Egyptian tourist resort hit by blasts

THE EGYPTIAN tourist resort of Taba has been rocked by a series of explosions.

More than 21 people are feared dead, with 19 killed by an explosion at the Hilton hotel in Taba after a vehicle loaded with explosives rammed the hotel.

Tour operators are already fearing the worst for bookings this winter following the blasts.

The news comes as Egypt enjoys a resurgence in popularity following large-scale investment in tourism and Prime Minister Tony Blair and his family chose to visit the country on holiday.

Libra Holidays has only just launched into Taba as a destination, with flights brought forward to start in July this year instead of November due to high demand.

Sales and marketing director Paul Riches said four Libra holidaymakers had been staying at the Hilton, but none were hurt.

“We have spoken to our clients and they are all fine,” said Riches. “But I think this will have an impact on Taba in the short to medium-term. It will be very difficult place to sell this coming winter. UK customers are very resilient but it’s not the sort of news you want to see.”