos play
on a flat screen, and a Nintendo Wii and a Playstation are
available. Located behind China House in El Balad, open
daily 10am-11pm or until the last guest leaves, ext 34058.
Upstairs upgrades
Downtown’s fine dining restaurant Upstairs recently welcomed German Chef Andreas
Lange and Swedish Restaurant
Manager Henrik Sjoesvall. The
establishment’s new menu features some notable additions,
such as asparagus soup and poached camel stew. Old
favorites including the mushroom pie, beef carpaccio, and
filet mignon are still to be had. Three-, five-, and sevencourse menus are in the works. Upstairs also offers fullservice catering for social events, parties and receptions.
High-quality food and beverages, furniture, china and
glassware, as well as fresh flower arrangements and live
music are provided upon request. Downtown Kafr in the old
El Khan Hotel, +2 016 507 9571.
Kiki’s Bar now open
Among this establishment’s many advantages is its location at the highest point of Kafr El Gouna. Accordingly,
what's new el gouna
it offers the best views of the downtown island and surrounding lagoons. Whether you want to pamper yourself
with a refreshing drink after a long day, have an aperitif
before your dinner reservation, are looking for a night cap
or just want to grab a quick drink before hitting the casino,
Kiki’s Bar is the place to go. A wide variety of cocktails, soft
drinks, wines, and beers can be sampled under the stars.
Located on top of Kiki’s Restaurant on the highest level of
the Casino tower, open daily 6pm-1am, ext 32407.
Dinner and show at Sultan Bey
A special dinner with the theme “White Night” is organized
by the Sultan Bey hotel the last Tuesday of each month at
7pm. Enjoy a scrumptious dinner and an oriental show in the
splendid atmosphere of the pool area. Don’t forget to wear
white! Sultan Bey has also introduced a form of entertainment that is not for the faint-hearted: the Cobra Show. This
amazing demonstration of skill and courage can be seen
every Saturday at 9pm. Downtown Kafr, ext 140 or 32219.
COMMUNITY
Sheraton wins travel award
Sheraton Miramar has recently received the MENA Travel
Gold Award 2008 for the best 5-star environmental hotel
in the region. This marked the fourth time in the past five
years that the hotel was recognized for its continuous
efforts in implementing eco-friendly practices. Energy and
water conservation, total waste management, and a strong
commitment to the local community are some of the environmental management standards the hotel implements
along with its strong focus on sustainable tourism.
Storks rescued at Buzzha Beach
In late August a stork couple in need of respite found shelter
in El Gouna before continuing their southern migration. The
female stork was found in shallow water, exhausted and
incapable of walking or flying. She had received a shower
and some food when her male companion came looking
for her. Following the advice of a German rescue center,
Buzzha Beach owner Marlis Seves took the pair in. The
birds were housed in a ventilated garden shed, and each
was fed one kilogram of meat per
day over a period of eight days.
The couple soon recovered strength
and gained the required weight. On
the day of their release, they could
be seen on the beach restaurant’s
rooftop before flying off over the new
marina. Buzzha Beach, +2 012 741
2100, www.storchenstation.de
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
4 7
el gouna what's new
Dawar El Omda welcomes new General Manager Vivianne
Ghali, who comes to El Gouna following a successful
ten-year career with Hilton International. With her arrival,
Dawar El Omda entered a transition phase in which
the downtown establishment will be transformed into a
boutique hotel. "We see many travelers seeking more
than a typical vacation stay; they aspire to experience
something unique with highly personalized hospitality,"
says Ghali. Dawar El Omda’s moderate size, creative
architecture, and innovative interior design make the hotel
ideal for such a transformation. Services, hotel, and room
amenities will be gradually upgraded.
Moevenpick welcomes new GM
The Moevenpick Resort & Spa bid farewell to General
Manager Alain Chatel who took up a new post with the
Swiss hotel chain in Beirut. Taking over the El Gouna property is John G C Wood, a newcomer to Egypt transferring
from the Moevenpick Resort Mauritius. This Welsh fourth
generation hotelier who graduated with honors from the
world-renowned Lausanne Hotel School in Switzerland
brings a wealth of international experience in destinations
as far-reaching as the Caribbean, Cyprus, India, Russia,
and the United Arab Emirates. He is moving to El Gouna
with his wife, while their two grownup daughters are
expected to pay frequent visits.
VIP VISITS
Miss Belgium event returns this October
Thirty-six young women, winners of the pre-elections held
all over Belgium, will be hosted in El Gouna by The Three
Corners Ocean View Hotel and The Three Corners Rihana
Resort from October 6 to 16. During
their stay, they will compete to become
one of the 20 official candidates for
the title of Miss Belgium 2009. Don’t
miss the dazzling election show that
has become an El Gouna tradition.
This year’s event will be held on the
Abu Tig Marina promenade on Friday
October 10 starting at 7:30pm and
will be followed by an after-party at
DuPort Pool Club. Ext 177.
Kiteboarding pro competitor teaches in El Gouna
Philipp “Pile” Brueckmann, who ranked 13th in last year’s
Professional Kiteboard Riders Association World Tour,
could be seen teaching the sport on the town’s beaches
during six weeks in May and June. The 26-year-old native
of Berlin jumped on this employment opportunity and
split his time between lessons and personal training in
preparation for the 2008 competition season. His hints
and tips were much appreciated by guests and staff alike
and, in return, everybody shared in the happiness when
5 0
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
he perfected a new trick. “He is such a nice, funny person
and is a crazy kiter. Working with him was lots of fun!”
says Katja Mueller of Kiteboarding Club El Gouna. Pile has
promised to come back to El Gouna and has left one of
his broken boards behind for the kitesurfing school to fix in
anticipation of his next stopover.
Kiteboarding champion returns to El Gouna
On her first stay in El Gouna in 2006, world champion
kiteboarder Kristin Boese called the town her favorite
training spot. Since that
time she has gone on
to accumulate further
world titles in the areas
of freestyle, wave riding,
slider, boardercross, and
course race, as well as
in overall ratings. The
31-year-old
German
sportswoman returned to
El Gouna for a week in
August to produce a video.
Shooting was done by
German producer StartTV
for a training DVD for kiters of all levels that features a
personal profile of Kristin. “El Gouna, with its beautiful
turquoise water, was the perfect spot for this production,”
said Kristin, who remarked that conditions were so good
that the shoot was completed in four days.
DAVE COOPER
New GM at Dawar
Ferrari driver meets Miss Germany
Ferrari Challenge Tour driver Christiano Uva met up with
Miss Germany 2008 Kim Voigt in El Gouna this summer.
