NEAR+FAR’S My Middle East series brings you personal stories and photographs from leading travel figures and photographers in the region, revealing beloved destinations, favourite spots, insider travel advice and more – told from the heart

Beit Theresa, Dahab, Egypt

Words by Asran Mohamed, @jrasraan

The bohemian, Bedouin beach town of Dahab, sits on a quiet corner of Egypt’s Sinai peninsula and is somewhere I have fallen in love with. The views here are like no other along the Red Sea, and the town itself is home to hostels, co-working cafés and dive schools teaching courses in all languages, making it a real spot on the solo and young traveller scene.

Dahab is one of the most beautiful places to explore on the Egyptian coast, and the place to stay is Beit Theresa. Set against this serene landscape and crafted from natural materials, Beit Theresa offers a front-row view of the sea – and though I’ve visited just once, the experience remains unforgettable.

My stay there was marked by a profound sense of comfort and relaxation, largely due to the exceptional hospitality and warmth of the hosts. This charming retreat was lovingly created by a married couple, Mimi Gong and Mohamed Mamdouh, who built the house together and opened it to the public in 2019 as three spaces: the Fisherman’s Lodge, a cosy beach house, and Tree House, a duplex house with panoramic sea views. There’s also the Stone House with a pool.

The architecture and design blends with the local Sinai landscape, thanks to its stone walls, handpicked natural wood, arabesque henna lamps, local pottery and woven baskets, and the owners’ personal touches are really felt in the space. When I arrived, I was struck by the cosy, inviting décor and the breathtaking mountains and Red Sea views from my room.

I stayed in a room called the Treehouse, which is constructed in two phases. The upper level is the room itself, offering a panoramic view of the Red Sea, while the lower level houses the kitchen and bathroom. Most of the items, from plates to decorations, are made of eco-friendly materials, which added to the visual treat meals. Especially breakfast, which was delicious and presented in such an artistic way. For those seeking a unique and tranquil escape, Beit Theresa is a must-visit destination not only in Egypt, but the region.

@beit_theresa_dahab

This article originally featured in NEAR+FAR Volume II, @jrasraan/

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