Sharm el-Sheikh Egypt, The Red Sea Riviera
Located on the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm el-Sheikh is one of the most popular and established holiday destinations in Egypt. Divers of all abilities can explore the crystal waters of the Red Sea which are teeming with marine wildlife. Alternatively venture into the sands on a camel like Lawrence of Arabia for an evening stargazing with the Bedouin. In Sharm Old Market you can catch a bargain on traditional wares and jewellery while enjoying some delicious Egyptian street food or simply kick back in one of the many all-inclusive hotels for ultimate relaxation in the sun.
Underwater adventures
Sharm is known for having some of the best diving spots in the world as its warm waters provide a perfect place for snorkelling and scuba diving. Several hotels in the area include a diving school while excursions and lessons can be booked through others. Ras Mohammed National Park is a popular area offering divers a chance to see the amazing coral reef with its vast array of fascinating sea life. Book a boat trip over to the Tiran Island for a truly memorable day out. The Red Sea is also home to a number of wrecks, including the Thistlegorm, suitable for more experienced divers, where you can still see the contents of this Second World War Merchant Navy ship.
Holidaymakers are not just restricted to fun under the water though as Sharm el-Sheikh is a great place for a number of other water sports including para-sailing and wind-surfing. Kids will enjoy spending a day or more at the waterparks in the area such as Aqua Blue Water Park with over sixty slides and an all-inclusive hotel.
Explore the desert wonders
The waters around the Peninsular aren’t the only place to explore. Operators offer a variety of ways to get out into the desert. Adrenaline junkies can rent a quad bike and race across the dunes while others may prefer to take a jeep tour across to Dahab before heading back to their Sharm hotel. Sand boarding is also a popular activity included some tours.
For the more traditional experience hire a camel or simply trek on foot with a Bedouin guide. Many desert safaris offer the chance to eat dinner with the locals and enjoy some belly dancing and fire eating before heading out onto the sand to marvel at the wonders of the night sky.
The Coloured Canyon with its rainbow rock formations and sand is a must see but the main attraction is of course Mount Sinai. There are a number of all inclusive tour operators in Sharm el-Sheik who will provide meals and private guides as you climb to the top of the mountain as well as day trips to St Catherine’s Monastery.
Cocktail of cultures
Sharm el-Sheikh is made up of five main districts; Na-ama Bay, Sharks Bay, Nabq Bay, Ras Um Sid and Old Sharm. Na-ama Bay is the largest district with a thriving nightlife. Here you’ll find some favourite international restaurants and European themed pubs and bars alongside traditional Bedouin style cafes selling shisha.
The other districts also offer a variety of restaurants and shopping malls which include traditional trade stalls as well as familiar brands. With cinemas, ice rinks and an entertainment centre where you can catch a belly dancing show; Sharm offers tourists no end of things to do of an evening.
For a more authentic taste of Middle Eastern life, head over to port-side Old Sharm with where you’ll find markets to haggle in and excellent sea food restaurants to enjoy.
If you just fancy a quiet night in though, never fear, as the majority of hotels in Sharm el-Sheikh are all inclusive providing great value to guests, particularly those staying in areas further out in Sharks Bay where there is a smaller selection of restaurants.
Beach lovers’ dream
With its white sandy beaches, blue waters and hot summers Sharm el-Sheikh is the perfect place to lie back, relax and soak up the sunshine. Even in the spring and autumn temperatures range from the mid-twenties upwards making this a great spot for the sun worshippers. Many of the hotels also have private access to the palm tree lined shore as well as offering parasols and sunbeds. With a chilled out atmosphere and beach side restaurants they are very popular with families during the day while at night they come alive with music for a beach parties run by local clubs.
Na-ama Bay is the best bet for swimmers who want to jump straight into the sea for a dip while in other neighbourhoods you may have a short walk along a pier to get just past the reefs from where you can reach the best snorkelling spots. The average sea temperature is in the mid-twenties so taking a dip here is always a pleasant experience.
