Nuweiba

Lonely Planet – Middle East describes Nuweiba as having a “catatonic feel of a post-apocalyptic beach resort” and i certainly have to agree, especially after the recent People’s Revolution.

Nonetheless, the beaches seem reasonably clean, the mountains shimmer behind the coastal front and i can look across to Aqaba at night, my next destination in South Jordan.

sunset over South Jordan

Lying further to the south is Dahab, once a major highlight of hippy convoys in the late Sixties which has resortified itself and further afield Sharm El-Sheikh, which even to Boy (an annual visitor) has completely lost any magic or charm. At least here in Nuweiba the original Bedouin still prevail.

sunrise over Nuweiba

The town is inconveniantly divided into parts, and Soft Beach Camp lies slightly to the North. The port and it’s ATMS lie to the south.

Most of the resorts have their own restaurants, although none seem to be cheap in comparison to the rest of the country (E£25 +) you could do worse than check out Dr Shish Kebab. That’s my kind of doctor! The Net cafe just behind charges E£5 per hour, but is really slow.

The beach-huts are somewhat flimsy and basic, although they do have electricity, and a one person hutis reasonably priced at E£40 including a quality breakfast – and a choice of Egyptian/Continental. They also have some comfy corners both in the restaurant and on the beach and rent out snorkel, masks and fins although there is not much underwater life to see directly off-shore. They also boast their own resident pelican.

Like many of the hotels and guest houses they hope to make their money on a number of guided tours and camel treks.


beach huts at Soft Beach Camp