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TABA HEIGHTS MAGAZINESPRING 2013Dear Readers,Spring is upon us, and it’s time to make the most of the warm weatherand all that Mother Nature has to offer us. Taba Heights’ vistas over theRed Sea are incomparable, and they can be appreciated from manyvenues in town, including the InterContinental’s El Mar restaurant, whichwe review on page 4. But, if you’re willing to work for it, says writerFrancoise Ohayon, a trek up into the hills offers what may be the bestpossible view (p.10).Even better, experience the sea first hand by trying one of the manyactivities on offer at Waterworld; we check out some of the manyexperiences and sports available on page 6. Finally, if you’re headinghome after a relaxing holiday and want to take some of that hotelcomfort back with you, check out our tips on how to make your bed athome with some Marriott flair (see p.14).As always, enjoy and make the most of your time in Taba Heights.Enjoy,The THM teamCONTENTSINSIDE4610Restaurant: El MarMake the Most of the SeaTales of a Sunset ClimbALSO141618Style: Making the Perfect BedNew Around TownShopping DirectoryTaba Heights Magazine is a seasonal publicationproduced by Icon Communications. For advertisingplease contact advertising@tabaheightsmag.comwww.tabaheightsmag.comSPRING 2013 3

RESTAURANT REVIEWFINE DININGAT EL MARText and photographs by Francoise OhayonTHE FISH MENU WILLDELIGHT SEAFOOD LOVERS,AND PRIME IMPORTEDMEAT CUTS WILL KEEP THECARNIVORES HAPPY IN THISELEGANT AND MODERNSEASIDE RESTAURANT.El Mar offers the best of the sea, both on its menu and in itslocation just off the InterContinental’s beach. The indoor andoutdoor dining spaces manage to be both classy and quirky. Theairy palm-lined terrace by the pool is lit by a multitude of Orientallamps suspended between trees, and a whimsical chandelierhangs under the tall dome of the round restaurant building. Pillarsform natural partitions around a central family table seating eight.The décor is minimalist; clean lines and a palette of soft sandand pale blue hues are jazzed up by lively accents in the form oftinted water glasses and oil lamps on the tables. Solid black or4 Taba Heights Magazine

white table cloths and napkins and stylish square plates convey asleek, modern atmosphere to the locale.We were greeted with cold scented towels and receivedcomplimentary amuse-bouches of lemon and ginger curedsalmon poached in extra virgin olive oil, served on cauliflowerpuree with a basil leaf from the hotel’s own herb garden.not included) from 19:00 to 23:00. On Mondays, the LobsterInvasion consists of a mouth-watering four-course menu thatincludes whole lobster served from 19:00 to 23:00.El Mar is the ideal place to enjoy a gourmet seafood dinner in asmart and stylish atmosphere. Dine Around participating outlet;reservations may be made through your hotel’s Guest Relations.The à la carte menu designed by French Executive Chef GilbertNegro is revised every couple of months to keep it fresh andseasonal. It features specialties from Southern France such as thefamous Bouillabaisse soup made of fish cooked in saffron broth,which can be enhanced by the addition of half a lobster. Fourcoursetasting menus are also on offer, including local and Aegeaninspiredvariations.For an appetizer, I followed the Chef’s recommendations andhad pan-seared scallops served with pan-fried cauliflower,beef bacon, and dill oil, which provided a nice combinationof textures. My dining companion enjoyed a roasted butternutsquash soup with pesto and brioche croutons. Shrimp saladProvençale, Red Sea fisherman’s soup with garlic croutons,homemade gnocchi, and ricotta and smoked salmon spaghettiare also to be had.I went all out and had the Red Sea Delight main course consistingof a grilled half lobster, jumbo shrimp, grilled sea bass andsalmon fillet, and Red Sea calamari served with lemon buttersauce, seasonal vegetables, and rice. My companion found hisroast rack of lamb very tender and pink, just the way he likes it. Itwas served with roasted leek, carrot puree, and red wine-braisedraisins and jus.Mushroom risotto with truffle essence, grilled sea bass filletwith taboulé salsa; supreme of Norwegian salmon on a bed ofleek and dill sauce; jumbo prawns with a choice of dressings;pan-fried duck breast with candied ginger; and grilled rib eye ofBlack Angus beef with thyme and red wine mushroom sauce arealso available. Side orders including pilaff rice, different potatopreparations, and a variety of vegetables can be handpicked fromthe menu.My warm brownie had a rich cocoa aroma enhanced bysmooth whipped cream. Classic lemon tart, crème brûlée, andcheesecake complete the dessert offerings.In a perfect example of fine dining, all dishes were artfullypresented on uncluttered plates that gave pride of place to theproduct. Tastes were subtle and portion sizes suitable to thedegustation of a multicourse menu. Both local and importedalcohols are available, including vintages from Egypt, France, Italy,and Chile, as well as a wide variety of international brand liquors.Chef Gilbert has recently introduced two new theme nights at ElMar: at the Fish Market on Thursdays, you can pick your fish andhave it cooked to your liking for 210 LE (tax and service chargeSPRING 2013 5

