Known as the "jewel of the Sinai", Sharm el-Sheikh has become one of Egypt's most popular resorts with its year round sun and breathtaking scenery. Small intimate hotels, modern in design yet blending with the surroundings of an azure blue sea and magnificent mountain background, rub shoulders with larger hotel complexes belonging to international chains all along the coastline. It is an important center for many different water sports, the most popular being scuba diving and snorkeling amidst the amazing underwater scenery. Its marina is used by private yachts and sailing boats, and cruise ships and ferries also dock here. There are facilities for camel, horse riding and desert safaris. Sharm is also a center for congresses and several peace conferences have been held here.