Avoiding mistakes when booking a hotel in Egypt
Egypt is a fascinating country that attracts millions of tourists every year with its historical landmarks, beautiful beaches, and unique culture. If you are planning a vacation in Egypt, there are a few important things to consider when booking your hotel to avoid mistakes and make your stay an unforgettable experience. Whether you're interested in the pyramids in Cairo, the beaches of Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh, or the historical sites along the Nile – a good hotel choice is crucial for a successful vacation.
1. Choose the right location for your Egypt vacation
The choice of the right hotel largely depends on what type of holiday you want to have in Egypt. If you want to visit ancient sites like the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, you should book a hotel close to the capital. There are many hotels in Cairo that offer a great view of the pyramids and provide you with direct access to historical sites.
For a relaxing beach vacation on the Red Sea coast, Hurghada is an ideal choice. This region is known for its luxurious resorts and the clear, blue ocean. Sharm El Sheikh, another popular destination for an Egypt vacation, also offers a variety of beachfront hotels and diving opportunities. So if you plan to explore the underwater world of the Red Sea, you should book a hotel near a diving center or a coral reef.
2. Consider hotel category and facilities
Egypt offers hotels for every budget, from simple 2-star accommodations to luxurious 5-star resorts. For a relaxing vacation, consider what type of accommodation best meets your requirements. If you are looking for comfort and luxury, there are many high-quality hotels in larger cities and popular coastal areas that entice you with pools, spas, and all-inclusive offers.
For travelers seeking good value for money, there are also many 3- and 4-star hotels. These typically offer comfortable accommodations, often including breakfast and occasionally even half board. If you are on a budget trip, there are also numerous simpler hotels and guesthouses that often have good deals and allow you to immerse yourself in Egyptian culture.
3. Book early and compare offers
Especially during peak season (from December to February and in summer), the most popular hotels in Egypt book up quickly. To secure the best room, you should make your hotel reservation early. This way, you can not only get the best price but also ensure that you obtain the desired hotel near the main attractions or the beach.
Use various booking portals and compare prices. Hotels often offer exclusive discounts or special promotions on their own websites that are not available through third-party booking sites. Keep in mind that there are also last-minute offers, but these can come with risks if you have specific requests regarding location or facilities.
4. Watch for hidden fees and additional costs
Like in many other countries, there are also additional fees in Egypt that should be considered when booking a hotel. Some hotels charge extra fees for amenities such as Wi-Fi, parking, air conditioning, or access to recreational facilities like gyms and spas. Make sure you understand all prices in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Particularly at all-inclusive resorts, it’s important to check what exactly is included in the price. Some hotels charge extra fees for certain restaurants or activities that you may want to enjoy. Read reviews from other travelers to find out if there have been any past discrepancies regarding additional costs.
5. Check cancellation policies
If your travel plans change, it’s important to pay attention to cancellation policies when booking a hotel in Egypt. Many hotels nowadays offer free cancellation up to a certain point before arrival, but there are also hotels with stricter policies. If you’re unsure whether you can make your trip as planned, choose a hotel with flexible cancellation terms to avoid costs should you need to alter your booking.
6. Take advantage of direct booking for additional benefits
Many hotels in Egypt offer benefits for direct bookers, such as discounts, free upgrades, or additional services. This is especially true for luxury hotels or resorts, which entice their guests with exclusive offers when booked directly. Even if you book through platforms like Booking.com or Expedia, it’s worth visiting the hotel’s website to see if there are better deals or specials available for direct bookings.
7. Choose all-inclusive options wisely
All-inclusive vacationers who want to fully enjoy their trip to Egypt can benefit from the all-inclusive offers in many hotels. These generally include accommodation, meals, and drinks as well as access to pools and recreational activities. When choosing an all-inclusive hotel, make sure it meets your expectations.
Check in advance what services are included in the all-inclusive package. In some hotels, not all restaurants or activities are included, meaning you will have to pay for additional services. Read reviews from other travelers to ensure that the hotel has a good reputation for its all-inclusive service.
8. Long-term stays in Egypt
Some travelers choose to stay longer in Egypt, whether for a few weeks or even several months. Many hotels offer attractive deals for long-term stays. These accommodations often provide discounted rates and allow you to work and relax during your stay in Egypt. So, if you want to stay in Egypt for a longer period, research hotels that welcome long-term guests and provide you with all the amenities you need.
9. Special occasion offers
If you are traveling to Egypt for a special occasion such as a wedding, anniversary, or birthday vacation, you should choose a hotel that offers special packages for such events. Many resorts and hotels provide special packages that include a private celebration, a romantic dinner, or other unique experiences. It's worth getting in touch directly with the hotel to ask if they have something special for such occasions.
Conclusion: Avoid mistakes when booking hotels in Egypt
To ensure your Egypt vacation is a complete success, pay attention to various aspects when booking your hotel. Choose the right location for your stay, compare prices and conditions, and be aware of potential additional costs. Remember to book early to secure a good deal and make sure to check the cancellation policies in case your travel plans change. By following these tips, you can enjoy your Egypt vacation stress-free and look forward to all the fascinating experiences this remarkable country has to offer.