This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Sharm el-Sheikh.
Guess what? Sharm el-Sheikh is also named and spelled Sharm el Sheik - It is the same destination. Goodbye confusion.
Located along the southern tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, on the coastal strip of the Red Sea, the city of Sharm el-Sheikh is a beautiful holiday resort and a significant tourism centre within the area – but has also hosted several Middle Eastern peace conferences. Although development has been widely encouraged here since 1982, environmental zoning laws limit the height of new construction within Sharm el-Sheikh, to keep these developments from obscuring the natural beauty that surrounds the city.
The water in the Red Sea is perfect for swimming, and the area around Sharm el-Sheikh provides miles and miles of beautiful beaches. Divers will love this tropical paradise – the waters around the city are full of enormous schools of fish and incredible dive sites. These beaches certainly provide a number of opportunities for tourists to experience a variety of watersports, but they’re also a great place to kick back and relax with a drink and a book.
A trip into the desert also offers some great views and unique experiences for tourists looking to explore this remote mountain range. The arid climate is generally warm and dry, perfect for outdoor adventures – although summer months can be humid, and there are occasional cold snaps in the winter.
Hostels and hotels here are plentiful, as tourism is a thriving industry within Sharm el-Sheikh. Local hostels are reasonably priced for travelers on a budget, but this area is also flush with elegant resorts and luxury hotels. Vacation rentals can also be found in this busy coastal city.
Getting to Sharm el-Sheik is a bit of a trek, but it’s worth it for foreigners who are looking to explore Egypt. The local airport receives commercial flights through Cairo, and ferries are also available to bring tourists across the Red Sea. Drivers are readily available in Sharm el-Sheikh, but be prepared to negotiate a fair price for a trip to your hostel or hotel.
Written by local enthusiast for Sharm el-Sheikh hostels
Jakob Lombardi