Sharm El Sheikh has transformed from a sleepy fishing village to one of the most popular holiday destinations in the region. There is something for everyone here – whether it be haggling for souvenirs in the Old Market, swimming with sharks off Tiran Reef or simply soaking up the sun with a cold drink. Sharm El Sheikh is one of the region’s most relaxing destinations.

Sinai itself is breathtakingly beautiful, a wild terrain of rugged mountains, deep blue skies and some of the world’s most important religious sights. The wonderful year-round weather means there is a never a bad time to go; even the summer months are surprisingly bearable.

Despite the influx of tourists, there is still lots to discover both above and below water. With most of the hotels offering all-inclusive packages, there is nothing left
to do in Sharm but sit back, relax and enjoy one of the most beautiful spots in the Middle East.

See

Sharm El Sheikh’s chief attraction is its underwater life and it has some of the best diving in the world. The calm, clear waters and miles of coral reef are home to a breathtaking variety of underwater life.

Expect to see everything from octopi and hammerhead sharks while diving as well as schools of rainbow coloured fish.

The two main dive spots are Tiran and Ras Mohammed, both of which are less than two hours from Sharm by boat.

For those that don’t dive there are plenty of other water sports available such as snorkeling, kite surfing or deep-sea fishing.

If the views below sea level are spectacular, they are equally beautiful above it – 2,285 metres above it to be precise. For that is the height that Mount Sinai reaches and no trip to Sinai is complete without scaling its summit to watch the sunrise. Apart from the sense of history, the views are truly stunning, revealing the dark browns and reds of Sinai’s staccato landscape.

Don’t expect to be alone however, these early morning treks are very popular and the spiritual nature of the place is somewhat diminished by the hordes of backpackers taking pictures on their camera phones.

As well as the views, the summit houses a mosque and a Greek Orthodox Chapel, which supposedly houses the tablets from which God made the Tablets of Law. There is also a cave nearby where Moses supposedly waited to receive the Ten Commandments.

If you prefer to stay closer to Sharm El Sheikh, there is still plenty to do with desert hikes, quad biking and horse riding among the activities on offer.

If you want a more authentic taste of local life, head to Sharm Old Town, which is a world away from the resorts of Naama Bay. The Old Market here is where the locals shop, and while not as interesting as other souqs in the region, is well worth an afternoon of browsing.

One of Sinai’s hidden gems is Al-Arish, which attracts thousands of Bedouin traders every week for the town’s market. The town is tourist-free (except in the summer when Egyptians come from Cairo to holiday), and so prepare to be one of the few visitors. This only adds to the fun and it’s one of the few places in the world where you can see Bedouin in such large numbers.

Stay

The Ritz Carlton Sharm El Sheikh (Book here) combines world-class service with understated charm right on the coast. All 307 rooms have a private terrace and there is huge range of activities on offer for the entire family. Room rates start from $250 per night.

The Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh (Book here)  is located on 35 hectares of lush gardens overlooking Naama Bay and has become a favourite for families who want to completely unwind. The staff are attentive without being overbearing and the array of water sports and wellness facilities will relax even the most stressed mind. Room rates start from $300 per night.

The Hilton Sharks Bay Resort (Book here) provides the ultimate all-inclusive resort package. With 11 restaurants, two kid’s clubs, a variety of sport and leisure activities and seven pools, one thing you won’t be is bored. Only ten minutes from the airport, this is the perfect place for those who want convenience at a reasonable price. Room rates start from $300 per night.

The Four Seasons (Book here) combines traditional Arabian architecture with the world-class service the Four Seasons is known for. A wellness centre and a range of superb restaurant make this the destination of choice for discerning travelers. Room rates start at $350 per night.

Eat

Given the huge amount of international tourists that visit Sharm every year, it’s no surprise that the town has a wealth of cuisine choices on offer. All the hotels have in-house restaurants if you are too lazy to trek into town.

Blue Ginger at the Ritz Carlton is the best Japanese restaurant in town, with a huge range of sushi and bento and surprisingly reasonable prices. For a romantic meal, try La Luna in the same hotel. The views and the pasta make it worth a visit.

One of the most popular spots in Naama is Little Buddha, which has a great Asian fusion menu, tasteful minimal décor and attentive service. Expatriates swear by this place and so will you after a visit.

If you prefer something more local, head to the Old Market which has countless Egyptian restaurants lining the streets. Prices are cheap here and for an evening away from the tourist drag, this is your best bet.

Naama Bay is also lined with restaurants serving international and Arabic fare. The portions are usually huge and prices much lower than in the hotels. Naama comes alive at night and so most of the restaurants are open late and some are open 24 hours. There are menus with prices outside each restaurant so don’t be afraid to browse before choosing a place to eat.

Shop

As Sharm mainly caters to western tourists, don’t expect to find a huge amount of great shopping options. The town is a tourist resort and the goods (and prices) reflect that. There are plenty of shops though, mainly selling jewellery, perfume and shisha pipes. Prices are very much negotiable and haggling is all part of the fun.

Make sure you do your shopping in the Old Town rather then in Naama Bay, as prices in Naama are at least 50 percent higher. Another place to pick up a bargain is the Duty Free Shop, which is located directly behind Pacha Nightclub in Naama. Don’t forget to bring your passport!

If you are looking for something a bit more high end, try Il Mercato mall in Ras Om El Seed, which is Sharm’s one nod to fashion, featuring Calvin Klein and Gucci boutiques amongst others.

Red Tape

Money
The currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound. As of the 1st of March, the exchange rate was $1 to 5.5 Egyptian Pounds (LE). Foreign exchange services are available before customs, and ATMs and exchange facilities are freely available at all the major International hotel chains.

 

Telephone
Egypt’s dialling code is +20. The Sinai’s dialling code is +069.

 

Visas
All nationalities are allowed a free 14-day tourist pass on arrival at Sharm El Sheikh Airport. This only allows travel on the eastern and southern coasts of Sinai and does not allow travel into mainland Egypt.

 

Transport
Taxis or hotel-organised excursions are the primary means of getting around Sinai. In Sharm El Sheikh, most of the attractions are within walking distance and if your hotel is far from the centre of town, they can organise taxi services.