
Inside Dubai's famous Atlantis The Palm with it's own aquarium, fine dining and world's largest waterpark
The sprawling resort captures the mythical lost city of Atlantis theme, blended with beautiful Arabian elements. I really felt like I was entering another world.
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Atlantis, The Palm has something for all the family
Credit: COLLECT
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Atlantis Aquaventure is the world's largest waterpark
Credit: atlantis.com/atlantis-the-palm
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The Dubai Balloon boasts the best views of the resort
Credit: COLLECT
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Atlantis has 34 world-renowned restaurants
Credit: COLLECT
When I walked into the exquisite lobby, I couldn't take my eyes off the grandeur and beauty of this magnificent resort.
We were delighted to get an early VIP check in at 10am.
The staff were very welcoming and spent time explaining all the facilities we could avail of on our stay.
The magnificent aquarium, thrilling aquatic theme park, four swimming pools, beaches, a beach club, water sports, spa, the Dubai Balloon, Atlas Village, the AquaTrek Xtreme experience and 38 restaurants, lounges and bars - we were so excited for it all.
As we walked into our Palm View Queen room we instantly felt a sense of excitement and adventure.
I was drawn to the large windows overlooking the iconic Palm Jumeirah and the tranquil ocean beyond.
The spacious room was elegantly decorated with touches of the undersea theme from gorgeous coral artwork to the shell-style mirror. And the elegant bath and walk-in shower were a major plus.
Every time we arrived back to our room, there were little surprises from chocolate desserts to cute charger accessories added onto our phone cables.
AQUAVENTURE WORLD
The first thing we did was hit Aquaventure World, the world's largest aquatic theme park in the world as confirmed by Guinness World Records.
Spanning over 22.5 hectares, this aquatic wonderland has over 105 slides, rides, and attractions.
The River Rapids was the perfect way to take in the sights of the extensive aqua park.
The Leap of Faith got my heart pounding as I plunged vertically down the slide - it was the size of a nine-story building.
The world's tallest waterslide of its kind, The Odyssey of Terror, swept us up in all ways we could imagine.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium, with over 65,000 marine animals, makes Atlantis a very special resort.
We gazed at the vibrant colors and exotic species every chance we got.
The mesmerising aquarium was the perfect place to unwind after all the excitement of the waterpark.
AQUATREK
One of the most unique experiences I have ever had was the AquaTrek Xtreme Experience.
I wore a high-tech helmet that receives a continuous supply of air, allowing me to walk around the bottom of the aquarium breathing normally.
As I wandered around the bottom of The Ambassador Lagoon, colourful fish, stingrays and even baby sharks swam by me.
Aquarium onlookers waved in as I cautiously explored the undersea world.
It was a surreal experience, swimming in the lost world of Atlantis.
I was even given a trident for the ultimate underwater pic.
The guided underwater tour surprisingly made me less nervous around strange fish and ginormous rays.
Another first I tried during our stay was surfing. I did a lesson at the Surf's Up Waverider.
My instructor guided me from lying on the body board to eventually standing up. As the waves kept crashing down, he gave me funny poses to master while riding the waves.
I was very thankful to be learning how to ride the waves in the hot Dubai sun as it's certainly not as easy as it looks.
A great way to take in the beauty of the resort is by kayak or paddle board. I jumped in a kayak and began my own little adventure.
I ventured up and down the beaches, found myself people watching and even switched off.
A FOODIES HAVEN
After all our aqua adventures, we hit the Wavehouse for a much needed lunch.
This vibrant spot was decked out with a funky interior, arcade games and swinging chairs.
Another fun restaurant for a bite to eat was the electrifying Mexican restaurant En Fuego.
The singers and dancers were just as spicy as the food.
Dining at Ayamna Lebanese Restaurant was a feast for the senses.
Indulging in endless dishes outside on the lantern-lit terrace was pure bliss.
The dishes kept coming as we filled our bellies with some tasty Lebanese favourites including kebbeh mabroumeh (minced lamb) and baked spinach fatayer.
And the Lebanese wine, Massaya Beqaa Valley, was divine.
We were spoiled for choice when it came to breakfast. The buffets at Saffron and Kaleidoscope were on another level.
They had all types of breakfast foods from all over the world. The chocolate fountain was a great option to set me up for a fun filled day.
A major plus during our stay was that we had access to the exclusive Imperial Club Lounge.
