Marsa Matruh

 

Marsa Matruh is a seaport in Egypt . It was known as Paraitonion during Ptolemaic and Byzantine times and Paraetonium in Roman times. It is located at a distance of 240 km west of Alexandria , on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea , along the main road of the Delta to the Libyan border. Another main road goes to the southern part from the town, extends to the Western Desert and the oases of Bahariya and Siwa. Nowadays, the main function of Marsa Matruh is to serve as a pickup resort for Cairenes wishful to escape the capital in the sweltry summer season. This is done by Marsa Matruh Airport . During World War II, this place was British Army's terminus for a single-track railway which ran by El Alamein .

 

On the town's main square is the West Delta Bus Station situated, it serves as the main transportation hub of the city. The most comfortable way to arrive at Marsa Matruh from Cairo is to take West Delta Bus from the metropolis' Turgoman Bus Station to Marsa Matruh. The area has no official shared taxi service, but sheruts runs from Yousef Hotel. Due to scarcity of availability of taxis it is highly advisable to confirm your taxi in advance. To explore Marsa Matruh and its surroundings, bicycles are the best mode of conveyance, Chinese gear-less models are also available on rent. Before hiring these bicycles better check its sturdiness and brakes. Remember, riding cycle on the sand is a challenging task.

 

Marsa Matruh is situated on the shore of a large lagoon defended by Corniche on which travelers are carried in local carriages drawn by donkey, known as caretta. Although, most exquisite beaches are placed exterior of the town, it is recommended to remain within the residence areas. Amongst the most astonishing beaches are Agiba beach, Gharam beach and Cleopatra's beach. However, the Agiba beach is not more than 30 – 40 meters long, but is the pride or Marsa Matruh. It is arranged between defending cliffs, and a beautiful reception region has been made on the top. The temperature is cooler here and the sand is cleaner. Due to cliff's shadow the day ends up earlier. But climbing up the cliffs around 4 pm is a nice idea; it gives panoramic view of the coastal region, which is amazing.

 

The largest beach of Marsa Matruh is Gharam beach, it is good for swimming. In spite of 17 km away from the town, it is in reality facing the town, engaging the final stretch of land surrounding the lagoon before getting mixed into the great sea. In summer season the beach becomes very crowded, yet spacious for enjoyment. The next popular beach is Cleopatra's beach, the most wonderful bay of Marsa Matruh . Its clear water encircled by rocks providing the feeling of a huge, square pool in which, according to fable, famous Cleopatra came to bathe.

 

At last, it is advisable to respect local norms and avoid display of affection in public. Marsa Matruh is a conservative and traditional town.