AREAS IN SHARM EL SHEIKH

AREAS IN SHARM EL SHEIKH

Sharm el Sheikh, this delightful city, in the heart of mountains, in the arms of the ocean, and where summer never ends, and for being more than a beautiful resort. In the last few years Sharm el Sheikh has successfully proven itself to be one of the best real estate and significant Investment location in the world.

Sharm El Sheikh is basically divided into Five main regions:Naama Bay, Hadaba, Ras Om El Seed Cliff, Montazah and Nabq area.

Naama Bay
Naama Bayy is the cosmopolitan centre of Sharm el Sheikh and where the main night life is, with top club names like Hard Rock café, Pacha, Little Buddha, plus many bars and restaurants. The long sandy bay was where the first hotel appeared in the early eighties. The Development of the shore-line on this bay is now complete and the seafront boosts a beautiful paved walkway, lined with bougainvillea and oleander, following the full sweep of the bay. Naama Bay is the target for many tourists in the evenings.

Hadaba
Hadaba (meaning hill) is Sharm's main residential area. Recently the area has began develop mainly due to the opening of Sharm second aqua park and there are now cafés, restaurants, bars, and shopping facilities and school.

Ras Om El Seed
Ras Om El Seed Cliff area expands from the famous headland dive site with the lighthouse, along the cliff top. It is home to many star international hotel and is apprx. 10 mins. to Naama Bay and 5 minutes to Old Sharm. The May 2007 the stylish Il Mercato opened. This stunning area offers designer shops, Starbucks, Costa Caffe,Virgin Megastore, many restaurants, all kind of delightful pizza.

Montazah
Montazah a recent new development situated north of the Naama Bay and south of the airport. The area currently has few facilities and therefore you need to go to 'the bay' for entertainment approx.15 mins drive away.

Nabq
Nabq shares its name with national park protectorate and covers the area north of the airport. It is approx.15 mins drive from the center; however the area has its own shopping centers, bars and restaurants and is developing a nightlife of its own. Nabq offers a range of activities from diving and snorkeling because coral reefs in Nabq are extremely rich, also windsurfing, parasailing, other water sports, and camel riding. An evening stroll along the promenade gives you an insight of what the beach bars of the hotels have to offer for the evening and you take a sike or a motor cycle along this stretch if you are feel energetic! You can also dance the night through in one of Nabq’s discos.

Shopping in Nabq will be a delight for shopping lovers. At the far end of Nabq the Mangrove stand the shoreline at Wadi Kid. The location and density of trees suggests that there is infiltration of fresh water, reducing the salinity to levels tolerated by the species. Located at the end of Sharm Nabq Bay is considered slightly far from the known areas of Sharm el Sheikh. However, in the past years this area has started to develop a sophisticated town all it is own, and it is represents a shining future of real estate investment in Sharm.

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ACTIVITES IN SHARM EL SHEIKH

ACTIVITES IN SHARM EL SHEIKH

Golf
The Jolie Ville Golf Resort in Sharm El Sheikh is an 18-hole Championship Golf Course, Par 72, 6021m, designed by John Stanford. A typical resort golf course, the Jolie Ville Golf Course, bordered by private real estate, features numerous water obstacles and a fantastic view of the mountains. It is a fair course with something for every level. First class service in the Club House. Several international competitions and events are held every year in this Red Sea favorite. Facilities: Club House, pro shop, driving range, putting & chipping green, power carts, caddies, and golf academy.

Snorkeling:
Snorkeling is �?the�? water sport par excellence in the Red Sea. With the wealth of underwater life in all destinations, snorkeling is an easy and very enjoyable way to spend some time and discover the wonders of the marine life. Whether you go out from your resort beach, or you spend a day or half a day on a snorkeling boat, you will collect unforgettable memories! In the Red Sea, snorkeling is particularly easy, as the high salinity of the water allows you to float almost without effort. Follow though our Snorkeling Guide tips, for those areas where currents and waves can make it a bit more challenging.

As a visiting snorkeler to Sharm El Sheikh you'll have plenty of sites to choose from. Calmest and easiest are the sites located along the coast. They are usually referred to as Local Sites. There are virtually no currents, water is calm and clear and there's plenty to see. Tiran and the Ras Mohammed National Park are among the most famous diving and snorkelling areas in the Red Sea and don't need much introduction. Just be aware of currents and sometimes rough seas there. Dive boats, which normally function as snorkelling boats at the same time, tend to move around and might not stay put while you snorkel in any off shore sites (like for example Tiran). This is because the diving groups often descend in one place and ascend in another. Many hotels have superb snorkelling on their doorstep at the House Reef. Some of them include Club Faraana, Hilton Waterfalls and Iberotel Grand Sharm in Hadaba, as well as Royal Rojana, Tropicana Grand Oasis and Four Seasons in Shark's Bay.

Here are some of the nicest spots for snorkelling in Sharm el Sheikh:

• Ras Mohammed National Park. Virtually every hotel, resort, diving centre and watersports centre offer excursions to this marine paradise. The Park has a couple of beaches where snorkelling is easy, such as Marsa Bareika, and some off shore reefs reachable with snorkelling or diving boats. A must for everybody holidaying in Sharm!
• Tiran Island, a favourite destination for full day snorkelling trips, with its lagoon of crystalline turquoise water and a wealth of corals and underwater fauna to remember.
• Ras Umm Sid, with its walls covered with awesome gigantic gorgonians, is another famous diving site, and it is accessible from land via the private beach of the restaurant El Fanar. In all hotels and most camps you will find watersport centres hiring snorkelling equipment, and organising guided and non-guided snorkelling trips to the best places in the area. They also cater to the tiny ones, with professional guides teaching your kids how to use snorkel, mask and fins, for an experience they will never forget.

Another way to have some great snorkelling is joining one of the scuba diving boats, going out on daily basis for half day or full day trips to the best sites in the area. Have a look at our Diving and Snorkelling Maps to check out the names and location of the area’s snorkelling sites.

