photo by Marc RyckaertSharm el Sheikh is one of the mainstays of the package holiday scene, and for good reason too. This beautiful Egyptian resort offers year-round sun, soft golden sands, a fabulous mix of hotels and some of the most beautiful seascapes you’ll ever see. Plus, the popularity of this holiday hotspot means you’ll always find cheap holidays to Sharm el Sheikh - perfect if you’re watching the pennies.

So what is there to do?

First off, Sharm el Sheikh is famous for scuba diving, and has become something of a mecca in recent years. Join a local excursion to get out and explore some of the best dive sites, including vibrant coral reefs and fascinating wrecks. Or if that’s a little out of your comfort (or financial) zone, try your hand at snorkelling instead. You’ll be amazed at the magnitude of marine life just beneath the water’s shimmering surface.

One truly memorable must-do is an overnight trip to the desert. Stay in a traditional tent with wonderful hospitality, and while the evening away gazing up at the stars, which shine particularly brightly in this arid wilderness.

Ambitious visitors who don’t mind early starts and long days can take a tour to Mount Sinai. Even better, set off in the small hours and watch the sunrise. Even if you hate early mornings, this one is definitely worth it; sit back and gaze in awe as the sun explodes over the horizon, throwing a magnitude of colours across the landscape and creating one of the most beautiful scenes you will ever see.

If you travel with a major tour operator such as Thomas Cook holidays, you can often book excursions through the company. Of course you can also find such tours locally or through your hotel - but just make sure that the tour operator satisfies basic safety requirements and has the necessary qualifications.

Of course there are plenty more must-sees in Sharm el Sheikh, these are just a few of them. After all, half the fun is finding them out for yourself.