There was a time when traveling to Egypt meant trunks, white linen, and enough outfits to make dinner feel like an event.
In El Gouna, far from the Nile and facing the Red Sea, this former guest house was envisioned by collector Amr Khalil alongside architect Olivier Sednaoui. With only thirteen suites, its intentionally intimate scale makes it feel far more like a private residence than a resort.
Inside, the journey back in time continues. Antiques, Art Deco furniture, mosaics, and flea-market finds form a decor that favors scholarly accumulation over standard seaside hotel codes. In the Alexandria suite, some of the furniture even comes from a former hotel in the city, beautifully keeping alive the fantasy of the last century’s grand Egyptian voyages.
During the day, however, the detective’s suit is traded for swimwear. La Maison Bleue has its own boat for exploring the coast and Red Sea reefs, picnicking, or watching dolphins. At nightfall, it’s a return home: the kitchen blends French and Egyptian influences, notably offering an Egyptian dinner for two upon reservation.
Taste
Agatha Christie · Red Sea · Grand Tour · Alexandria nostalgia · Art Deco · White linen · Antique collecting · Dinner dresses · Private boats · Egyptian nights
