Sharm el-Sheikh has rocketed to prominence as an international resort in recent years - and its appeal as a cruise destination has grown correspondingly since development of the port in the 1980s.

Situated on the southern tip of the Sinai peninsula, the city offers excellent beaches, coral reefs, lively nightlife and everything else associated with a major tourist destination.

Cruise ship passengers will find no shortage of the things to occupy themselves with during a stop here, whether it be shopping, tours into the desert, or simply enjoying the scenery and the many aquatic activities available on the seafront.

A visit to the desert is highly recommended for the cruise visitor. Numerous trips to the rugged, red rock mountains and barren desert of the interior are available. Saint Catherine's Monastery and Mount Sinai are other popular destinations, only a three-hour drive away. Climbing the mountain on foot or by camel is the main objective for most visitors, but it's worth spending a couple of hours admiring the monastery's treasures.

Highlights
• The Coloured Canyon
• Ras Mohammed National Park
• Desert camel rides
• Turtle Bay boat trip
• Diving at Ras Um Sidd
• Old Town

Sharm El-Sheikh Tourist Office
Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt.
Tel: +20 6260 0170.
Website: www.egypt.travel

Colourful Bedouin handicraft stands are always popular with tourists. The main shopping draws are gold and silver jewellery and semi-precious stones from Na'ama Bay or the Old Market, which is great for bargains. Spices, glass perfume bottles, slippers, leather bags, Bedouin embroidery and Turkish Delight are also popular. Good buys include Egyptian bed linen and towels.

Seafood is widely available, as well as Arabian cuisine and a selection of western options (mainly Italian). Most hotels have waterside grills offering the catch of the day as well as air-conditioned indoor restaurants catering for all tastes.

Rain is almost non-existent in Egypt away from the coast. Winter temperatures are comparable with summer in northern Europe, while in summer they soar to 40°C (104°F) and occasionally more. Light clothing and sunscreen are a must.

Egypt

GMT + 2.

Egyptian Pound (E£) = 100 piastres.

Arabic.

Tip of Sinai Peninsula, northern Red Sea coast, Egypt.

35,000.

Republic.

Muslim majority, with Coptic Christian and other minorities.

People are generally courteous and hospitable and expect similar respect from visitors. Shaking hands will suffice as a greeting. Revealing clothes should be avoided, particularly when in religious buildings.

Smoking is very common. Tourists will have to pay a fee to take photographs inside pyramids, tombs and museums.

Tipping: 10 to 12% is added to hotel and restaurant bills but an extra tip of 5% is normal. Taxi drivers generally expect 10%.