On the southern tip of the Negev Desert, nestling up to the Red Sea, lies Israel’s resort of Eilat.
As a winter sun destination, the temperature rarely drops below 21C, making it perfect for winter sunbathers.
The resort rose from the desert 50 years ago and has become a shoppers’ paradise with air-conditioned shopping malls and upmarket fashion boutiques. Jewellery and craft shops are worth a look. Eilat is cheaper than other areas of the country because it is a duty-free zone with most items free of VAT.
To complement the beach lifestyle, deep-sea fishing is a favoured option, with local fishing crews joining trips to add a touch of seasoned advice. Swimming with the dolphins is also popular. Beach pursuits include parasailing and windsurfing. But the Red Sea really lends itself to diving and snorkelling.
Three miles south of Eilat lies Coral Beach. You can see fantastic corals and brightly coloured fish through glass-bottomed boats or take a stroll in the underwater observatory.
The nightlife in Eilat is busy and you can chose traditional Israeli dishes at House Falafel or dine at the popular Blue Fish seafood restaurant in the city centre. Most tastes are catered for in Eilat, with American, Mexican, Thai, Chinese and Italian restaurants easy to find.
There is a good mix of pubs, bars and nightclubs, including the Satchmo Jazz bar or the more sedate atmosphere of the Yacht pub.
Superstar Holidays offers a Desert Trailblazer package from ú613 at the Sport Hotel Eilat. Superstar also offers dive packages based at the Ambassador resort hotel.