Water sport
Sharm el Sheik is a paradise of watersports, scuba diving and great night life – an ideal spot for a complete, fun-filled holiday. With its awesome backdrop of golden brown mountains and its long coral-fringed coast, Sharm offers almost all the water activities you can dream of. The sandy shallow beaches of the bays and small coves along the coast offer the ideal scene for the latest craze in town: wake-boarding and waterskiing. Hotels and resorts offer a wide choice of water activities, from banana rides to parasailing, glass-bottom boat trips, canoeing, snorkelling excursions either from shore or by boat, air-conditioned submarines. With the creation of Apnea Academy in Na’ama Bay last year, Sharm also offers top-class freediving (or apnea) courses, for those seeking the extra thrill of watching the fabulous marine life without the support of scuba diving.

Winsurfing and kitesurfing is very limited to a couple of sandy shallow beaches – but in general weather conditions and the topology of the coast in Sharm el Sheik don’t allow for the practice of these two watersports.

Zen Zone:
The Zen Group is an international Thai company that strives to provide clients with an ancient knowledge medicinal protocol. The Zen Zone Health Centre & Spa offers carefully selected relaxing and revitalizing massages, natural facials, and a variety of natural body treatments, manicure, pedicure & waxing using only pure essential aromatherapy & base oils (almond and wheat germ) and pure organic herbs by experienced professional therapists. A wide choice of specialized massages awaits you to rejuvenate your body and mind: Thai, Zen Zone, Pharaonic, Aromatherapy, Oriental Therapeutic, Indian Head, Reflexology and Reiki have all potent relaxing and wellbeing properties. What better to detoxify yourself than a session of steam (Turkish) bath, sauna, Jacuzzi and the heated outdoor pool? The Zen Zone also offers. Special Fat Burning & Muscle Toning with the Dream Healther Exerciser, with the supervision of a professional fitness trainer, and Tai Chi, Qi Kung and Hatha Yoga.

Dining
Sharm el Sheik, with its two tourist districts of Na’ama Bay and Old Sharm, and a number of prestigious hotel chains, offers an incredible variety of dining experiences. Virtually all sorts of cuisines and styles are represented in town, from Indian to French, Japanese, Mexican, Italian, including Mongolian barbeques! From chic eateries belonging to international chains, such as Buddha Bar, to fast foods as McDonalds and KFC, to local outlets serving Egyptian specialities, Sharm el Sheikh has it all. Stroll out in trendy Na’ama Bay, and you will find famous international chains such as Hard Rock Café, Buddha Bar, Pacha, McDonalds, Pizza Hut and KFC. Local trendy places such as Pomodoro and Abu el Sid, just to name a few, will welcome you with beautiful decor, excellent service, carefully searched ambient music and extensive local and international menus.

In Old Sharm, search around the dozens alleys and pedestrian streets and find an endless array of restaurants and eateries with a strong local flavour. Fresh fish and good value for money are to be found in this area, with many outlets having a very popular, simple atmosphere and others being a bit pretentious. Be aware that local restaurants in the area seldom serve any alcohol. They serve though great tasty local food! In Sharm el Sheik, the hotels’ cuisine is in general quite good. Hotels normally have a main restaurant serving the boarding meals (breakfast and dinner, sometimes also lunch), and one or two a-la-carte restaurants to sample specialties or to celebrate that special occasion in an intimate atmosphere.

Entertainment
Sharm el Sheik is “the�? party town par excellence of the Red Sea Riviera. Once a remote solitary outpost only known to divers, nowadays is a vibrant town with an eclectic clubbing scene and a very outogoing local population. Night entertainment in Sharm el Sheik, just to name a few, ranges from informal and ultra-popular apres-dive outlets such as the Camel Bar and Pirate’s Pub, to stylish trendy diners as Buddha Bar and Mojo’s Pub, to crowded multi-purpose outlets such as Hard Rock Café’ and famous groovy clubs as Pacha and Echo Temple, funky beach bars as Terrazzina and rocking party places such as El Fanar. In between, a plaethora of local outlets line the three main pedestrian promenades of Na’ama Bay, offering virtually all the scenes and ambiences you can dream of.

In addition to this, many popular night outlets are located in hotels and resorts, and we can’t forget the number of casinos which populate the town’s night scene. Sharm el Sheik has also become in the years a place of choice for a number of events and international shows, with many most famous European DJ’s and cover bands playing regular gigs in the local clubs and other artists making appearances in one event or the other.

Land Activities
Sharm el Sheik, the most famous Red Sea holiday destination, is a mecca for divers and snorkellers – but is also the biggest adults’ playground of the region! With an impressive choice of land activities, a holiday in Sharm el Sheik is certainly a fun-filled one. The desert, with its breathtaking views and unforgettable atmosphere, is of course a favourite destination for an endless series of excursions and activities. There are many ways to discover the beauty hidden in wadis and mountains. Whether by camel, 4x4 jeep or quads, desert safaris and day trips take you to unforgettable adventures, guaranteed to take your breath away. Hiking and trekking in the desert is within range of everybody, provided that you go with experienced guides and follow their advice – most excursions to the desert include an easy walk accessible even to the less fit.

In addition to the traditional quad and jeep desert safaris, Sharm el Sheikh offers an appealing number of exciting desert activities – different ways to discover and experience the awesome scenery and spirit of the Sinai:

• Desert trekking on horseback at one of the town’s equestrian centres
• Specialised off road driving lessons in the desert given by the motocross school
• The Sinai Xtreme Park takes you sand boarding on impressive dunes. The Park has also bungee rocket, salto trampolines, paintball war games and a beautiful swimming pool to chill out between one game and the other.

To ideally complement an excursion to the stunning desert around Sharm, you should not miss a visit to the Sinai Heritage and Diving Museum, in Na’ama Bay, by the jetty. With displays featuring Bedouin heritage, diving history and wild life, and guided visits for groups and children, it is a place to visit to learn more about the area and its people.

After a hot desert excursion, you migh want to chill out, and cool down. What a better idea than going…ice skating?! Yes, at White Night Beach there is an impressive ice skating rink, with real ice in the middle of Sinai! To add pure adrenaline to your beach holiday, what about an afternoon at one of the go kart centres in Sharm? From small easy tracks to the world class racing Ghibly Raceway, with karts to suit different driver levels, you find it all in Sharm.