The pair modeled
for Contatto TV
and enjoyed every
leisure activity the
resort has to offer.
They navigated El
Gouna’s beautiful
lagoons in the
sunset, received a
golf lesson by one
of the Golf Club’s
pros, went on a
boat trip on the
Red Sea, raced
on the go-kart track, and learned the basics of kitesurfing.
Between watching the European Championship football
matches the couple tried as many restaurants as they
could, and they particularly enjoyed El Sayadin, Hedra,
Kiki’s, Saigon, and Orient 1001. Bar-hopping and clubbing
were also in order, with visits to Tides, Peanuts Bar, and
a culminating night at DuPort Pool Club during the June
“Burn Party.” The visit marked Miss Germany’s third to
El Gouna this year, and her parting words were “I don’t
want to leave. It feels like home!”
what's new el gouna
PARTY TIME
The summer was steaming hot in El Gouna, with international
bands featured on the Abu Tig Marina promenade, top
performers on the Downtown stage, and party outlets
keeping the crowds entertained well into the wee hours.
Marina Street Festival highlights
The prestigious list of international performers who put up
exclusive shows throughout the summer includes CubanaSon,
famous Cuban girls who livened up the marina promenade
with their Latino tunes, 2 Steps Forward, eight beautiful
girls from the Netherlands who presented a dancing and
entertainment show, the 1001 Night glamorous dance show
from France, and Vince Diamond, the Elvis impersonator from
Switzerland who belted out the King’s classic songs, including
“Love Me Tender”, “Jailhouse Rock”, and “In the Ghetto”.
Hat Festival
El Gouna’s annual hat festival took place on August 8 during
the Marina Street Festival. Creative participants designed
amazing hats using all sorts of materials. The most original
pieces were awarded a variety of prizes, including hotel
vouchers, romantic dinners, spa treatments and excursions.
Dance Fever at Zeytouna
Party-goers celebrated the red hot summer with a Disco
party on Zeytouna Island on August 12. Organized by
Sultan Bey Hotel, the night on the beautiful island beach
was a resounding success, featuring light snacks, a fire
show, and a hip DJ.
Wild Nights at Duport
DuPort Pool Club has become legendary for its trendy latenight clubbing powered by international guest DJs. June’s
“Burn Party,” July’s “ID
Yourself” and “Gold Rush”
nights, and August’s “Pool
Sensation” extravaganza
set the crowds on fire.
The Club House celebrates 11 years
The popular Downtown beach restaurant celebrated its
11th anniversary on August 21. The place that serves
as a second living room for many residents stayed true
to tradition with a medley of musical styles and a twist
of humor delivered by musician, singer, and songwriter
Terryman from New York City. Terryman, a permanent
fixture of Amsterdam’s musical scene, has performed and
hung out with rock legends including John Lennon, Debbie
Harry, The Grateful Dead, Jimi
Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and
Miles Davis. The El Gouna
community greeted him with
an ecstatic welcome onto the
Club House stage. Backing
Terry were a few of Cairo’s
most talented musicians as
well as El Gouna’s very own
saxophonist Craig Hume from the UK. Eleven-year-old
Sherif, son of resident kitesurfing instructor Lamia Khalifa,
also took turns on the drums. Ext 32412.
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
4 7
Office & Showroom
7 Mahmoud Azmi Str. next to the British International
School Zamalek - Cairo - Egypt
Tel / Fax : +202 227 35 6320 Cell: +2 0100 3900 72
E-mail: sales@bycozycasa.com
www.bycozycasa.com
The Complete
Guide to El Gouna
A great advantage of vacationing or living in El Gouna is the myriad of
options it offers as a complete community. Whether you are looking for the
ideal place for dinner, the ultimate sporting experience, or simply where to
fill a prescription, this guide will help you know where to go or who to call.
In these pages you'll find a comprehensive listing of the town’s services,
sports, dining, entertainment and much more.
CALLING EXTENSIONS
From outside El Gouna, please dial
+20 65 354 97 02/03/04
for the operator and ask to be connected
to the extension of your choice.
DIRECTORY
Aqua Sports
p 54
Banks
p 71
Beaches
p 55
Boat Charters
p 56
Diving
p 56
Hospital/Pharmacy
p 71
Info Center
p 71
Internet Facilities
p 71
Kids
p 61
Nightlife
p 70
Real Estate
p 75
Restaurants
p 62
Services
p 71
Shopping
p 72
Spa & Beauty
p 58
Sports & Fitness
p 58
Transportation
p 75
Travel Agency
p 71
Aqua Sports
El Gouna's beaches and lagoons provide the perfect opportunities to indulge in your favorite water sport or discover a new one!
Experience water-skiing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, catamarans,
banana boats, and more!
Beach Volleyball
Enjoy sandy courts on the beach at:
Mangroovy Beach, ext 32260
Zeytuna Beach, ext 35317
The Club House, ext 32412
Fishing Safari
Recreational and sports fishing with Yellow Fin Fishing Safari,
mob 010 301 7200, info@yellow-fin.net, www.yellow-fin.net
Kiteboarding Club El Gouna
Kiteboarding school awaiting IKO certification.
Northern Mangroovy Beach, mob 012 884 2839
elgouna@kiteboarding-club.de, www.kiteboarding-club.de
Kite Family
Kitesurfing, windsurfing, small catamaran for three persons.
Zeytuna Beach, mob 012 402 4688, www.kitefamily-elgouna.de
5 4
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
VDWS-recognized kiteboarding school.
Mangroovy Beach, ext 32506
info@kitepower-elougna.com
www.kitepower-elgouna.com
Kite People
Kiteboarding school awaiting IKO certification.
Mövenpick, ext 120
Parasailing
Take a birds eye view with custom made parasailing
winch-boat for single, double, triple side by side flights
taking you 100m above El Gouna! The Orange Concept,
ext 77976, mob 010 010 2952, theorangeconcept.com
Red Sea Zone
IKO-certified kiteboarding school.
Northern Mangroovy Beach, mob 010 295 5209
info@redseazone.com, www.redseazone.com
Sports & Fun Aquacenter
Windsurfing, wakeboarding, glass bottom boat.