We could pop in for breakfast, all-day refreshments, afternoon tea and happy hour.
On top of that, we had access to the private Imperial Club Beach.
ATLANTIS, THE PALM HIGHLIGHTS As the first resort to open its doors on Dubai's revolutionary man-made island, in September 2008, Atlantis, The Palm is described as the gateway to Dubai.
The resort spans 46 hectares and is home to 1,544 rooms and suites across 22 storeys.
Guests can relax on the largest privately-owned beachfront in Dubai at over 2km.
Atlantis, The Palm has 34 restaurants, lounges and bars, featuring seven by celebrity chefs including Nobu, FZN by Björn Frantzén, Studio Frantzén, Gordon Ramsay's Bread Street Kitchen and Street Pizza and two Michelin Star restaurants: Hakkasan, and underwater restaurant, Ossiano.
Guests can enjoy fun and adventure at every turn, including the world's deepest Aquatrek experience, world-class marine educational experiences, and diving at night with 65,000 marine animals
Adults and children alike can enjoy entertainment at every turn including bowling and gaming at Wavehouse, live music across all restaurants every night of the week and world-class concerts and events at the world-class beach club, WHITE Beach.
RELAXATION
My favourite place to unwind and catch some rays was WHITE Beach.
The atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, and the chic boho look made it the perfect place for some holiday snaps.
The staff always seemed to appear just at the right time for a refreshing cocktail or poolside snack.
Dining at the beachfront White Restaurant was a treat.
Lobster linguine, octopus, wagyu tenderloin, lamb chops, mushroom and truffle pasta... The food choices were endless.
Another spot to catch some R&R is the AWAKEN Spa offered numerous massage therapies and treatments.
For those who like to shop, the luxuriously colourful souk called The Avenues is the perfect place for some retail therapy.
THE DUBAI BALLOON
Taking a ride on The Dubai Balloon on Aquaventure Beach took our stay to new heights.
We were given our 'flight' boarding pass and within a few minutes, we were suddenly floating high into the sky.
The experience was perfectly timed and organised so smoothly, I'd no time to worry about my fear of heights.
Ascending 300 meters above the ground, the breathtaking panoramic views of the Palm Jumeirah and the intriguing city of Dubai was amazing.
Floating above the Dubai skyline really felt like a special moment for us.
We stayed on that high all throughout our stay.
The hospitality was impeccable, and every moment was carefully curated to ensure our visit was extraordinary.
Thrilling water rides, captivating sea creatures, exquisite dining - Atlantis really does capture the perfect blend of luxury, thrills, relaxation, fine dining and magic moments.
I'm dreaming of our next adventure in the majestic Atlantis, The Palm.
GETTING THERE
Plan your stay:
GET THERE: Emirates.
STAY THERE: Atlantis, The Palm Sept rates from €263 (1,130 AED).
DO THERE: Aquaventure World, The Lost Chambers Aquarium, AquaTrek Xtreme, Dubai Balloon.
EAT/DRINK THERE: Ayamna Lebanese Restaurant, WHITE Restaurant, En Fuego, Wavehouse.
