ZOUNi Beach

Wedding Day

We Are Getting Married!

We are so excited to celebrate our wedding with you in Gouna! Gouna means a lot to us and we couldn’t imagine any other place to bring together our family and friends from around the world. This website is your guide for everything leading up to the big day, from the weekend schedule to travel tips and local recommendations. We hope it makes planning easy and adds to the excitement of celebrating with us in Egypt!

Our Wedding

Your presence is the greatest gift we could ask for

...but if you’d like to contribute something extra, we’ve set up a honeymoon fund and a registry, which contains items we would love in our home. Online Registry You can find our registry with suggested gifts by clicking <a href="https://www.myregistry.com/wedding-registry/mignon-wagner-and-abdalla-rehab-new-cairo-cairo/5328832/giftlist" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. Honeymoon Fund Below are the details:- EURO/USD: Mignon Wagner, IBAN NL50 REVO 0509 2331 99, BIC REVONL22- EGP: Abdalla Rehab IBAN EG070010010900000100036627063

The Registry

Q & A

Photo Timeline

🥂💐 Your Gouna Travel Guide 

If you’re traveling from outside Egypt, we’re especially grateful that you're making it all the way to Gouna. We think you’ll love it here! El Gouna (most people just say "Gouna") is a coastal town loved by Egyptians and foreigners alike. Located right by the Red Sea, people love to come for the weekend or during public holidays to enjoy the lagoons, marinas, beaches and beautiful sunsets. To make planning easy, we’ve put together this guide on how to get here, where to stay and what to do while you’re in Egypt. Whether you join us for the wedding weekend, or turn it into a longer holiday, we hope this helps you make the most of your trip.

🏨 Accommodation in Gouna

🏨 Hotel 

Here are our recommended hotels, with a little something about each one. We’ve included typical prices for a double room (2 adults) to help you plan: €60 – €100 per nightCreek Hotel: A cozy boutique hotel overlooking the lagoon, offering simple, modern rooms at great value. Perfect if you want to be close to the Marina without breaking the budget.G Cribs Hotel Apartments: Stylish serviced apartments with kitchens and living spaces. Great for longer stays or if you prefer a self-catering setup, while still having access to a pool and central location. €100 – €130 per nightTurtles Inn: Small 3-star hotel in a great spot directly on the Marina.Captains Inn: Right next to Turtles Inn, also 3-star, with the same unbeatable Marina location.Mövenpick: Classic El Gouna resort with pools, spa, and beachfront.Mosaique: Stylish and close to the Marina.Fanadir: Next to Mosaique, another good option with a cozy feel.DoubleTree by Hilton: A brand-new Hilton property near the new Marina. €130 – €200 per nightCook’s Club: Adults-only with a vibrant atmosphere, pool parties, and stylish design.Sheraton Miramar: Designed by Michael Graves, spread across lagoons and islands.Three Corners Ocean View: Popular adults-only option right on the Marina.Steigenberger Golf Resort: Surrounded by golf courses, quiet and green.Ancient Sands: Resort &amp; residences with a mix of hotel and apartment-style living.Sultan Bey: Boutique-style hotel with a central lagoon location. €300 – €400 per nightThe Chedi: Ultra-luxury, Asian-inspired design, outstanding service.Casa Cook: Boutique luxury with a bohemian-chic vibe.La Maison Bleue: Palatial and opulent boutique hotel for a truly special stay. You can book them through <a href="https://www.booking.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Booking.com</a> or via the <a href="https://www.elgouna.com/hotels" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">El Gouna website</a>.

Whether you’d like a full-service resort experience or your own private apartment or villa, El Gouna has plenty of options for every style and budget.

🏡 Rent Your Own Place

If you’d prefer more space or a home-like feel, renting a villa or apartment is a great option. Perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone who wants their own pool and kitchen. Checkout Airbnb https://www.airbnb.com/el-gouna-hurghada-egypt/stays Tip: Villas near Abu Tig Marina or Downtown put you close to restaurants and nightlife, while lagoon villas are peaceful and scenic.

🚖 Moving Around in Gouna

🛺 Getting around is easy with Tuk Tuks which are available everywhere. You can call anytime through one of the numbers below or ask at your hotel desk (recommended). Tuk Tuks have a fixed rate of around 50–60 EGP per trip (about €1). Contact numbers: +201282000401 / +201282000402Working hours: 7AM-4AM 🚖 If you prefer a car, you can also call a normal taxi. Ubers are not available. Checkout Londoncab (or download the mobile app) : https://londoncabegypt.com/ 🛵 If you’re more adventurous, you can rent a scooter or ATV. Checkout Crystal Bike :https://www.facebook.com/crystalbikeeg/https://www.instagram.com/crystalbikeeg/?hl=en

