After a few boring, typically predictable nights in the standard run of the mill beach hotels that most tourists in Dahab go to.. we luckily stumbled onto a complete gem... Alf Leila.

From the outside Alf Leila has an intriguing design, the German bakery (Great bread) is next to the reception entrance and the entire design is befitting of the unique experience to come. When we saw the room (Vanilla, one of eight uniquely differently themed bedrooms) we were even more happy, it was designed in a way that befitted a Arabian princess, and all three of us fitted in their comfortably enjoying a superb shower, enchanting beds and the wonderful free fast wireless internet at an extremely reasonable price.

After traveling quite a while (most of Africa, SE asia and all of Europe) in my youth, I had worked in the craphole that is Kuwait for 2 years, with no breaks, and anyone that knows Kuwait, knows you need a break after 2 months.... Alf Leila really gave me this and the traveling bug again, it also fulfilled a huge spot missing in my life, a "zest" for it.. from meeting like minded people while having authenticity delivered at a time convenient to me(beduin supper is highly recommended, also the sheesha with good Rose wine)

Sherif and Andy were always at hand with whatever we needed and continued making us feel at "home".

This I believe is the essence of an experience when traveling, and can be described as the epitome of the host in his obligations to his guest.. If this magically feeling is obtained, then "khalas" the experience is won and we all left revitalized. We all felt after 2 days that Alf Lelia was even our place... with the ambiance from the architecture and classy decor, it was also a proud place to call home, away from the intruding madness of the beach boulevard.

I will undoubtedly return to this hotel, and I left with great experiences, good friends and a happy demeanor..

5 STAR EXPERIENCE

Toby

we spent few days at Alf Laila, and we do recommend it to any person who is looking for a nice, decent place to relax and enjoy.

value for money

This is our second stay in Alf Leila. We found this hotel to be a special experience on its own right with its authentic decor and charming ambience. The management has changed but the same personal service is there. Andy always asks if everything is ok.

We loved the piazza lounge/reception area in the middle of the hotel where all the guests get to meet each other and it feels like a small family. The wireless Internet connection in the Bakery and hotel piazza is very useful. Also there's a diving centre in the hotel which is one of the main activities in Dahab.

The German Bakery in the hotel is a blessing in Dahab, where good food is available in some five star hotels and a very few restaurants (Ask about Eldorado Italian Restaurant).

The rooms and bathrooms are Arabian style, local materials with a simplistic colorful design. The mattresses are in pure Egyptian cotton which are good for the back, but can get getting used to at first if you are accustomed to very soft beddings.

When we went in March 2007 we had the Mint room with AC but didn't need to open the AC at all. But this time in May 2008 we had the Safran Suit and we used the AC especially in non-windy days.

Alf Leila is not by the sea-side and rooms do not have a view. It is however a five min walking distance from the sea-side promenade where shops and restaurants are.

Finally; what we saw on their website is what we experienced. We were a little worried last year for it to be too good to be true. For us it was very good value for money.

We stayed three nights in Alf laila and we loved it. Very nice little hotel, beautifully decorated and friendly staff. The room was nice despite the hot water didn't last long enough for showering (electric heater) Andy was helpful in answering any questions we had (regarding transportation, places to go, etc.) and the food at the bakery (part of the hotel) is delicious. Overall we had a good time and would definitely stay there again.

Mags and Jenn
Toronto, Canada