Steigenberger, Mangroovy Beach, ext 32241
Wakeboard and Waterski
The Orange Concept offers a range of water based
activities including waterski, wakeboard, wakestate,
wakesurf, fun tubes, and more for all levels and ages.
ext 77976, mob 010 010 2952, theorangeconcept.com
BEACHES
Spend all day, every day of your holiday in El Gouna
on the beach and you’ll never have to go to the same
one twice! Have drinks delivered right to your chair at
your hotel beach, enjoy cold refreshments and groove
to music overlooking wild mangroves or enjoy an island
experience at Mahmeya.
Zeytuna Beach
Lively and beautiful, Zeytuna Beach is located on its own
island surrounded by the sea and lagoons. A 400 meter
jetty provides access to deeper water and the coral reef
plateau. Beach services include towels, drinks and food,
a bar offering drinks and a light menu, bathrooms and
fresh showers. Enjoy camel riding, volleyball, snorkeling,
football, dancing and more. Beach Access: Shuttle boat
from Downtown and Sultan Bey, or walking bridges from
the Sheraton and Hill. ext 35317
Mangroovy Beach
Soak up the sun while enjoying the view. Sporting options
include kite and windsurfing, snorkeling, volleyball and
football. Look out for beach parties and summer BBQs.
Services: towels, restaurant, bar, bathrooms, showers.
Shuttle bus Marina line departs on the hour from downtown
every 15 min. ext 32260
AQUA SPORTS & BEACHES
Kitepower
BOAT CHARTER & DIVING
Buzzha Beach
Enjoy the feeling of being away from it all while only being
15-min from downtown. Soak up the sun and watch kitesurfers. Activities include billiards, table football, beach
volley and a kids' playground, all free of charge. Beach
restaurant under Swiss management features the only
wood-fire pizza oven in town. Sun lounger and mattress LE
15 (no charge for residents), towel LE 5. North Mangroovy,
open daily until sunset, mob 012 741 2100
Marina Beach Club
Diving Centers
Calm reefs and world-class sites provide an excellent
diving experience. As a protected area, dive sites offer
frequent interaction with marine life, in particular, wild dolphins. Be sure to ask about Diving Specials for Kids!
Blue Brothers, TTC Ocean View, ext 32326
Diving: PADI, CMAS, Barracuda. Snorkeling.
On the northern side of Abu Tig, beach services include
sun beds (LE 20 including 1 soft drink) and towels (LE
5). Free access with owner’s card, and for guests of participating hotels (Ocean View, Captain’s Inn, Turtle’s Inn
& Ali Pasha). A massage parlor also does henna tattoos.
Restaurants service is provided by Moods and the beach
bar remains lively until late. Access: shuttle bus Marina
line. ext 77966
Dive Trek, Sultan Bey Hotel, ext 32381
Diving: PADI, CMAS, FFESSM
Easy Divers Academy, TTC Rihana, ext 32327
Diving: PADI, CMAS. Snorkeling, glass bottom boat.
Mahmeya Island
Euro Divers, Club Med guests only, ext 100
The beautiful beach has been maintained true to its
natural environment while making it the only island with
services. A beach restaurant serves up great grilled platters, seafood, and pizza while you relax on the beach with
a hip mix of backdrop music. Located just over an hour
from El Gouna. Access: day trips organized by ProTours.
Bookings Info Center, ext 32100.
Boat Charter
Art Marine
Colona Dive Center, TTC Rihana, ext 188
Diving: PADI. Snorkeling.
Diving: PADI. Snorkeling, windsurfing, catamaran.
Orca Dive Club, Turtle's Inn, ext 77739
Diving: PADI, CMAS. Snorkeling.
TGI Marine Sporting Club, Sheraton, ext 110
Diving: PADI, CMAS. Snorkeling, pedalos, canoes.
The Dive Connection, Panorama, ext 199 Diving: PADI, CMAS. Snorkeling, windsurfing, glass
bottom boat, pedal boat, canoes.
The charter division of this boat dealer has several power
yachts available for chartered day trips or overnight safaris, including crew. Abu Tig Marina, ext 77926
The Dive Tribe, Mövenpick, ext 120
Diving: PADI. Snorkeling, windsurfing, glass bottom,
pedalos, canoes, speed boat rental with captain.
CBS Yachting
TOP DIVE SITES
Book a trip with your preferred dive center
Offers a range of motor boats and yachts enabling you to
travel from island to island in total privacy. CBS has boats
up to 16 meters with top speeds of 50 knots for weekend
or week-long charters and fishing trips. ext 77910
Galatea
Trips leave daily at 9am for a full day of snorkeling and
other activities. Observe lively colors and rich marine life
with a good chance to encounter dolphins. Snorkelling
gear and BBQ lunch included. Discounts for residents,
tailor-made excursions for groups. mob 012 228 2218,
book with Info Center. ext 32100
Wanna I
Diving, fishing and islands safaris await you on board the
Wanna I. Abydos Marina, mob 012 774 9450
Abu Nuhas
This famous ship graveyard has great coral life and more
ships than any other in the area; includes the wreck of
Giannis D. Level: Advanced. Distance: 2.5 hrs.
Blind Reef
The north plateau is populated by red-tooth triggerfish
and African smoke angelfish. Caves and crevices. Level:
Medium-Advanced. Distance: 2 hrs.
Rosalie Moller Shipwreck
Bombed just two days after the Thistlegorm, the sunken
wreck is in pristine condition and hosts prolific sea life.
Shabaha
The north side offers canyons full of table corals coming
out of the reef wall; lobsters are common. Great for nightdives. Level: Medium-advanced. Distance: 1 hr.
Thistlegorm Shipwreck
The freighter's cargo is virtually intact and includes railway locomotives, bren gun carriers, trucks, motorcycles
and ammunition. The wreck is home to bat fish, jacks,
barracudas, surgeon fish, nudibranchs and rabbit fish.
5 6
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Sports
Countless opportunities for fun, fitness and fresh air are
sure to satisfy every age group and inclination. Relax and
enjoy the best equipment with professional assistance.
SPORTS & WELLNESS Beach Buggy
Race accross the sand with beach buggy excursions from
Speed Devils. El Balad, ext 34054
Yalla Horsetables (ext 32344). Yalla's trained staff will help
you enjoy their Arabian cross horses and ponies for children.
Don't miss their exclusivehorse-drawn carriage trips!
