General Tips
85 questions from travelers about General Tips in General, Egypt.
Questions
Aladdin and Ali Baba hotels Hurghada — shared facilities: beach, sun loungers, kids club?
Aladdin and Ali Baba share the waterpark and can access each other's grounds, but restaurants are separate. Beach lounger and kids club access rules are unclear — confirm at reception.
1 source · 4 days ago
Are inflatable floats and pool toys allowed in hotel pools in Egypt?
Pool toy rules vary by hotel — large inflatables are often prohibited. For easy water entry, look for hotels with pontoon platforms with steps rather than vertical ladders.
2 sources · 8 days ago
Are there fish in the water at Egypt beach resorts and which beaches have no fish?
Fish are common even inside netted swimming areas at most Egyptian beach resorts. Travelers who prefer fish-free swimming should avoid Sharm el-Sheikh and opt for resorts with pools.
2 sources · 4 days ago
Are there sandy-entry beaches in Sahl Hasheesh suitable for young children?
Yes, Sahl Hasheesh has child-friendly beach options: Sigala hotel offers a good sandy sea entry, small coves are ankle-deep at low tide, and hotel pontoons provide life jackets for kids.
1 source · 2 days ago
Are there toilets, showers, and changing rooms on beaches in Egypt?
Beach toilets in Egypt are typically found only in the central area or at paid beach bars. Fresh water showers are rare, while changing rooms are more common.
1 source · 7 days ago
Best hotels in Hurghada for snorkeling and beach vacation
PUR Hotel is considered top-tier in Hurghada for service and food. Park Inn offers good reef snorkeling and clean sea; club room upgrades are worth it for better dining. Barcelo is another solid option.
2 sources · 7 days ago
Best time of day to swim in Egypt — when is the sea deep enough and warm enough?
Swimming is best in the morning until around 2–3 PM before the tide recedes. After 4–5 PM you can swim from the pier. Water temperature is pleasant, but depth varies significantly with tides.
1 source · 1 day ago
Can you swim in hotel pools in Egypt in the evening — rules and restrictions?
Most Egyptian resort hotels stop pool access after 6–7 PM due to chlorine circulation cycles. Rehana hotel has pools near each building. Inflatables in pools may disturb other swimmers.
1 source · 1 day ago
Can you use a hotel room to shower after checkout with a late flight in Egypt?
Yes, most Egyptian all-inclusive hotels provide 1-2 free rooms for late departures — guests can shower, rest, and continue using all facilities until their flight.
1 source · 4 days ago
Can you use another hotel's beach in Egypt, and how strictly are they guarded?
Hotel beaches in Egypt are strictly private — security guards and lifeguards will remove anyone who doesn't belong to that hotel.
1 source · 3 days ago
Can you use hotel facilities after checkout in Egypt?
Yes, on checkout day you can use the beach and dining all day, and request a room for about 30 minutes before departure to shower and change.
1 source · 8 days ago
Dana Beach Hurghada — are sunbeds and umbrellas available or always reserved?
At Dana Beach (right side), nearly all umbrellas are reserved with placards from early morning. By 8:00 AM only 2–3 spots may be free, and those are quickly taken with towels.
1 source · 7 days ago
Do all-inclusive hotels in Egypt cut wristbands at checkout — can you still eat and use facilities after check-out?
Policies vary by hotel: some cut wristbands at the 12:00 checkout and charge for meals after that. Always confirm with reception in advance, especially if you have a late departure.
1 source · 4 days ago
Do Egypt hotels provide baby cots, toddler beds, and potty chairs?
Baby potties are not available. A small child's cot can be requested but is only suitable for toddlers. For a third adult, an extra place is typically a small sofa.
1 source · 3 days ago
Do people speak Russian in Hurghada Egypt?
Yes, in Hurghada's tourist districts (Sheraton, Mamsha, Intercontinental) Russian is widely spoken — some locals speak Russian but not English at all.
2 sources · 2 days ago
Do you need to wake up early to reserve a sun lounger at an Egypt resort beach?
Yes, loungers go early — arriving by 6:30 AM is recommended. A useful tip: claim spots in the bocce ball area, where loungers are more spaced out and it's less crowded.
1 source · 9 days ago
Do you need water shoes for swimming in Egypt, and is it safe for kids?
