Within the ruins of Old Shali, in the heart of Siwa, EQI has restored several abandoned and dilapidated homes to create Albabenshal, a village-hotel established for travelers of diverse origins, means and interests.
Here, as in other EQI projects, Siwan master builders led the restoration of these structures using kershef, other Siwan craftsmen provided furnishings and decorations and still others run the ecolodge, generating a range of valuable employment opportunities for the local community.
Even more prominently then Shali Lodge due to its central, historical location, Albabenshal stands as a testament to the principle that kershef construction is worth its investment, environmentally, culturally and financially.
One of the most popular tourist activities in Siwa is the desert safari, arranged by many hotels and independent operators. Climb into a 4-wheel-drive jeep at the top of a towering dune, gaze at the endless plane of sloping dunes, then clutch the seat as you feel the jeep tip into a steep, exhilarating descent. Pause to discover marine fossils imbedded in the sand and rock – leftovers from the Tethys Sea which some 40 to 50 million years ago reached far south of the existing Mediterranean – before coasting down a sandy slope on the back of a sandboard. Excursions also include visits to Siwa’s natural and historical attractions and offer the option to spend the night in a desert tent. Those who do will dine “Abou Mardam” style, on mutton or chicken roasted over charcoal in tins buried under the sand, and sleep soundly under clear desert stars, untainted by the lights of modern civilization.
Here, as in other EQI projects, Siwan master builders led the restoration of these structures using kershef, other Siwan craftsmen provided furnishings and decorations and still others run the ecolodge, generating a range of valuable employment opportunities for the local community.
Even more prominently then Shali Lodge due to its central, historical location, Albabenshal stands as a testament to the principle that kershef construction is worth its investment, environmentally, culturally and financially.
THE MASSERIAS PROMISE