Paintball
All equipment needed to play paintball, including helmets,
suits and paintball guns is available for rent. Next to the
Tennis Club, open 7pm - 1am daily. ext 32515
Quad Runners
Zoom around town with scooter & bicycle rentals. Peak
Safari Bike Center, ext 34044
Go for an exciting desert safari, a full moon trip, or a Bedouin
trip on quads for 2 hour slots, half or full day trips. Guides and
BBQ arrangements. Peak Safari, El Balad. ext 34044
Go-Karts
Tennis Club
Golf Club
Tennis & Squash Courts
Horseback Riding
Fitness
Biking
Burn rubber on the carting circuit on the road between
the downtown area and the marina. Operated by German
management. Open from 11am-11pm. ext 32188
The El Gouna Golf Club offers an 18-hole championship
course with driving range, chipping and pitching area,
and putting greens. Rental services for clubs, trolleys and
carts available. Tee times must be reserved in advance.
For non-golfers, check out the Golf Introduction with PGA
professionals every Wed and Sat, 3:30-5pm. ext 32285
Ride horses and camels at the Mövenpick beach (ext 120)
and Zeytouna Beach (ext 35317) or go for full service at
Four clay courts and tennis lessons by the Belgian ACE
international Academy at the courts next to the go-kart track,
ext 32515
Professional tennis and squash courts are available at:
Club Med, ext 100
Mövenpick, ext 120
Steigenberger, ext 130
Most hotel health clubs and facilities offer aerobics, free
weights, body building equipment, spas, saunas, steam
baths, jacuzzis, and massage services.
Club Med, ext 100
Mövenpick, ext 120
Sheraton, ext 110
Steigenberger, ext 130
Sultan Bey, ext 140
TTC Ocean View, ext 177
TTC Rihana, ext 188
Panorama Bungalows, ext 199
Angsana Spa
A subsidiary of the Banyan Tree Group, Angsana Spa
boasts two outlets in El Gouna. Both locations offer a
wide selection of beauty massages, sauna and steam
bath treatments for singles and couples alike.
Spa at the Mövenpick, ext 120, or Golf Club, ext 130
Beauty Salons
Massage services, hairdresser, nail treatments and more:
Body Care, Mangroovy Beach, ext 32260
Classic, ext 130
Captain's Inn, ext 144
Mövenpick Salon, ext 120
Nefertity, Sheraton, ext 110
Tamr Henna Salon, ext 32157
Thanita Massage, ext 77966
TTC Ocean View, ext 33020
Yasmin, ext 140
5 8
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Highest perched three story villa for sale
in the exclusive El Gouna Hills!
Selling Price
Euro 680 000.00
3 Floors, 3 Bedrooms
Fully Furnished
246m2 villa on 401m2
Make it Yours!
This white Tuscan style villa, beautifully decorated and fully
furnished, contains all modern amenities combined with a
spectacular view of the Red Sea and El Gouna.
Ground floor: modern fully equipped Siemens kitchen and living room with access to
the patio, garden and 12 person Roman style built-in Jacuzzi.
First floor: two bedrooms with en suite bathrooms and dressing areas.
Second floor: master bedroom with en suite bathroom, private enclosed terrace
affording spectacular views of the Red Sea and a spiral staircase leading to the roof.
Roof Terrace: perfect for sunset cocktails or private sun bathing!
For sale by owner: Joseph Rey
+41 79 760 8584 (Swiss mobile), joseph_rey@bluewin.ch
Kids
HOTEL ACTIVITY CLUBS FOR KIDS
Children are valued members of our community, which is
why El Gouna has such a great variety of fun and educational activities for its smallest visitors.
Arena Inn
NURSERY
Mövenpick
Nursery from 3 mo. to 3 yrs. Pre-School for 3+ yrs. Kids
club with after school activities and homework assistance
for 4+ yrs. Language classes. Babysitting service day and
night. Birthday parties and events. Next to Mirage Movie
Theater, mob 012 393 4407, ext 32225
Rihana Trixie Kids Club
Les Petites International Nursery
Cheeky Monkeys
This all seasons amusement facility has an indoor air-conditioned playground with trampoline, slides, and swings,
as well as outdoor mini-golf, football pitch, and picnic area.
Located next to Ali Pasha in the Abu Tig Marina, open
daily from 12-9pm. Day use: 40 LE per child. Infants under
9 months enter free with one paying child. ext 77012
ACTIVITIES
Aquarium
From Spanish Divers and Picassos to sea horses and
crabs, the aquarium will delight the whole family and
especially kids. Kafr El Gouna, ext 32408
Interactive sports and games both in the water and outdoors. Hours: 10:30-13:30 and 14:30-17:00. ext 120
Age-appropriate programs and themed days include
Indian day, Party day, Pirates day and Handcrafts day.
Hours: 10:00-1:30 and 14:00-17:00. ext 188
KIDS
PLAYTIME
Children’s activities and playground facilities.
Ages: 0-6. ext 150
Sheraton
Complete program includes water polo, diving, beach
games, balloon games and activities coordinated by the
animation team. Hours: 10:00-17:00, 19:00-20:00. ext 110
Steigenberger
Kid's Club, playground, activities and games indoor and
outside. Ages 4+ months. Hours: 10:00-17:00. ext 130
Sultan Bey
Different activities led by a professional team. Ages: 4-12.
Hours: 9:00-17:00. ext 140
Creative Memories
With costumes, make-up and the spirit of fun, you and
your kids will have an unforgettable make-believe experience and get to take home the evidence: a family portrait
from the Fuji film shop. Tamr Henna, ext 32184
Diving
Now your dive plans can include all family members. Ask
your dive center of choice about discounts and tailored
diving programs and courses for kids. See the diving section for Diving Centers.
Go-Karts
Let them get their engines going around the track. ext 32188
Golf Champ
Hit the driving range with your kids. ext 32285
Horseback & Pony Rides
Yalla Horsestables offers pony rides for kids from ages
2-10 and kids of all ages can enjoy watching the horses
and their foals. A special pony carriage is perfect for kids
or a larger carriage can take the whole family. ext 32344
Island Adventure
Take the jetty to Zeytuna Island for a day of snorkeling,
horseback riding, and a photo-op on the back of a smiling
camel. ext 35317
Mini Golf
Try your luck at pint-sized golf in the marina. ext 77012
Youth Club at the Crazy Farm
Activities for young adults include billiards and movie
nights for adolescents and teens. Restaurant and Youth
Center located on the go-kart circuit. ext 32351
E L
G OEULN G
A OMUANGAA Z
1 E
M IANGE A Z 6I N
2
Restaurants
7th Star Restaurant
Superb pastries, coffees, and cosmopolitan menu. Special
breakfast served from 7:30-11am. Abu Tig, ext 77972
Restaurants
Abu Raya
Restaurant bar with a unique atmosphere and terrace.