You can enter the water without water shoes, but they're recommended for kids — there are dead corals near the shoreline. The entry is shallow and gradual, making it suitable for children.
2 sources · 8 days ago
Do you need water shoes to enter the sea in Egypt?
Water shoes are recommended when entering the sea in Egypt due to rocky or coral seabeds. At 5-star hotels, sea-view rooms are more commonly available than at other resort categories.
1 source · 5 days ago
Early check-in at Egyptian resort — can you use the beach and get towels before your room is ready?
On early arrival, leave luggage at reception, change and head to the beach. Towel cards are typically issued at check-in or the next morning. Bar and restaurant access is usually available right away.
1 source · 7 days ago
Egypt vs Turkey for beach holiday — what are the real differences?
Egypt wins on snorkeling and diving, but loses on service quality — staff constantly chase tips and tap water is not drinkable. Turkey is generally more comfortable for all-inclusive resort stays.
1 source · 3 days ago
How bad is the heat in Egypt in summer (July-August) compared to Turkey?
Travelers ask about summer heat in Egypt versus Turkey. The topic is relevant for families planning July-August trips to Hurghada or Sharm el-Sheikh.
2 sources · 5 days ago
How does snorkeling and diving in Egypt compare to the Maldives?
Egypt offers colorful reefs with abundant fish, especially at sites like Safir. The Maldives edge ahead for exciting wildlife encounters — sharks, turtles, and moray eels are far more common there.
1 source · 5 days ago
How does the waterpark and all-inclusive bar work at an Egypt resort?
The waterpark operates until sunset with slides and wave pool open. The bar is self-service with no queues. Room water is refilled during housekeeping.
1 source · 7 days ago
How do towels and room water work at Egyptian all-inclusive resorts?
Towels are issued on a card system, but extras are easy to get with small tips. Room water is replenished during cleaning — just tell the housekeeper how many bottles you need, or call reception for more.
1 source · 7 days ago
How much does a beach photo shoot cost in Egypt and what to expect?
Beach photo shoots in Egypt with provided dresses cost $60 for ~20 selected photos or $130–150 for the full package of 200+ shots. Photographers will pressure you to buy everything.
2 sources · 1 day ago
How much does a quad bike rental cost in Egypt and what's the best deal?
Single quad bikes start from $13, doubles from $20–25. Private guided tours (not in a group column) cost $5–10 extra per group.
1 source · 10 days ago
How much does Egypt visa on arrival cost and should you buy it through a tour operator?
Egypt visa on arrival costs around $30. Tour operator reps charge slightly more (~$34 for two) but are more convenient for families. Book excursions through local agencies, not hotel guides — prices are 2–2.5x lower.
1 source · 5 days ago
How to choose the right hotel room in Egypt to avoid construction noise or bad views?
Booking a standard room may land you in the old wing facing construction or a road. At minimum, request a garden-view room to avoid unpleasant surroundings.
1 source · 4 days ago
How to deal with broken AC or fridge in an Egyptian hotel room?
Egyptian hotel staff often consider appliances 'working' even if they don't function properly. Persistently explain the specific issue to guest relations — it usually gets resolved.
1 source · 3 days ago
How to find hotel contact information in Egypt when a link doesn't work
Check the hotel's official website or social media page for contact details — usually an email is listed. If a direct link fails, search the hotel's exact English name manually.
1 source · 25 days ago
How to prevent snorkeling mask or goggles from fogging up in Egypt?
Use anti-fog liquid (one drop per lens, rub and rinse) or saliva — both work equally well.
1 source · 3 days ago
Is a small quiet hotel in Egypt worth it if you want a relaxing holiday without entertainment or kids' activities?
Small hotels without animation or water slides are ideal for travelers seeking peace and quiet, though the grounds tend to be compact with little room to wander.
1 source · 2 days ago
Is Family Mirage hotel in Egypt good for families with kids?
The hotel works for families with kids — slides, pools, kids club, sandy lagoon. For younger children, nearby Ali Baba hotel is considered more family-oriented.
1 source · 1 day ago
Is it cheaper to book Egypt package tours early or last minute?
Early booking doesn't always guarantee the best price for Egypt tours. Prices can actually drop closer to the departure date — one traveler found the best deal just a week before their preferred travel date.
1 source · 4 days ago
Is it safe to vacation at an Egyptian resort with kids — rotavirus risk and service quality?