SEASIDE FUNMAKE THE MOSTOF THE SEAText by Francoise Ohayon Photographs courtesy of Red Sea Waterworld6 Taba Heights Magazine

safe, specially designed craft. Crew members provide generalinformation on the marine environment and the various seadwellers that appear behind the glass panels.Those in the market for high-speed thrills minus the learning curvewill delight in fun rides behind a speedboat. Inflatable toys includedonuts, banana boats, stealth, boomerangs and the crazy sofa. Whiletheir shapes differ, the idea is constant: climb on top and hang onfor dear life. On my next trip to Taba Heights, I might decide to forgetthat I am a grownup and go for a spin myself. Self-powered outingsare also available with kayaks and pedal boats for rent.ParasailingWaterworld’s purpose-built parasailing boat can take up to 10 passengersat a time for single, double, or triple flights (maximum 150 kilogramsper flight) of 10 minutes each. The parachute was deployed just off thejetty in front of the water sports centre, my harness was clipped onto theparachute, and off I went! I was gently pulled back and upwards as theline unreeled and I slowly ascended above the water crests.The rope’s length of 200 metres allows the parasail to reach analtitude of 100 to 150 metres, depending on wind conditions. Thatbrought me to eye level with the hills behind Uptown, from whereI could see the entire resort, the turquoise water along the shoredotted with darker spots marking coral reefs, and the ochre andpurple Saudi coastline on the opposite side. The boat turned aroundin front of the marina and made a loop between the InterContinentaland the Marriott before returning to Waterworld and slowly reelingme in back to terra firma. The more adventurous may ask to land onwater and be dunked up to knee level before being brought to landon the boat’s platform.Don’t forget to bring your passport on all boat trips, a requirementrelated to Taba Heights’ status as an official port of entry.For information and bookings visit the Waterworld representative inyour hotel or contact +2 069 358 0099, info@redseawaterworld.com,www.redseawaterworld.com, also on facebookSPRING 2013 9

Learn to Golf or Improve YourSkills This Year in Taba HeightsTaba Heights Golf AcademyThe PGA Professionals at Taba Heights Golf Resort invite you and your family to improve your golf skills or try the gamefor the first time by taking advantage of our Family Golf Experience package, an enjoyable introduction to the sport thatincludes a ride around our manicured course.Family Golf Experience Package Three 60-minute sessions. Up to four family members. Use of clubs and range balls included.Offer expires October 31st, 2013Three 60-minutesessions for only €170TABA HEIGHTS GOLF INFORMATIONGreen Feesinclusive of cartWinterOutsideGuestWinterTH HotelGuestSummerOutsideGuestSummerTH HotelGuest9 Holes 50 € 40 € 45 € 35 €18 Holes 90 € 75 € 80 € 65 €3 x 18 Holes 255 € 210 € 210 € 171 €5 x 18 Holes 415 € 340 € 340 € 275 €Green Feesinclusive of cartWinterOutsideGuestWinterTH HotelGuestSummerOutsideGuestSummerTH HotelGuestDriving Range Day Use 35 € 25 € 35 € 25 €Driving Range Token 4 € 4 € 4 € 4 €Rental Clubs - 9 Holes(Start From)5 € 5 € 5 € 5 €Rental Clubs - 18 Holes(Start From)10 € 10 € 10 € 10 €Taba Heights’ professional golf course is unmatched in the region, and the sunny climate of the Sinai allows the resort to beopen year-round. Golfers can tee off year round amidst majestic mountains overlooking the clear blue waters of the Red Sea, andimpressive views of the Arabian, Jordanian, and Palestinian coastlines can be seen across the water.Contact Information:Golf Clubhouse - Golf ReservationsGolf Lesson ReservationsFaxGeneral InformationTee TimesGolf AcademyWebsite12 Taba Heights Magazine(+2 069) 358 0073(+2 069) 358 0074(+2 069) 358 0068golf@tabaheights.comgolfreservations@tabaheights.compro@tabaheights.comwww.tabaheights.com