Kafr El Gouna, ext 32416
Bleu Bleu
Well known for its delicious platters served on a romantic
terrace facing the sea. Abu Tig, ext 77928
Restaurant with Middle Eastern coffee shop and shisha
corner. Grill for barbeque & shish kebab. El Balad,
ext 32036
Café Maritime
Art Village Café
Cedars
Athena Greek Tavern
Chez Chantal
Arabian atmosphere with open space. Work on your art or
relax with a shisha or drink. Tamr Henna, ext 32336
Greek specialties. El Balad, ext 32429
Bua Khao
Thai food in a fresh, open tropical atmosphere. Also offers a
wide assortment of seafood dishes. Mövenpick, ext 120
Buzzha Beach Restaurant
El Gouna's only wood-fire pizza oven. Theme evenings of
include Italian & BBQ. North Mangroovy,
mob 012 741 2100
Bella Italia
Authentic Italian pizzas, pastas and salads. Abu Tig,
ext 77912
1
Biergarten
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Seafood and Scandinavian specialties served in a unique
atmosphere overlooking the sea. Abu Tig, ext 77971
Lebanese cuisine and mixed grill on the charcoal.
Abu Tig, ext 77963
Situated on the Turtle’s Inn rooftop, the perfect place
to sip a drink while enjoying a refreshing breeze and
amazing views. Belgian and international foods. Abu Tig
Marina, ext 32219
Chez Pascal
Specialty Belgian restaurant with mouth-watering cuisine.
Live piano music. Rihana, ext 188, Ocean View, ext 177
China House
Great Pekingese and Shanghai food with authentic
ingredients. Downtown El Balad, ext 32314
Crazy Farm
Fairways
Dolce Vita
Ferrari Club
Enjoy Swiss specialties in a family atmosphere. Go Kart
track, ext 32257
Enjoy the real flavor of Italian pizzas and pastas. Rihana
Resort, ext 300, Ocean View Hotel, ext 177
El Basha
Egyptian specialties and a large assortment of recipes.
El Bustan, ext 807-2034
El Bustan Café
Egyptian coffee shop and shisha bar. El Bustan,
ext 807-2038
El Bustan Foodcourt
Oriental food, kebabs, pizzas, refreshments, and more.
El Bustan, ext 807-2024
El Sayadin
Fantastic Oriental and seafood specialties with a unique
location overlooking the sea. Mövenpick, ext 120
El Taybeen Café
Assortment of sandwiches, pasta, pizza, and special
salads. Live band on Thursday. Kafr El Gouna, ext 32460
Elegant yet cozy with daily buffet themes and uniquely
Egyptian fare. Steigenberger, ext 130
While awaiting to take over their new premises in Downtown
El Balad, the Ferrari Italian-Egyptian menu is served in
sister restaurant Athena Greek Taverna, ext 32429
Foool House
Authentic Egyptian cuisine at great prices. Home delivery
available. Hours: 6am-3am. Downtown El Balad, ext 32088
Garo's Snack Stop
Lebanese and Armenian specialties along with delicious
snacks and salads. Downtown El Balad, ext 32448
Gelateria In Cielo
Italian-style ice cream, gourmet coffee, crepes, and
waffles are served on a terrace overlooking the marina
promenade. Abu Tig, ext 77907
Head Coffee
Sample freshly roasted and ground coffee in a local coffee shop. El Balad, ext 34012
Hedra Café and Restaurant
International & seafood cuisine served all day. Snacks
and sandwiches. Tamr Henna, ext 32150
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
6 5
Il Limone
Mediterranean specialties with starter buffet and main
courses served at the table. Mövenpick, ext 120
Jobo's Sports Bar & Restaurant
International and Scandinavian cuisine and live sports
events Tamr Henna, ext 32127
Kiki's
Legendary Italian-style hospitality mixed with heady
aromas of garlic and red wine. Kafr, ext 32407
La Piscina
Exclusive atmosphere around the pool with live music
and entertainment. Sheraton, ext 110
La Rôtisserie
Restaurants
Exclusive menu inspired by Mediterranean flavors.
First class service in a glamorous ambiance. Golf Club
ext 130
La Scala
Pamper yourself with high international cuisine in a
classy atmosphere. Abu Tig, ext 77933
Le Deauville
Elegant French cuisine from a chef that keeps the
offerings seasonal and varied. Abu Tig, ext 77902
Maison Thomas
Signature sandwiches, salads, pizzas in great
ambiance. Abu Tig, ext 77906
Mamounia
Moroccan cuisine in an authentic atmosphere and
ideal setting of the marina. Abu Tig, ext 77855
Mangroovy Beach Club
Scenic beach bar and restaurant. Beach party
every Sun and Wed. Bedouin tent with shisha.
Mangroovy, ext 32260
Marina Beach Club
All-in-one international and typical Egyptian food
and cocktail bar overlooking the beach. Abu Tig,
ext 77966
Nathan's
100% all-beef chili, cheese hotdogs, chicken sandwiches and all-American steak sandwiches. Tamr
Henna, ext 32131
Oasis Café
English Breakfast and cream tea. El Balad, ext 24058
Orient 1001
Lebanese-Egyptian food in an authentic Oriental
atmosphere with live bread making. Sheraton, ext 110
Oriental Grill
Oriental atmosphere sets the mood for mezzeh, barbecue and oriental pastries. Kafr, ext 32261
1
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
1
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Pier 88
Champagne bar and seasonal European menu on a floating barge. Abu Tig, mob 012 741 2100
Saigon
The Hut
Beachside restaurant offering an assortment of grilled
and fried seafood. Check out the bonfire pit in the back.
Abu Tig Beach, ext 77980
This family-run Vietnamese restaurant’s menu features
home-grown vegetables and herbs amongst other exotic
delicacies. Abu Tig, ext 77854
Upstairs
Segafredo
Vienna Café Servus
Steak House
Waves
All sorts of coffee specialties by the famous international
brand Segafredo are to be had, together with pastries and
snacks. Abu Tig, ext 77852
American-style steak dishes in a great atmosphere at
Captain’s Inn on the marina boardwalk. Abu Tig, ext 144
Tamr Henna Food Court
Oriental food, kebab, pizzas, fresh juice, and fetir, among
other tasty items. Tamr Henna, ext 32145
Tandoor
A fine dining experience awaits you in a elegant setting.
Panorama, ext 199
Varieties of coffee, cappuccino, lattes and chocolate.