Family vacations at Egyptian resorts are generally safe: with basic precautions and a travel medicine kit, most families enjoy their stay without health issues.
2 sources · 1 day ago
Is it windy in Egypt and can you swim in the morning?
Wind is almost always present near the sea in Egypt. Morning swimming can be difficult due to low tide — water near the shore may only reach knee height. Better swimming conditions are typically found during daytime hours.
1 source · 4 days ago
Is it worth paying extra for a sea view room at a budget hotel in Egypt?
Paying extra for a sea view is worth it for the scenery, but budget Egyptian hotels often have worn rooms — mold in bathrooms, insects, and old linens are common regardless of the view.
1 source · 3 days ago
Is it worth paying to use Zahabi beach from Sunny Beach hotel in Sharm el-Sheikh?
Guests from Sunny Beach pay extra to access Zahabi beach, but many find it unnecessary — Sunny Beach's own beach is considered good value, though wind can be an issue.
1 source · 3 days ago
Is Madinat (Makadina) resort in Egypt accessible — elevator, ramps, wheelchair access?
No elevator or ramps, but there is a step-free path around the back of the buildings. Deluxe rooms open directly to the street or lawn. Madinat itself is a gated community with a nice promenade; the waterpark is separate with shuttle service.
1 source · 6 days ago
Is snorkeling good in Egypt — are there fish and coral reefs near the shore?
Snorkeling quality varies greatly by spot: near the pier and to the left of the beach typically offers better reef and more fish than the main swimming area. Jellyfish appear occasionally but clear up quickly.
1 source · 1 day ago
Is summer heat in Egypt more bearable than in Turkey?
Egypt's summer heat is more tolerable than Turkey's because of low humidity. At 40°C you may barely sweat, while the same temperature in Turkey feels unbearable due to high humidity.
1 source · 9 days ago
Is Egypt too hot in summer (July-August) compared to Turkey?
Egypt's summer heat is dry and more bearable than Turkey's humid heat. Stay near the water, avoid inland city tours (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan), and you'll be fine.
2 sources · 3 days ago
Is the pool water in Egypt too warm to swim in during summer?
Pool water in Egypt reaches +34°C in summer and barely cools you down. Most travelers prefer the sea or waterparks instead.
1 source · 3 days ago
Is there a beach bar at Egypt all-inclusive hotels and what cups do they use for drinks?
Beach bars are included in all-inclusive packages. Drinks are served in small 200ml cups — bring a 600ml travel mug to avoid constant trips to the bar.
1 source · 6 days ago
Is the sea warm in Egypt in June?
The sea in Egypt in June is warm and comfortable for swimming. It may feel cool at first entry due to the intense heat outside, but overall it's very pleasant.
2 sources · 9 days ago
Is the sea water warm enough to swim in Egypt in July?
In July the sea in Egypt is warm and comfortable for swimming, especially in the afternoon. Lagoons can feel cooler in the morning at low tide.
1 source · 7 days ago
Is this Egypt resort hotel good for winter vacation?
Opinions are mixed: some find the hotel sheltered and suitable for winter, while others warn of strong winds, red flags, and currents that can leave you without swimming.
1 source · 7 days ago
Is Tropitel hotel in Egypt worth it compared to other all-inclusive resorts?
Tropitel suits relaxed beach holidays with good sea access, but food, drinks, and entertainment are below average. For a livelier stay, consider alternatives like Sunrise or Ali Baba.
1 source · 5 days ago
Jaz Makadina resort in Hurghada review — food, beach, crowds?
Jaz Makadina has solid service, food, and location, though it gets very crowded in early summer. The pontoon was widened and soft sunbeds added, but marine life is limited.
1 source · 2 days ago
Old vs new wing of a resort hotel in Egypt — which part is better to stay in?
The older section (e.g. Suite Garden) tends to be cozier and shadier thanks to more greenery, making the heat more bearable. New wings often have less vegetation and can feel harsh in midday sun.
1 source · 7 days ago
ROB vs Sentido hotel in Egypt — what's the difference and which is better?
Sentido is pricier and quieter with a private beach zone and 24h bar; ROB is cheaper, livelier, and sits on the first beach line.
1 source · 7 days ago
Smoking rules in Egypt hotels — where can you smoke?
Smoking is generally not allowed in hotel rooms, but permitted outdoors and near entrances. Restaurants allow smoking at outdoor tables only.
