Scorching hot days are upon us and escaping the office is on our minds again. As you start daydreaming of stargazing away from the city, picnics amid green nature, and lazy days at the beach, you know summer is here.
There might be hundreds of reasons why Mykonos is on your bucket list this season, but rest assured, there are plenty of other places that will get your adrenaline pumping and guarantee an unforgettable vacation.
Here are seven Arab cities you can visit this summer:
1. Hurghada, Egypt
The waters are the perfect shade of turquoise and underneath them lie hundreds of stunning coral reefs in colors you can only imagine.
Hurghada is located on Egypt's Red Sea coast, where the sunsets are mesmerizing and the snorkeling sites are aplenty.
2. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Also known as the blue pearl of Morocco, Chefchaouen is the ideal destination for those desperate to add #nofilter to their Instagram photos.
Wander around the beautiful picturesque town that is tucked away in Africa's Rif Mountains. While you're at it, take a hike and go on an adventure to the top.
3. Anfeh, Lebanon
Decorated with vivid blue wooden cabins and chalets, the crystal clear Tahet El Rih beach is just where you need to go to relax and unwind.
It may've had a social media buzz just recently, but Anfeh was always known by locals as a destination for hiking, swimming, diving, and surfing when the weather is just right.
Although Lebanon's coast is overtaken by private chalets and resorts, Tahet El Rih is public and free!
4. Hammamet, Tunisia
Known for being the first tourist destination in Tunisia, the town is commonly associated with jasmine, souvenirs, and resorts inspired by the white flower.
People also call it the Tunisian Saint-Tropez for good reason. Enjoy sunbathing in the summer, dining in delicious Mediterranean restaurants, and partying in the ongoing festivals.
5. Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia
Blue and white aren't the official colors of Greece alone, the coastal town of Sidi Bou Said, located just 20 km north of Tunis, has its own captivating charm.
The entire town is located on a steep cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, surrounded by palm trees and draping flowers wherever you look, making it impossible not to fall in love with the place.
6. Ras Shaitan, Egypt
Ras Shaitan, which literally translates to “Head of the Devil," is not the real name of this hidden gem, but the name people go by when referring to the serene escape in Nuweiba, Sinai.
If camping and relaxing are the vibes you're looking for, then you've reached the right destination. A room averages at around $30 per night, so at least your bank account will thank you!
7. Casablanca, Morocco
Being the largest city in Morocco, Casablanca is both economically and demographically one of the most important cities in Africa.
The romance in the 1942 movie Casablanca isn't just an on-screen figment of our imagination, Morocco's fascinating architecture takes its toll on the city as well.
Its arts and culture scene are ones to be reckoned with, from galleries and museums, to vintage jewelry stores.