Austrian specialties, pastries, fresh salads and sandwiches. Tamr Henna, ext 32149
International seafood delicacies in an exclusive atmosphere featuring live music around the pool. Seafood
BBQ on Saturday. Sheraton, ext 110
White Elephant 
Thai specialties include curry dishes, stir-fried meat and
seafood. El Balad, ext 32427
Tandoori & Mughalai specialties of chicken, meats, and seafood at the only authentic Indian restaurant. Abu Tig, ext 133
The Club House
Irresistible pizzas, pasta and salads in a lively atmosphere
and popular meeting place. Kafr, ext 32412
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
6 9
Nightlife
Meet with friends for a drink or dance the night away at
one of El Gouna’s lively after hours hot spots.
Aladin Casino
NIGHTLIFE
Slot-machines, multi-jackpot poker, roulettes, blackjack,
Oasis stud pokers, punto banca, and Chemin de fer.
Cocktail bar, lounge, and late night snack parlor. Free
limousine service. Kafr, ext 32400
Barten
Egypt's smallest bar with its modern, funky decor and exciting atmosphere, Open from 9pm Abu Tig, ext 77903
Beach Party
Enjoy BBQ, bonfires, and great music every Sunday and
Wed. from 10:30pm on. Mangroovy Beach, ext 32260
Boxers
Head to the all-English bar for chilled beer and a light bite.
Satellite TV shows sports events. El Balad, ext 34105
Marina Street Festival
Don’t miss the biweekly party where guest DJs and live
bands guarantee an outdoor extravaganza of fun. Every
Monday and Friday from 8pm. Info, ext 32100
Mirage Movie Nights
Free entrance for big time blockbusters at the open air theatre. Movie showing every Tuesday and Sunday at 8:30pm;
and a double showing every Thursday at 8:30 and 10:30pm.
Downtown El Balad, call the Info Center at ext 32100
Moods
Lounge bar, oriental and international cuisine and cocktails by the boats, on the beach or at open sea with great
alcohol at good prices! Abu Tig, ext 77966
Palma Karaoke Café
Live your dream of being a karaoke king! Choose from
3000 tunes in 9 languages in a chilled out atmosphere.
Kafr, ext 32125
Peanuts
Elegant lounge and piano bar, a place to dance on classical
revivals. Mövenpick Hill, ext 120
Trendy bar and eatery; one of the marina’s hotspots! DJ
music and regular themes keep the fun going. Abu Tig,
ext 32326
Chiringito
Sand Bar
Café Vienna
Chill out with your feet in the sand or dance the night away
during late-night DJ parties. Marina Beach, ext 77966
De l’Autre Côté
Surrounded by impressive yachts, it is the perfect setting to
enjoy a drink in style. Abu Tig, ext 77928
Dunes
Choose indoor seating or relax in an open Bedouin tent.
Music, appetizers and cocktails. Tamr Henna, ext 32193
DuPort Pool Club
The ultimate lounge experience. Cool tunes, private lounge
beds, swimming pool, and delicious food. Guest DJs every
Mon and Fri, closed in the winter. Ocean View, ext 177
El Gouna Oasis
The oasis features a natural grove of date palms with roofed
huts, Bedouin tents, and gardens. Buffet dinner and oriental
show every Wednesday from 7pm. For info, ext 32100
Kafr El Gouna Party
A fantastic party with live special entertainment every
Saturday and Tuesday from 8pm. For info, ext 32100
Kiki’s Bar
Sip your cocktails under the stars with a splendid view the
domes of downtown and the moonlit lagoons from the highest level of the Casino Tower. Downtown Kafr, ext 32407
Le Tabasco
Cool interiors and good music. Meat, crepes, salads and
more. After your meal head upstairs to the bar to enjoy the
rest of the night. Kafr, ext 35515
7 0
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
Seriously cold beers, a full range of spirits and chilled
wines. A selection of non-alcoholic cocktails is available.
Kafr, ext 32123
Smugglers
The vibe is classic English pub meets Indiana Jones
where Sussex-native Richard Boys serves up drinks.
Abu Tig, ext 77927
Studio 52
Specially created to bring live entertainment to the marina,
Studio 52 offers music, ambiance, and karaoke fun. Abu
Tig, ext 77962
Tamr Henna Square Event
Oriental show and entertainment every Sunday and
Thursday from 9:30pm. Tamr Henna. For info, ext 32100
Tambel Irish Pub
Cold beer, hot music, and good mezzeh. Selection of
liquors including famous Irish whiskey and Irish cream.
Kafr, ext 32190
The Cave
Trendy disco music to shake it up all night long. Entrance
fee is all inclusive, so drink up! Panorama, ext 199
Tides Lounge Bar
Billiard tables available until 3 am at Captain's Inn Hotel.