And what about a fun evening with friends at the local bowling centre? With billiards and a licensed bar, the fans of bowling have the opportunity of practice it during their holidays too. In addition to this all, hotels and resorts offer also a number of fun land activities. Leisure activities available are, among others, archery, tennis, games in multipurpose courts, beachvolley, biking, and much more.

Diving:
A Red Sea diving holiday in Egypt is simply unforgettable. Well-established diving centres will gladly provide you with scuba diving information and arrange courses, daily excursions, and live-aboard trips to almost anywhere, from the gigantic coral outcrops of Taba to the vertical walls of Ras Mohammed, from the wrecks of Sha'ab Abu Nuhas to the lonely offshore islands of The Brothers and Zabargad. The Red Sea is dubbed Egypt’s “Garden of Allah�?, due to the wealth of underwater pristine life.

The Egyptian Red Sea offers the world's best scuba diving: at only a few hours by plane from Europe, you find superb visibility (up to 50 metres), abundant and diverse fish life (over 1,000 species), countless varieties of hard and soft coral (over 200 species), year-round diving in comfortable water temperatures (18° to 26° Celsius), incredibly diverse underwater topography, spectacular wall and shipwreck destinations, sunny weather and pleasant air temperatures (18° to 40° Celsius), and easy access to diving locations. Browse through our Red Sea dive sites maps and you will be impressed by the range of diving possibilities. It is no surprise therefore that Red Sea diving is one of the most sought-after holidays. Whether a hopeful wannabe or expert diver, eight year-old kid or sporting grandmother, diving can be experienced and enjoyed by nearly everyone.

Learn to dive
Year-round sunshine, clear waters and wonderful corals make the Red Sea in Egypt an ideal place to learn to dive. In the Red Sea, beginner diving courses such as the PADI Open Water Course and Scuba Diver Course are offered by basically all diving schools. The PADI diving courses are particularly suited for resort holidays, and are recognised world-wide. A PADI Open Water Course, for example, typically takes four to five days to complete. Just imagine, after the theory and pool sessions, you will be able to be trained as a diver in one of the most outstanding underwater habitats in the world. Entry level courses are designed to help you learn to dive safely, with a buddy, to a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet). Each course consists of diving theory sessions, training dives in a pool or confined body of water, and practice dives in the open sea under the direct supervision of a qualified instructor. If you want to get a taste of diving before committing yourself to a full course, why not try out an introductory dive or resort course in calm shallow water first? Virtually anyone can dive if you are in good health, reasonably fit, and a relatively good swimmer. Enjoy!

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GEOGRAPHYOF SHARM EL SHEIKH

GEOGRAPHYOF SHARM EL SHEIKH

Sharm el-Sheikh (also transliterated as Sharm Al Shaykh), often known simply as "Sharm", is a city situated on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, in Janub Sina', Egypt, on the coastal strip between the Red Sea and Mount Sinai. Sharm el-Sheikh is the administrative hub of Egypt's Southern Sinai province which includes the smaller coastal towns of Dahab and Nuweiba as well as the mountainous interior, Saint Catherine's Monastery and Mount Sinai.

Location:

• at the juncture of Asia and Africa,
• of a triangular shape with its base along the Mediterranean Sea for about 320 kms long and its apex at Ras Mohamed in the south.

The total length of Sinai's coastlines is about 870 km, which is 30% of Egypt's 2400 km coastlines.

Population:
Basically, Sinai is divided into three kind of population types: the Beduines (approx. 80.000 in Sinai), people working in the tourist sector, and army people (approx. 40.000). Last but not least, the tourists itself should be mentioned, that are forming the biggest portion.

Climate:
The weather in Egypt is typically desertic. It means that days are warm or hot, and nights tend to be cool. Throughout the Red Sea Riviera humidity is almost non-existent, and constant breezes make the warm to hot temperatures more than bearable if not simply very pleasant during any period of the year. There are only two seasons: a mild winter from November to April and a hot summer from May to October.

The only differences between the seasons are variations in daytime temperatures and changes in prevailing winds. Along the Red Sea, temperatures range between an average minimum of 14° C in winter and an average maximum of 35° C in summer. Precipitation is almost non-existent: only in autumn and spring the odd rainfall that lasts no longer than fifteen minutes helps sustaining the rare desert flora and fauna. Some areas can experience years without rain, and suddenly receive downpours that result in flash floods.

Sinai receives somewhat more rainfall than the other desert areas, and the region is dotted by numerous wells and oases, resulting in a somewhat more humid climate than the rest of the Red Sea coast. The area of Marsa Alam, due to the vicinity to the Tropic of Cancer, has a slightly more humid weather than the rest of the Red Sea governorate coast. It results in a beautiful coastal area with a number of mangrove and palm tree groves. A typical feature of Egypt’s weather is the “khamseen�?, a hot sandy spring wind that blows across the country and to the Red Sea between March, April and May. This is what in Europe is called “scirocco�?. The “khamseen�? can occasionally become a real sandstorm, although it blows intermittently. Sun bathing is possible throughout the year, with the interminable blue skies, and very little cloudy days. Weather forecasts for the Red Sea Riviera invariably include clear skies, prevailing northern breezes, and sun, sun, sun!

Touristic Potential:
Sinai is considered a touristic treasure. Its pharaonic, religious, natural phenomena, deserts, recreational and therapeutic render it one of the richest resorts in the world of tourism. The development in the city offers an exclusive world of luxury and elegance. A fantasy world of space and style is there comprising glamorous low density resorts, exclusive sports facilities, unparalleled food courts and shopping centers. The land plan shows that the total area of Sharm El-Sheikh is expected to be about 42 km², in the year 2017. This area is designed to include:

• Tourism resorts 8.4%
• Tourism Facilities 40.9%
• Green & Open areas 12.3%
• Social Services 9.9%
• Roads 12.2%
• Urban Housing 13.7%
• Bedouin Housing 1.6%
• Hand crafts & small industries 1.0%

PLACES TO SEE IN SHARM EL SHEIKH

Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai, just south of the Monastery of St Katherine, is of great religious importance to Jews, Christians and Muslims. According to the Old Testament this is where Moses received the Ten Commandments.

