Sultan Gardens Resort

Snazzy signage and abundant classical-style columns at the hotel's entrance make for an initial impression that's not so much regal as a little gaudy. Once past the faux-fancy facade, however, the resort is a typical self-contained vacation complex set in well-tended gardens full of sculpted shrubbery, tall palm trees, and manicured lawns. Guest rooms and the hotel's facilities are spread throughout the vast grounds and centered around two large swimming pools. The property is set on a steep incline that slopes down towards a private sandy beach (with a superb offshore reef), which can be a struggle back on foot, though a small bus also ferries guest up the hill. Common areas tend toward the ornate, with lots of marble, carved wall decor, and swirling wrought iron, though the vibe throughout the many indoor and outdoor dining and drinking venues is relaxed. While popular with vacationing families, there's also an adult-only area for couples wishing to escape noisy kids and find some peace and quiet. 

The hotel is part of a stretch of Sharm El Sheikh resorts overlooking Shark’s Bay and Tiran Island on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. There's little within walking distance, though there is an 18-hole golf course just opposite, while Soho Square's dining and nightlife can be reached in five minutes by car. For more action, Naama Bay -- the central tourist hub of Sharm El Sheikh that's full of restaurants, bars, and buzzing nightlife -- is about a 10-minute drive from the resort. The Sharm El Sheikh International Airport takes 15 minutes to reach by car and free shuttle service is available to the hotel. 

The resort has 520 air-conditioned rooms, most of which are finished in colorful decor with striped fabrics, tile floors, and granite-topped furnishings. The look isn't exactly fresh, and even Premium Rooms have cheap fabrics like satin bed skirts and bland abstract wall art. Mid-tone wood and dark wood veneer furniture sits throughout, and in Standard Rooms it has seen better days. They are reasonably pleasant, though, as guests don't tend to spend much time in their rooms here. Standard features include tea/coffee facilities, mini-fridges, and flat-screen TVs with some satellite channels, plus there's in-room Wi-Fi (a rarity in the area), though it incurs an extra fee. All rooms open out to furnished balconies or terraces, most of which overlook the pool and gardens -- some have sea views. There are no elevators, so guests with mobility issues should book ground floor rooms.

The hotel features a wealth of leisure and dining facilities commonly found at upscale, all-inclusive resorts. This includes six restaurants, one of which is a main buffet eatery, as well as a la carte options and adult-only dining. Room service is also available around the clock. The eight bars dotted around the property include a main lobby bar (open 24/7), three pool bars, a beach bar, and a soundproofed nightclub.

There are also four large outdoor swimming pools, a range of sports facilities, and plenty to keep the kids entertained including mini-clubs and playgrounds. The beach provides loads of lounge chairs and a range of water sports such as scuba lessons and snorkeling, though these will require extra fees in some cases. Guests seeking to indulge in a dose of pampering can choose from a range of massage treatments at Elysium Spa, which offers a traditional hammam. Evening entertainment includes live music, shows, and weekly karaoke. Wi-Fi is available, though it comes with fees, and the hotel offers free airport pick-up.

The hotel has three all-inclusive plans, the standard level covering buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the buffet restaurants, as well as one dinner per stay in one of the a la carte eateries. Snacks including ice-cream are also provided at select times between meals. A range of locally-produced alcoholic and soft drinks are included during bar opening times. The second-tier Emir plan includes 24-hour beverage service and unlimited in-room Wi-Fi, while the top-tier Sultan plan also includes unlimited dining in all a la carte restaurants and in-room breakfast service.