9
There's a selection of watersports to choose from
Credit: COLLECT
9
The waterparks sits on 22.5 hectares
Credit: COLLECT
9
The resort is surrounded by the Arabian Sea
Credit: COLLECT
9
Aquaventure has over 105 record-breaking slides
Credit: atlantis.com/atlantis-the-palm
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The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- The Irish Sun
Inside Dubai's famous Atlantis The Palm with it's own aquarium, fine dining and world's largest waterpark
DRIVING into the five-star Atlantis, The Palm, set on the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, was breathtaking. The sprawling resort captures the mythical lost city of Atlantis theme, blended with beautiful Arabian elements. I really felt like I was entering another world. 9 Atlantis, The Palm has something for all the family Credit: COLLECT 9 Atlantis Aquaventure is the world's largest waterpark Credit: 9 The Dubai Balloon boasts the best views of the resort Credit: COLLECT 9 Atlantis has 34 world-renowned restaurants Credit: COLLECT When I walked into the exquisite lobby, I couldn't take my eyes off the grandeur and beauty of this magnificent resort. We were delighted to get an early VIP check in at 10am. The staff were very welcoming and spent time explaining all the facilities we could avail of on our stay. The magnificent aquarium, thrilling aquatic theme park, four swimming pools, beaches, a beach club, water sports, spa, the Dubai Balloon, Atlas Village, the AquaTrek Xtreme experience and 38 restaurants, lounges and bars - we were so excited for it all. As we walked into our Palm View Queen room we instantly felt a sense of excitement and adventure. I was drawn to the large windows overlooking the iconic Palm Jumeirah and the tranquil ocean beyond. The spacious room was elegantly decorated with touches of the undersea theme from gorgeous coral artwork to the shell-style mirror. And the elegant bath and walk-in shower were a major plus. Every time we arrived back to our room, there were little surprises from chocolate desserts to cute charger accessories added onto our phone cables. AQUAVENTURE WORLD The first thing we did was hit Aquaventure World, the world's largest aquatic theme park in the world as confirmed by Guinness World Records. Spanning over 22.5 hectares, this aquatic wonderland has over 105 slides, rides, and attractions. The River Rapids was the perfect way to take in the sights of the extensive aqua park. The Leap of Faith got my heart pounding as I plunged vertically down the slide - it was the size of a nine-story building. The world's tallest waterslide of its kind, The Odyssey of Terror, swept us up in all ways we could imagine. The Lost Chambers Aquarium, with over 65,000 marine animals, makes Atlantis a very special resort. We gazed at the vibrant colors and exotic species every chance we got. The mesmerising aquarium was the perfect place to unwind after all the excitement of the waterpark. AQUATREK One of the most unique experiences I have ever had was the AquaTrek Xtreme Experience. I wore a high-tech helmet that receives a continuous supply of air, allowing me to walk around the bottom of the aquarium breathing normally. As I wandered around the bottom of The Ambassador Lagoon, colourful fish, stingrays and even baby sharks swam by me. Aquarium onlookers waved in as I cautiously explored the undersea world. It was a surreal experience, swimming in the lost world of Atlantis. I was even given a trident for the ultimate underwater pic. The guided underwater tour surprisingly made me less nervous around strange fish and ginormous rays. Another first I tried during our stay was surfing. I did a lesson at the Surf's Up Waverider. My instructor guided me from lying on the body board to eventually standing up. As the waves kept crashing down, he gave me funny poses to master while riding the waves. I was very thankful to be learning how to ride the waves in the hot Dubai sun as it's certainly not as easy as it looks. A great way to take in the beauty of the resort is by kayak or paddle board. I jumped in a kayak and began my own little adventure. I ventured up and down the beaches, found myself people watching and even switched off. A FOODIES HAVEN After all our aqua adventures, we hit the Wavehouse for a much needed lunch. This vibrant spot was decked out with a funky interior, arcade games and swinging chairs. Another fun restaurant for a bite to eat was the electrifying Mexican restaurant En Fuego. The singers and dancers were just as spicy as the food. Dining at Ayamna Lebanese Restaurant was a feast for the senses. Indulging in endless dishes outside on the lantern-lit terrace was pure bliss. The dishes kept coming as we filled our bellies with some tasty Lebanese favourites including kebbeh mabroumeh (minced lamb) and baked spinach fatayer. And the Lebanese wine, Massaya Beqaa Valley, was divine. We were spoiled for choice when it came to breakfast. The buffets at Saffron and Kaleidoscope were on another level. They had all types of breakfast foods from all over the world. The chocolate fountain was a great option to set me up for a fun filled day. A major plus