|
Visitors to our beautiful peninsula often inquire as to the origin of the name "Soma." We have no definitive answer, only a number of possible "theories," all of which are cloaked in mystery.
The phrase "Soma Bay" was coined recently by the developers of the Peninsula. Egyptian maps and Admiralty Charts alike instead refer to the peninsula as "Ras Abou Soma". In Arabic, "Ras" means cape, headland or peninsula; "Abou" means father. So far so good? But what about "Soma"?
We have been able to identify only limited references to this word.
 Soma is a plant, grown in the Indian sub-continent, which is reputed to have hallucinogenic properties. It gained wider recognition in the nineteen-thirties with the publishing of Aldous Huxley's novel entitled "Brave New World". This novel describes a futuristic society whose members are kept in a state of controlled well-being through the administration of "Soma," from cradle to death.
So what is the connection between this plant and the Peninsula of Ras Abou Soma? One theory draws on the fact that there exists another bay not far from Ras Abou Soma which, curiously enough, is called "Sahl Hashish" (literally the coast, or bay, of hashish). So the theory goes that many decades ago this general coastline was the gateway by which drugs entered into Egypt from the Indian sub-continent.
Another theory is that the natural beauty of Soma Bay instills in the visitor a sense of peace and well being akin to the effects of the Soma plant. A "Brave New World" derived from nature, and not from the artificial consumption of a hallucinogenic drug!
A third theory derives from the fact that the "black sand of Safaga" found on the shores of Soma Bay, and originating from sea grass and algae, is known to have beneficial effects on both body and mind. A marine version of the Soma plant in more benign form. The black sand is also a precursor to the various algotherapy treatments available at Les Thermes Marins des Cascades.
Lastly, legend has it that many, many years ago a person named "Sheikh Abou Soma" lived on the Peninsula; and, that he was so taken by its beauty, that he asked to be buried here at the very tip of the Peninsula which took his name.
So, take your pick. Our preference is for the second theory, and our vision is that Soma Bay will offer to all of its visitors and residents a Brave New World... a sense of well-being and a passion for life inspired by the Peninsula's many natural attractions.
|
