Is tap water and ice safe in Sharm El Sheikh restaurants?
Based on 2 discussions with 3 participants · Last activity: 12 days ago
Based on 2 discussions with 3 participants · Last activity: 12 days ago
TL;DR
In Sharm El Sheikh, avoid tap water and ice in drinks — unlike Cairo, where chlorinated tap water is generally considered safer. Stick to bottled water and smoothies made without tap water.
A first-time visitor to Egypt staying at Sea Life reported no issues with ice added to drinks — noticed new ice being delivered in sealed food-grade bags, which gave confidence in its safety.
Travelers note that unlike Cairo, tap water and ice in Sharm El Sheikh are more likely to cause stomach issues — many learned by trial and error what to avoid.
One traveler asked whether food and drink quality improved at a hotel over 5 years — previously beer was served in tiny plastic cups, hinting at low service standards.
A traveler visiting Egypt since 2009 got food poisoning for the first time at a 4-5 star hotel (Xanadu), despite drinking only bottled water and smoothies — proof that caution alone doesn't guarantee safety.