Fodor's Expert Review Badawiya Hotel

Travelers often arrive in Qasr al-Farafra with low expectations, which makes this attractive and comfortable locally owned hotel just north of town a pleasant surprise. The building merges traditional desert architecture with modern standards of cleanliness and comfort. Its 12 two-story, split-level rooms sit under domed ceilings. There are also eight bungalows. All standard rooms come with large comfy beds, clean bathrooms, mosquito nets, and fans or heaters. The suites add air-conditioning and are furnished with local handicrafts. The restaurant-lobby is spread out under a series of white domes and arches opening onto gardens and courtyards. The hotel has arguably the best swimming pool in any of the oases, with a cozy deck.