Escape to Paradise: Malikia Resort's Abu Dabbab Magic!
Escape to Paradise: Malikia Resort's Abu Dabbab Magic! - A Messy, Honest Review
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to take you on a whirlwind tour of Malikia Resort in Abu Dabbab, Egypt. Forget those perfectly curated Instagram posts – this is the real deal, the messy, sometimes amazing, sometimes "what were they thinking?" experience. I’m gonna be brutally honest, so if you're looking for fluff, you've come to the wrong place. This is a review, not a brochure.
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- Title: Malikia Resort Abu Dabbab Review: Honest Experience & Insider Tips
- Keywords: Malikia Resort, Abu Dabbab, Egypt, Red Sea, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Accessible Resort, Wheelchair Accessible, Spa, Swimming Pool, All-Inclusive, Review, Travel, Vacation, Accessibility, Food, Hygiene, COVID-19 Safety, Beach, Relaxation, Best Hotels Egypt, Red Sea Hotels.
Let's Dive In (Pun Intended, Obviously):
First things first, I'm a huge fan of the Red Sea. The underwater world is just… breathtaking. And Abu Dabbab? That’s where the legendary sea turtles hang out. So, yeah, the location is a massive win. The promise of seeing turtles almost single-handedly sold the entire trip.
Accessibility: The Good, the Bad, and the Slightly Confusing
Alright, let's get this out of the way: Accessibility is a mixed bag. While the resort says it's accessible, it's more like "accessible-ish."
Wheelchair Accessible: They have ramps, definitely, and elevators. However, some pathways are a bit uneven, and that can be a pain. Be prepared for some assistance, as even with ramps, some inclines could become challenging without assistance.
Facilities for disabled guests: This is where it gets a little hazy. They claim to have facilities, but the details are a bit vague. It's best to explicitly confirm specific requirements with the hotel before you book. Don’t assume anything. Call them. Twice.
Food, Glorious Food (And Occasional Disappointments):
Okay, the food. This is where my inner food critic gets to shine, and the results are… varied.
- Restaurants: They have several restaurants, but the a la carte options weren't always consistently available, which was frustrating. The "Asian Cuisine" promised was… well, let's just say my expectations of authentic Thai flavors weren't met, but the buffet had a larger variety than I expected.
- Breakfast Buffet: This was the saving grace. The usual suspects (eggs, bacon, pastries) were available. I enjoyed the International cuisine and the Western breakfast.
- Room Service [24-hour]: Yes! A lifesaver after a long day of snorkeling. Ordered a bottle of water and some snacks more times than I care to admit. Speaking of which…
- Restaurants, Dining, and Snacking: The food was okay, and I would have preferred a better salad. But the Poolside bar saved me.
- Cashless Payment Service: Brilliant. Especially convenient.
- Essential condiments: Were not always available, but I never asked for them.
Things to Do (Beyond the Turtles, Because Seriously):
Remember those turtles? Yeah, they're amazing. But the resort also has a ton more.
- Swimming Pool: Absolutely gorgeous pool with a killer view. It's a great spot to lounge around and cool off, especially after a morning of diving.
- Spa/Sauna/Body Scrub/Body Wrap: I am not a spa person; however, this resort had a good spa!
- Fitness Center, Gym/Fitness: The fitness center was nice. I did not use them because I was swimming and snorkeling and enjoying myself.
- Beach: The beach is, naturally, stunning. Picture yourself relaxing on a chaise, with the sun beating down on you, as you watch the people around.
- Things to do: The water sports are the best part of the resort!
Hygiene and Safety: The COVID-19 Factor (And My Anxiety):
Look, traveling during a pandemic is nerve-wracking, okay? Here's the breakdown:
- Cleanliness and safety: The resort took it seriously. They were always cleaning. I felt safe. The people working with me were always wearing masks.
- Anti-viral cleaning products: Pretty sure they were using these.
- Daily disinfection in common areas: Yep, saw it happening.
- Hand sanitizer: Available everywhere.
- Individually-wrapped food options: Mostly, which was reassuring.
- Physical distancing of at least 1 meter: They tried, but let's be honest, sometimes it was tricky at the buffet.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: Seemed like it, but communication was a little rough.
- Rooms sanitized between stays: I hoped so!
- Sanitized kitchen and tableware items: They seemed clean.
- Room sanitization opt-out available: Good to know.
