Just returned from a week in Egypt - a lovely winter holiday with temperatures of 28 degrees Celsius. The sun would rise at 5am-6am and go down 5pm. The mornings were warm and it cooled off at 3.30pm – perfect for those who like to be in the sun all day. At night the temperature is much cooler, so if going this time of year a jumper/light jacket would come in handy.
Dreams Beach resort is a 5 star hotel and great value for money, although not all elements are to English 5 star standards. From reading reviews from other people we felt that they have made many improvements recently – plenty of sun beds with soft mattresses and sunshades. The grounds are immaculate and kept clean constantly.
There is a lot to entertain children during the day and night - a play area, trampolines and slides into the pool etc. The archery and mini golf activities are very basic and we did not do these. The complex is big but hilly in some areas; guests can walk over to the Dreams Vacation Resort or catch a lift with on a buggy like train.
Dreams Vacation was much quieter during the day by the pool, which we enjoyed on the last 2 days. They have sunshades like 4 poster beds, which are great for those who like the shade or have children. The pool guy even takes your towels and lays them out for you. You can have drinks, use the gym which is very modern and well equipped (people use it), have a sauna or Jacuzzi which are free if all inclusive.
There are several swimming pools, shallow and deep ones, however they were very very cold and it stopped others and us from swimming which was a shame.
The room we stayed in over looked the sea and had a terrace. It was air conditioned which was effective and quite quiet, mini fridge which was refilled every day, digitally coded safe (no key to carry around), a queen size bed with a quilt, chairs, hairdryer, bath and shower and not forgetting the bidet.
Very comfortable for the week and cleaned every day. Although we went all inclusive and tea and coffee is available 24 hours a day or via room service we wished we took a travel kettle.
The hotel has an international buffet restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner and light evening food and hot/cold drinks available after 11pm on the terrace. The food here was varied as they have many nationalities to cater for and we found something each night. In the evening you can eat out on the terrace which we would recommend as it quieter and more romantic.
The staff are friendly and funny and get to know what drinks you like before the end of the week, Khaled served us at night and Sherif in the morning – they were both very good. If you like desserts you will be amazed as they have a selection of about 50 at lunchtime and evening.
There are other places to eat in the hotel, ‘My Place’ which you have to book and can go once per stay, we suggest you book this at the start of your holiday for whatever night you want as it does get busy especially Friday and Saturday. It is very nice and feels like a normal restaurant (made a change from the buffet) – polite waiter silver service, large wineglasses, piano – very romantic. However, if you have a good appetite you may need a snack later as the portions for the main course are ‘minialistic’.
There is an Italian place by the pool that serves lunch - freshly made pizza, salad and chips. At nighttime you have to reserve a table which serves a 3 course dinner (we did not try here at night but it was busy every night).
The Grill House is open at lunch and evening (reservations) and serves grilled meat kebab style (we did not try here either). The ‘Love Boat’ is fantastic and quirky, you have to pay for this and some nights are themed. On our first night it was an English night, we had salad/tomato soup for starter, T-bone steak and jacket potatoes for main course and apple pie for dessert.
It was one of our birthdays this night and we were called up to the stage and everyone sung Happy Birthday and we were presented with a cake – it was a great surprise and funny. They had belly dancers and singers – all this for £14 a head.
It is safe to walk outside of the complex of a day and night. A good 15-minute walk takes you to a parade of shops and food/drink places. Gifts and souvenirs are very cheap to buy, as is water (15p per 2-litre bottle). The hotel also has a selection of shops, we bought some paintings which are fantastic – just remember to barter.
Sharm El Sheikh is an up and coming place and is developing very quickly, a great place for people who love snorkelling and diving but also those who want a relaxing break away in the winter.
Overall a very good holiday would not hesitate to go back to try soome trips to Cairo and Luxor as a week was not long enough. We would recommend Dreams Beach Resort.