Throughout the centuries the mountain has drawn thousands of pilgrims from all over the world. You can ascend to the summit (2285 m, 7497 ft) to experience the ultimate spiritual high; either by climbing some 4000 steps built by monks or by following an easier but longer path. Both lead to an open area known as Elija's Basin where you walk up the remaining 750 steps to the top. At the summit you will find the Chapel of the Holy Trinity that was built in 1934 on the site of a much earlier chapel built in 363 AD. The climb takes about three hours but the view from the top is truly breathtaking, especially at sunrise.

About 40 kilometers east of Abu Zenima is one of Sinai's most important archaeological sites: Serabit el Khadim. Pharaohs of the 3rd Dynasty (2670-2570 BC) began the long tradition of dispatching mining expeditions to this remote and desolate area to extract turquoise. Ancient Egyptians were not only fond of carving scarabs out of this opaque sky-blue gemstone, but they also used pulverized turquoise as pigment to color statues and other objects.

Methodical mining for this attractive stone continued well after the 12th Dynasty (1955-1750 BC) when a temple dedicated to the goddess Hathor - the Mistress of Turquoise - was built. At the walled temple, which stands on a plateau 850 meters above sea level, you can see the ruins of Hathor's rock-cut chapel and a large number of carved stone slabs with inscriptions. Close to the temple complex at the abandoned mining shafts you can also examine well preserved ancient inscriptions.

Monastery of St Katherine
The Monastery of St. Katherine lies at the foot of the Gebel Musa, or Mount Moses, in the heart of the South Sinai. In 330 AD the mother of Emperor Constantine, Empress Helena, ordered the construction of a small church by Moses' Burning Bush. It was called the Church of the Transfiguration. The fortified monastery we see today was built around this church during the reign of Emperor Justinian (527-565 AD). In the 11th century the monastery was dedicated to St. Katherine of Alexandria, who had died in 310 AD. Her remains, reportedly found by monks on a mountain peak next to Mt Sinai, are buried in the monastery's Basilica. Fronted by gardens and cypress trees, the monastery is owned and run by the Greek Orthodox Church. Its rich library houses the world's second largest collection of illuminated manuscripts after the Vatican. You can see the Burning Bush and a large number of antique works of art: invaluable icons, beautifully carved doors, exquisite wall paintings and other fine religious ornaments.

The Museum at St Katherine Monastery
In February 2002, within the monastery's towering walls, one of the world's finest and most unique collections of Christian artifacts has been made more accessible to the public. A small yet extraordinary nine-room museum, referred to as "The Sacred Sacristy", was opened to display masterpieces of the highest artistic value. Among the tastefully displayed exhibits are exquisite 6th century Byzantine icons, delicate 9th century manuscripts written in Syriac, rare Slavonic prayer books, including splendid objects of silver, gold, ivory and precious stones. Perhaps the most valued items on exhibit, presented in a special glass case, are pages from the Codex Sinaiticus, a 4th century version of the Bible that now rests in the British Museum. Now you can see the Monastery's coveted collection, while listening to gentle Byzantine hymns in an atmosphere of splendor and reverence. The museum is open from 9 to 12 am everyday except on Fridays, Sundays and religious holidays.

Coloured Canyon
One of the natural wonders of the Sinai, the Coloured Canyon is awe-inspiring. Take a walk in between dramatic sandstone canyon walls streaked with melting yellows, purples, reds, magentas and gold. In certain places the canyon walls reach up to 40 meters. You feel as if you are enclosed in a spectacular colouring book. Formed by the natural elements over centuries, the walls of Coloured Canyon cascade with colours as a result of ferrous oxide and manganese. Consequently, a natural maze has been formed that is excellent for exploring and taking photographs. A haven of tranquility, Coloured Canyon promises its visitors peaceful moments and silence. To ensure your safety, in some areas of the Coloured Canyon you will need to be reasonably fit to investigate. Day trips to the Coloured Canyon can be arranged from Dahab, Nuweiba, or Taba.

Feiran Oasis
Feiran Oasis, about halfway between the Monastery of St Katherine and the Gulf of Suez, is one of the earliest Christian centers in Sinai. Convention has it that Moses and his followers passed through southern Sinai's largest oasis. The ruins of many ancient churches testify to the importance this oasis once held as a religious hub through the centuries from as early as the 2nd century. The Seven Girls Monastery, built in the 4th century in the middle of the palm tree filled oasis, is surely worth a visit. Near the convent you can see the remnants of the old archbishopric, the seat of the archbishop of Sinai until the 6th century. A trail through ancient Byzantine churches leads up to the summit of Gebel Tehuna with spectacular views. At the western entrance to the oasis is the rock that Moses supposedly struck with his staff to draw water.

Nawamis
Found only in southern and eastern Sinai are several mysterious prehistoric structures known as Nawamis. Between 2 to 2.5 m (6.6 to 8.2 ft) high and 3 to 6 m (10 to 20 ft) in diameter, these circular inward leaning buildings were constructed using sandstone slabs, each with a small opening facing west. Within these structures archaeologists have unearthed shell bracelets, colored beads, flint tools, tiny jugs as well as bone and copper tools. These items were most likely funeral offerings. Many have been dated to as far back as the Chalcolithic (Copper Stone Age) period (4000-3150 BC). Though the Nawamis were probably ancient burial chambers, the identity of the people buried here is still a mystery. Perhaps the most readily accessible Nawamis structures are those found to the south of Ein Khudra, not far from the St Katherine-Nuweiba road. Go explore some of the oldest man made structures in the world.

Abu Galum Protected Area
Abu Galum Protected Area, along the Gulf of Aqaba between Dahab and Nuweiba, is a 500 km2 natural wonderland. Shell speckled gravel beaches run parallel most of the way to the splendid coral reefs below, unless rudely interrupted by plunging mountainsides. Close examination of the beaches will expose masses of Nerita splendens, a tiny snail whose decorative shell blends seamlessly into the pebble mosaic. Inland into the park, deep wadis interlace with massive granite mountains that are intermittently cut by dark dolerite dykes. Out of a total 167 species recently recorded in this environmentally unique region, as many as 44 plant species are endemic. Mammals seem to like this plant diversity. Nubian ibex, hyrax, red fox and striped hyena thrive here, as well as a variety of lizards and snakes, including the black cobra, the horned viper and Burton's carpet viper.

