The two canons flanking the entrance tell of the grandeur that lies the other side of the arch. Once inside, you'll be faced with a string of boutiques (souvenirs, jewellery, beauty salon and even a tailor!) amongst which is the door leading to the reception area. Here, the first thing you'll encounter is the quite wonderful solid marble Moroccan style reception desk, complete with carved arches and intricate mosaic work. To the right is a series of cosy seating areas featuring low lying oriental seating arranged around marble-topped tables. Rugs, plants and faint music give the area a homely feel. In terms of swimming pools you are spoilt for choice, with no less than six turquoise wonders (of which three are heated) waiting for you to splash right in. The pick is probably the Oasis Pool, with its attractive tiling all the way round, jacuzzi and fantastic bar which enters into the water allowing you to sip on a cocktail without even having to inconvenience yourself with getting out the pool. Another pool, the zigzagged shaped Blue Wave, next to which is the stage for the evening's animation show, has volleyball and water polo facilities as well as table tennis and a massage tent at its edge. All pools are fully equipped with plenty of space for everyone and each has an area for children. The animation team is very large and includes six English-speaking members who look after the young ones at the Colombino kids club every day of the week (each day a different theme). There is of course a mini disco in the early evening followed by a show later on (which sometimes also takes place in one of the restaurant terraces). The hotel has small wellness centre with massage and body scrub facilities, a sauna, steam room and jacuzzi, however for the gym and a more comprehensive range of treatments, you'll have to cross the road to the Sonesta Club. Wifi (which should by now cover the whole property) and internet access via the hotel's PCs is available and costs 70EGP per hour, while for all financial affairs you'll find a bank and cash machines for your convenience. There is also a clinic on site. Wherever you set foot around the Sonesta Beach, all will be in order? The accommodation buildings are kept to a very high standard as are the immaculate gardens which provide a pleasant backdrop to lazy days by the pool or a relaxed lunch out on the terrace.
Amy Adejokun
Section editor
