Why Sharm el-Sheikh Should Be Your Next Vacation Destination
Sharm el-Sheikh is an Egyptian coastal town located at the southernmost point of the Sinai Peninsula. The town has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times and has been influenced over time by different cultures.
Millions of tourists travel to Sharm el-Sheikh every year, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Egypt.
Along with its rich history and culture, Sharm el-Sheikh is renowned for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, crystal-clear seas, vibrant marine life, clear waterways, and sandy shores.
10 Things To Do at Sharm el-Sheikh
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving Sharm el-Sheikh has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal-clear waters and soft sandy shores. It is famous for its amazing diving and snorkeling spots such as Ras Mohammed National Park, Tiran Island, and the Straits of Tiran where you can swim alongside turtles, dolphins, and colorful coral reefs.
Climbing Mount Sinai The sacred mountain of Mount Sinai also called Jebel Musa, is where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments. You can climb to the top and watch the magnificent sunrise while on a guided tour.
Visit Naama Bay With its long stretch of sandy beaches, restaurants, and stores, Naama Bay is a popular tourist destination in Sharm el-Sheikh. Take a leisurely walk along the beach or take part in some water sports.
Explore Old Town Sharm el-Sheikh’s Old Town offers a glimpse into the traditional Egyptian way of life. Explore the local markets, buy souvenirs, and enjoy authentic Egyptian cuisine.
Visit Ras Um Sid Ras Um Sid is a popular snorkeling and diving spot located on the outskirts of Sharm el-Sheikh. The area is known for its stunning coral reefs and marine life.
Discover SOHO Square Enjoy live music, dance performances, and other cultural shows at SOHO Square a modern entertainment complex in Sharm el-Sheikh.
Visit Aqua Blu Water Park Aqua Blu Water Park is a family-friendly water park in Sharm el-Sheikh, featuring water slides, a full-service spa, and private beach access.
Visit St. Catherine’s Monastery St. Catherine’s Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the foot of Mount Sinai. It is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world and houses valuable religious artifacts.
Go on a Camel Safari A camel safari is a unique way to explore the desert landscape of Sharm el-Sheikh. Take a guided tour to see the beautiful sunset and enjoy traditional Bedouin hospitality.
Go Hiking and Biking The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including desert hikes, and quad biking.
Is it safe to visit Sharm el-Sheikh?
Yes, Sharm el-Sheikh is generally considered safe for tourists. The Egyptian government takes the safety and security of visitors very seriously, and the town has a high level of security measures in place to ensure the safety of tourists.
However, as with any tourist destination, it is important to take certain precautions to stay safe. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when visiting Sharm el-Sheikh:
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
Keep your valuables, such as cash and passport, in a safe place, and do not leave them unattended.
Only use licensed taxis and avoid unlicensed transportation, such as motorbikes or tuk-tuks.
Respect the local customs and culture, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Follow the advice of local authorities and security personnel.
Check the latest travel advisories from your embassy or government before traveling to Egypt.
In summary, while Sharm el-Sheikh is generally safe for tourists, it is important to take certain precautions and stay alert to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
When is the best time to visit Shark el-Sheikh?
The best time to visit Sharm el-Sheikh is during the winter months, from November to March when the weather is mild and comfortable. During this time, the temperatures range from around 68°F (20°C) to 77°F (25°C), making it ideal for outdoor activities, such as diving, snorkeling, and sightseeing. The water temperature is also pleasant during this time, making it perfect for swimming and water sports.
The summer months, from April to October, can be very hot, with temperatures reaching over 104°F (40°C). It can be uncomfortable to be outdoors during the day, and the water temperature can be quite warm for some visitors. However, if you don’t mind the heat, the summer months can be a good time to visit as there are fewer tourists and lower hotel rates.
Luxury Hotels & Resorts
Sharm el-Sheikh has a range of luxury hotels and resorts that offer world-class amenities and services including private beaches, world-class spas, and fine dining restaurants.
Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh This is a stunning beachfront resort located on a private stretch of the Red Sea and features an infinity pool, spa, fitness center, and a range of dining options. The rooms and suites are spacious and elegantly furnished, with private balconies overlooking the sea.
Rixos Premium Seagate This all-inclusive resort offers luxurious rooms and suites, a private beach, and a range of activities, including a water park, spa, and multiple swimming pools. The resort also features several restaurants and bars serving a wide range of international cuisine.
Royal Savoy Sharm El Sheikh This elegant resort is located on the beach and offers a range of luxurious rooms and suites, all featuring private balconies. The resort has several swimming pools, a private beach, a spa, and a range of dining options.
Jaz Mirabel Resort This all-inclusive resort is located in the Nabq Bay area and features luxurious rooms and suites, several swimming pools, a private beach, and a range of dining options. The resort also offers a spa, fitness center, and a range of activities, including water sports and tennis.