Rooms: Simple, But Functional (And That's Okay):
- Available in all rooms: Air conditioning, alarm clock, bathrobes, bathroom phone, bathtub, blackout curtains, carpeting, closet, coffee/tea maker, complimentary tea, daily housekeeping, desk, extra-long bed, free bottled water, hair dryer, high-floor, in-room safe box, interconnecting room(s) available, internet access – LAN, internet access – wireless, ironing facilities, laptop workspace, linens, mini bar, mirror, non-smoking, on-demand movies, private bathroom, reading light, refrigerator, safety/security feature, satellite/cable channels, scale, seating area, separate shower/bathtub, shower, slippers, smoke detector, socket near the bed, sofa, soundproofing, telephone, toiletries, towels, umbrella, visual alarm, wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], window that opens.
- The Room: The rooms are decent, with a simple design. It's not luxury, but it's clean and functional. The bed was comfy.
Internet: The Eternal Struggle (Don't Expect Miracles):
- Internet: Wi-Fi exists, mostly. It's "free" which is great, but also, sometimes intermittent. Expect to be frustrated at times.
Services and Conveniences: Your Mileage May Vary:
The resort offers a lot, but the execution can be a bit… inconsistent.
- Concierge: Helpful, but not always super responsive.
- Laundry: Efficient and reasonably priced.
- Currency exchange: Simple, with a fair rate.
- Gift/souvenir shop: Good for picking up essentials.
- Doorman: Always there to greet.
The Anecdote-Ridden Rambles:
Okay, time for some raw, unfiltered memories. One day, I was lounging by the pool and got a major sunburn because I underestimated the Egyptian sun. Turns out, I had forgotten my SPF. That was a bummer. Another day at the restaurant was a disaster as the buffet was under an incredible pressure for the staff!
Some Final, Honest Thoughts:
Malikia Resort is not perfect. It has its quirks, its inconsistencies, and its moments of "huh?" The hotel is not exactly great - the service could use a bit more training. But. The location is incredible. Plus, the turtles. No matter the flaws, you can't deny the magic of a turtle encounter. It's worth it, even with the occasional hiccups. Just go in knowing what to expect, pack your patience, and prepare to be amazed.
Would I go back? Honestly? Probably. The Red Sea is THAT good. And hey, maybe next time, they’ll have perfected the Asian cuisine. Probably not, but a girl can dream, right?
**F1 Legend's Secret Getaway: The BEST Louis Hamilton Hotel in Changwon!**
Okay, buckle up, buttercup, because this ain't your grandma's meticulously planned itinerary. This is my Malikia Resort adventure in Abu Dabbab, Egypt. Expect sand in your shorts and a whole lotta "what the heck just happened?"
Day 1: Arrival - Red Sea Rhapsody and "Where's My Luggage?!"
- 11:00 AM (ish): Landed in Marsa Alam airport. Oh, the heat! It hits you like a wall. I’m already sweating, and I haven’t even left the tarmac. The transfer to the resort was… well, let's call it "rustic charm." The bus driver clearly knew the roads intimately, and I mean intimately. My stomach churned with every pothole.
- 12:30 PM: Arrive at the Malikia. It's… beautiful. Turquoise water, the beach is powdery white, palm trees swaying. Instagram is going to love this. Check-in was slow (Egypt time, apparently), and then the dreaded "luggage is missing" drama. Cue internal freak-out. Praying to the lost luggage gods!
- 1:30 PM: Finally in my room. It's spacious, with a balcony overlooking the ocean. Glorious. I spent a good 20 minutes just staring out at the sea, feeling the travel fatigue melt away a little. First impressions: excellent.
- 2:00 PM: Lunch. Food. So much food. I'm not even going to pretend I remember everything I ate, but there was falafel of course! Also a mysterious pink sauce that tasted vaguely of… well, I'm not entirely sure. I'll chalk it up to cultural exploration and try it again.
- 3:30 PM: Beach time! The water is unbelievably clear. Snorkelling. Snorkelling. SNORKELLING! I'd seen photos of the sea turtles, and I was determined to find them. I was so excited I almost forgot how to breathe through my snorkel. My heart leaped out of my chest when I saw my first one. It was a magical experience. Then, almost immediately after, I swallowed half the Red Sea. I flailed around, coughing like a dying walrus. Humiliating. But worth it.
- 6:00 PM: "Lost Luggage Update." Still missing. I'm now wearing the same clothes I had on all day. Send help.
- 7:30 PM: Dinner. Managed to find something remotely familiar. I’m starting to adjust to the endless buffet scenario. I chatted with a couple from Germany next to me. They have been coming to this resort for 10 years, which gives me hope for the lost luggage.
- 9:00 PM: Collapsed in bed, slightly sunburned, and still obsessed with the missing luggage. Dreaming of sea turtles and clean towels. Hopefully, tomorrow is better.
Day 2: Turtles, Tangles, and Total Bliss (with a side of lost luggage)
- 7:00 AM: (ish) Woke up to a stunning sunrise. Determined to find those turtles. Coffee and breakfast. This is where the "all-inclusive" thing really shines. They have everything. Except my luggage.
