Six Continents Hotels recently reinforced its presence in Egypt by signing an agreement to manage three prestigious hotel properties in Alexandria, two of which now join the Inter-Continental chain while the third becomes a Holiday Inn Resort.

Raymond Khalife, president, Six Continents Hotels, Middle East and Africa, signed the management agreement with Ahmed Attia, chairman of the Hannovill Egypt Tours Company, the owners of the three hotels.

The Le Metropole Inter-Continental Alexandria and the Windsor Palace Inter-Continental Alexandria are both officially classified as "heritage" properties.

Characterised by period style interiors, these two boutique hotels are within five minutes walking distance of each other at the heart of Old Alexandria, overlooking the Mediterranean.

The Holiday Inn Resort Alexandria is a 20-minutes drive east along the Corniche, and is the city's only international brand hotel property with its own beach.

Ten minutes from the airport and overlooking Alexandria's eastern harbour, Le Metropole Inter-Continental Alexandria was built in 1902 by Greek and Italian architects. It offers 66 classic period-style rooms and suites, an all-day restaurant serving French and Middle Eastern cuisine, a multi-purpose function hall and a business centre.

The Windsor Inter-Continental Alexandria, built in 1906, has 76 rooms and suites. One of two restaurants, the King Edward, offers gourmet dining, and extends to a street-front café overlooking the harbour.

Situated on Alexandria's longest beach, within the private community of Maamoura, the Holiday Inn Resort Alexandria is surrounded by tropical pools and palm trees. Its lush parks contain children's playgrounds, and a health club with a heated indoor pool, outdoor pool, steam room, Jacuzzi and fitness centre.

The hotel has two restaurants and a café, and also offers a multi-purpose function room.