Alf Leila Wa Leila

With grand and colorful architecture reminiscent of a palace and a distinctly Arabian style, this upper-middle-range resort offers an all-inclusive stay that attracts both couples and families with kids. The red-orange building is studded with minarets, arches, and columns, while interiors are no less ornate with arabesque plasterwork and intricate carvings. The property sits on fairly extensive grounds that feature six outdoor pools, so there are plenty of outdoor areas to lounge around in and soak up the sun, while a kids' pool and other family-friendly areas means that there are more tranquil spaces for couples and tourists seeking some quiet time to enjoy. The majority of the clientele here is German, many of whom are repeat guests.

The hotel is located about a half-hour drive south of Hurghada's center in a tourist area home to many other hotels and resorts. The beach is about a six-minute drive away and the property provides a free shuttle service, but note that it's to a rocky stretch of shore. There's a shopping mall that's a seven-minute drive or 12-minute walk from the hotel that offers some fast food dining options and shops, but other than that, there's not much else in the area beyond hotels. The Hurghada Grand Aquarium is an eight-minute drive away. Dolphin World can be reached in about 15 minutes. Hurghada International Airport is about a 20-minute drive from the hotel.

Rooms are spacious and feature tasteful contemporary decor in a earthy color palette of brown tones paired with cream-hued tile floors and off-white walls. The spaces feel slightly worn and tired, but they're clean. Dark wood furniture includes large headboards with built-in nightstands, wardrobes, and dresser/tables, plus there's seating and small tables. Other standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges stocked with bottled water, and electronic safes, but there are no tea- and coffee-making facilities or in-room Wi-Fi. All rooms open onto private balconies or patios furnished with plastic chairs and tables.

Bathrooms are outfitted with large granite-topped sink vanities as well as walk-in showers, plus hairdryers, magnifying mirrors, and both wall-mounted soap dispensers and individual toiletries are supplied. Fixtures could use an update as showers, tiles, and other details are starting to show their age.

The resort's extensive grounds are home to six outdoor pools, including a large and attractive main freeform pool, which is crisscrossed by little bridges and surrounded by parasol-shaded daybeds and loungers. There's also a kids' pool  with waterslides. Alternatively, guests can head to the beach via the hotel's free shuttle service.

Dining-wise, this all-inclusive offers several different options. The main one is a buffet restaurant that serves local and international fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are also Italian, Asian, and Moroccan restaurants that are open for dinner, as well as a snack bar, a cafe, an ice cream place, and several bars, including a jazz bar and a poolside bar.

Wellness features include a spa that offers various massage treatments, as well as a sauna and steam room. Other amenities include a kids' club and an animation team that provides day and evening entertainment. Organized activities like aerobics are available, while nightly performances depict Egypt's history. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby, but guests report slow and spotty service. Parking is free.