Sometimes, you just need something a little different... you know, exotic, out of the ordinary, even wild! Holiday Supermarket makes it happen with a choice of destinations that will take your breath away. So... to Africa!
Africa holidays are bold and exciting and way beyond most people's comfort point, but Africa holidays can be entirely safe, fun and you'll also get your fair share of beach, pool and fine food. Morocco is one of the world's most interesting destinations. Tunisia is a blindingly beautiful and little-known place, while Egypt will spark your senses up like no other country.
If that sounds like you, read on.
Holidays Africa - the words alone sound exotic! Morocco has been on people's bucket list for years. Marrakesh is part of the fabled hippie trail and Casablanca inspired a movie. Casablanca itself is an awesome city; home to one of the world's largest mosques, and a beautiful old town. Explore the alleys and squares, the medinas and the nightlife. Fes boasts one of the world's largest Medinas (or walled in cities) and this place has to be seen to be believed. Think narrow streets lined with stalls piled high with spices, fruits, carpets, and plenty of handcrafts!
If you have time venture out into the Sahara. If you've never experienced the clean desert air, the vibrancy of the colours and the bluest of skies you're in for a treat. A special moment comes when you look up in the desert night sky and discover stars, galaxies and nebulas you've never seen from a light-polluted city!
The fabled Marrakech deserves days of time. This hippy hangout will teach you how to rock the Kasbah. Hang out with the other folk and get into the Marrakech vibe - the cafes, clubs, restaurants and bars, plus the Kasbah will get into your blood! Holidays Africa? Go Morocco!
But... for even more exotic holidays in Africa, think Tunisia. Or as the locals say, Marhaba fi Tunis - welcome to Tunisia. If you love ancient walled cities, soaring sandstone forts, ancient civilisations, incredible beaches, ultimate luxury day spas, hustling golf courses and bustling bazaars, then Tunisia ticks all your boxes. Holidays in Africa are exotic - and beautiful. One of the prettiest resorts in the world is Hammamet on the Mediterranean coast. White-washed villages, pale white sand and warm water backed up by some of the most hospitable people in the world! Port El Kantaoui is more upmarket in terms of exotic yachts in the marina and canteens, bars and restaurants filled with moneyed Europe, but still fun.
Further down the coast lies a resort town called Sousse. The ancient Medina in Sousse is one of those special places that people think of when they consider holidays in Africa. The beautiful colours of the handcrafts, the spices in the air and everywhere, the centuries old walls, the bright white sands and the smiling people are out of the ordinary. Sousse offers the best of both worlds in that you can laze the days away on the beach or poolside (in a constant mid-20s temp) and explore the souks and medina at night. The beaches are safe and the sand a silky delight. The water is warm and clear and there are plenty of water sport activities for the adventurous. And for the shoppers amongst you... the souk is full of interesting titbits.
So you really want to soak up the history on your holidays to Africa? Easy! Egypt is your go-to destination! Not only are the pyramids one of the ancient wonders of the world, but they are easy to get to from Cairo. Do give Cairo some attention either before or after your Nile Cruise or visit to a resort. The Cairo Museum is an extraordinary repository of knowledge and artefacts. This vast place is home to all the relics of an ancient civilisation and to explore its halls is a humbling experience.
Cairo is fall of colourful bazaars, noisy streets and charming shopping. The city is busy 24 hours a day. You'll find tiny, but exquisitely formed, cafes no matter where you're staying. It's noisy, dirty, passionate, vibrant and in your face. But Cairo is also one of the world's great cities.
And when you're done soaking up the truly remarkable history it's time to explore more ... shall we say... lethargic pursuits! Start with a trip down the Nile. You can do this the easy way - in a luxury cruise that comfortably wines and dines you, or you can do it the more personal felucca way - wending your way down this extraordinary river. Visit the Luxor Temple and marvel at this monument built on the city of Thebes. You must see the pyramid tombs of the boy king Tutankhamen and Nefertiti. And if you are an ancient history buff then explore the Roman catacombs in Alexandria on the Mediterranean coast.
When you're ready for some R and R, the exquisite resort of Sharm El Sheikh awaits your pleasure. This famous resort is a central point for scuba and snorkelling. It's on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsular. There's a huge range of accommodation that caters for western tastes at every budget level.
Close by is Ras Mohamed on the eastern Sinai coast and many claim this is the best dive site in the world with its amazing tropical fish, colourful coral and vast array of sea life. The place is geared up for serious divers but you can also learn to dive here with one of the many certified centres.
If you have a taste for something a little more exotic than a mainstream holiday, then the tip of Africa is for you. Exciting, different, something for all budgets and a wonderful blend of history, relaxation and culture. Get to it soon!