The sunny destination where the sea is warmer than the pools in winter – and is just 4 hours from the UK
ONLY four hours away from the UK, there is a sunny destination where the sea is warmer than the pools.
Egypt has so much to offer in winter, and it’s usually recognised as a destination for ‘affordable luxury’.
The Red Sea is warmer than most unheated hotel pools, which is one of the main benefits of visiting Egypt in the winter - and a unique quality that not many destinations can claim.
The average water temperature of the Red Sea in winter is 20C, making for a perfect winter sun holiday.
But that’s not all, as the Red Sea offers a unique, immersive swimming experience.
The Red Sea contains some of the world’s hottest and saltiest seawater and is home to impressive marine life and coral reefs.
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Many tourists describe the Red Sea waters as ‘magical’, and snorkelling should be at the top of your list.
The coral reefs at Ras Mohammed National Park, close to Sharm El Sheikh, are filled with one-of-a-kind underwater scenery.
While Dahab’s famous Blue Hole has been described as an ‘unmatched’ underwater experience, visitors are only advised to visit with a trained guide.
With its warmer temperatures, the winter months between November and early March make it the perfect escape.
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During the day, the average temperature is between 20 and 25C - meaning sunbathing will still be on the cards.
To make it even better, Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, the most popular resorts on the Red Sea, provide first-class facilities at a far lower price than other well-known winter sun destinations.
Sharm El Sheikh was named number 10 in this year’s best-value holiday destinations by the Post Office .
The average three-course meal with a bottle of house wine was £46.39, while bottled beers and glasses of wine will set you back anywhere between £2.45 and £4.
Holiday packages to Egypt are also fairly cheap during winter, and we’ve found many deals under £400pp, including flights:
- 7 nights all-inclusive at Royal Lagoons Resort & Aqua Park in Hurghada, Red Sea, Egypt -
- 7 b&b at Il Mercato Hotel & Spa in Sharm el Sheikh, Red Sea, Egypt -
- 7 nights half-board at Caves Beach Resort Hurghada in Hurghada, Red Sea, Egypt -
- 7 nights all-inclusive at Doubletree By Hilton Sharks Bay in Sharm el Sheikh, Red Sea, Egypt -
- 7 nights all-inclusive at Stella Gardens Resort & Spa Makadi Bay in Hurghada, Egypt -
Other than its crystal clear waters, Egypt has a special charm thanks to its rich history and varied landscapes.
Beyond the sandy coastlines, Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh have plenty to offer.
Those staying in Hurghada could explore the desert on a quad bike safari, while the Marina has hundreds of restaurants, stores and bars.
Meanwhile, the markets offer a great introduction to the local culture, with stalls serving traditional Egyptian food and handmade goods.
Sharm El Sheikh isn’t short of activities either, and holidaymakers should hike Mount Sinai, which has some of the best views in the country, especially at dawn or sunset.
The ‘Old Market’ is also a must-visit and one of the top recommended activities on Tripadvisor. The locals trade spices, textiles, and other traditional Egyptian goods here.
We’ve also revealed the perfect fortnight for booking affordable beach holidays next year, with 25C temperatures and breaks under £300.
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And there’s a short-haul island destination with 300 days of sunshine and holidays for under £150.
Elsewhere, Tenerife is home to TripAdvisor’s ‘best waterpark in the world’ – and it’s open all year round.
