Police: on the first street south of the comiche, 2 blocks east of Alexandria St. (tel. 93 30 63). Open 24 hrs.

Getting around Marsa Matrouh is easy as pie. Most places are only a 10-minute walk, but if you enjoy the sight of suppurating ass-inine sores, flag a donkey cart, or caretto. As always, don’t subsidi2e those owners who abuse their poor beasts. (Anywhere in town LEI.) For merry jaunts about the area, rent a bicycle from the stand next to the Rady Hotel, on the comiche four blocks east of Alexandria St. (LEI per hour; bargain for long-term rental).

Because Marsa Matrouh is so close to Libya, there is a noticeable military presence in the surrounding areas. While unnecessary within the city limits (unless you want to rent a bike), it’s wise to carry your passport with you outside of town and on the more obscure beaches to avoid being hassled by officers on power trips. There may also be a passport check on the road into town.