Nabq Protected Area
Nabq Protected Area embraces the Gulf of Aqaba coast and its hinterland between Sharm el Sheikh and Dahab. This unique 600 square kilometer area of wadi systems, sand dunes, alluvial plains and salt marches supports a relatively diverse animal and plant life. Gazelles, hyrax, nubian ibex and foxes, as well as a variety of reptile and invertebrate species, have been recorded here. Birdwatchers particularly enjoy sightings of herons, spoonbills, ospreys, gulls, terns and storks. Of the 134 flowering plant species found at Nabq, six are endemic. Most impressive are the four saltwater filtering mangrove forests. These evergreen trees represent Sinai's largest communities and are reportedly the most northerly in the world. Farther inland grow the rare Arak, a bush-like plant that grows sideways along the leeward face of dunes. The protectorate's Arak specimens are the largest in the Middle East. Only local Bedouins live in the park, mostly at El Gharqana and Khereiza villages.

St Katherine Protectorate
St Katherine Protectorate is perhaps Egypt's most picturesque national park. It encloses most of the mountainous area of central South Sinai, including the country's highest mountain Gebel Katharina (2624m). The park is a treasure trove of wild plants. Of the 317 flora species that have been recorded, 19 are found nowhere else in the world. Approximately 35 reptile species live within this unique high altitude ecosystem, many of which are endemic, including the Sinai banded snake and the Innes cobra. The 4,350 square kilometer natural park also supports many mammal species: rock hyrax, Nubian ibex, Dorcas gazelle, red fox, wild cats and hyenas. When exploring the protectorate's mountains and wadis you will probably spot a curious bird, the white-crowned black wheatear. The observant visitor may also see the colorful Sinai rose finch and the Tristam's grackle. Far less common and much more difficult to locate is the recently discovered Sinai baton blue, the worlds smallest butterfly.Â

Ras Mohammed National Park
Ras Mohammed National Park is both a terrestrial and an aquatic nature reserve. The 480 square kilometer protected area lies where the Gulf of Suez meets the Gulf of Aqaba at Sinai's southern extremity. The arid desert terrain of sand dunes, gravel plains, fossilized corals and granite mountains is home to a number of rare mammal species: Dorcas gazelle, Nubian ibex and red fox. Easier to spot are the resident birds like terns, herons, gulls and ospreys. Thousands of white storks pass through Ras Mohammed each year, heading south during September/October and back north during April/May. About 85 flora species live in the park, including mangroves. In glaring contrast to the seemingly desolate landscape above, the ecosystem underwater is a magnificent eruption of life: 200 coral species (125 of which are soft corals), 1000 fish species, 40 starfish species, 25 sea urchin species, 100 mollusk species, 150 crustacean species, and 2 turtle species: the Green Turtle and the Hawksbill Turtle.
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a little about sharm el sheikh

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT SHARM EL SHEIKH

Located at the Southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm El Sheikh is considered one of the most premiere resorts in the Middle East.

Nestled between the enchantingly rich and pristine Red Sea, the sweeping grandeur of the Sinai Mountains, and the spacious mystique of the desert, it is a pulsating hub of alluring beauty. Sharm El Sheikh has a lot to offer; from dramatic terrain and florid coral reefs, to dazzling white beaches, and spectacular sunsets. It has some of the best diving and snorkeling spots, desert safaris, along with an action-packed animated nightlife.

Sharm el-Sheikh is the most accessible and developed tourist resort community on the Sinai peninsula, owing to its dramatic landscape, year-round dry and temperate climate and long stretches of natural beach. It is sandwiched between clear blue sea and stunning mountain views. Its waters are clear and calm for most of the year and have become popular for various watersports, particularly recreational scuba diving and snorkelling (which many consider to be among the best in the world). Coral reefs, under water and marine life, unmatched anywhere in the world, offer a spectacular and dazzling time for divers (250 different coral reefs and 1000 species of fish). These natural resources together with its proximity to European tourism markets have stimulated the rapid growth of tourism boom that the region is currently experiencing. It is a mere five hour flight from the UK and only a two hour time difference. Flights to Cairo from Sharm el-Sheikh take one hour and are inexpensive.

Sharm offers all the amenities one would expect, being most well known as a first class diving and snorkeling destination. Na'ama Bay offers fine dining, bars and nighclubs and there are some lavish casono's, golf courses and health facilities. You can take a desert safari and experience the Bedouin culture including a camal ride. Ras Mohammed, at the southern-most tip of the peninsula, has been designated a national park, serving to protect the area's wildlife as well as its natural landscape, shoreline and coral reef. Children can also enjoy Go-Carting, the Aqua Park, rock climbing and fair ground rides. There is something to offer each and every visitor.

A BREIF HISTORYOF SHARM EL SHEIKH

Sharm el-Sheikh is on a promontory overlooking the Straits of Tiran at the mouth of the Gulf of Aqaba. Its strategic importance led to its transformation from a fishing village into a major port and naval base for the Egyptian Navy. It was captured by Israel during the Sinai conflict of 1956 and restored to Egypt in 1957. A United Nations peacekeeping force was subsequently stationed there until the 1967 Six-Day War when it was recaptured by Israel and officially renamed Mifratz Shlomo, Hebrew for "Gulf of Solomon"; but the name "Sharm el Sheikh" or "Sharm" stayed in general use.

Sharm el-Sheikh remained under Israeli control until the Sinai peninsula was returned to Egypt in 1982 after the Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty of 1979. An Israeli Settlement had been created there in the 1970's under the name "Ophira" (�?ופיר�?), derived from Biblical Ophir. Israeli settlers there had the name of being easy-going, bohemian types and - unlike settlers elsewhere - offered no resistance when evacuated in 1982. Also, unlike the Israeli settlements in North Sinai which were razed to the ground upon evacuation by order of then Defence Minister Ariel Sharon, the Israeli settlement at Sharm el-Sheikh was handed intact to the Egyptians, and some of the buildings erected at the time are still in evidence.

A hierarchical planning approach was adopted for the Gulf of Aqaba, whereby their components were evaluated and subdivided into zones, cities and centers. In accordance with this approach, the Gulf of Aqaba zone was subdivided into four cities: Taba, Nuweiba, Dahab and Sharm El-Sheikh. Sharm El-Sheikh city has been subdivided into five homogeneous centers namely: Nabq, Ras Nusrani, Naama Bay, Umm Sid and Sharm El Maya.