Abu Tig, ext 144
Info Center, ext 32100 Hours: 9am-11pm
Customer Services (OHD)
Homeowner concerns and Owner’s Cards. El Balad,
ext 34455 / 34466, customer.services@elgouna.com
Telephone, to connect to the El Gouna Operator:
From inside El Gouna dial 0
From outside El Gouna dial +20 (065) 354 9702 / 3 / 4
Banks & ATMs Note: Most banks are closed Fri & Sat
Bank Audi, Tamr Henna, (065) 358 0095
CIB, Marina 77970, Mövenpick 120
Credit Agricole, Kafr, ext 32243
HSBC, Abu Tig Marina, ext 32421/22
Misr Bank, Tamr Henna, (065) 358 0205
National Bank of Egypt, Steigenberger, ext 130
National Bank of Oman, Tamr Henna, ext 32137
Hospital, ext 32222, 32201, 32202, emergency ext 111
Internet Facilities
Orascom Net, Abu Tig, ext 77930, 32283, 32198
internet café 2-11 pm, tech services 9am-4:30pm
Link Zone, DSL service provider, ext 600
ProLink, Abu Tig, ext 77000
Romolo Club, Downtown, ext 32170 /71
Radio, www.romolo.com/stream.htm
Event Planning, X-Nation, ext 34444
Post Office, Hours: 9am-2pm, closed Friday, ext 32151
Church, El Bustan, ext 807-5005
Mosque, Behind Hospital, ext 32389
Housekeeping Services
Better Life, Tamr Henna, ext 32340
Best Service, Tamr Henna, ext 32345
Orascom, Downtown, ext 32006
Library
Open to the public Sat-Thur, 10am to 6pm; entrance
1 Euro. Located next to the hospital, ext 32589
Hospital Pharmacy, 9am-2pm, 6pm-9pm, ext 32073
Tamr Henna Pharmacy, 9am-11pm, ext 32600
Abu Tig Pharmacy 10am-10pm, ext 77920
Recycling Factory, mob 012 399 2774
AUC Field Center, ext 34401, www.aucegypt.edu
Arranges local excursions within Egypt and handles your
international travel arrangements. For packages
and tailored tours and excursions, call ext 32175/ 6
Bookings also through Info Center, ext 32100
El Gouna International School, ext 32224
Travel Agency: Pro Tours
Services & REAL ESTATE
Services
Shopping
ETHNIC
Africano
Al Nol
Bedouin House
Beit Sitti cottons
Bollywood
Eg. Women Crafts
El Beit El Noubi
El Pasha Kaftan
Ethnic
Gallery
Lebanese Crafts
Nubiano
Rayan Moroccan
GIFTS
Abu Tig Spicy
Ambiente
Art Center
Art Village
Dandana
Dolphine Shop
Eben El Balad
Fohara
Kermena
Khan El Gouna
Kipling
Little Palma City
Paper Moon
Wannas Gifts
El Balad
Abu Tig
El Balad
Tamr Henna
Abu Tig
El Balad
El Balad
Kafr El Gouna
Khayameya
Abu Tig
Abu Tig
Khayameya
Tamr Henna
Abu Tig
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
Khayameya
Khayameya
Tamr Henna
Khayameya
El Balad
Tamr Henna
Abu Tig
Khayameya
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
34001
77919
32336
34035
77851
32341
34015
32103
32293
32110
32115
32115
77855
77942
34029
32159
32336
32313
32124
32162
32105
34016
32163
77973
32125
32166
34444
GROCERIES & BAKERIES
7th Star Bakery
Best Way
Best Way
Cheers
Ebeid
El Mohandes
El Ezba
Farid Ateia
Fish Market
Guergues
Karakeesh Bakery
Abu Tig
Abu Tig
Tamr Henna
Drinks delivery
El Balad
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
El Balad
Kafr El Gouna
El Balad
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
77931
77777
32181
32587
32197
32138
32152
32165
32268
32126
34040
FASHION
Tamr Henna
Abu Tig
Tamr Henna
Kafr El Gouna
Kafr El Gouna
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
Abu Tig
Kafr El Gouna
Abu Tig
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
Abu Tig
El Balad
El Balad
Abu Tig
Abu Tig
Tamr Henna
El Balad
Abu Tig
Tamr Henna
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
32132
77977
32129
32107
32102
77945
34032
34026
32169
77929
32191
77973
32156
32217
77921
34043
34011
77928
77915
32362
34002
77914
34034
El Balad
Khayameya
Tamr Henna
Khayameya
Abu Tig
Abu Tig
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
32289
32104
32147
32108
77901
77951
1000 Wishes
Ainedter Boutique
Aisha
Casual Wear
Cotton Club
Cotton T-Shirt
Diadora
Elegant Sportswear
IQ Casual Wear
Italian Fashion
Jeans House
Kipling
Madian
Mango
Maya
Mona Lisa
Nervana
Norma J
Queeny Boutique
Quicksilver
Sabaya
Sun & Moon
T-Shirt Shop
HAND MADE
El Warda Fine Arts
Glass Style
Lana Leather
Leather Handmade
Malaika
Revolver
7 2
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
HOME DECOR, ACCESSORIES, & APPLIANCES
Art Life
B.Tech
Candle House
El Dar
El Mohandess
Hemut Design
Idea
Inside Out
Nancy House
Nile Kitchen
O' Mamouhe
Revolver
Roots
Safar Khan Art
Sea Star
Shining Stones
JEWELRY
Black Diamond
Citizen
El Fayrouz
High Style
Jasmine Jeweler
Kiranos
Lougeen
Shiekh Mounir
Silvershop
Wannas Jeweler
El Balad
El Balad
El Kafr
El Balad
Abu Tig
El Balad
Tamr Henna
Abu Tig
Tamr Henna
Hill Parking
Abu Tig
Abu Tig
El Balad
Abu Tig
El Balad
El Balad
ext 34025
ext 34477
not available
ext 33333
ext 77994
ext 77856
ext 32331
ext 77968
ext 38085
ext 32393
ext 77904
ext 77951
ext 34020
ext 77934
ext 34141
ext 34049
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
Abu Tig
4 locations
Abu Tig
Abu Tig
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
32410
34028
32153
34770
32133
32167
77941
32112
32410
77922
SOUVENIRS
Egyptian Perfumes
Isis Bazaar
Isis Perfume
Jasmine Papyrus
Khan El Khalili
Moses Bazaar
Museum Shop
Night Shop
Oasis Perfume
Print
Shisha Palace
Tut Papyrus
OTHER
Ahmed Saber Optician
Alam Writing Materials
Art Marine
Book Shop
Deep Blue
Exc. DVD & Video
Fuji Photo Services
Green Fingers
Kodak
Lodos Marine
Look at Me
Lotus Flower
Mobile Shop
Moka Play Station
Phone Appliances
St Paul Book Shop
Sunseeker
Abu Tig
Khayameya
Abu Tig
Khayameya
Tamr Henna
El Balad
El Balad
Khayameya
Tamr Henna
El Balad
El Balad
Tamr Henna
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
ext
77943
32121
32293
32101
32163
34018
32135
32106
33216
34003
34017
32161
Tamr Henna
Abu Tig Marina
Abu Tig
Abu Tig
Abu Tig Marina
Tamr Henna
Tamr Henna
El Balad
Abu Tig
Abu Tig
Tamr Henna
El Balad
El Balad
El Bustan
Tamr Henna
El Balad
Abu Tig
ext 34033
ext 77943
ext 77926
ext 77969
ext 77950
ext 37234
ext 32184
ext 32358
ext 77911
ext 77965
ext 32340
not available
ext 32177
ext 807-5555
ext 34031
ext 34023
ext 77961
Real Estate
Ancient Sands Resort, Abu Tig Marina, ext 77870
mob 010 068 0110, enquiries@ancientsandsresort.com
www.ancientsandsresort.com
Tamr Henna, ext 32006, orascom.housing@elgouna.com
Real Estate Office (OHD)
OHD Sales Office, marketing.realestate@orascomhd.com
Downtown Kafr, ext 32005, 32041, mob 012 366 8002
Abu Tig Marina, ext 77939, mob 016 142 7695
OHD Authorized Sales Agent
Tamr Henna, ext 32194, Abu Tig Marina, ext 77913
Mob 012 366 8002, centraloffice@elgounarealestate.com
Resale & Rental
Vacation Rentals Abu Tig Marina, ext 32552
Magic
Tamr Henna, ext 32423
Orascom Tamr Henna, ext 32006
Rental & Property Management Services (OHD)
El Gouna Management & Rentals
Abu Tig Marina, ext 32514, mob 012 280 8580
Air-taxi service within Egypt, to Europe, Middle East and
Gulf Area. Day Tel. 02 3304 5331, 3304 1507, 3304 1201;
Night Tel. 012 655 1311
Bus Service to Cairo
El Gouna Transportation Company
First class service LE 100 per person per way
VIP service LE 85 per person per way
EG to Cairo: 9:30 am (VIP), 2:00 pm (VIP), 4:30 pm (First),
7:30 pm (VIP), 12:30 am (VIP)
Cairo to EG: 7:30am (First), 1:45pm (VIP), 12:45am (VIP)
Runs from Tahrir Square and Nasr City stations in Cairo
Tickets must be bought in advance.