during our stay was that we had access to the exclusive Imperial Club Lounge. We could pop in for breakfast, all-day refreshments, afternoon tea and happy hour. On top of that, we had access to the private Imperial Club Beach. ATLANTIS, THE PALM HIGHLIGHTS As the first resort to open its doors on Dubai's revolutionary man-made island, in September 2008, Atlantis, The Palm is described as the gateway to Dubai. The resort spans 46 hectares and is home to 1,544 rooms and suites across 22 storeys. Guests can relax on the largest privately-owned beachfront in Dubai at over 2km. Atlantis, The Palm has 34 restaurants, lounges and bars, featuring seven by celebrity chefs including Nobu, FZN by Björn Frantzén, Studio Frantzén, Gordon Ramsay's Bread Street Kitchen and Street Pizza and two Michelin Star restaurants: Hakkasan, and underwater restaurant, Ossiano. Guests can enjoy fun and adventure at every turn, including the world's deepest Aquatrek experience, world-class marine educational experiences, and diving at night with 65,000 marine animals Adults and children alike can enjoy entertainment at every turn including bowling and gaming at Wavehouse, live music across all restaurants every night of the week and world-class concerts and events at the world-class beach club, WHITE Beach. RELAXATION My favourite place to unwind and catch some rays was WHITE Beach. The atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, and the chic boho look made it the perfect place for some holiday snaps. The staff always seemed to appear just at the right time for a refreshing cocktail or poolside snack. Dining at the beachfront White Restaurant was a treat. Lobster linguine, octopus, wagyu tenderloin, lamb chops, mushroom and truffle pasta... The food choices were endless. Another spot to catch some R&R is the AWAKEN Spa offered numerous massage therapies and treatments. For those who like to shop, the luxuriously colourful souk called The Avenues is the perfect place for some retail therapy. THE DUBAI BALLOON Taking a ride on The Dubai Balloon on Aquaventure Beach took our stay to new heights. We were given our 'flight' boarding pass and within a few minutes, we were suddenly floating high into the sky. The experience was perfectly timed and organised so smoothly, I'd no time to worry about my fear of heights. Ascending 300 meters above the ground, the breathtaking panoramic views of the Palm Jumeirah and the intriguing city of Dubai was amazing. Floating above the Dubai skyline really felt like a special moment for us. We stayed on that high all throughout our stay. The hospitality was impeccable, and every moment was carefully curated to ensure our visit was extraordinary. Thrilling water rides, captivating sea creatures, exquisite dining - Atlantis really does capture the perfect blend of luxury, thrills, relaxation, fine dining and magic moments. I'm dreaming of our next adventure in the majestic Atlantis, The Palm. GETTING THERE Plan your stay: GET THERE: Emirates. STAY THERE: Atlantis, The Palm Sept rates from €263 (1,130 AED). DO THERE: Aquaventure World, The Lost Chambers Aquarium, AquaTrek Xtreme, Dubai Balloon. EAT/DRINK THERE: Ayamna Lebanese Restaurant, WHITE Restaurant, En Fuego, Wavehouse. 9 There's a selection of watersports to choose from Credit: COLLECT 9 The waterparks sits on 22.5 hectares Credit: COLLECT 9 The resort is surrounded by the Arabian Sea Credit: COLLECT 9 Aquaventure has over 105 record-breaking slides Credit:


The Irish Sun
10-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
I'm a Dubai wife & there's 10 phases you go to before marriage – the ‘finding a hobby' period equals unlimited spending
A RICH Dubai wife has revealed the 10 phases you must go to before marriage. Soudi, a 2 A Dubai wife has claimed there are 10 phases you must go to before you reach marriage Credit: tiktok/@soudiofarabia 2 Not only is there the 'don't run away gift' period and the 'random vacations every month" stage, but there's even the 'flowers and lack of time" period too Credit: tiktok/@soudiofarabia Not only this, but the brunette beauty who lives in influencer hotspot Dubai, acknowledged that you mustn't 'ask questions' during the 'always spontaneous' period. Posting on social media, Soudi shared the 10 'phases of dating an Arab man', leaving many totally stunned. And prepare to be stunned, as numerous users described Soudi's relationship as 'very sad.' The first phase, according to Soudi, who was 'born to be an Arabian wife' and even claimed to have ' Read more real life stories During this phase, when going on dates, you must 'always dress 10/10.' Not only is appearance important at this time, but during this period, you will be taken to luxury restaurants and can expect your man to reply 'after 0.1 seconds.' The second stage when dating a man from Dubai is the 'don't run away gift' period. During this phase, women shouldn't desire 'words of affirmation,' but instead, can expect to be 'spoiled with gifts.' Most read in Fabulous After this comes the third stage of dating, which involves 'random vacations every month.' Dark side of Dubai where Brit influencers are preyed upon for sex & women are brutalised