Before 1967, Sharm el-Sheikh was little more than an occasional base of operations for local fishermen; the nearest permanent settlement was in Nabq, north of Ras el-Nasrani ("The Tiran Straits"). Commercial development of the area began during the Israeli presence in the area. The Israelis built the town of Ofira overlooking Sharm el-Maya Bay, and the Nesima area, and opened the first tourist-oriented establishments in the area six kilometers north at Naama Bay. These included a marina hotel on the southern side of the bay, a nature field school on the northern side, diving clubs, a now well-known promenade, and the Naama Bay Hotel.

Sharm el-Sheikh is located on the Egyptian Red Sea coast, at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. After the Sinai was restored to Egypt in 1982, the Egyptian government embarked on an initiative to encourage continued development of the city. The Aqua Marine hotel was Being build along with the hotel the Cliff Top (still exist today) in Hadaba. Gradually more Egyptians and foreigners began to settle, starting camps and hotels, burger bars basically anything the residents needed. Foreign investors - some of whom had discovered the potential of the locality during the Israeli occupation - contributed to a spate of building projects. Environmental zoning laws currently limit the height of buildings in Sharm el-Sheikh so as to avoid obscuring the natural beauty of the surroundings.The big boom was in '90's when almost every known hotel chain started development.

The city has played host to a number of important Middle Eastern peace conferences, including the September 4, 1999 agreement to restore Palestinian self-rule over the Gaza Strip. A second summit was held at Sharm on October 17, 2000 following the outbreak of the second Palestinian intifada, but it failed to end the violence. A summit was held on August 3, 2005 in this city on developments in the Arab world such as the situation in Iraq and the Arab-Israeli conflict. . The Maritim Sharm el Sheikh International Congress Centre can host events and congresses for up to 4,700 participants. Peace conferences, ministerial meetings, world bank meetings, Arab league conferences for mentioning a few. The recent international conference on 11 May,2007 on Iraq held in Sharm el-Sheikh was the biggest and most inclusive diplomatic push to end that nation’s security crisis since the 2003 invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein.

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why sharm ..?

Sharm el-Sheikh is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Arab world. But there are also some very good reasons to visit it if you are not the common tourist, who likes to lie on the beach all day. It is one of the finest diving spots in the world and a trip into the desert is an unforgettable adventure.

The Sinai Peninsula is a remote desert mountain range. The rocky mountains are parted from the deep-blue sea by a flat desert strip. This combination of desert and sea is an incredible sight and makes you believe you are on a different planet.

About 40 years ago, Sharm el-Sheikh was nothing but a small fishing village with about 100 Bedouin citizens. When Sinai was occupied by Israel in 1967 Sharm el-Sheikh started to develop as a tourist destination (like the rest of the peninsula). Israelis evacuated Sinai between 1979 and 1982, following the signing of a peace agreement between the two countries. Since the 1980's the Egyptians have been continuing the development of Sharm where the Israelis left. Sharm's 100 grew into a bustling 10,000 population. There is now a nice promenade, a Hard Rock Cafe, one of the most modern hospitals in Egypt and so on.

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Tourists are attracted to Egypt for it’s history that dates back to around 3200BC, for the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea, for the diving possibilities on the Red Sea and for the luxury hotels and resorts that make Egypt something special for the international tourist. An increasing number of visitors are buying into new build luxury apartment complexes in the major holiday hotspots and are being rewarded with low off plan prices, guaranteed rental yields, a holiday home in the sun and an investment that even begins increasing in value over the build period. These property investors are taking a very small risk in real terms since the government of Egypt has committed itself to transforming the country’s economy through the promotion of inward foreign direct investment over the long term. To that end the government began the introduction of new reforms to customs, income and corporate taxation in 2004; they are privatizing certain sector industries, working on currency liquidity and are trying to develop an export market for their natural gas deposits. Experts agree that all these efforts should improve the economy of the country, create more opportunity for employment and domestic wealth growth and increase the attraction of the country from an overseas investor’s point of view.

In the resort areas of the Red Sea coasts, property investors are tapping into the increasing demand for short term rental accommodation, this market was non existent two years ago as in the past it was only possible to rent property on a long term basis. Developers and forward thinking real estate agents are offering property management services making it possible for owners to rent their properties. Overall the future prospects for the property market in Egypt are positive. Egypt is a politically stable country and one currently enjoying the best relationships with many of the world’s most influential economies and hosted the “Economic Forum 2006 which was attended by all the influential countries worldwide, including the UK and USA.

The economic climate in Egypt is open for investment, the marketing campaign at the forum 2006 was “Egypt open for business” And with investors being actively encouraged by taxation breaks and low labour costs Egypt is set to succeed. Press articles on Investing in Egypt 2007 With over one million UK holidaymakers visiting in 2006 and property price rises already outstripping most emerging markets, experts are predicting that Egypt could offer one of the greatest overseas property investment returns currently available worldwide. According to Egypt's Tourism Authority, over one million UK holidaymakers visited Egypt in 2006, representing a 25% increase on the previous year. Property price rises are already outstripping most emerging markets and experts are predicting that Egypt could offer one of the greatest overseas property investment returns worldwide currently available. Average property prices in Egypt are expected to rise by 20% in 2007. Since Egypt’s Economic Reform Program in the early 1990s, which focused on stabilizing the economy, improving public finance and exchange rate policies, the economy grew by 6% in 2006 and the anticipated growth this year is 7%. Property purchase is relatively simple in Egypt requires no purchases taxes, stamp duty, income tax nor capital gains tax and there is no restrictions on freehold ownership of property for foreigners in most of Egypt. A rapidly expanding tourist market, the country, which is on course to welcome 16 million visitors from around the world by 2014, has benefited from one of the fastest growing property prices in the world, with the average property price rising by 50% in the last two years. It also offers one of the highest returns on investment worldwide, with rental yields in key tourist resorts reaching 11% compared to 4-6% in the UK.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_Walters

