This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Alexandria.
Alexandria, Egypt, is the country's second-largest city, and has a window onto the Mediterranean Sea. The city is founded by and named after Alexander the Great and has a rich history. Due to its Mediterranean location, there is much more comfortable climate in summer and many Egyptians enjoy the fresh summer temperatures. Alexandria is also rich in cultural landmarks, with a history of more than two thousand years, and is more liberal than the rest of this Islamic country.
The city of Alexandria is very spread out and landmarks can be more than twenty miles apart from each other. However, almost all major landmarks are close to the Corniche, the waterfront promenade. Despite the big distances, getting around is fairly easy. Alexandria has a tram system that brings you close to all landmarks in the centre and taxis are very cheap.
The Citadel is the icon of Alexandria, Egypt that you will find on all postcards, and its exterior should not be missed on a trip to Alexandria. It is built on the same point as Pharos, the lighthouse that was destroyed by an earthquake and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The most interesting area to book your hostel in Alexandria, Egypt, is between the amphitheatre and the Mediterranean Sea -- this is the most vibrant area, and here you can find several Greco-Roman monuments.
Until recently, there was no decent budget accommodation in Alexandria, Egypt. Accommodation of a decent quality were either expensive or far away from all landmarks and Alexandria, Egypt hostels did not exist. Within months of this writing, the first Alexandria, Egypt hostel opened its doors, while there have been hostels in other Egyptian cities for a long time. Previously the only way for budget travelers to visit was by splurging on more expensive accommodation or by visiting Alexandria as a day trip from Cairo, but visiting all interesting landmarks in one day is quite a challenge. Fortunately, there is now the possibility of staying in an Alexandria, Egypt hostel on a visit here.
Written by local enthusiast for Alexandria hostels
Martin Straatman