Barcelo Tiran Sharm Resort This luxurious resort is located in the Nabq Bay area and features elegant rooms and suites, several swimming pools, a private beach, and a range of dining options. The resort also offers a spa, fitness center, and a range of activities, including diving and snorkeling.
Budget-friendly Hotels & Resorts
Some budget-friendly hotels to consider when planning your stay in Sharm el-Sheikh include:
Coral Hills Resort Sharm El Sheikh This all-inclusive resort offers a variety of amenities and activities, including a private beach, outdoor pools, and a spa. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the rates are reasonable.
Aqua Hotel Resort and Spa This budget-friendly hotel is located near the beach and offers an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the rates include breakfast.
Falcon Naama Star Hotel This hotel is located in the popular Naama Bay area and offers a pool, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. The rooms are basic but clean and comfortable, and the rates are affordable.
Otium Hotel Aloha This all-inclusive hotel is located in the Nabq Bay area and offers a private beach, a pool, and a fitness center. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the rates are reasonable.
Tiran Island Hotel This budget-friendly hotel is located near the airport and offers a pool, a restaurant, and a bar. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the rates include breakfast.
Lesser known facts about Sharm el-Sheikh
Sharm el-Sheikh has a rich history, natural beauty, and a vibrant culture that many people may not know about. Here are some lesser-known facts about Sharm el-Sheikh that many people may not know:
Sharm el-Sheikh was once a small fishing village Before it became a popular tourist destination, Sharm el-Sheikh was a small fishing village on the Red Sea coast.
It is home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef The coral reef off the coast of Sharm el-Sheikh is home to a diverse array of marine life and is the world’s second-largest barrier reef, after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.
It is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling Sharm el-Sheikh is one of the best places in the world for diving and snorkeling, with clear waters and abundant marine life.
The town has a high level of security Sharm el-Sheikh is a very safe tourist destination, with a high level of security measures in place to ensure the safety of visitors.
It has a vibrant nightlife Sharm el-Sheikh has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, nightclubs, and restaurants open until the early hours of the morning.
It is a gateway to the Sinai Peninsula Sharm el-Sheikh is the main gateway to the Sinai Peninsula, which offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain climbing, and desert safaris.
What to Pack
Here are some essential items to pack for a vacation at Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt:
Lightweight clothing Pack light, breathable clothing, such as cotton or linen, to stay cool in the hot weather.
Sun protection Bring sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, a hat, and a lightweight scarf to protect your skin from the sun’s strong rays.
Swimwear Don’t forget to pack swimwear, as Sharm el-Sheikh is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Snorkeling or diving gear If you plan to go snorkeling or diving, consider bringing your own gear, such as a snorkel, fins, and mask.
Comfortable shoes Pack comfortable shoes for walking or hiking, as well as sandals or flip-flops for the beach.
Insect repellent Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent in some areas, so bring insect repellent to protect yourself.
Medications Bring any necessary medications, as well as a first-aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses.
Camera Sharm el-Sheikh is a picturesque destination, so don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture your memories.
Electrical adapters Egypt uses a different type of electrical plug than many other countries, so bring an adapter to charge your devices.
Cash and credit cards Bring a mix of cash and credit cards, as some smaller vendors may not accept credit cards.
What to wear at Sharm el-Sheikh
What to wear will depend on the activities you plan to do and the places you intend to visit. Here are some general guidelines:
Casual attire For daytime activities like visiting the beach, casual wear is suitable. You can wear shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, or lightweight dresses.
Conservative attire If you plan to visit religious sites like mosques or churches, or if you are in a more conservative area, you should dress more modestly. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should wear long pants.
Swimwear Sharm el-Sheikh is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, so don’t forget to pack swimwear. Bikinis and swimsuits are acceptable on the beach, but it’s recommended to cover up with a sarong or a beach cover-up when you’re not swimming.
Evening wear For evening activities, like dining out or going to bars or clubs, you can dress up a bit more. Women can wear dresses or skirts, and men can wear collared shirts and dress pants.
Sun protection It’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s strong rays. Wear a hat, and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen with a high SPF.
Footwear Comfortable light shoes are essential, especially if you plan to walk around or explore. Flip-flops or sandals are suitable for the beach, but you should wear closed-toe shoes for other outdoor activities.
Generally, Sharm el-Sheikh is a relaxed and casual destination, but it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and dress conservatively when necessary. Always check with your local guide the dress code for any specific places or activities you plan to visit.
In conclusion, Sharm el-Sheikh is a beautiful and fascinating coastal town in Egypt with a rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture.
It is a popular destination for tourists from around the world, known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, clear waters, and wide range of outdoor activities. The town has a long and diverse history, influenced by ancient civilizations, nomadic tribes, and colonial powers, and has developed into a thriving tourist destination in modern times.
While there are occasional security concerns in the region, the Egyptian government has taken measures to ensure the safety and comfort of visitors, and Sharm el-Sheikh remains a popular and exciting destination for travelers looking to explore the Red Sea coast and the Sinai Peninsula.