Despite the recent boom, current prices still reflect Egypt’s status as a new player in There are so many positive aspects of the property market in Egypt that make the entire sector an exciting place to be right now that anyone serious about venturing into an emerging overseas real estate market should be focused on Egypt for at least the medium term. First things first let’s remove the confusion – Egypt is not a country plagued by terrorism, drought or famine – it’s a stunningly beautiful, ancient and interesting country with a coastline that is brushed and caressed by both the Mediterranean and Red seas. It is also one of the most exciting and exotic countries in closest proximity to Europe giving investors a massive potential tourist audience to target; it is also a country that can genuinely boast year round sunshine on its Red Sea Riviera which means it offers investors year round potential for profit. If these are not reasons enough alone for a property investor to get curious about Egypt, how about the fact that Dubai based mega property developers Emaar have just committed millions of dollars to the Egyptian residential real estate market place in Cairo? Or what about the fact that the Egyptian government have slashed property related taxation costs to make the whole process of owning real estate in Egypt that much more affordable for more people?

You can add to this the fact that inward foreign direct investment into Egypt is at an all time high, the country is receiving higher annual visitor intake than ever before and the country is enjoying its best relationships with Western governments in documented history if you like. Furthermore the amount of investment and economic confidence in Egypt is opening up a wealthy and growing middle class sector who are keen to afford property for sale and rent in Cairo and Alexandria in particular, and this gives an investor a local resale market to target in the medium term which further boosts the long term potential of an investment made into the real estate sector which is currently dominated by the tourism market. It’s a fact that the highest rental incomes achievable for a real estate investor in Egypt right now are from tourist friendly properties along the Red Sea and Mediterranean coastlines – properties that are well located and facilitated are most in demand from the tourism market looking for short term lets. But there’s also a growing retirement market in Egypt that’s attracting great attention and giving real estate investors another potential revenue stream to explore. Egypt really is the place to be for real estate investors looking for immediate income and medium to long term capital growth and resale potential - and because the property buying process for foreigners in Egypt has become more affordable and more transparent in very recent years, the numbers of investors examining the market and exploring its possibilities is set to rise and rise.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rhiannon_Williamson

News article:
Positive Economic Outlook Good for Egypt’s Property Sector Our analysis of the recent comprehensive economic review of Egypt collated and produced by Moody’s Investors Service together with the latest economic findings of the Institute of International Finance relating to Egypt’s performance reveal an overall positive economic outlook emerging which is good for Egypt’s property sector.

News article:
Buying a Property in Egypt For investors, second home hunters and even those looking to develop or renovate real estate, buying a property in Egypt just became a million times easier with the announcement that one of the leading financial institutions in the GCC has partnered with Egypt’s first mortgage company to develop, promote, market and sell a sophisticated range of property finance schemes for all those buying, investing or developing property in Egypt.

Egypt in many people's eyes is a nation still emerging from previous governments' poor efforts to promote the country and as a result few people are aware of the enormous property investment potential that there is in this stunningly beautiful, ancient and historic country. But rest assured, this situation will not last for long and those who want to get in ahead of the crowd will be buying property in 2007 and watching everyone else play catch up in 2008.

Currently the Egyptian government is working through a process of aggressive reforms to strengthen and stabilize the economy, prove political stability and promote relations around the globe with nations such as the USA and UK. It is also a country actively courting foreign direct investment and which has received massive financial commitment from the Middle East. Much of this commitment has come from real estate giants such as Emaar Properties and DAMAC properties…the former are already in the development process for massive luxury developments in Cairo for example and the latter have literally just announced multi billion dollar plans to develop a mega resort across 320 million square feet of land in the north of Hurghada. The Gamsha Bay development will comprise 55,000 housing units across nine distinctive residential zones with construction taking place over the next ten years. The development of resorts such as these ties in with Egypt's plans for revolutionizing its travel and tourism economy.

Currently Egypt is popular - but plans are in place to liberalize the aviation routes into the nation and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) have conservatively estimated that this will push up international arrivals to in excess of 13 million annually and boost tourism generated GDP by a further 12%. Egypt has ambitious plans to become one of the most popular tourism hotspots by 2011 and the WTTC support their ambitions. This increase in tourism demand and the general profile raising awareness activities being undertaken by Egypt of its nation's desirability for investment, for a holiday, as a second home or a great place to buy property will have a dramatic effect on a market where currently prices are attractively affordable and investment activity is beginning to take off. So in conclusion, Egypt's new property market is emerging and about to witness strong price gains, it is a market with all the right ingredients for long term success and therefore property in Egypt in 2007 makes an exceptionally interesting investment choice.
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Property for sale in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

As an investor buying property in Sharm El Sheikh you can expect above average returns from investing in off-plan properties in Sharm El Sheikh. Why?

WHY BUY SHARM EL SHEIKH PROPERTY:

• Unique micro climate with over 300 days of sunshine each year
• Potential long term property rental returns from holidaymakers and divers
  
• Easy accessibility to anywhere in the world through Sharm el Sheikh international air port
• Lower cost of living
• Sharm El Sheikh Property prices still good value compared to the UK and Spain
• Steadily rising annual property values all along the coast.
• New restrictions on building density
• New developments mean a constand supply of property for sale in Sharm El Sheikh.
• 10 year building guarantees
• Non-resident friendly
• Constant improvements to infrastructure (Airports, golf courses, amenities, roads, etc)
• Sophisticated shopping, nightlife, and international restaurants

3 reasons for investors to buy property in Sharm El Sheikh:

1. Properties for sale in Sharm El Sheikh are priced BELOW today's market value (You literally buy your property at a discounted price).
2. Your equity is limited to only around 30% of your property's price. (You only pay a fraction of the total sales price to secure your ownership rights).
3. During construction you can sell your Sharm El Sheikh property on to a 'lifestyle' buyer benefiting from any pre-scheduled price increases from the developer and additional capital market growth. Or, elect to go to Title Deed and complete your purchase; then sell the property on approximately two years later and see potentially even bigger gains on your investment due to the development's 'mature' status and desirability (it's easier to sell a completed apartment with a beautiful swimming pool and gardens than something still in construction
   
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Sharm el Sheikh Entertainment

Sharm El Sheikh
The Red Sea resort town of Sharm El Sheikh is now a top tourist destination but little over 25 years ago it was a strategical important military naval base. This remarkable transformation is down to the Egyptian government realising the potential of this naturally beautiful part of the country and investing heavily in its infrastructure.

