General Tips — page 8

Smoking rules in Egypt hotels — where can you smoke?

According to tourists staying in Egyptian hotels in summer 2026, smoking is allowed everywhere outdoors, lobbies may have a separate area with ashtrays, and in restaurants people smoke only at outdoor tables. In rooms smoking is generally not allowed — the guide is a sign with a crossed-out cigarette, though some hotels explicitly permit smoking in rooms. In practice, participants say, people also smoke by their room doors and on the grounds; if the smell of smoke bothers you, they suggest asking for a different room.

1 source · 103 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 · 55 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 · 55 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 · 27 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 · 89 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 · 106 days 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 · 67 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 · 14 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 · 20 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 · 53 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 · 17 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 · 40 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 · 116 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 · 76 days ago

What is the Neverland show at Pickalbatros hotels in Egypt and how to get free access?

Neverland is an evening dinner show that the Pickalbatros chain hosts at one of its hotels. In September 2026 a participant wrote that a Neverland ticket is already included in the price of a package to any Pickalbatros hotel, whatever the city or tour operator, and whether to go is up to the guest. Guests of Pickalbatros Royal Grand Resort went to the show for free in June 2026, with transfer, dinner and drinks.

2 sources · 22 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 · 58 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 · 62 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 · 9 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 · 91 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 · 81 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 · 116 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 · 17 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 · 116 days ago

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 · 7 days ago

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 · 117 days ago

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 · 57 days 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 · 74 days ago

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 · 91 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

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 · 117 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 · 39 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 · 72 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 · 118 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 · 6 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 · 70 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 · 57 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 · 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 · 118 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 · 73 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 · 25 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 · 9 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 · 92 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 · 119 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 · 79 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 · 26 days ago

ROB vs Sentido hotel in Egypt — what's the difference and which is better?

According to travelers in June–July 2026, Sentido is a 5-star hotel and ROB a 4-star; Sentido is generally pricier, but the gap is small, and renovated deluxe rooms at ROB can cost more. Sentido is quieter, with a separate beach zone, more spacious lounger layout, a 24-hour bar and an extra Italian à la carte restaurant. ROB is on the first line, livelier, has a gentle sea entry and shares the water park, restaurants and bars with Sentido.

1 source · 92 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 · 16 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 · 66 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 · 120 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 · 8 days ago