Sometimes, life can get hectic. So it’s important to unwind regularly – and in the Middle East, there’s no better place than Sharm El-Sheikh.
Here, in the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea, you can swim, snorkel, SCUBA dive… or simply soak up the sun.
Let’s explore Sharm El-Sheikh together.
Getting There
Dozens of airlines service Sharm El-Sheikh during the winter season. But for some strange reason, there are no direct flights from Dubai.
Fortunately, you can make quick connections through hubs like Kuwait City or Cairo. To save cash, we suggest booking with Jazeera Airways.
As a budget airline, they offer more affordable fares than their competition. Of course, this means many bells & whistles are absent, but some add-ons are available from Jazeera Airways.
You will need transportation on arrival, as the international airport sits 18 kilometres outside Sharm El-Sheikh. However, we do NOT recommend getting a taxi, as they are notorious for charging inflated fares.
Instead, arrange a shuttle with your chosen accommodation. For the cost of a taxi (or less), you can have a more comfortable experience.
Where To Stay
In Sharm, there are options for all budgets. If you’re watching your pennies, you can book holiday suites for as little as 230 AED per week.
But if you want to stay at a proper all-inclusive resort, you’ll need to spend a bit more. Sharm El-Sheikh has tons of these accommodations – for example, Amar Sina Boutique Egyptian Village, a top-rated resort on Booking.com, can be booked for just over 1,000 AED per week.
At those prices, though, certain amenities may be lacking. So if you have mid-range tastes, go with a place like the Pickalbatros Aqua Blu Resort. This hotel is family-friendly and has 60+ water slides + eight different pools. They also boast a spa, five restaurants, and access to a private beach.
And if money is no object, we recommend staying at the Steigenberger Alcazar. On its exclusive private beach, it’s just you and fellow guests – no interlopers allowed! On their property, you’ll enjoy amenities like tennis courts, a billiards room, three fine restaurants, and 24-hour room service.
What To Do
Sharm El-Sheikh sits on the Gulf of Aqaba. This body of water is known worldwide for its vibrant marine life. So if you’re an avid diver or snorkeler… prepare to spend DAYS exploring its coral reefs.
But if you’re short on time, book a dive trip to Tiran or Ras Mohammed. Waters from the Gulf of Aqaba and the Gulf of Suez mix together here, attracting massive schools of fish, dolphins, barracudas, and sharks.
On land, explore the sands of the Sinai Peninsula. With experienced guides, you can go on camel treks, horseback rides, or dune buggy excursions in Sharm’s desert interior.
Among the dunes, enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner. And if you’re outdoorsy, we recommend camping, as the Sinai Peninsula’s lack of light pollution will reveal the brilliance of its night sky.
Want to stick closer to your hotel? Take a quick day trip to Sharm’s Old Town. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by the Al Sahaba Mosque, a spectacular Ottoman-style masjid.
But after you’ve got your pictures, get out your wallet. You’ll find an extensive market here, selling everything from everyday essentials to touristy souvenirs.
Where To Eat/Drink
If you booked an all-inclusive resort, most meals will be had on its premises. That said, Sharm El-Sheikh offers numerous spots to sample authentic Egyptian food.
In Sharm’s Old Town, enjoying a meal at El Masrien is a must. Well into the night, this joint serves Egyptian BBQ standards like kofta and stuffed duck.
Want to experience Egyptian food but in a high-end establishment? Book a table at El Kababgy. Order the mixed grill, and you’ll get various delicious meats to sample.
End your day with a few drinks at Buddha Bar. Skilled mixologists craft the cocktails here – their creations aren’t cheap, but they’re well worth the cost.
Find Peace & Relaxation In Sharm El-Sheikh
Sharm El-Sheikh exists in a different realm – one where your day-to-day life is a million miles away. If you need a break, a holiday here will leave you refreshed and relaxed.
