"Realizing An Ambition! " a Sharm El Sheikh Travel Page by xxsummerstarzxx

Having always wanted to visit Egypt, I cannot possibly express my joy as the plane landed at Sharm El Sheikh airport and I stepped out onto the tarmac. Okay, so there was no red carpet, but who cares? I was visiting a country of sun, sea, history and charm and I couldnt have been happier!

From the moment I arrived I felt very welcome and found the Egyptian people so warm and friendly. Everywhere I looked there were smiling faces ready to greet me.

I travelled with the 'Longwood' holiday company and was very impressed by the rep's efficient manner - there seemed to be so many people to organize! Quite a few tempers were running at 'boiling point' after the 5 hour flight from Gatwick, London, but he soon calmed everyone down and pointed everyone in the right direction.

The only downside at the airport was the amount of Egyptians trying to push your luggage trolley for you in excahnge for a money. At first I thought they were just being nice, but I soon learned the word 'Bakesh' means give us a tip!

I have to say though, not once at the airport did I feel uneasy or threatened. I was too busy soaking up the atmosphere I guess!

This was 2 weeks I knew I would never forget ...

After a short coach journey we arrived at the Hilton hotel, only to be welcomed with a beaming smile and a large cocktail (or Mocktail, should I say cos there was no alcohol!) We had a chat with the hotel receptionist and was escorted to our room by Fawzy a resident housekeeper. He insisted on carrying all our bags and made us feel really at home

As soon as I went outside I spotted a lovely little lizard with little 'sucker' feet! I also spotted a couple of cats in and around the hotel area too.

The main attraction for me was the sparrows and doves - yes hardly the prettiest of birds, but after feeding them for a few days they began to get closer and closer until they were feeding from my hand! What a special moment that was for me!

At the 'Tipsy Turtle' beach bar I came across a lovely little tortoise and couldnt resist a photo opportunity!