El Gouna: Egypt's Coastal Gem

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlak]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathara]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bi-khayr. wa-ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uridu an ara al-qaimah, min fadlak]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akl al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uridu an adfa, min fadlak]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدًا!
  [idhab baedan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itasil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [itasil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [laqad dalalt]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uridu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [bi-kam hadha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka khafd al-si'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)نصف العاشرة
  [nisf al-ashirah]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonمساء
  [masa]
• Eveningمساء
  [masa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدًا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tisa'a]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين توجد...؟
  [ayn tujad...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-unwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tarini (ala al-khariata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata al-hafilat al-taliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirah (ila ...)]

El Gouna was founded in 1989 by Egyptian entrepreneur Samih Sawiris. His vision was to create a luxurious, self-sustaining resort town along the Red Sea. Sawiris sought to blend modern amenities with the natural beauty of the area, making El Gouna a premier destination for tourists and expatriates alike.

El Gouna's development was meticulously planned to ensure a harmonious blend of nature and modernity. The town features architecture inspired by traditional Egyptian styles, with influences from Nubian, Arabic, and Mediterranean designs. The use of domes, arches, and courtyards adds a unique charm to the town's aesthetic.

El Gouna has been recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability. The town has implemented various green initiatives, including wastewater treatment, renewable energy projects, and eco-friendly building practices. These efforts have earned El Gouna the title of 'Green City' by the United Nations Environment Programme.

El Gouna hosts several cultural festivals and events throughout the year, attracting artists, filmmakers, and musicians from around the world. The El Gouna Film Festival, established in 2017, has quickly become one of the most prestigious film festivals in the Middle East, showcasing a diverse array of international films and fostering cultural exchange.

El Gouna's development has significantly contributed to the local and national economy. The resort town has created numerous job opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and construction. Additionally, it has attracted foreign investment, bolstering Egypt's economic growth and positioning El Gouna as a key player in the country's tourism industry.

The unique location of El Gouna offers visitors a chance to explore both marine and desert ecosystems. The Red Sea is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. Meanwhile, the nearby desert provides opportunities for adventure activities such as dune bashing, camel trekking, and stargazing.

El Gouna's tight-knit community is characterized by a cosmopolitan lifestyle, with residents from various nationalities living harmoniously. The town offers a range of amenities, including international schools, healthcare facilities, and a variety of dining and entertainment options. This vibrant community spirit enhances the overall appeal of El Gouna as a desirable place to live and visit.

El Gouna is located approximately 25 kilometers north of Hurghada on Egypt's Red Sea coast. The nearest international airport is Hurghada International Airport (HRG). From the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-arranged shuttle service to El Gouna, which typically takes around 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, many hotels in El Gouna offer airport transfer services.

Within El Gouna, you can get around using tuk-tuks, taxis, and shuttle buses. Tuk-tuks are a popular and inexpensive mode of transport for short distances. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through your hotel. Shuttle buses operate on a regular schedule and connect various parts of El Gouna, including hotels, beaches, and the downtown area. Renting a bicycle or a scooter is also a common option for those who prefer more flexibility.

The official currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in El Gouna. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and tips. ATMs are available throughout the town, and currency exchange services can be found in banks and hotels.

El Gouna is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. The town is a gated community with private security, which helps maintain a low crime rate. Nevertheless, it is always wise to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific areas within El Gouna known for high crime rates targeting tourists.

In case of an emergency, dial 122 for police assistance, 123 for medical emergencies, and 180 for the fire department. El Gouna has its own medical center, the El Gouna Hospital, which is well-equipped to handle most medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local neighborhoods. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques, always remove your shoes and cover your head if you are a woman. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient when using public transport. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight nod and a smile are also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience El Gouna like a local, visit the Abu Tig Marina, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, dine at waterfront restaurants, and watch the yachts. Engage in water sports like kitesurfing, snorkeling, and diving, which are popular activities in El Gouna. Attend local events and festivals, such as the El Gouna Film Festival, to get a taste of the cultural scene. Exploring the downtown area, with its shops, cafes, and art galleries, also offers a glimpse into the local lifestyle.