Autumn 2012 7

STYLE AT HOMEMAKINGTHE PERFECT BEDText and photographs by Francoise OhayonNOTHING EVOKES LUXURYLIKE A PERFECTLY MADE BEDIN A FIVE-STAR HOTEL. THEPRECISELY TUCKED CORNERS,THE NEAT ROWS OF FLUFFYPILLOWS, AND THE INVITINGFOLD AT THE TOP OF THEDUVET ALL LET YOU ANTICIPATETHE PLEASURE OF SLIPPINGBETWEEN CRISP WHITE SHEETSAND STRETCHING ACROSSFEATHERY HEAVEN. PURE BLISS!Don’t we all wish we could linger in bed just a little longer andenjoy our vacation just one more day? Enjoying more than thememories of your last holiday might help to prolong the feeling ofwellbeing long after the return flight has landed and the suitcasesare unpacked. To inspire those who may wish to bring a touch ofTaba Heights’ style back home, we asked Marriott HousekeepingSupervisor Ahmed Emam, assisted by Room Attendant KamelFouad, to demonstrate how you can make a perfect bed at home,recreating some of the magic of your last vacation and welcomingyour house guests in style.Lesson number one: size counts. Hotel beds may be particularlygenerous in size, but whatever the size of your bed, make sure thatyou select sheets that offer plenty of extra length and width to tuckunder the mattress. Go for the next size up if the flat sheets sold inyour mattress size gives you only 10 or 15 cm of material to workwith on either side, as that amount isn’t sufficient to keep the sheettucked firmly beneath the mattress (fitted sheets, of course, shouldbe bought in the specified size).14 Taba Heights Magazine

NEWSAROUND TOWNCOMPETITIONTaba Heights through your eyesThe monthly Taba Heights Photography Competition remains asuccess. The past year has attracted an impressive number of qualityentries, and the competition continues in 2013. Viewers vote fortheir favourites images, and the winner receives a complimentaryweek’s stay in Taba Heights, El Gouna, or Tala Bay in Jordan. Bestshots of Taba Heights may be submitted via www.taba-heights.comAsk your friends and family to vote for your entry!AROUND TOWNMarriott welcomes “Planet Spa”“Relaxation made easy” is not just a tagline at Taba Heights’ MarriottRed Sea Resort, whose spa has now been taken over by therenowned management company Planet Spa. The Egyptian-basedcompany is affiliated with as many as 15 other properties throughoutthe country, including 5-star hotels in Hurghada and El Gouna. “PlanetSpa is a unique, new concept that combines the heritage of AncientEgypt’s wellness philosophy with modern European healthcaretechniques,” stated owner Mazen Samir. Soothing treatments includeThai and Swedish massages, along with an array of Egyptian programsincluding the “Cleopatra” and “Essence of Egypt.” Each of thesedistinctive packages combines a luxurious blend of traditional Egyptianingredients and methods dating back thousands of years, andtreatments are provided in a calm and tranquil environment designedto ensure complete relaxation and wellbeing. For more informationcall +2 069 358 0100, ext 50New fish tanks at MarriottAs part of the Taba Heights Marriott Red Sea Resort’s continual effortsto improve and enhance standards and facilities, the fish tanks in theGrotto Bar have been renovated, updated, and given a new lease onlife. New freshwater aquarium fish are now housed within the tanks,including an assortment of goldfish, gourami, and catfish, while newbackground decorations, tank ornaments, and greenery allow fishto flourish in an attractive environment. The Grotto Cave Bar offersa unique setting to relax with traditional Bedouin-style seating and arevitalizing swim-up bar. When walking into the Grotto, the fish tanksare an unexpected delight, their glow providing this shady spot withflickers of light reflected around the cave.El Wekala revamps dining venuesThe Three Corners El Wekala Golf Resort has revamped its famousPeanuts Bar and Chez Pascal Restaurant, providing both with newdécor and installing comfortable furniture on the Peanuts terrace. Visitthe establishments in Uptown Taba Heights and see for yourself!COMMUNITYMarriott gives back to local schoolAs part of Marriott International Global Customer Appreciation Week(GCAW), the Taba Heights Marriott paid a helpful visit to the localTaba Heights school. The GCAW is an important aspect of Marriottculture designed to embrace and support local communities andgive thanks to customers who support the Marriott every year. Thisyear’s motto, “we open the door to a world of possibilities,” inspiredthe Marriott team to visit the local school of and assist with some16 Taba Heights Magazine