- 8:30 AM: Back in the water. This time, I’m a snorkelling pro. I'd like to give it up that second time. No choking on the sea, or flailing, which is progress. MORE TURTLES! Seriously, they're everywhere. One even swam right towards me! I swear I made eye contact. It was profound. Absolutely profound. It felt like some deep connection, and all of a sudden, I felt very emotional. I might have cried a little in my snorkel. Okay, a lot. Don't judge me! It's the ocean!
- 10:00 AM: My fins got tangled in the coral. I panicked. I was probably way too far out, and I'm convinced my life flashed before my eyes. A local guy on a boat helped untangle me. Then, another tourist. I was embarrassed and grateful. I probably looked like a complete fool.
- 11:30 AM: The Luggage gods have not heard my prayers (still!). I'm now borrowing clothes from the gift shop (tacky, but clean).
- 1:00 PM: Lunch. The same pink sauce returns. I bravely try it again. No improvement. I don't know what it is, but it is not what I’m looking for.
- 2:00 PM: I spent the afternoon by the pool. Sunbathing and reading. It was bliss. Total, utter bliss. I found a little nook of tranquility. This is probably what heaven is like.
- 4:00 PM: Evening Yoga on the beach. It's kind of cheesy, but also incredibly relaxing. Did a half decent "downward-facing dog" (I think). The view of the sunset while trying to stretch was just magical.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner and conversation with my German friends. Wonderful people, so warm and easy to talk to. They made me laugh and shared their love for this place. The luggage situation seems less important now, which says a lot.
- 9:00 PM: Stargazing. The sky is pitch black, and the stars are unbelievable. So many stars. I feel insignificant and awestruck all at once. Absolutely perfect.
Day 3: Sand, Souvenirs, and the Luggage Miracle! (FINALLY!)
- 7:30 AM: Woke up early. I needed to soak up every last second of this beach energy.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast. More falafel. I've become a convert. Maybe.
- 10:00 AM: A camel ride! It sounded like a good idea, but I was terrified. The camel was named "Boris" and smelled faintly of… well, camels. The gentle rocking was pleasant at first. Then, the back pain set in. Then, the sand got everywhere. Eventually, I laughed hysterically at the absurdity of it all.
- 11:30 AM: The gift shop. Bought some tourist trinkets. I did not buy a camel. Haggling is a sport, I'm told. I clearly don't have the skills.
- 12:30 PM: THE LUGGAGE APPEARS! A chorus of angels, you guys, I'm telling you. I'm back! Tears of joy. My very own toothbrush! Clean clothes! I feel human again!
- 1:00 PM: Celebratory lunch. I'm the happiest person alive!
- 2:00 PM: Diving. I had never dived before, so I did a discover scuba diving session. It was incredible! The instructor was patient, and the coral was so colourful. I really want to get my PADI certificate now. Another world.
- 6:00 PM: Packing. The bittersweet feeling of leaving. I'm going to miss this place.
- 7:30 PM: Farewell dinner. More great food and even better company.
- 9:00 PM: One last walk on the beach under the stars. Remembering all the moments, the turtle encounters, the lost luggage drama, the camel ride, the pink sauce. This trip was messy, funny, emotional, and perfect.
Day 4: Departure - Goodbye, Malikia, Until Next Time?
- 7:00 AM: The morning routine. Coffee and breakfast. The beautiful and still surreal feeling of being ready to enjoy the resort and the sea after what I have experienced.
- 8:00 AM: Check out. Saying goodbye is hard. I have completely fallen in love with this part of the world.
- 9:00 AM: The trip to the airport. The rollercoaster of good and hard times are over.
- 11:00 AM: Depart. I'm already planning my return. Until next time, Malikia, until next time.
Final Thoughts: This itinerary is a mess. It's filled with imperfections, silly moments, and a whole lotta love for the Red Sea. It's a memory of a lifetime! And that, my friends, is what traveling is all about. Go. Explore. Get lost (literally and figuratively). Maybe lose your luggage. You might even find yourself along the way.
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Escape to Paradise: Malikia Resort's Abu Dabbab Magic! - FAQs (and My Unvarnished Opinions)
Okay, let's cut to the chase: Is Abu Dabbab actually *magical* like everyone says?
Alright, alright, settle down. Magical? Hmmm... Depends. I’m a cynical traveler, I've seen a lot of "magical" things turn out to be… well, not. But Abu Dabbab? It's got *potential*. Let's just say, when that giant sea turtle, *actually a GIANT sea turtle*, glided past me… yeah, I may have squealed like a child. And I'm a middle-aged man who loudly complains about the price of coffee. So, yes. Potentially magical.
