1. The Red Sea
Many are so taken by the incredible flora and fauna that its waters hold, they’ve asked if this could be God’s own aquarium! Certainly, with so many rare and exotic species taking refuge under the waves, diving here is a heavenly and other-worldly experience. But it doesn’t end with scuba and snorkels, as sailing, windsurfing, water skiing and deep-sea fishing are all extremely popular.

2. The Desert
A hard hack into the jagged landscape south of Hurghada takes you to the awesome Shaieb El Benot mountain, where you’ll feel a million miles away from the calming waters of the Red Sea. Carry on – by jeep or king of the desert, the camel – and you’ll find traditional Bedouin settlements where you can enjoy tea, traditional bread-making, sheep farming and carry water up from the ancient wells. In the evening, you’ll sit down to a barbecued dinner and be entertained by the sights and sounds of Bedouin folklore.

3. Luxor
While relaxed and hidden away in your Red Sea paradise, you might find it difficult to believe that, just 3 hours’ drive away, is the city of Luxor. Anyone with even a passing interest in history and great civilisation will find this an opportunity impossible to pass up. Built on the 4000-year-old site of the ancient capital Thebes, Luxor is referred to as a ‘giant open-air museum’. The city itself and neighbouring Karnak are full of archaeological delights, while the necropolis, tombs, temples and legendary Valley of the Kings line the banks of the Nile. This is an absolute must in terms of days out.

4. Aswan A large percentage of visitors staying in the Red Sea resorts decide not to make the six hour drive to the ancient frontier town of Aswan and, if you do, you’ll want it to stay that way. Aswan is a delightful discovery, due to its genuinely African feel and relaxed ambience. It’s also one of the best places to see the Nile at its most glorious, as it flows around green islands, palms and plants.