Sharm, as it is commonly referred to by the regular visitors, is situated the southern most tip of the Sinai Peninsula. The resort itself stretches for over 12 miles along the golden beaches of the Red Sea coast and with it's clear blue waters it is considered to be one of the best diving destinations in the world.

Sharm el Sheikh is divided into three areas, Naama Bay, Sharm el Maya and Ras Um Sid Cliff. El Maya is where you'll find the old town of Sharm el Sheikh. The cliff top resort of Ras Um Sid Cliff links Sharm el Maya with Naama Bay. Here you'll discover great places to shop, eat and drink. Sharm el Sheikh is quite a new development and is a favourite destination of the Europeans, in particular the British, Germans and Italians who all flock to this dedicated resort.

Sharm el Sheikh hotels
Sharm el Sheik has many top class hotels to suit almost every budget. As Sharm is a relatively new resort many of the hotels have been recently built and therefore you can expect a large choice of quality hotels equipped to modern standards.

Sharm el Sheikh Shopping
There are two types of experiences you can enjoy when shopping in Sharm el Sheikh, the traditional way haggling with cash which occurs in the Old Market area and the new modern way, fixed prices and credit cards, found in the shopping malls.

In the Old Market you'll find the usual souvenirs, oils, perfumes, spices and belly dancing suits etc which are all priced to ensure that you either get ripped off or to encourage haggling, so throw away that British reserve and get down to bare knuckled haggling. To avoid looking silly make sure you have the cash to buy the haggled for item, as credit cards will not be accepted. Please bear in mind when shopping in Egypt it is best not to draw attention to yourself so dress modestly and be respectful of their traditions.

The shopping malls of Sharm provide a great variety of shops where you'll find more than just souvenirs. Perfume, clothes, shoes, sunglasses bags can be bought in these malls, but don't be blinded by the price. Keep an eye out for counterfeit goods and ask yourself why is a Prada handbag is selling for £40 and would you buy the bag if it did not have Prada on it? Is the perfume genuine, in an area of the country where you can't drink the water would you go splashing it on your face? When you have decided on a purchase, you can either use a credit card or cash. However, you'll find the prices are generally fixed and on the high side.

Sharm el Sheikh Entertainment
Sharm El Shake, has been described as the Vegas of the Middle East and this means that there are plenty of casino's, bars restaurants etc for the tourists. Being a muslin country you may be surprised by this but the Egyptians are keen to accommodate the tourists so not really that surprising.

Nightlife in Sharm typically begins at around 9pm and ends at various times depending on what you want. For a more authentic night out try the Bedouin cafes and sheesha bars which close around 2am. If you have the stamina, the casinos and some bars will stay open until 6am!

If you are looking for nightclubs and parties then go to Naama Bay and Hadabah where you'll pay around 20 Euro's to get in, which usually includes a free drink!. In Naama Bay check out Pacha/Bus Stop and Mojo's, fantastic!

Sharm el Sheikh Weather
Sharm el Shiek's weather can be split into two seasons, summer and winter. Winter (October to April) is warm and dry and summer (May to September) is very hot and dry. It is this type of weather which makes Sharm el Sheikh a great winter sun destination and all year round destination. Rain is practically unheard of in the summer, indeed many summers pass without a drop of rain!

The height of summer (July to August) can see temperatures sit in the 40's which makes sitting by the pool or on the beach a necessary activity! Fortunately, the cooling breezes from the sea offer some light relief. At night the temperature remain high, typically staying in the mid 20's so make sure that your hotel rooms has air con.

In September the heat is as scorching as it was in height of summer, but it is still very hot. The temperature slowly declines into the 30's during October and in the mid 20's during November, making it a very pleasant time to visit Sharm el Sheikh. The coolest time of the year is from December to February. The average temperature is about 19C, seeing the low 20's during the day and the low teens during the night.

In March and April the Khamsin wind sometimes disrupts the beautiful weather. This is a warm wind which blows across the Sahara and can sometimes cause sandstorms or dust storms.

Sharm el Sheikh Visa
If your intention is not to travel further than the South Sinai resorts then a free 14 day visa should be obtained. However, if you intend to venture further afield eg Cairo or Ras Mohammed you'll need to obtain a 30 day Egyptian visa ( 2008 £18). UK visitors on a Egypt holiday must register with the Office of Foreigners and Nationality within 7 days of arrival: your hotel will normally take care of this. You should also ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months before entering Egypt.

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The town of Sharm El-Sheikh

The town of Sharm El-Sheikh, which existed pre-1967 as a closed military zone, was used by the Israelis. The small community, still dubbed by some ‘Old’ Sharm, is rapidly shedding its dilapidated image while managing to retain a relatively authentic Egyptian vibe. These days you can snack cheaply on a kebab or be refreshed at a local juice stall, yet rest assured every tourist requirement will be met at a modern, attractively landscaped hotel. In the Old Market there are still scars from the decimation caused by the bombs that killed 17 people in July 2005, but the area has bounced back and souvenir stalls, supermarkets and unpretentious restaur- ants teem day and night with a mix of Egyptians and foreigners. Cushions and rag-rugs festoon the cafés and fairy lighting is de rigeur along the pedestrianized strip. However, some holidaymakers will feel disillusioned and short-changed by the soulless air and obvious construction rife in Hadaba, and by every second sign being in Russian.

Many high-quality hotels are now springing up around Hadaba, the hilltop neighbourhood between the town and resort area. While many of these cater to East European holidaymakers on package deals, there are a couple of decent mid-range places available and it’s also home to an international community of dive instructors attracted by cheaper property prices and the proximity to Ras Um Sidd, a spectacular shore diving spot. Attempts to prettify Hadaba’s wide wastelands are being made as palm trees are planted along sterile highways and new buildings are settling into the landscape. While friendly little comm- unities form around the clusters of mini- markets, coffee shops and dive centres, the spanking new Il Mercato centre – a grandiose Italianate mega-mall selling every brand of coffee and training shoe imaginable – is a surreal reminder of the aspirations at work in Sharm.
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