The forgotten winter sun destination just five hours from UK that’s 24C right now

IF all you want from your holiday is some winter sun and great deals, then there’s a destination that’s perfect for Brits.

With hot weather, short flights and lots of package holidays, here is the destination you need to visit now.

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Why Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt was once one of the most popular holiday destinations for Britons until a 2015 terrorist attack on a Russian passenger plane killed all 224 people on board.

All flights were suspended for four years, TUI reintroduced package holidays in 2019.

This comes after the UK Foreign Office issued new guidance saying Sharm el-Sheikh was deemed safe following the airport security overhaul.

Just months later, however, Covid hit – meaning the resort once again saw a drop in tourist numbers.

But with restrictions lifted now is the best time to travel – Sharm el Sheikh is ideal for the winter sun as it rarely dips below 20°C even in December and January

The average temperature remains at around 22°C to 24°C but reaches highs of 38°C in August.

That means you should avoid the summer holiday months due to the extreme temperatures, with the best months being between December and February for the winter sun.

Flights aren’t much longer than those from the Canary Islands either, with direct flights from London Stansted and London Gatwick around five hours.

Your money will go further, too – Nilan Peiris, chief product officer at Wise, told Sun Online Travel: “Recently the Egyptian pound has fallen against the dollar.

“That means the GBP is also stronger against the EGP.

“The exchange rate is currently EGP 37 to GBP 1, a much cheaper exchange rate compared to EGP 21 to GBP 1 at the end of January last year.

“This is even higher than the pre-pandemic exchange rate – the rate recorded at the end of January 2020 was EGP 20.5 to GBP 1.”

What are the best holiday deals to Sharm el Sheikh?

Sharm el Sheikh is one of the cheapest holiday destinations for Brits with deals from £225 per person.

LoveHolidays is offering a bargain price of seven nights self-catering accommodation at the Falcon Naama Blue, with return flights from the UK.

But if you want an all-inclusive holiday you can find it from as little as £445 per person

The best offer is seven nights at Pyramisa Beach Resort with Thomas Cook, including return flights, transfers and luggage.

TUI and easyJet also have cheap offers to Sharm el Sheikh.

If you only want flights easyJet, TUI and Wizz Air all fly direct.

How is Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm el Sheikh is popular for two reasons – its fantastic beaches and waters for diving.

Most hotels in the spa town have their own private beach, but there are miles of sandy beaches to explore.

And the Red Sea is home to more than 1,200 species of exotic fish, including 350 in Sharm el Sheikh.

Places like Tiran Island is one of the best places in the world for snorkeling with affordable excursions.

Divers often come here to get their PADI qualifications, with shipwrecks and coral making it one of the most popular spots for both novice and experienced divers.

Or you can head into the desert with jeep rides and overnight camps popular with Brits.

Otherwise, many opt for day trips to other parts of Egypt such as Hurghada or Cairo.

What else do I need to know about Sharm el Sheikh?

The local language is Arabic, but most hotel staff speak English.

There is only a two-hour time difference, with the UK two hours behind.

The currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP) – £10 is 370.55 EGP – although most resorts will accept British Pounds or US Dollars.

There are currently no Covid restrictions and Brits do not need a visa – if you are only visiting Sharm el Sheikh for up to 15 days you will receive a free entry stamp on arrival.

If you are traveling outside the area or wish to stay longer, you will need a visa either through the official Visa2Egypt portal or at approved bank kiosks in the arrivals halls, which costs US$25.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months upon arrival in the country.

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