We spent two weeks here middle to the end of Feb and had a very relaxing, social holiday. We had never been to Egypt before but would put it on par with Turkey in a lot of ways. So having experienced Turkey from the top end of hotels to the ones that needed demolishing we were very open minded about the reviews we read on here before we went. Our philosophy is if you want everything like the UK or Spain go to Blackpool or Marbella.
So to describe our experiences at this hotel we will break it down into sections and recommendations:
THE HOTEL
A large complex with pathways leading to different areas that's well worth a walk around.
A large reception area with seating/bar and entertainment of an evening (occasionally but mainly kids disco). Bell boys to move your luggage and security staff on the door 24/7. Access to telephones and money exchange at the desk. A customer service representative and travel reps have their desks in this area. The complex was quiet of an evening ie no loud music or drunken guests, and during the day very social. This may have been because there were only British guests in the hotel at the time as all other countries had stopped going to Egypt and there was a lot of respect for each other.
THE ROOMS
We had a basic room which we were happy with, it had everything we needed (could have done with modernising). The staff were happy to move people if they requested it. There were two double beds, fridge, air conditioning and TV with 3 English speaking channels (news & films). Seating and small table area and chairs outside on the balcony. The bathroom was spacious but the shower was positioned over the bath which had a tiled wall extending over half way along the side. This did prove difficult to use as you had to step into the bath to put the shower on. The bath had seen better days but was clean. Overall the it was comfortable and clean. Any repairs that were needed were done asap. We had a ground floor room but the 1st floor only had access from one end of the block. We did see a Suite on our last day thanks to two lovely ladies who let us shower there before leaving. The Suites were more modern, a lot bigger, had a lounge area, a larger bathroom with bidet and a better view. These would be ideal for families as they have the space but our room suited our needs........to change and sleep.
CLEANLINESS
Overall the hotel was very clean. The rooms cleaned daily. We did notice the pools were cleaned properly morning and evening which you dont normally see but the pool surrounds were starting to get sticky and dirty by the end of the fortnight. They could do with washing this area of an evening but then it is quite a vast area. The communal areas were always clean and tidy. Ashtrays emptied and crockery/glasses removed constantly. There were hand sanitizer stations at every eating area and these were always clean. One thing we did notice, again quite unusual, all the toilet facilities were cleaned and restocked every hour even the ones on the beach.
THE POOLS/BEACH
There is one large pool that was very cold but that's what to expect from that time of year. This had smaller and shallower areas for children but plenty of space for everyone without getting in any ones way. There is another set of pools and loungers that have 3 slides going into them, this was mainly frequented by the children however there is a jacuzzi in the same proximity. There was a bar in the pool but this wasn't open it being low season. There are plenty of wooden sun loungers with cushions on and there are pool towels available from near the pool and on the beach. There are big wood umbrellas all around but don't really offer much shade until later in the day. This is also the case on the beach but there they have wind-breakers as well. These can be moved anywhere no problem however for a small tip the beach guys will assist you and then be ready and waiting to do it again the next day. The beach is fairly clean but could do with raking every couple of days and not just the daily tide line floatsom. There are different areas of the beach, quiet, near the bar or by the activity area all are ok. There are also terraces on each side that are quieter still. The sea is great but pool shoes should be worn when going in as there is coral and rocks on the bottom. this shouldn't put you off as the abundance of fish you will see is amazing. If the tide is out you cannot walk across the coral as it it protected but once it comes in you can walk out waist deep for about 200 metres. After that there is a 45 metre drop at the side of the reef. This can be seen better if you walk along the jetty and snorkel off the end. One good thing about both pools and beach is that there are always life guards on duty within the opening times.
FOOD/DRINKS
There is a main restaurant near reception that caters for all three main meals. The food is acceptable with a few themed nights. There was always something that we would eat and more often than not too much!! Some people didn't like the food but the staff are only too willing to cater to dietary needs if at all possible. During the day there are pizzas available at the beach bar and by the pool bar there is a range of snack food every afternoon. Pizzas, burgers and fries can be purchased at the pool bar at any time 24/7 and a chef will come from the main restaurant to cook them for you. We would recommend trying the pizza they are really good. As for drinks, take a beaker/plastic cup with you as they mainly serve very small cups of anything. We had mugs for our hot drinks and large plastic glasses for cold, bought in the Pound shop and left them there.
Some times the food seemed a bit cold but if you dig to the bottom of the container and the hotter stuff is there. A lot of the food is cooked fresh and they are always checking ready to top up.
HEALTH/HYGIENE
This is basic travellers advice. Wash hands before eating and use the sanitizers available. We took antibacterial wipes and gave the room a once over when we arrived. We also had hand sanitizer with us at the beach and when we went out of the resort. Another thing to remember is that you may not be used to eating spicy food or food cooked in different oils. Try all the different food on offer but be prepared for a stomach upset if your not used to it. Take some anti diarrhoeal medication and rehydration sachets just in case. There is a doctor available in the hotel and a very good English speaking pharmacy across the road. You don't pay the doctor as long as you have insurance as he will claim it back from the company.
STAFF
All staff are friendly if you converse with them. Tips are always welcome. We find if you tip small on day 2 then again half way though and at the end of your stay it helps with all the little extra benefits. Cleaner/Waiter/Masseur/Bar staff/Towel & beach guys. If you have any problems there is always Jackie to help out in any way she can. Even though she works for the hotel is also takes it on herself to walk round every day to make sure you are all enjoying yourselves. If you have any questions/problems she is happy to assist. Remember a smile and a good morning will get you far!!!!
LOCATION
About 10mins from the airport and a taxi ride to other areas it is quite central. Opposite the hotel are a couple of shops but further down the road to the right (away from the airport) are all the fast food, restaurants, tourist shops and a supermarket like Tesco Express. It is about a 20-30 minute walk but taxi only about £4. The hotel list the prices you should pay for taxis but always barter them down. Soho Square is worth a look around one evening it is the upmarket/glitzy part. We weren't that impressed with Nabq Bay found it was either food/drink or tat on every corner and plenty of hassling to go into each shop. Never went to Old Sharm but heard it was an experience....you decide!
VALUE FOR MONEY
Well worth what we paid as we expected it to be on the lower end of the hotel stars even though it has a high rating. Your holiday is what you make of it.....