🍴  Restaurants in Gouna

Here are some of our favorite restaurants (by cuisine) and feel free to check out other ones at https://www.elgouna.com/things-to-do/dining African: Bongoya&nbsp;Thai: White Elephant&nbsp;Japanese: Barten&nbsp;Mexican/Peruvian: Chicha&nbsp;Italian: Chez Chantal, Zia Amelia &amp; Sotto Sopra&nbsp;Indian: Tandoor&nbsp;Greek: Athena&nbsp;Egyptian: Tamr Henna&nbsp;Vietnamese: Saigon&nbsp;International: Pier 88International: Smokery&nbsp;Fish: Fish Market&nbsp;Swiss: The Swiss House&nbsp;Burger: Le Garage&nbsp;Fried Chicken: Soul Chicken&nbsp;Morning/Evening Nice Restobar: Villa Coconut&nbsp;Breakfast/Brunch: Malus Deli&nbsp;Breakfast /Brunch: Bagel Tree&nbsp;Egyptian Breakfast (traditional): Zomba&nbsp;Egyptian Breakfast (elevated): Eish Baladi

Things to do in Gouna 

Activities🏄‍♂️&nbsp;Kitesurfing:&nbsp;Gouna is a kitesurfing paradise! Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, there are several camps and schools where you can take lessons or rent gear.🤿&nbsp;Scuba diving:&nbsp;We both love diving! Even if you’re not a certified diver, you can discover the beautiful Red Sea underwater world with an instructor in a discovery dive. If you’re a certified diver, we highly recommend a trip to Marsa Alam for some of the region’s best dive sites. Let us know in advance — we’re happy to help organize it (and might even join you!)🌊&nbsp; Sliders Cable Park: One of the largest Olympic-standard cable parks in the world — perfect for wakeboarding and watersports lovers.🐎&nbsp;Horseback riding:&nbsp;Ride along the beach or through the desert. Again, if you don’t have any experience horseback riding that’s no problem, they can go as slow as you like.🏍️ Motocross: Gouna has dedicated motocross tracks where you can test your skills or take beginner lessons.🏎️ Go-karting: Yep, Gouna’s got a go-kart track!⛳ Golfing: There are two excellent golf courses in El Gouna, with beautiful lagoon and desert views.🚙 ATV desert safaris: Explore the desert dunes on an ATV (quad bike). Guided tours take you off-road through mountains and sand valleys often ending with a sunset view. Relaxation🛥️ Private Boat Day: Spend the day on the Red Sea with your own rented private boat around the islands. Swim and sunbathe in the morning, then cruise back at sunset.💆 Spas: Gouna has many hotels offering spa services where you can treat yourself to a massage, facial, sauna or full spa day. You don’t need to be staying at the hotel — just call ahead to book.💅 Salons: Egypt is known for very affordable beauty treatments compared to Europe. If you’re in the mood for a fresh blow-dry, manicure or pedicure, Gouna has several lovely salons to choose from.🏖️ Beach clubs: Spend the day at one of Gouna’s many beaches, from relaxed local spots to lively beach clubs.🍹 Drinks by the marina: Enjoy a coffee or cocktail by the Marina watching the yachts and the sunset. If you need any help booking just let us know!

🌍 Travel Tips 

🛫 Getting to Gouna

You can either fly directly into Hurghada Airport (recommended) or arrive via Cairo International Airport. If you fly into Hurghada Airport (HRG):Gouna is just a 30-minute drive away. We recommend booking your transfer in advance — either through your hotel, LondonCab or Booking.com London Cabs are usually around €30 one-way. Checkout LondonCab (or download the mobile app) : https://londoncabegypt.com/ Transfers via Booking.com usually start at around €15 one way (Sometimes even lower ). If you fly into Cairo International Airport (CAI):From Cairo you have several options to reach Gouna: Option 1: Domestic FlightTake a 45-minute flight from Cairo to Hurghada, followed by a 30-minute taxi ride to Gouna (check the airport transfer guidance above).You can book your flight via Egyptair.com or Aircairo.com.Domestic flights are regular and priced in the range of €35 to €70. Option 2: BusTake a comfortable 5-hour ride with GoBus• Business Class: ~680 EGP / person (approx. €12)• First Class: ~1,100 EGP / person (approx. €20) Book your trip via : https://go-bus.com/en Option 3: Private Car with DriverA scenic 4-hour drive through the desert and mountains. Checkout LondonCab (or download the mobile app) : https://londoncabegypt.com/ London Cab costs around €100. If you’re traveling with others, this can actually be the most convenient and cost-efficient option. Driving in Egypt can feel like an extreme sport — we strongly recommend hiring a car with a driver.

