The Ultimate Guide to Self-Catering Holidays in Sharm El Sheikh

Embrace the Flexibility of Self-Catering Accommodations

Sharm El Sheikh, a jewel of the Red Sea, is witnessing a surge in popularity as a holiday destination. Visitors are increasingly opting for self-catering accommodations, which provide a more intimate and customizable vacation experience. The resort boasts a wide array of privately owned apartments, studios, and condos available for rent, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling hotel scene.

Advantages of Self-Catering in Sharm El Sheikh

• Freedom of Schedule: Without the need to return to a hotel for meals, you have more time to explore.
• Cost Savings: You can purchase and prepare your own meals, often at a fraction of the cost of dining out.
• Privacy: Enjoy a quieter atmosphere without the late-night noise of hotel entertainment.
• Alcohol Policy: Unlike many hotels, you can bring your own alcohol into self-catering accommodations.

Shopping for Essentials: Where to Find What You Need

Upon arrival, it's wise to stock up on groceries for the duration of your stay. Most self-catering units come equipped with fridge freezers, but it's important to confirm this when booking. Sharm El Sheikh has adapted to cater to self-catering tourists, with supermarkets like Metro offering a familiar shopping experience. These stores, located in Nabq Bay and near Naama Bay, provide fresh meats, vegetables, dairy products, and more. Metro even offers a convenient home delivery service.

Supermarkets and Local Markets

• Metro Supermarkets: Found in Nabq Bay and near Naama Bay, offering a wide range of products and home delivery.
• 24/7 Supermarkets: Located in Naama Bay and Old Market, along with smaller shops for food and kitchenware.
• Local Directories: Monthly booklets like The Mix and The Book list supermarkets and other useful information. They can be found in coffee shops, restaurants, and bars.

Old Market: A Hub for Bargains and Authentic Experiences

Old Market, or Sharm El Maya, is about 6 km south of Naama Bay and is a treasure trove for self-caterers. Here, you can find affordable alcohol, cigarettes, fresh produce, and a plethora of souvenirs. The Heineken shop in the center of Old Market is known for its competitive prices on beer and spirits. For cigarettes, it's best to purchase from small food shops to avoid counterfeit products and haggling with street vendors.

Tips for Haggling in Old Market

1. Start by offering half the initial price and negotiate from there.
2. Aim to pay no more than two-thirds of the original price.
3. Don't hesitate to walk away and compare prices at other shops.

Getting Around: Transportation Options in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh spans over 30 miles from Nabq Bay to Sharm El Maya, so transportation is key to exploring the area.

Taxis

• Official Taxis: Blue and white with a unique fleet number. Agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Avoid Unofficial Taxis: Blue and white pickups are not official taxis and may demand payment after offering a ride.

Public Transportation

• Microbuses: Also blue and white, these buses are a cheaper alternative but may charge tourists more. Fare tariffs are posted at bus stops and in free booklets.

Car Rentals

• Driving: Renting a car with an international driving license can provide the ultimate freedom. Fuel is relatively cheap, with prices around 2 LE per liter. UK residents can download application forms from the RAC website.

For a comprehensive and enjoyable self-catering holiday in Sharm El Sheikh, planning is key. From knowing where to shop for groceries to understanding local transportation, this guide equips you with the knowledge to make the most of your Egyptian getaway.