at 'porta potty' parties According to Soudi, this phase is 'always spontaneous', and you won't have to worry about expenses, as all you'll need to do is 'enjoy yourself.' But Soudi warned that it's important that during this period, you 'don't ask questions' and instead, 'just participate." When it comes to the fourth stage, women can expect 'flowers and lack of time.' Soudi claimed that during this period, you can expect that your potential husband-to-be will 'always' be busy, but will 'never fail to show his love', which will involve receiving flowers weekly. Couldn't have worked on me. Gifts make me feel weird TikTok user Once this stage is over it's into the 'finding you a hobby phase.' With your potential hubby busy earning a living, Soudi claimed that during this period you can expect your partner to 'drop you off at Pilates every morning.' Soudi claimed that when you enter this phase, you 'won't have to work anymore' and instead, 'he sends you to art galleries instead.' And it's not just admiring art that's involved in this stage, as according to this content creator, it also promises 'unlimited spending to buy anything you want' too. After this comes the "Lamborghini phase', which according to Soudi, needs 'no explanation.' Following on from this is the 'constant spoiling' phase, which 'helps prepare you for the final stage.' Best millionaire housewives to follow on social media Linda Andrade - @lionlindaa Soudi Al Nadak - @soudiofarabia Malaikah Raja - @malaikahraja Sofia Kralow - @sofiakralow Next it's the 'five star getaways' period, whereby your days are spent at lavish retreats and posh hotels. Then, after this is the 'princess treatment' phase, which Soudi described as the "preparation for the final stage.' For the ninth stage of the process, which is also known as 'the wifey stage', aka the 'final phase', you can expect numerous questions and requests from your man. Soudi claimed that once you reach this phase, you shouldn't have male friends, will need to let your husband know where you are and may be questioned by him on what you wear. Once you pass this period, you can then enter the 'modest wife era', which Soudi revealed is the goal for those wanting to be an Arabian wife. Social media users react The TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @ Not only this, but it's also amassed 215,800 likes, 1,952 comments and 12,500 shares. But social media users were shocked by Soudi's claims and described her relationship as 'weird.' No thanks, I'll make my own money TikTok user One person slammed: 'How sad. How very very sad.' Another added: 'This is not a relationship, it's a business deal.' A third commented: 'May this 'love' never find me.' Meanwhile, someone else snapped: 'No thanks, I'll make my own money.' Not only this, but one woman claimed: 'Couldn't have worked on me. Gifts make me feel weird.' Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club


The Irish Sun
06-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
The Egyptian hidden gem built on 36 interlocked islands with 365 days of sunshine, turquoise waters & luxurious hotels
WITH golden beaches, turquoise water everywhere and 365 days of sunshine a year — it is unsurprising that Egypt is a paradise. El Gouna, dubbed the 'Venice of the Red Sea', was created just 36 years ago - and it offers everything you would imagine a 9 El Gouna is just 25 km from Hurghada Credit: Alamy 9 El Gouna is built on 36 interlocked islands Credit: COLLECT 9 The Steigenberger Golf Resort has 268 rooms Credit: Steigenberger Golf Resort Facebook 9 The Steigenberger Golf Resort boasts playful architecture Credit: COLLECT Built on 36 interlocked islands, surrounded by gorgeous lagoons, on 10km of sprawling beaches - this really was a world I'd never experienced before. Following a 40-minute drive from Hurghada Airport, we arrived at the intriguing gated city. I really felt like I stepped into a movie set in paradise, with the crystal clear waters, palm trees and charming pastel-coloured buildings. From the moment I arrived at the five-star Steigenberger Golf Resort, I was struck by the captivating views, alluring READ MORE IN TRAVEL On check-in, we were informed of the ambassador program in El Gouna's hotels. Each guest has a go-to staff member that will help with everything - from room service to booking tuk-tuks. Just a quick The enormous king-size bed, with plush linens, was incredibly snug. Most read in the Irish Sun One of my favourite features in the room was the balcony, which overlooked the resort's lush landscapes and the sparkling waters of the Red Sea. Each morning, sipping coffee while soaking in the stunning scenery became a cherished ritual. FINE FEAST The buffet at the Steigenberger Golf Resort had a diverse mix of options each morning and night. There was a nice balance between local Egyptian Every time I walked around the buffet I seemed to find more sections. I quickly discovered a new favourite dessert, basbousa – a kind of semolina cake – and I was spoiled for choice with the selection of cocktails. My favourite place to dine in the resort was Harumaki, El Gouna's only teppanyaki restaurant, where talented chefs