TABA HEIGHTS SHOPPING DIRECTORYFOOD & DRINKSSERVICESOUTLETAli Baba ShopAnubis BazaarArt GalleryBedouin HouseBlue Topaz SilverBook ShopBouquet FlowerCopper HouseCrystal & Art WoodFantastic AccessoriesGallery ShopGolden BeerHera SportsWearIsis PerfumeKyamia ShopLight HouseLeather & R USMagic Carpet GalleryMr. SpicesNew Touch Cotton WearOmar Jewelry GoldOriental Corner BazzarPainter ShopSan George SouvenirsSalt CaveScarab Art GallerySea Club Dive ShopStyleNo. 1Sun Rise CDSupermarket MarioSurprise Kids ShopTut Papyrus MuseumTime Out ShopBedouin TentBird NestChez PascalEl Fuego MexicanFlying CarpetOrangina CaféPub TandooriBanque MisrBeauty SalonBright SkyCIB BankBDS DestinationDr. Amir PharmacyEtapes Nouvelles EgyptEl Amir Mobile servicesEl Amir NetGarranah TravelInformation CentreKodak Photo CentreMarmaraMedical CenterPro Tours TravelThomas CookThomson TravelTravco TravelVodafone SoteerTELEPHONE010 0095 6353012 2793 4543012 7222 9877010 7222 9877012 2856 5323012 8139 0163012 2250 2206012 2793 4543012 2793 4543012 7222 9877012 7222 9877012 2614 6857012 7033 7206012 7101 0239012 7101 0239012 7222 9877012 2793 4543012 2288 1341012 2816 9231012 2793 4543012 2218 5644012 7222 9877010 1469 3251012 2793 4543011 1775 5533012 2793 4543012 2002 7141010 0444 1295010 0444 2442012 2349 5401010 0528 8150012 2793 4543012 2218 5644012 7101 0239069 358 0300069 358 0150069 358 0100012 2002 7141012 8300 9300069 358 0234069 358 0150012 2727 6476010 0119 1207069 358 0321012 2175 1018010 0674 6470012 2242 4831012 7130 3411010 0674 6470010 0006 3013012 8103 9965010 6854 0756012 2242 4831012 2399 0339012 0202 0814010 0119 1207012 2914 4611010 6984 4400012 2399 0339much-needed maintenance. Teams from the hotel’s managementand Engineering department volunteered their time and paintedthe lunch area bright yellow and blue to replace the clinical whitecolour and bring a touch of fun to the space. Air conditioning unitswere fixed, IT support given in the administration offices, andessential playground maintenance carried out. The Food & Beverageteam also provided a delicious chocolate cake that was distributedamongst the pupils and teachers. “It is essential that we take careof our local communities and show support by giving somethingback,” said General Manager Brian Nourollahi, “especially at a localschool where, after all, the children are the customers of the future.”Team PartyOn 2 February 2013, the entire staff of the InterContinentalTaba Heights gathered in the hotel’s Red Sea Ballroom for ateam-building gala dinner and party. During the event, an awardceremony was held to honour the achievements of dedicated teammembers. At the end of the fun-filled night, lucky winners collectedtheir raffle prizes, and everyone carried home fond memories of theevening and of the past year’s accomplishments.DININGA True Indian experience at Pub TandooriPub Tandoori, managed by the Hyatt Regency and located inUptown Taba Heights, welcomes new Indian chef Manjeet Singh.The 32-year-old chef from New Delhi brings eight years ofexperience specializing in Tandoori and Rajasthani cuisine. Themenu is spiced up with delicious dishes cooked to perfection in aTandoori oven and accompanied by authentic Naan bread, currydishes, and Dal lentils, yet Chef Manjeet is happy to rustle up anyIndian dish one may wish for as a special order, from Tikka Masalato Jalfrezi. Guests may choose to dine indoors, where they canwatch the chef’s performances and enjoy the heady aroma ofIndian spices or view the latest game on the big screen, or theymay opt for the open air terrace, which offers panoramic viewsof the Red Sea’s spectacular colours at sunset. Get 25% off yourfood bill if you dine before 19.30, and 50% off your beverage billfrom 22.00 onwards every Monday night during the M.U.T. Partyat Pub Tandoori.Be an Indian chef for a dayBring back home a new recipe from the mouth-watering Indiankitchen of Pub Tandoori, where each Thursday talented chefsnot only indulge your taste but also teach you how to cook youfavourite dishes. For more information, call the Hyatt Guest Servicedesk at +2 069 358 0234.Mongolian BBQInterContinental Taba Heights launched a new culinary experiencethis February with the unveiling of El Mar restaurant’s newesttheme night: Mongolian Saturdays. Guests can choose from anassortment of fresh vegetables, meats, and noodles and thenwatch the chefs cook it up on the Mongolian Grill. Dinner includesa selection of Asian appetizers, white rice, and dessert. TheMongolian barbecue is available every Saturday starting at 19:00.For information and reservation, contact your hotel concierge.18 Taba Heights Magazine

