Is beer and alcohol free at all-inclusive hotels in Hurghada — what to expect?

At some all-inclusive hotels, restaurants and bars serve packaged juices, while fresh juices may not be available. Beach smoothies can be offered only for an extra charge.

Drinks in the room are not included: the minibar may be empty and room-service orders are charged. Free drinks are available in the lobby and on the beach; only draft beer is free, while all canned beer is sold separately.

At Rixos, the advertised Ultra All Inclusive may function more like standard all-inclusive: imported alcohol, extra menu items, and butler service are not included.

At Citadel, drinks are more basic than at some other hotels: alcohol is local and champagne is unavailable; imported alcohol is reportedly sold separately.

At some Hurghada all-inclusive hotels, the package includes 2 free à la carte restaurants, but you can only visit one of them once per 7 days. Reviews say Marhaba has a nicer setting, but the food is basically the same as in the main restaurant; other à la carte venues may be paid.

Guests with red wristbands may have access to the separate Ivory restaurant, which is usually much less crowded, cleaner, and calmer than the main buffet restaurant.

Alcohol and cocktails are the main reason to opt for all-inclusive. In intense heat, three full meals a day can be too much — a breakfast/dinner plan combined with eating out may be a better and cheaper compromise.

Beer at Hurghada all-inclusive hotels is often sour or poorly stored. It's more reliable to buy beer at a local shop rather than relying on what's served at the hotel.

Coca-Cola at some Hurghada hotels is only available at paid bars, not included in the all-inclusive package. Check on arrival — prices at paid bars vary.

When choosing between the club section and other hotel buildings: the club is closer to the sea, bars are shared. Food quality is roughly the same, so go with the cheaper option.