Simonds Bakery & Cafe.

Another one of those wonderful Downtown treasures, Simonds Bakery & Café has been delighting Cairenes with gorgeous sweets for over a century and still does so to great effect on the neighbourhood's coffee tables. Nobody quite manages to pack as many calories into so small a space as Simonds does with their slices of cake that come in all chocolatey hues from white to dark bordering on pitch black. Each piece is literally crowned with a cherry on top, which sometimes takes the form of a walnut or cluster of gold, adding another layer of sophistication to the anyway elaborate creations. Unfortunately, their café doesn't have much natural light and is far from cosy, so we rather like to get a box of gateaux soirée or danishes covered in icing to take home to the balcony where we neutralise the sweetness with a strong caffeine fix. They also do good croissants and artisanal bread if you like it less sweet. 

http://simonds1898.com

South Red Sea.

The moment you head anywhere South of Hurghada you invariably feel somewhat off the beaten track. Yes, getting here is more difficult than reaching places at the Northern Red Sea coast, unless you fly to Marsa Alam that is. But less people, smaller towns and some of Egypt's best diving spots make this part of the country such an intriguing destination. We like to go to Utopia Beach Club just outside the town of Queseer for its laid-back attitude, super-friendly staff and a great SSI diving centre. The instructors know the reefs here like the backs of their hands and are always keen to help and point out good spots. It's perfect for everyone who has only recently become addicted by diving, as the Utopia house reef starts right at the beach so you won't have to go far for rich marine life and to gain some diving experience. That being said, there's plenty of spots and tours to reefs further afield to also keep seasoned diving aficionados happy for days or even weeks. After a day in, on and by the water, sit back with a cold beer and watch the sun disappear behind the rugged mountain range that frames the setting to dramatic effect.

http://www.utopiabeachclub.com/

Patisserie El Abd.

A long-time Downtown fixture, Patisserie El Abd never fails to impress with their huge array of sweet delights. Apart from the sugar-and-honey soaked oriental pastry section, Al Abd also boast a wide range of wonderful cakes and gateaux from humble cheese cake to elaborate death by chocolate, as well as a special department for croissants and Danishes. Most of the time we are truly overwhelmed with all the different sweets to choose from so we always go for the same, proven treats, such as the rich chocolate croissant or the yummy pizza slices. When on an evening ramble around Downtown make sure to stop by at one of their branches in the area for what is arguably some of the best ice cream in Cairo. The mango version actually tastes like super-creamy, frozen fruit, as does the strawberry one. And the best part is, all the wonderful things on display are really affordable and cost only a fraction of what you would have to fork out at posh bakeries in places like London, Vienna or Paris.

The Luxor Hilton.

It doesn't happen often that we find ourselves in a hotel or lodge where we fail to identify a number of design errors, service inadequacies or similar downsides the moment we enter the place. At the Luxor Hilton, however, even at second and third glance everything is and remains impeccable. From the wonderful contemporary arabesque ornaments that adorn walls and doors to the jaw-dropping pool area with its view over to the orchards and mountains of the West Bank, from the delicious food to the many chill-out nooks and resting spots, this is as close as it gets to informal luxury. When you return from a visit to one of the areas many pharaonic sights, temples and necropoles out in the sweltering desert heat, the sleek, modern architecture and leafy gardens with many a water feature are a soothing treat. Find a spot by the Nile or pool, order a fresh lemon juice and take in the splendour of the place. It's within walking distance to Karnak temple and the Luxor Museum and the super-friendly staff will happily give you directions - or organise transport if you are not inclined to attempt a small hike. Everyone here from gardeners to bell captain has at least basic command of English, which we found quite impressive and  would like to think it's testimony to a business operation that takes its employees and their training seriously. What can we say, it's perfect.

http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/egypt/hilton-luxor-resort-and-spa-LUXHITW/index.html