Susan Serven

Now, I’ve never been to the Red Sea and I’ve never been snorkeling (well, one other time but it didn’t compare to Egypt so doesn’t count).

But this experience was crazy wonderful so I thought I’d include it here.

As part of our second trip to Egypt, our Egyptologist and guide, Fouad Berto, suggested we take a drive from Cairo through the desert, to Hurghada, a resort town on Egypt’s Red Sea, for some beach relaxation, great food, and snorkeling.

So I said “sounds great.” And so off we went.We left the Four Seasons hotel in Cairo early in the morning and drove through the magnificent desert with incredible reddish mountain-like geological structures formed by carving the road out of rock.

We arrived at our hotel – the Oberoi, Sahl Hasheesh, Hurghada, early that afternoon, after about a 4.5-hour drive.It was one of the most incredible places I’ve ever stayed.

Each villa was its own apartment, right on the beach. The architecture was Egyptian, many Islamic touches such as the arabesque window coverings and domed ceilings. The food was incredible.

And we were staying Right. On. The. Red. Sea.

After an afternoon of relaxing and a wonderful dinner, we took our bus to a very high-end marina in Hurghada and rode on what looked to be a brand-spanking-new high-speed powerboat to the island of Mahmya, which means “Protected Area.”

It was gorgeous.

After getting our snorkeling gear, relaxing, walking around and having a wonderful lunch, we set off on another boat to the reefs, where coral and incredibly colored fish abound.

A vacation day snorkeling at Mahmya off Hurghada feels like escaping to a laid-back, barefoot desert island with a spectacular reef just offshore. Boats bring visitors from Hurghada’s marina to a protected sandy beach with impossibly turquoise water, simple wooden structures, and an easygoing, low-key vibe.

Between snorkeling trips, most people relax on the beach, swim in the shallows, or lounge in the shade, enjoying the quiet, car-free setting and gentle wave sounds.A buffet-style lunch with Mediterranean and seafood dishes and drinks is typically included, served in a casual beach restaurant or bar area.

TIP: Make sure you get a wetsuit if it’s December, January or February – you probably don’t NEED it but you might WANT it.

OTHER TIP: Don’t forget to say “yes” when you’re offered a lifejacket. It’s not really for the boat, it’s more for the snorkeling experience – much more fun if you are simply floating and paddling around without having to “remember” to stay afloat. IMHO.

I’d describe Mahmya as a peaceful, slightly upscale “castaway” escape, suitable for couples, families, and beginner snorkelers who want beautiful water without a party scene, a blend of gentle adventure on the reef and slow, sun-drenched hours on a tranquil Red Sea island.