1 source · 1 day ago
The V vs Pyramisa hotel in Hurghada — which is better?
The V hotel has cleaner pools (cleaned after 6pm daily), free ice cream, and access to all water parks on the complex. Pyramisa guests may be restricted from The V's water parks, and ice cream there is paid.
1 source · 8 days ago
What are beach hours and best time to swim in Egypt resort?
Beach is open 7am–7pm with towel service during those hours. The sea stays clear in the afternoon. Lawn irrigation runs 3–6pm, so the beach is actually a good escape then.
1 source · 3 days ago
What are the sea conditions and water levels for swimming in Egypt in summer?
Swimming conditions in Egypt vary daily due to tides — mornings are usually best, while afternoons can see low water (knee-deep). Water temperature is around 26°C, with occasional jellyfish.
1 source · 5 days ago
What dangerous fish can you encounter while snorkeling in Egypt and should you be worried?
While snorkeling in Egypt you may encounter surgeonfish, lionfish, rays, and giant trevally — most are harmless if you don't provoke them.
1 source · 1 day ago
What does a Guest Relations officer do at an Egypt resort?
A Guest Relations officer is a hotel staff member responsible for direct interaction with guests — the name literally means 'guest relations'. They are your main point of contact for resolving issues or requests at the resort.
1 source · 1 day ago
What evening entertainment and shows are like at Egypt resort hotels?
Evening entertainment at Egyptian resort hotels varies widely: fire shows are typically the highlight, while discos are rare and often held at nearby bars like Arabella with paid cocktails after the first.
1 source · 5 days ago
What is the all-inclusive resort experience like in Egypt — honest guest reviews?
The resort scores well for food, grounds, and reef snorkeling, though housekeeping can be inconsistent. Ground-floor pool-view rooms are recommended for families.
2 sources · 7 days ago
What is the beach and sea like at Moreno Hotel in Egypt?
Moreno Hotel has a gentle sea entry with no lagoons or stagnant water, and is close to the Marina with cafes and shops. The hotel beach has depth, corals, and fish once you walk past the rocky bottom.
1 source · 1 day ago
What is the current condition of an Egypt all-inclusive resort — pools, cleanliness, food, and renovations?
As of June 2026, renovations are complete and all pools are open. No cockroaches or damaged towels reported by guests. The hotel is at 100% capacity, causing occasional delays in clearing dishes at restaurants.
1 source · 3 days ago
What is the entertainment and animation like at Egyptian resort hotels?
Egyptian resort hotel animation is fairly standard: daytime beach activities and aerobics, evenings feature dances and 'Mr & Miss Hotel' contests. Quality and visibility of animators varies significantly by property.
1 source · today
What is the entertainment and animation program like at Egyptian all-inclusive hotels?
Kids' animation runs daily at the children's club and for about an hour each evening. Adult evening entertainment includes shows (belly dance, tanoura, Michael Jackson/Beyoncé tributes, magic) followed by a disco, though some guests find it underwhelming.
1 source · today
What is the food and drinks like at an all-inclusive resort in Egypt?
Food at Egyptian all-inclusive resorts is generally well-rated. Alcohol is available — white wine and cocktails at the pool bar are popular choices.
1 source · 4 days ago
What is the Neverland show at Pickalbatros hotels in Egypt and how to get free access?
Neverland is an evening dinner show at Pickalbatros hotels in Egypt. Guests of Pickalbatros Royal Grand Resort get free shuttle, dinner with drinks, and show entry included. Guests of other Pickalbatros properties can get a free entry voucher at reception but must arrange their own transport.
2 sources · 3 days ago
What is the sea, food and atmosphere like at an Egypt resort?
Gentle sea entry with about 30m walk to waist depth, modest underwater life, diverse food including grilled meats, fresh fruit, and local pastries. Street grill in the evenings.
1 source · 3 days ago
What is the water and air temperature in Egypt in June?
In June, sea water in Egypt is around 26–27°C — refreshing at first but comfortable for long swims. Air temperatures reach +34°C, but the dry climate makes it manageable; evenings are very pleasant.
2 sources · 7 days ago
What is the weather like in Egypt in November and December — is it cold, windy, or rainy?
November and December in Egypt are warm and comfortable with no snow. People swim in the sea. December marks the local start of winter with some wind, but nothing extreme.