🛂 Visas & Arrival 

VisasMost guests from Europe, the US, Canada and many other countries can simply get a visa on arrival or an electronic visa (eVisa) beforehand. If you’re unsure, check the Egypt e-Visa portal by searching for your nationality. To get a visa on arrival, you need $25 in cash ( you can pay in $ or € ), with which you can then get a visa sticker for the immigration officer to put into your passport. You can buy visas at the banks that are present right before the immigration check. It does not matter to which one you go, so choose the queue that is shortest (– a talent Mignon has not yet mastered!)This whole process shouldn't take you more than 10 minutes. You can also apply online for eVisa in advance, which you then just show to the immigration officer.Egypt e-Visa Portal: https://visa2egypt.gov.eg/ Immigration cardsOn your flight, the flight attendants will likely hand out a small A5 card asking you to fill in your personal details and reason for travel. Take this with you to show alongside your passport and visa when you enter the country. If the cards are not handed out during the flight you can find them on the high tables in the entrance hall just before immigration queues.Either way, remember to bring a pen on your flight (– a talent Mignon has also not yet mastered!) Customs ClearanceOnce you get through passport control and after you get your luggage, you'll have to put your luggage through a scanner just before exiting the airport at Customs clearance. Taxis and SalespeopleAfter that, you will find salespeople both inside and just outside of the airport from tourism and transportation companies asking if you need a taxi or transportation. This can feel a little pushy when you're not used to it, but a calm "no thank you" or "shokran" (Arabic for thank you) will do to let them know you're not interested.We highly recommend booking your airport transfers in advance, as it will avoid any unnecessary negotiations (or misunderstandings) with taxi drivers. Airport Help UshersYou will find men in burgundy polo shirts by the airport entrance and inside who will offer to help you with your luggage (mainly at the baggage belt). If you'd like to handle your luggage yourself, again, a friendly "no thank you" or "shokran" will do. If you'd like them to help you, a small cash tip of 100-200EGP( €2-4 ) will be appreciated.

☀️ Weather in March

Expect sunny days where the temperature ranges between 25 and 28 degrees (77–82°F). Evenings are cooler, about 15–18°C (59–64°F), so bring a light jacket or jumper. The sun is stronger than you think, so be careful not to get sunburnt!

🌸 Culture

HospitalityEgyptians are famously hospitable so don’t be surprised if shopkeepers offer you tea or locals want to have a friendly chat. It’s genuine and part of the culture. Friendliness People are very friendly and helpful; don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. Even if their English isn’t perfect, they’ll always do their best with a smile :) Greeting Style:A friendly “Salam Alleikom” (hello) or “Shukran” (thank you) goes a long way. Egyptians love when foreigners try a little Arabic. Time &amp; PaceLife in Egypt runs on “Egyptian time” which means things can be a little more relaxed and flexible than in Europe or the US. Being German you might develop an allergic reaction, but you're just going to have to live with that 😉 Music &amp; CelebrationsEgyptians love music, dancing and celebrating. Don’t be shy if locals try to include you! Alcohol:Alcohol is legal in Egypt. In Gouna (and other tourist areas), it’s served freely in restaurants, hotels and bars. Licensed shops like Drinkies also sell Egyptian alcohol. In Cairo, alcohol is available in bars and some restaurants, but not everywhere so best to check in advance if it matters to you.

👗 How to Dress

• Gouna Gouna is relaxed and international. Swimwear, shorts and summer dresses are the norm. Basically, there are no rules here :) • Cairo For dinners, bars or fancier spots, feel free to dress as you would in any major city.For sightseeing and walking around downtown, overall modesty is appreciated. Women will feel most comfortable wearing bottoms or skirts that reach the knees, and tops that don't show cleavage.

💡 Local Etiquette

TippingTipping is common (around 5-10% of the bill) . If you go for shisha ( hookah), additional tip for the shisha guy is common around 50 EGP ( $1 / €1). BargainingIn local markets and small shops in tourist areas, bargaining is normal and part of the fun- (even for Egyptians). Always do it with a smile — it’s about friendly interaction, not confrontation. Friday ConsiderationFriday is the main holy day in Egypt (like Sunday in Europe). Some shops may open later in the morning, but in El Gouna and other resort towns you’ll hardly notice.

🍴 Food & Water

• Everyone drinks bottled water in Egypt. We dont recommend drinking from the tap water, some egyptians do but we'd rather avoid any risks . • Food is safe in Gouna — no need to worry. • In some local spots in Cairo you may find street food doesn't quite agree with you. • If you feel a bit adventurous , we recommend buying "Antinal" from any pharmacy when you arrive just in case ( to take after a meal) . It works like a charm and more importantly its Mignon tested and approved ✅&nbsp; • Fruits are delicious in Egypt! March is a great time for oranges, mandarins, strawberries, bananas and pomegranates. They truly taste much better than in Europe so make sure you try them all if you can! • Here are some local Egyptian dishes you must try:KoshariHawashiEgyptian ShawermaFul (Beans)Taameya ( Falafel)

💳 Currency & Payments

• The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). You won’t need to stress about bringing cash from home — there are plenty of exchange offices in Egypt. Tip: airport exchange counters usually charge slightly higher fees than those in town. • ATMs are widely available across Egypt, and all hotels and most restaurants accept credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and Apple Pay).Amex is rarely accepted, so best to bring an alternative card. • For tips, and small shops, it’s handy to have carry some Egyptian Pounds in cash.

