"We have just returned from a 10‑night stay at Charmillion Gardens Aqua and had a wonderful experience overall. There are a few things worth knowing before you go, but the positives far outweigh any small inconveniences.
Arrival & First Impressions
The airport was a long wait for cases, but once we were through, the transfer to the hotel was only around 20 minutes. The Egyptian people are incredibly polite and friendly, which set the tone for the whole holiday.
Check‑in was smooth and welcoming. Mohamed at reception checked us in and was absolutely lovely — warm, helpful, and efficient. You leave your cases outside during check‑in, and because we arrived close to restaurant closing time (around 9pm), we were encouraged to grab something to eat first, then return for our room key.
The reception area smells beautiful, with fresh flowers on display — a really lovely touch.
Room & Facilities
We were taken to our room by Khaled, who drove us in a golf buggy and carried our luggage. He was the perfect gentleman.
We booked a family room, and it was huge — one of the reasons we chose this hotel. No issues with mosquitos, though Khaled reassured us they would spray the room and terrace if needed.
For reassurance: we didn’t get bitten once during our entire stay.
Yes, the rooms are a little tired in places, but the hotel clearly has an ongoing maintenance programme, so hopefully the rooms will be included in that in time.
Useful tip:
If you bring mosquito plug‑ins, note that the sockets are sideways and they leak. Bring a UK extension cube. The bathroom plug works normally.
The room included:
- 10 coat hangers
- 3 mini shower gels, 3 mini shampoos, hand soap (replenished daily)
- Bottled water supplied daily
- Soft but comfy bed (pillows gave me some neck pain, but the stretching classes helped!)
Housekeeping
We had a fantastic cleaner who really added something special to our stay. Every day he surprised us with beautiful towel art, which our family absolutely loved coming back to. His attention to detail and kindness didn’t go unnoticed, and we made sure to leave him a tip to show our appreciation.
Food & Dining
As someone who has had gastric sleeve surgery, I found plenty of fresh food and protein options. I brought protein powder to top up, but I never struggled to find something suitable.
Restaurant tip:
The children’s area is tucked around the corner in all restaurants (Gardens, Club, Sealife), with its own small seating area.
A La Carte Restaurants
- Italian (Charmillion Club)
Six‑course set menu with generous portions, plus bread and a cheese pizza. Very tasty, though my husband’s prawns still had the digestive tract in, so he avoided them. Would love to see children’s portions offered.
- French (Club, near reception)
Absolutely worth a visit. Friendly service, delicious food, and the mushroom soup was a standout.
Pools, Lifeguards & Entertainment
The lifeguards take their job seriously — in a good way. They challenge unsafe behaviour and prefer parents to stay close to children. They were also incredibly helpful in finding sunbeds, especially as the hotel got busier.
We spent most of our time at Sealife, as the pool there is heated. As the days went on, more people reserved beds early and left them unused, which was a shame but expected during busy periods.
Around the pool, staff will regularly approach you about excursions or spa treatments. They accept “no” politely, but any interest and they’ll sit down with their folder — they work on commission, so it’s understandable.
Snacks & Drinks:
Basic snacks at set times (pastries in the morning, burgers at lunch). Drinks are local brands. Ice creams are cash only (around 100 EGP). Please don’t give English coins — they can’t use them.
Beach
A short walk past Sealife and Club.
- Plenty of sunbeds
- Shale sand (a bit rough underfoot)
- We enjoyed a fun, chaotic little Easter beach party — dancers, cocktails, and a green powder thrown into the air. Don’t wear white; it stains!
Service & Staff
The staff here are genuinely lovely. They thrive on tips but never beg or treat you differently if you don’t tip. Nothing is too much trouble. Many of them work incredibly long shifts and long stretches — we were told around 12 days on and 10 days off — yet they remain warm, friendly, and attentive throughout. Their work ethic is genuinely impressive.
Maintenance was excellent — we reported a trickling shower, and they replaced the shower head within the hour.
WiFi
Available everywhere but slow and intermittent during peak times. If you need reliable internet, get a local SIM.
Leaving
We forgot to ask for a late checkout, but you can use the spa showers (cold but refreshing!). Towels can be kept until departure, which is great for last‑day sunbathing.
Airport on Return
Expect multiple checks, searches, and random swabs. The toilets are unpleasant — take your own toilet paper and brace yourself. Staff were mostly friendly, except one abrupt man in Costa.
Trips & Excursions
White Island & Snorkelling – Red Sea Adventure Diving Center
- Wear layers — it’s windy.
- Bring a hairbrush!
- Staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and supportive, especially if you’re nervous.
- We paid £156 for photos and videos — expensive but worth it.
- The promised photo album was delivered to reception before departure.
- The coral and fish are stunning.
- My husband even had “Nemo” kiss his mask on a second dive!
- Our 8‑year‑old loved the snorkelling and the White Island walk.
El Sherif Safari – Buggy, Camel & Sunset
Picked up at 4:30pm, back around 20:50pm.
There was confusion over payment at first, but it was sorted quickly.
Tips:
- Bring your own scarves (we bought 3 for £9 at the hotel shop).
- You must have sunglasses — they’ll charge £10 for clear ones if you don’t.
- Very dusty but great fun.
- Dinner was simple but nice.
- Avocado & honey drink is delicious.
- Fire show was excellent.
- Staff help tie your scarves and are very friendly.
- Children are involved in the cultural activities (serving tea, walking camels).
Overall
A fantastic hotel with wonderful staff, great family rooms, and a warm, friendly atmosphere. We would absolutely return."
