Penguin Village

Laid Back Ho(s)tel with a True Dahab Vibe

Penguin Village is a backpacker's haven. It is extremely popular and is a great place to make friends. Emad and crew have done a great job with the place and it has really grown over the years. The buildings are crisp white with tiled walkways and has a very open-air feel. You just know you're in for fun and relaxation as soon as you walk in! There are a variety of room categories. My preference - the Seaview room on the top floor w/ac and ensuite bathroom - is quite comfortable and has a balcony with amazing views of the ocean (partial) and rooftop restaurant. It is extremely affordable luxury at 21euro (single occ w/breakfast and wi-fi); 26euro for a double. Other room categories are first floor seaview, back view, rooms with fans, campstyle rooms and the cheapest - dorms - where you pay per bed (3 euros per night without breakfast). Room rates are either inlclusive of wi-fi and breakfast or not; you chooose. Rooms also do not contain blowdryers or televisions but you do not miss them. There are tv screens in the lower restaurant/shisha tent where you can watch just about anything.

The staff here does everything in their power to make you feel comfortable; many people initially sign up for a couple days and end up staying weeks. Penguin just has that very relaxed atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. There is a dive shop attached but I've never used that service. Penguin also does their own trips. www.dahabexcursions.com

The restaurant is the best part of the hotel! It is literally on the water's edge. There are two floors but the rooftop is where the magic happens at night. Everyone congregrates there after dark for dinner, drinks, shisha and just good old fashioned socializing.

Just as an fYI, the showers are salt water showers. If showering in hot salt water is not your idea of fun, consider staying somewhere else and visiting for the restaurant. The food and vibe are worth it.

The hotel does airport pick ups from Sharm airport for 25euros per car/van, not per person. I would advise booking it and skipping the hassle of haggling with the merciless drivers at the airport.

All in all, Penguin is a chill, relaxed hang out. I definitely recommend.

Unique Quality: Great sea views, chill vibe, good food.