If Asmara, with its wide boulevards and colonial buildings, reflects Eritrea's Italian connection, Massawa, full of narrow streets and crumbling Ottoman-style buildings, shows off the country's Arab influence. Though the city was heavily damaged during the recent wars, many of its historic coral-block buildings are being restored. The city is divided into three sections: the island of Massawa (old town and port), the island of Taulud (palace and best hotels) and the mainland (airport, main market and most homes). The principal pastimes in this port city are watersports, deep-sea fishing and lingering in the local bars and restaurants. There is an outdoor movie theater in town that shows fairly new foreign films (including some from the U.S.). Massawa also has a few lively all-night discos.
Just to the north of town are the pristine white sands of Gergussum Beach. There are a few hotels along the beach, and you can rent chairs for lounging. Camel rides are available for a small fee. 75 mi/120 km northeast of Asmara.
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