New Lobby Lounge snack menuThe Marriott has introduced a new, tasty, and varied menu for itsLobby Lounge bar. Highlights include an all-time classic, the CaesarSalad, and the signature Marriott Burger made with U.S. primebeef, charbroiled and topped with Canadian cheddar cheese. Othernoteworthy items include the traditional club sandwich, Japanesechicken salad, and succulent steak sandwich. The new menu isdesigned to provide quick, tasty, and inspired dishes, allowingguests to choose between a “lite bite” and something a little moresubstantial, all enjoyed along with a wonderful view from the terrace.DIVINGGroup GiboulotLast October, Waterworld welcomed 28 members of a diving clubin Burgundy, France, who came for four days of diving on theprivate boat Speedon. The divers, the youngest of whom was 11and whose experience levels ranged from beginner to instructor,were supervised by Waterworld guides Rabia and Jeremy. Beginnersin the group were treated to a memorable first glimpse of theunderwater world, and even experienced divers were lucky to seea vast assortment of creatures including turtles, ghost pipefish,great barracudas, giant trevallys, frogfish, stonefish, and more. TheirTripAdvisor feedback says it all: “A message of congratulations fromthe French group who just came back from Taba. The centre isvery nice. We were a group of 28 people including 20 divers. Thesupervision was awesome, the dives are wonderful and the crewexcellent. Special message to Rabia: you are an amazing guide, wehad a great time with you. And to Jeremy: a big thanks for yourprofessionalism and the management of the group, special thoughtfrom Baptiste who considered himself the group’s privileged.”Players from 12 countries flew into Taba and Sharm El Sheikhinternational airports to take part in this annual event. The 2011winner, Henrik Engdahl from Crete Golf Club, was back to defendhis title. In contrast to previous years, participants in the 2012 eventplayed four rounds of competition rather than three, with one roundmade available for practice. The tournament got underway withthe previous top three players going out first to set the pace with areverse in tee times for round two. After round two, the leading proswere ordered in sequence with the leaders going out last. As usual,the tournament’s final round was fantastic, with all five participantshaving a chance of winning. However, Engdahl’s skill shone throughwith a final round of 67 (-5) in very windy but sunny conditions;he was crowned champion and is already down to defend histitle for a third time in 2013. In the team event, Neil Holman, IanDoyle, John Ireland, and John Simpson won on a score of 327,far ahead of second place. The four men won a free seven-nightall-inclusive stay at Sofitel and five free rounds of golf. “This really isa fantastic event,” remarked Cafaro, who had good words for TabaHeights’ climate and golf course, which make playing at this timeof year (December) not only possible but pleasurable. For moreinformation and to play in the Taba Heights International Pro Am2013, contact Adrian Cafaro at adrian.cafaro@tabaheights.comDry docksRed Sea Waterworld continues to maintain and upgrade its fleet,and the famous sailing boat Henry De Monfreid has been throughthe annual maintenance works. In addition, the Waterword1 divingboat was extended by three meters in length to provide a morecomfortable and spacious experience for divers. Last but not least,the speedboats are in the process of being overhauled to unleashtheir full power this year.GOLFTaba Heights Pro Am Invitational 2012The Sofitel resort recently had the pleasure of hosting PGAprofessionals and amateur golfers who came to compete in theTaba Heights International Pro Am Invitational 2012. The golfersenjoyed a seven-night all-inclusive stay from 27 November to 4December that began with a cocktail welcome event at whichGeneral Manager Jules-Henri Edouard thanked the participants forcoming to Egypt and to Taba Heights in particular. The hotel, whichwas the main sponsor of the competition, also hosted a gala prizedinner that served as the concluding event of the tournament.SPRING 2013 19

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