Sharm Dreams Resort

Despite the name, it's evident from even first impressions that standards at the Hilton Sharm Dreams Resort don't quite live up to the brand. While the lobby is bright and pleasant with a large skylight atrium, signage throughout looks tired, and many sections of the complex's whitewashed facades are weatherworn and in need of a lick of paint. The gardens are extensive with plenty of tropical plants, palm trees, and well-tended lawns, though too much of the grounds feel a bit shabby and in need of a makeover. Guests do have access to a long stretch of decent sandy beach, however it's across the road and attached to the adjacent sister property, Hilton Fayrouz. Clientele is a mixture of Russians and European guests and an even split between couples and families. 

The hotel is located just off the main El Salam highway in the busy tourist hub of Sharm El Sheikh's Naama Bay. The town center, with its numerous restaurants, bars, bazaars, and buzzing nightlife, is a five to 10-minute walk away, or a short cab ride. The Sharm El Sheikh International Airport is about 15 minutes away by car, while the area's second tourist center, SOHO Square, is around the same distance. 

The resort has 394 rooms and suites, most of which are spacious and fairly well-maintained with terra-cotta tile floors and stone-topped desks and tables, though the overall feel is a bit dated. In-room amenities include tea/coffee facilities, electronic safes, and satellite TV, though some of the TVs are old tube-style sets and Wi-Fi is not free of charge. Floor-to-ceiling windows slide open to furnished balconies that overlook the gardens or pool, while bathrooms are finished in marble and mosaic tiling with wall-mounted hairdryers, telephones, and quality bath products, but no robes or slippers.

Dining options consist of the main buffet restaurant, Azure, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and three a la carte eateries serving Italian, Mexican, and Lebanese food just for dinner. While the quality of food is generally decent and the newer Nook Cafe is one of the better ones, the buffet service can get a little repetitive. There are two main bars and four poolside bars including the Caribi, which have pool tables and live music.

There are a total of nine swimming pools (four of which are heated during the winter), though most guests congregate around the large freeform pool in the center of the resort. Guests also have access to the Cleo Park waterpark next door with lots of slides and pools, as well as free use of the sandy beach across the road at the Hilton Fayrouz. Facilities for children include a kids' club and playground, while adults can learn to scuba at the hotel's dive center, place a bet at the on-site casino, or browse the mini-mall for (slightly overpriced) souvenirs. 

The hotel's optional all-inclusive plan covers buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the main restaurant, but none of the a la carte restaurants. Snacks are also provided at select times and include ice-cream for kids. A limited range of locally-produced alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are also covered.