Alexandria: Egyptians’ winter retreat

CAIRO – 11 January 2018: Alexandria, considered to be Egypt’s second capital, is home to the most beautiful beaches across Egypt.

Despite the rising popularity of other destinations on the North Coast and Resorts in the Red sea; Alex is still the favorite among Egyptian families.

It is not only a summer resort but also a winter one; significant amounts of people head there in the winter season to enjoy its chilly weather and walk along its beaches in the rain.

There is a set of series reflect the beauty and fabulousness of Alexandria in winter such as zayzinia and Al nawa that left marvelous moments in the Egyptian minds.

Moreover, Alexandria is considered to be a source of inspiration to a number of writers, most prominently Naguib Mahfouz. It inspired Mahfouzwhen he was having his coffee on his favorite café Delices; this is where he got the idea of his landmark Miramar that became one of the timeless movies in the history of Cinema.

In addition, Greek poet, journalist and civil servant Cavafy who lived in Alexandria until his death and English poet David Lawrence who wrote about its charm weather and brilliant sites, making Alexandria feel like a poetic city.

Different Marathons are also held in public gardens and picnics including a weekly Marathon held every Friday morning.

Athletes, executive leaders, and officials take part in these Marathons which give youth an incentive to participate and engage in such useful activities.

Fishing is also among the many activities that can be enjoyed in Alexandria.

“Unprofessionalfishermen gather in different places in Alex such as Bahri region, Stanley Bridge, and Abu Qir heading to Nelson’s Island with small boats.” Mohamed Youssef, fisherman, said.

“Fishermen begin their work from the morning until the evening in Abu Qir, which is known for its abundance of fish. Abu Qir is an open region where fish appear on surface in certain periods of time; fishermen know the timeframe within which they should fish,” Youssef added.

While it is commonly known for people to drink hot beverages to warm them up during the winter season, Alexandrians tend to eat ice creams to feel the atmosphere of cold and winter; just like as Amr Diab did in his unforgivable movie “Ice Cream Fe Gelm”.

Sweet potato is the favorite dessertEgyptians tend to eat in winter. Horse and buggy is the main way of transportation; tourists particularly ride it to take photos.

Although it is always reported that winter is full of negative vibes and depression, winter in Alex is totally different: It cheers people up, reduces stress and tension and other negative emotions.

Some hotel there are named after several celebrities, such as Om Kulthum, Mohammed Abdel Waheb, Farid al-Atrash; they were named after these celebrities because they tended to take to these hotel as their own resort, a place to relax and calm.