📶 Internet & Connectivity

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes and restaurants in Gouna. If you want 5G coverage, you can buy a local SIM card at the airport from Vodafone, Orange or WE. This is often much cheaper than getting a foreign roaming bundle from your existing service provider.

🧳 What to Pack

Here are a few essentials to make sure you’re comfortable and ready for both the wedding and your time in Egypt: ☀️ Clothing &amp; Sun ProtectionBring light, breathable clothes for daytime, swimwear and cover-ups for the beach or pool and flip flops or sandals for walking around resorts. Also bring sunglasses, SPF50+ sunscreen and a hat (yes, really). The Red Sea sun is strong. Even frequent travellers to the south of Europe and Asia will find the sun in Egypt to be stronger than they are used to. 👗 Wedding OutfitsCheck out our Q&amp;A for the dress code. 🔌 Practical Extras- Egypt uses 220V with Type C/F Plugs, so the same as Europe. If you're coming from the UK or the US, bring a travel adapter.- Small backpack or tote bag for day trips.- Reusable water bottle (to refill only with bottled water). 📸 Optional FunA camera or GoPro for diving/kitesurfing/boat trips!

Your Travel Guide 

Gouna Guide 

🌴  Extend Your Stay

While we can’t wait to celebrate with you in Gouna, we’d also love for you to use this opportunity to explore more of Egypt. Here are some of your options: 1.Stay longer in Gouna: Enjoy a few extra days of sun, sea, kitesurfing, diving or simply relaxing. 2.Discover Cairo : &nbsp;Explore the pyramids, the Sphinx, the new Egyptian Museum (it's gorgeous!) and the beautiful old town. 3.Explore Luxor &amp; Aswan: This is the heart of ancient Egypt, with temples, tombs and the unforgettable Nile cruises. Having a good guide can make all the difference! 💡 Our personal recommendation: Either stay in Gouna, or explore Luxor &amp; Aswan. Cairo is big and can feel a bit hectic for a short trip - but if you can’t wait to see the pyramids and the energy of the city, go for it!

Luxor /Aswan 

For guests who want to extend their trip around the wedding, we recommend a minimum of 4 nights to experience the highlights of Luxor &amp; Aswan. You can combine hotel stays with a Nile cruise for the most complete experience. If you’ll be in Luxor/Aswan before the wedding ✈️&nbsp;Fly into Aswan🛏️&nbsp;Spend 1 night in Aswan to enjoy the Nile islands, - Nubian Museum, and a felucca ride.🚢&nbsp;Board a 3-night Nile cruise to Luxor. Along the way, visit:- Kom Ombo Temple (crocodile god Sobek).- Edfu Temple (Temple of Horus).- Luxor Temple &amp; Karnak Temple (East Bank).- Valley of the Kings &amp; Hatshepsut Temple (West Bank).🚗&nbsp;Disembark in Luxor, then drive 3.5–4 hours to El Gouna for the wedding. If you’ll be in Luxor/Aswan after the wedding✈️&nbsp;Fly into Hurghada for the wedding.🚗&nbsp;Afterward, drive 3.5–4 hours to Luxor.🛏️&nbsp;Spend 1 night in Luxor and visit Luxor Temple &amp; Karnak Temple, or take a sunrise hot-air balloon ride.🚢&nbsp;Board a 3-night Nile cruise to Aswan. Along the way, visit:- Edfu Temple.- Kom Ombo Temple.- Philae Temple in Aswan.🛏️&nbsp;Disembark in Aswan and stay 1 night to enjoy the Nile islands, - Nubian Museum, and a felucca ride.✈️&nbsp;Fly home from Aswan

Cairo 

✈️ Flight Planning  

*If you’ll be in Cairo before the wedding → Fly into Cairo Airport first, then head to Hurghada/Gouna for the wedding, and return home from Hurghada. * If you’ll be in Cairo after the wedding → Fly into Hurghada for the wedding, then continue on to Cairo, and fly home from Cairo Airport.

🚖 Getting Around in Cairo

• Uber is available and the easiest way to get around. If you prefer more luxury and space in the car, you can use LondonCab.• Taxis are everywhere, but fares are often negotiated — stick to Uber.• Private driver with car can be arranged , if you do prefer this please let us know.

Mignon & Abdalla

Mignon & Abdalla

The Registry

Your presence is the greatest gift we could ask for