For information call ext 2287. Cairo tel (02) 574 1533.
High Jet Company
First class service LE 65 per person per way
VIP service LE 55 per person per way
EG to Cairo: 2:00 am (First), 9:30am (VIP), 1:30pm (VIP),
5:30pm (First), 1:30am (VIP)
Cairo to EG: 8:30am (VIP), 5:30pm (First), 12:30am (VIP),
1:30am (First)
Runs from Ahmed Helmy and Nasr City stations in Cairo
Tickets must be bought in advance. For info call ext 34555
Transportation
Bus to Hurghada
Buses leave every 20 min (00, 20, 40 min after the hour).
Departure from El Gouna between 07:00 and midnight
Departure from Hurghada (Dahar) between 06:20 and 00:00
LE 5 per person per way, tickets may be bought on the bus.
Limousine & Taxi
Car and limousine rental, private taxi service.
Mob. 012 734 0166, ext 38784
Sharm Ferry, bookings through Pro Tours, ext 32175/ 6
Shuttle Bus & Boat
Tickets available at Center, hotels' front desk, Kafr boat
jetty, at sales points around El Gouna, or with bus drivers.
Daily ticket: 5 LE; Weekly ticket: 20 LE. Info, ext 32100
Tok-Tok
5 LE per person per way
Downtown, ext 32337 or 32338
Abu Tig Marina, ext 72338
El Bustan, ext 807 2338
Mobile, 012 397 2806
Tuc Tuc
1 Euro or 8 LE per tuc tuc per way (max. 3 passengers)
Abu Tig Marina ext 77222, mob 012 9500 600
E L
G O U N A
M A G A Z I N E
7 5
Transportation
Commercial Property - Orascom Housing
Airline: Orascom Aviation
EL GOUNA restaurant
Dine-Around
Arena Inn
Decorated in a tasteful marine
style and with a beautiful setting overlooking the lagoon, Arena Inn sets sail to
international and themed buffets.
ext 150
Bleu Bleu
Chez Pascal
With a top quality chef, the restaurant
specializes in French cuisine served at
an ideal location in the Abu Tig Marina.
Enjoy a variety of seafood dishes either
inside or on the marina boardwalk.
ext 77928
Feast on wonderful culinary delights at
our specialty Belgian restaurant and
savor mouth-watering cuisine. Enjoy a
fantastic meal of fabulous dishes from
all corners of the earth accompanied by
soft, live piano music while you dine.
ext 188 or ext 177
Kiki’s
Dolce Vita
El Sayadin
Authentic Italian cuisine with
sounds, sights and aromas from the
Mediterranian. Come visit us at our
two distinct locations at the Rihana
Resort and the Ocean View Hotel.
ext 188 or ext 177
The renowned a la carte restaurant
for Oriental and seafood specialties
boasts a unique location overlooking the
crystal blue Red Sea. Spoil yourself in
this breathtaking ambience for all romantic & casual moments while enjoying the
finest delicacies from the menu.
ext 120
La Piscina
La Rotisserie
In the mood for a fine dining experience?
Celebrating something special? This is the
place where you can have it all! Enjoy our
exquisite menu and pamper yourself with
an unforgettable evening. We offer a daily
4-course gourmet menu or a la carte
options for your own delight.
ext 130
Moroccan cuisine that is a feast for the
senses. The world famous couscous
and a variety of tajines and authentic
Moroccan specialties are enjoyed in a
beautifully decorated restaurant on the
marina promenade.
ext 77855
Oceana
Orient 1001
Steak House
Sultan
Tandoor
Saturday seafood BBQ! Enjoy lavish
international seafood delicacies in an
exclusive atmosphere around the pool
featuring live music and entertainment
from 19:30 until 22:30 every Saturday.
Free alcoholic welcome drink.
ext 110
Feast on wonderful culinary delights
from the nightly theme buffet dinners
with local delicacies and international
dishes. Most of all, have dinner with
a unique view of the Red Sea unlike
any other in El Gouna.
ext 177
Enjoy a culinary voyage around the world
with nightly themed dinners. Asian,
Scandinavian, Oriental, Mediterranean,
Indian, French, Italian and international
succulent dishes are enjoyed in the setting
of your choice: under vaulted ceilings and
chandeliers or directly under the stars.
ext 140
Enjoy Lebanese-Egyptian food in an
authentic Oriental atmosphere with live
traditional bread making and a variety of
hot & cold mezzes and char-grilled seafood
& meats. Live show every Friday night.
Special set menu for Dine Around with
optional additional dishes at extra charge.
ext 110
Enjoy fabulous Tandoori and Mughalai
specialties at the only authentic Indian
Restaurant in El Gouna located in the
Ali Pasha Hotel at the Abu Tig Marina
entrance. A la carte choice.
Set menu also available.
ext 133
We feature authentic home made Italian
specialties! Enjoy our cozy atmosphere
and the unforgettable view over lagoons
at our a la carte restaurant. Fantastic
selections of delicious antipasti and
authentic Italian pasta main dishes. Laura
welcomes you daily from 7-11 pm.
ext 32407
Mamounia
If steak is what you like...then you’ve
hit the jackpot! The Steak House
offers a romantic setting overlooking
the Abu Tig Marina. Great American
style steak dishes are served in a
beautiful atmosphere with a classical
high standard of service.
ext 144
A unique offering from El Gouna's
hotels. For program specifics and
reservations, contact the Guest
Relations agent at your hotel of
residence, or call the Info Center
at ext 32100.