Xperience St. George Homestay

Though largely dated, this property has its pros -- the most attractive being the low, all-inclusive rates. Beaches may be a free, 10-minute shuttle ride away, but they're private, and offer sand and coral, shorefront dining, and kiddy fun. The resort's neat stone paths, lawns, and palm-suspended hammocks wrap whitewashed buildings and two sunny pools. Bridge features and rock-enclosed structures at the pool have character, and the main pool has a lively vibe with music and animation. A designated "quiet" pool is available for those looking to avoid boisterous activities. Earth- and russet-tone interiors are drab throughout, and often showing wear. While rates are low, all-inclusive buffets are mediocre, as is evening entertainment.

The hotel's Um El Sid location is outside of Sharm El Sheikh's main Naama Bay hub, but it's not completely void of activity. A cluster of restaurants are eight minutes away by car, with Il Mercato Mall half that. Plentiful taxis are cheap. Guests make the most of free shuttles running to the hotel's private sand and coral beaches. Straw-shaded loungers are free there, accompanied by a playground, beach bar and restaurant, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Free shuttles also run to Naama Bay and Sharm Old Market (Thursday and Sunday evenings during out visit), taking a maximum of 18 minutes. Sharm El Sheikh International Airport is a 17-minute drive.

Spacious rooms are dated and underwhelming, outfitted with cream walls and tiled floors, worn wood furnishings, classic lamps, and accents of orange-and-brown or aqua in bed fabrics. Tulip artwork adds some personality, though ultimately it adds to the old-fashioned vibe. However, all rooms have furnished outdoor spaces with pool and garden views, or there are beachfront Bungalows. They span 301 to 474 square feet (28 to 44 square meters), coming in Standard, Superior, and Family categories, plus larger Suites with living rooms. Caramel-tiled bathrooms are sufficient, with showers and wall-dispensed soaps. The 2014-constructed Beach Bungalows off-site have smart wood trim and a cabin feel, although tube-style TVs here are old. Glass-topped desks with small flat-screen TVs and seating areas or sofa beds offer comforts, alongside mini-fridges, hairdryers, bottled water, phones, and AC. Wardrobes have safes, but there are no tea- and coffee-making facilities provided. The resort-wide Wi-Fi requires a fee and it's unreliable in rooms. 

Features are reasonable considering the budget rate, but expect a straightforward approach. The private sand and coral beaches are off-site, and reached by free 10-minute shuttle rides. Free loungers, umbrellas, play areas, and beach dining are good here. On-site, activity centers around the freeform, outdoor pools. Unheated waters here are chilly in winters, but the spirit is warm thanks to the animation team at the main pool. It also has appeal from a thatched-roof snack bar, well-maintained bridged and rock structures, and plenty of loungers, umbrellas, and lawn hammocks. There's music here, while the "quiet" pool is calmer. Al fresco terraces nearby are pleasant, while upper-level dining areas at the chalet-like Nathan's Restaurant offer more attractive seating amid colorful potted plants. Its Belgian meals and beers aren't covered by all-inclusive packages, though.

La Princesse's three daily buffets and themed nights are part of the all-inclusive package. The room's wood columns and chairs are dated, but fuchsia tablecloths give some pop, and the room is bright. Pool and indoor bar drinks and snacks are all-inclusive until midnight. Kiddy fun includes a small, colorful kids' club, activities, and a kiddy pool. The basic spa offers massages and a hair salon, but its sauna and whirlpool incur fees. Pets aren't permitted. Low-key entertainment, guest computers, 24-hour concierge, a souvenir shop, and ATM are also provided. Parking is free, while Wi-Fi requires a fee.