1 source · 1 day ago
What is the weather like in Hurghada in early June — is it worth going?
Weather in Hurghada in early June can be unpredictable — strong winds and waves sometimes force cancellations of sea and desert tours, though calm hot days are also possible.
2 sources · 2 days ago
What marine life can you see while snorkeling in Egypt (Red Sea)?
Snorkeling in Egypt's Red Sea offers rays, barracuda, lionfish, squid, surgeonfish, and jellyfish. Moray eels and octopuses are harder to spot.
1 source · 5 days ago
What marine life can you spot snorkeling at Egyptian reef hotels?
Near hotel piers and reefs you can spot turtles, eagle rays, stingrays, moray eels, lionfish, and Napoleon wrasse. Mantas and sharks have moved to follow plankton blooms and require a separate trip.
1 source · 7 days ago
What to do at an Egypt resort hotel if you arrive before check-in time?
You can walk around the hotel grounds and use all facilities before check-in. For late check-out, ask at reception — it typically costs $10 per adult and extends your stay until 6 PM.
1 source · 1 day ago
What to do if your beach towel goes missing at an Egyptian resort hotel?
Beach towels at Egyptian resorts often disappear due to mix-ups with other guests or are removed by staff for rule violations. If you lose a towel through your own negligence, the hotel will charge you for it.
1 source · 5 days ago
What to do in Egypt between hotel checkout and a late night flight?
If checkout is at noon but your flight is late at night, you can store luggage at the hotel, pay to extend the room, or spend time at the beach or local cafes.
1 source · today
What to do when red flag (no swimming) is raised at your Egypt hotel beach?
When a red flag is up at your hotel beach, walk to a neighboring hotel's beach — conditions are often calmer there. Swimming is usually permitted again after midday.
1 source · 2 days ago
When is the best time to book an Egypt package tour to get the cheapest price?
Egypt package tours are cheapest when booked early or last-minute. Prices rise closer to August. Promo codes from previous bookings can save extra.
1 source · today
Where to get free drinking water at an all-inclusive resort in Egypt?
Free drinking water is available at a dispenser in the dining hall, at the poolside bar (open evenings), and in the hotel lobby.
1 source · 5 days ago
Which beaches in Egypt are good for swimming and snorkeling?
Hotel beaches at Baron and Sunny Beach resorts tend to disappoint — crowded, shallow, or littered. Prioritize hotels with good pools instead.
1 source · 5 days ago
Which beach in Egypt is best for families with young children — shallow water, clean sand, safety?
Shallow beaches in Egypt are great for kids — no need to worry about depth. Arrive early around 6am for a clean, uncrowded beach; staff rake and compact the sand throughout the day.
1 source · 5 days ago
Which beach in Egypt is best for swimming with toddlers and young kids — sandy entry, no coral?
Choose beaches with sandy entry and no coral — Naama Bay in Sharm el-Sheikh is a popular family-friendly option. Water shoes are still recommended.
2 sources · 8 days ago
Which building or zone is best for families with kids at Sphinx Hotel Egypt?
Buildings 20–30 are best for families: close to the waterpark and restaurant (2 min walk), animation doesn't disturb, and pool views from balconies make it easy to watch kids.
1 source · today
Which Egypt Red Sea hotel is best: ROB, Park Regency, Sentido, or Grand Rotana?
Park Regency and Sentido get repeat visitors, while ROB is less favoured — especially for families, as it lacks a sandy beach entry. Grand Rotana is well-liked but sea access is only from piers.
1 source · 4 days ago
Which hotel in Sharm el-Sheikh has the best house reef for snorkeling?
Sunrise Remal is praised for the best house reef. The Sierra/Savoy reef is considered modest and partially dead, with the better section now off-limits to swimmers.
2 sources · 3 days ago
Which hotels in Egypt have a good house reef for snorkeling?
The best house reef is at Zahabia Hotel. Good reefs also at Arabella, Arabia, Belle Air, Citadel, Pyramisa, V Luxury, Flow Spectrum (Sahl Hasheesh), Xanadu, Fort Arabesque (Makadi).
1 source · 20 days ago
Which Hurghada hotel is best for snorkeling and reef access?
Beach Albatros 4* is recommended for snorkeling — the reef is small but has interesting fish species. Swimming left from the sunken pontoon offers live corals and abundant fish, though lifeguards may whistle.
1 source · 8 days ago