How’s Sahel this year? While the core routine remains more-or-less the same every year, we’re always on the hunt for new locations and the latest things to do in our favorite summer getaway destination.

WHERE TO GO-

#1-PAO: For all of you boba enthusiasts you’ll be thrilled to hear that PAO is coming back to Sahel with not two, but six new locations across the coast: La Vista Bay, Telal, Hacienda Red, Seashell, Marassi, and Northed.

#2-SACHI: This fine dining gem has recently revealed its new location at Marassi Marina. Situated right in the marina’s waters and architecturally inspired by a sailboat, this place is ready to become the new go-to destination for both Sahel breakfast mornings and dinner nights.

#3- PICKL: Dubai's famed burger joint has signed a franchise contract to open three branches across the North Coast this summer. Find the branches at Seashell, Hacienda White, and Al Alamein’s North Square Mall.

#4- 3DOTS: Saudi-based coffee shop has set roots at Offshell North Coast in front of Seashell’s gates this summer.

#5- SAYED HANAFY: Not one for burgers or smoothies, now you can have our national staple right by the beach. Koshary giant Sayed Hanafy has opened a new branch at Seashell Walk.

#6- IZAKAYA: This Japanese-Peruvian restaurant is expanding its branch to the shores of the North Coast this summer at Marassi.

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Don’t miss out on the luscious eats and vibes at some of these quintessential Sahel venues: Babbo’s Taverna at Sidi Heneish Village, Barbar at Marassi The Hub and Granita Sur Mer at Diplo.

BROUGHT YOUR FURRY FRIEND?

Not all beaches in Sahel are pet-friendly. Head to Hacienda Red, Seashell, Telal, Marassi(North Beach), La Vista Cascada, or Fouka Bay to make sure your dog will be allowed to enter.

DISCLAIMER: There may be more locations that permit pet entry, but make sure to ask around to avoid wasting the drive.

WORK ON FORMET EL SAHEL-

Holidays are not an excuse to abandon your fitness goals. Stay in tip top shape — or strive to be — with some of Egypt’s finest fitness groups working out by the sea.

#1-BEFIT 360: Find out more about their packages here.

LOCATION: Marassi, Swanlake, and Playa.

#2-MOVE: Fill up this form to get their summer packages.

LOCATION: Cali Coast, Beit al Bahr, and Telal.

#3- LA7: Check out their classes here.

LOCATION: The Med and Seashell G Hotel.

#4- AQUA FIT: A high-intensity workout where the core of it is being able to balance on a board while working out.

LOCATION: Telal, Hacienda White, Address Resort Hotel, Fouka Bay, La Vista Bay, La VistaCascada.

#5- STAMINA: Aside from the usual grind, they collaborated with Swim Master for those who want to exercise in a pool.

LOCATION: Diplo.

#6- SURF CAMP: Make the sea your playground and the waves your challenge. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, these camps offer expert instruction in paddling, catching waves, and mastering the surfboard.

LOCATION: Hacienda Red and Hacienda White.

#7- JPADEL: They are branching across the North Coast bringing the trendy sport to the seaside.

LOCATION: Al Alamein, La Vista Bay, Swanlake, Hacienda Red, and Masyaf.

NEED SOME GROOMING?

#1- AL SAGHEER SALON: A household-name salon that caters to both men and women.

LOCATION: Marina 2, Marassi (Mporium), Marassi (Marina), Almaza Bay, Hacienda White, Telal, Address Marassi, Sidi Heneish Village, Swanlake, Casa Cook Hotel, and Alamein North Square.

#2-AHMED & ABDOU: A household-name salon that caters to both men and women.

LOCATION: Al Alamein Hotel Marassi, Porto Marina, Ocean Blue Marina, and Stella Walk.

#3- BRUSH: This salon caters to both men and women.

LOCATION: Amwaj.

#4- BEKKY BARBER: This barbershop is for men only.

LOCATION: Seashell Walk.

#5- MOHAMED & RAMY: This barbershop is for men only.

LOCATION: In front of Marina 5 gate.

#6- ALFRED & MINA: This is another hair salon for women only.

LOCATION: Marina 5

HOW TO GET THERE-

Want to avoid the drive? Now you can fly from Cairo to the North Coast with EgyptAir, effective from Thursday, 11 July until Saturday, 14 September. Just book your seat with EgyptAir by choosing Al Alamein (DBB).

You can also keep it OG and travel with SWVL: They offer minibus rides from different areas in Cairo depending on your location and to most of the compounds in Sahel. Get the details through their website.

GOBUS is another option for buses and you can get the schedule and information from their website.

Feeling fancy? Try GOLIMO: This option is ideal if you’d prefer a private car that will pick you up and drop you off at your exact location of choice. Their vehicles range from the basic (a Toyota) and the luxury (Mercedes S-class). Get a hold of one of their cars through their website.