Here's the thing: it's not Disney-magical. It's natural magic, the kind that makes you go, "Wow, I'm actually *in* this incredible place." But, and this is a big BUT, it's also crowded. Like, *fish-in-a-barrel* crowded at times. So, temper your expectations. You’ll probably see turtles, you *might* see a dugong (I didn't, the jealous beast), and you'll *definitely* see a lot of people in flippers.
What's the deal with the resort itself? Is Malikia as dreamy as the brochure makes it out to be?
Okay, let's talk Malikia. The brochures? Lies. Okay, not *lies*, but definitely… *embellishments*. Think of it as a charming, well-worn friend. It's got good bones, a fantastic location, and the staff are, generally speaking, lovely. But it's not the gleaming, brand-new, Instagram-perfect resort of your dreams.
The rooms? Decent. Clean enough. My shower, however… well, let's just say it had a mind of its own. One minute tropical downpour, the next, a lukewarm trickle. Character, I believe they call it. And the food... mixed bag. Some days, the buffet was an absolute triumph of culinary delights (that lamb!), other days… well, let's just say I spent a lot of time at the pool bar, where they serve the best damn chips in the Red Sea. The cocktails? Hit or miss. The service, though? Top notch. Always a smile, even after I complained about the shower (multiple times).
Overall, it’s a solid base camp for your underwater adventures. Don't expect perfection, expect adventure. Embrace the imperfections. That's where the real fun is.
Seriously, what about the diving and snorkeling? Is it worth it? Because I'm terrified of sharks.
Worth it? ABSOLUTELY. Even for a chicken like me. I'm legitimately terrified of sharks. Like, "nightmares about being eaten by a shark" terrified. Did I see any? Nope. Not a single fin. (And honestly, I’m not complaining).
The snorkeling is incredible. Even if you're not a diver, you can see everything. The water is Crystal clear. The coral is colorful. The *fish*... oh, the fish! I swear, there were so many fish. I saw a clownfish (Nemo!), a parrotfish (colorful!), and something that looked suspiciously like a grumpy old man with fins. Seriously, the marine life is amazing. Be prepared for underwater selfies. You will want to take pictures.
Diving looks equally fantastic, from what I could see from the surface. The dive instructors seemed competent and patient. So, even if you're a nervous Nellie like yours truly, you can still enjoy the underwater world. Just remember your sunscreen (seriously, slap it on every hour!), and maybe bring one of those waterproof phone cases. You will want to document this.
Okay, but what if I’m not a water person? Is there anything else to do?
Look, I'm probably not the best person to ask. I spent 90% of my time underwater or dreaming of being underwater. But, yes, there are other things.
There's the beach, obviously. Good for sunbathing, reading, and generally contemplating the meaning of life (or, you know, just napping). The pool is decent, if a little crowded at times. There are a few shops, selling the usual tourist tat (I succumbed to a t-shirt, sue me). You can book excursions to other nearby attractions – historical stuff, desert trips, that sort of thing. I didn’t do any of that. I was busy communing with the turtles. (They are magnificent creatures, truly.)
Honestly, if you're not a water person, consider carefully if this is the right resort for you. You might end up *really* bored. But hey, more beach space for those of us who love the sea, right?
What about the crowds? You mentioned crowds… are they bad?
Ah, the crowds. Yes, they can be… a *presence*. Peak season? Forget about it. You'll be bumping elbows with everyone. Even in the off-season, Abu Dabbab is popular. The beach is relatively small, and everyone wants a prime spot for snorkeling.
My advice? Go early. Get down to the beach before the hordes descend. That's how you snag a sunbed. Or, embrace the chaos. Make friends. Share your sunscreen. It's all part of the experience. If you want total solitude, this isn't the place. If you enjoy the buzz, and are willing to be patient, it's absolutely manageable.
Honestly? The crowds *were* annoying at times. But then I saw another turtle. And all was forgiven. See a turtle, say goodbye to your bad mood. It's the law, I think.
Is it family-friendly? My kids are… energetic.
Yes, generally speaking, it is. There were a lot of families during my stay. There’s a kids club, a shallow pool, and plenty of opportunities for building sandcastles and generally terrorizing the other guests (I jest, I jest… mostly).
The snorkeling is a huge draw for kids, but make sure they're comfortable in the water. It *can* get a little choppy out there, and you'll want to keep a close eye on them. The staff are friendly and helpful, and there's usually something going on to keep the little ones entertained.
However, that said, if you're looking for a quiet, tranquil escape, be warned. It *can* get noisy. And, honestly, some of the parents seemed to let their kids run wild. But hey, that's family life, isn't it? Just bring earplugs. And a healthy dose of patience.
Anything else I should know? Any "insider tips"?