dished up mouthwatering dishes right in front of us. DINE AROUND With many of the hotels in El Gouna teaming up together, guests have the opportunity to explore the 'Dine Around' options at other resorts, so you can experience life in each hotel. The packages entice guests to try different hotel buffets and restaurants at an all-inclusive, full-board or half-board rate. With 40 per cent of food in El Gouna sourced locally, there's over 100 restaurants to try. Dining at Cook's Club, Casa Cook and The Chedi added a fabulous twist to indulging in El Gouna's foodie scene. The resort boasted numerous facilities and activities for all the family. GETTING THINGS DONE Whether it was lounging by the pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or trying my hand at golf, there was never a dull moment. El Gouna's vast 18-hole championship golf course has attracted golfers from all over the world, and other fun activities nearby include banana boat rides, tube rides, parasailing and wakeboarding. Other fun activities nearby include banana boat rides, tube rides, parasailing and wakeboarding. 9 The gardens in the Steigenberger Golf Resort lead to secluded lagoon beaches Credit: COLLECT 9 Dani explored the Sahara Desert by quad Credit: COLLECT One of the highlights of the trip for me was the treasure hunt, which was not only fun but also a fantastic way to explore the town. From boat trips to kayak challenges, this hunt had our adrenaline pumping while we discovered all El Gouna has to offer. SAFARI ADVENTURE The town hosts an annual treasure hunt for visitors in October, while smaller hotel hunts take place throughout the year. Another thrilling excursion for me was a desert trip with Alex Safari where we learned all about the Bedouin families that live in the Red Sea Mountains. We sped across the Sahara Desert on dune buggies and quad bikes until a magnificent sun set stopped us in our tracks. El Gouna encourages tourists to enjoy all the hotels have to offer - so that's exactly what I did. ADULT-ONLY RESORT An afternoon in the adults-only resort The desert-style oasis boasted gorgeous suites, poolside bars and panoramic views of the Red Sea. I was blown away with my first kitesurfing lesson at Casa Cook's onsite Duotone kite centre. Then it was time to unwind in the Beach Club, where the DJ played the perfect sunset chill-out tunes. Egypt's first-and-only Leading Hotel of the World, PRIVATE BEACH BLISS Unwinding on the private beach and by the tropical-style pools was pure bliss. Sipping a cocktail as the sun went down at the award-winning rooftop speciality sushi restaurant Nihon was the perfect way to end the day. Couples will also love the adult-only With its own private saltwater lagoon, beach and jetty, it's the perfect spot for some water fun. Top activities include yoga classes, kitesurfing, windsurfing, snorkelling, scuba diving and horse riding. There are lots of luxurious and affordable places to stay among Orascom's 18 hotels. SAFE AND SOUND I felt extremely safe walking around the gated community of El Gouna. A great way to explore is by bike and the Baddel app makes it effortless to rent a bike. What I loved most about the area was the pastel colour scheme of pinks, reds, oranges, yellows and earthy tones that all buildings must adhere to. As one of the most sustainable spots in Africa, El Gouna has a dedicated solar plant providing a significant portion of the town's energy needs. SUSTAINABLILITY EFFORTS The town has a zero-waste system, meaning over 85 per cent of all waste is reused and recycled. It also recycles 100 per cent of its water via its onsite management plant. Their commitment to sustainability is seen throughout from bamboo straws in bars to their eco-friendly transport. And the best way to get around is by tuk-tuk, which always costs 80 cent no matter the distance. GO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT GET THERE: We flew to STAY THERE: Live in luxury at the 5 H DO THERE: Lagoon boat trips, desert trip and kite surfing are all so much fun, and try the scavanger hunt. The Mega EAT THERE: Try the I loved strolling around Abu Tig Marina - lined with impressive yachts and bustling restaurants. Fanadir Marina and Abydos Marina were perfect spots to catch some rays while people-watching. While exploring the marinas, I learned about The El Gouna Float Fest with boat parties, live DJs, and gigs - and I will definitely be returning to sample that. BAZAAR BUZZ For those who love to shop, there's plenty of boutiques and bazaars dotted around. Egyptian House has a selection of homemade items and gifts which help support local women. A must-see is the El Gouna Conference and Culture Centre with its striking archways set against the backdrop of neighbouring mountains and nearby traditional-style homes. This captivating space, that's perfect for selfies, hosts Egyptian and multinational events. I now understand El Gouna's official motto, 'You will never want to leave', and have proudly become a 'gounie'. 9 Alex Safari has a selection of amazing tours Credit: COLLECT 9 El Gouna experiences warm weather year round Credit: Alamy 9 Orascom has 18 hotels throughout El Gouna Credit: