Luxury Stays in Saudi Arabia: Hampton by Hilton Sharma Ash Sharmah
Luxury Stays in Saudi Arabia: Hampton by Hilton Sharma Ash Sharmah
Hampton by Hilton Sharma Ash Sharmah Review: My Saudi Arabian Seaside Escape (with Wi-Fi Woes & Wonder!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea – or, you know, the date juice available for breakfast at the Hampton by Hilton Sharma Ash Sharmah in Saudi Arabia. Let me tell you, this wasn't just a hotel stay, it was an experience. A sometimes-amazing, occasionally-slightly-hmmm, always-interesting experience. And, because I'm a glutton for punishment and you, dear reader, are craving the real deal, I'm going to break it all down, warts and all.
(SEO keywords in bold, but let's be real, this is more about the feeling than just keywords, yeah?)
Accessibility & General Vibes:
First off, good on ya, Hampton. You've got the wheelchair accessibility sorted, and that's a massive win in my book. The lobby? Spacious. The elevators? Operative. The whole vibe? Relaxed, beachy, and perfect for shedding the stress of a long flight. Which, let's be honest, is what we all want when we book a luxury stay in Saudi Arabia.
Connectivity & The Wi-Fi Saga:
Okay, let's get the elephant in the room (or, rather, in my room) out of the way. The Free Wi-Fi in all rooms claim? Technically true. Practically? A little patchy. Now, I’m not saying the Wi-Fi was terrible, but it was like a shy chameleon. Sometimes it was there, vibrant and ready to stream your favorite shows. Other times, it was blending into the wallpaper, refusing to connect, and leaving me staring at a blank screen. But hey, at least they provide Internet access [LAN] if you're old school. So, bring your Ethernet cable! I’m joking, mostly. The Internet itself was not a problem. It was just the consistency of the wireless element. (Sigh).
Thankfully, they do offer Wi-Fi in public areas, which was more reliable for a quick search or a quick scroll through some social media.
Rooms & Amenities: My Personal Oasis (Mostly!)
My room? Oh, my room was a little slice of heaven. Okay, maybe not heaven. But definitely a very comfortable, well-appointed slice of…well, you get the idea. The Air conditioning was a lifesaver in the desert heat. The Blackout curtains? Genius. I mean, jet lag is a cruel mistress; being able to sleep for 12 hours straight is a gift from the gods. The extra long bed was divine. Speaking of divine, the bathrobes… absolutely soft, perfect. Wore them everywhere.
The Bathroom had a separate shower/bathtub , which I appreciate the toiletries were of good quality AND they provided slippers? Heaven. The in-room safe box was great for peace of mind. Plus, Complimentary tea, coffee/tea maker, and mini bar was a nice touch. Yes, there were also the basics: air conditioning, alarm clock, closet, hairdryer, daily housekeeping, desk, free bottled water, iron facilities, laptop workspace, linens, mirror, non-smoking, on-demand movies, private bathroom, reading light, refrigerator, satellite/cable channels, scale, seating area, smoke detector, socket near the bed, sofa, soundproofing, telephone, towels, and window that opens. It was like they thought of everything except a reliable Wi-Fi signal. And really, what more do you need?
Cleanliness & Safety: Feeling Secure (and Squeaky Clean!)
Okay, serious face for a moment. Cleanliness and safety are paramount, especially these days. And the Hampton delivered. I was impressed by the measures they took: Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere, and Room sanitization in between stays. They also had a doctor/nurse on call and a first aid kit. Plus, all the staff are trained in safety protocols. I felt really safe and comfortable. This is the kind of stuff that matters, even if you don't always think about it.
Dining & Drinking: From Buffet Bliss to Bar Blues (and a Snack Bar Save!)
Breakfast. Oh, the breakfast! The Asian breakfast was awesome. The Breakfast [buffet]? A feast for the senses. They offered a crazy spread with fresh fruit, pastries, and all the standard Western options, plus lots of delicious local delicacies. It was a truly buffet in restaurant. The coffee? Fine. The coffee/tea in restaurant helped shake off the morning fog. I was very pleased with the breakfast service the staff was wonderful.
The restaurants themselves offered a variety of choices, including International cuisine in restaurant and Asian cuisine in restaurant. There's also a poolside bar, a very welcome feature. However, the bar service was slow when I was there, and the cocktails, while pretty, were a little underwhelming. I will say though, the snack bar was my savior. Great quick bites when you were feeling a bit peckish. So good.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: SPA-TASTIC! (and a Fitness Center Fight!)
Okay, here's where Hampton really shines. The fitness center was decent, but the real magic happened at the spa. Seriously. I signed up for a massage, and it was one of the best I've ever had. The therapist was phenomenal, the atmosphere was tranquil, and I swear, I floated out of there. The spa also offers a sauna, steam room, and foot bath. Just blissful. The Body scrub was also great, I felt so soft afterward. But the Body wrap… Oh. My. Goodness. Pure indulgence. There is also the swimming pool [outdoor], a gorgeous oasis to relax on a sunbed nearby.
Services & Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
The concierge was super helpful with booking excursions and providing local advice. Daily housekeeping was impeccable. Room service [24-hour] was a lifesaver for late-night cravings (snack bar and 24hr room service? Hampton, you've won!). The convenience store was there if you forgot anything, and they offer dry cleaning, laundry service, luggage storage, safety deposit boxes, car park [on-site], and car park [free of charge].
For the Kids & Family Friendliness:
While I traveled solo, I saw plenty of families enjoying the hotel. They have kids facilities, and the vibe is generally very family-friendly.
Getting Around:
Easy! They offer airport transfer and taxi service, making arrivals and departures smooth. And the valet parking was a nice touch.
The Quirks, the Imperfections, the Honest Bits:
Look, no hotel is perfect. The Wi-Fi hiccups aside, there were a few minor glitches. The pool towels were sometimes hard to find, and the service at the bar could be slow. But honestly? Those are small potatoes. What I remember most are the good things: the incredibly comfortable bed, the blissful massage, the delicious breakfast, and the overall sense of calm and relaxation.
Should You Book It? My Recommendation:
Absolutely. If you're looking for a luxury stay in Saudi Arabia, Hampton by Hilton Sharma Ash Sharmah delivers. It's clean, comfortable, well-equipped, and the spa is worth the price of admission alone. The fact that it's generally accessible, and has a good focus on service, is a huge plus. Just, maybe bring your own Ethernet cable… just in case.
And Now, for the Sales Pitch (Because Even I Need to Pay the Bills!)
Tired of the Ordinary? Craving an Escape You Won't Forget?
Luxury Stays in Saudi Arabia Await!
Escape to the stunning shores of Sharma with a stay at the Hampton by Hilton Sharma Ash Sharmah. Imagine waking up to breathtaking views, indulging in a world-class spa experience, and enjoying the finest amenities.
Here's what you can expect:
- Unparalleled Relaxation: Sink into plush beds, unwind with a rejuvenating massage, and soak up the sun by the sparkling outdoor pool.
- Unforgettable Experiences: Savor delicious cuisine, explore the local culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
- Peace of Mind: Rest easy knowing you're in a safe and secure environment, with impeccable cleanliness and safety protocols.
Book your stay at the Hampton by Hilton Sharma Ash Sharmah today and experience the ultimate in Saudi Arabian hospitality! Get ready to be pampered, rejuvenated, and utterly delighted.
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Ho Chi Minh City Liberation: Unveiling the Untold Story
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your average, pristine itinerary. This is me, me, trying to navigate the sands of Saudi Arabia from the safe…ish…(Hampton by Hilton, let's not get carried away) of Sharma Ash Sharmah. Prepare for a bumpy ride, both in the metaphoric and, knowing my luck, literal sense.
Day 1: Arrival & Existential Dread in the Desert (Kinda)
- Morning: Landed in Jeddah. Oh boy, the airport. I swear, it's a cross between a bustling bazaar and a spaceship that's crash-landed in a sandpit. The sheer scale of it all is staggering. Immigration? Let's just say patience is a virtue I’m constantly working on. The helpful (and overwhelmingly polite) staff eventually got me through. My first thought? "Wow, I'm really here." Followed swiftly by, "Did I pack enough underwear?" (Spoiler alert: No, never). The transfer to Sharma Ash Sharmah was… well, it was a drive. Miles and miles of… sand. And more sand. And a few camels looking utterly unimpressed.
- Afternoon: Hampton by Hilton, the Crucible of Comfort? Finally made it to the hotel. Honestly, the Hampton is a beacon of (relative) normalcy. Clean sheets, a vaguely familiar breakfast buffet, and the all-important air conditioning. I needed it, post-airport battle. Settling in, staring out the window, feeling like a tiny speck in this vast, ancient land. I'm not going to lie, a wave of profound 'what am I doing here?' washed over me. Followed by a desperate craving for a decent cup of coffee. Went down to the lobby and it was truly bad coffee.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant the hotel recommended. "Authentic Arabian cuisine," they said. "Mildly terrifying," I’d say. The food was… interesting. A lot of rice, a lot of meat I couldn't quite identify, and spices that exploded on my tongue in ways I wasn’t quite prepared for. The highlight? The sheer kindness of the staff. Seriously, they were saints. I managed a few nods and smiles and tried not to make too much of a mess. Stumbled back to the hotel, feeling like a slightly bewildered casualty of a culinary war. Went to bed immediately.
Day 2: The Red Sea & The Great Unknown (aka, Getting Lost)
- Morning: Decided I need to get out of the hotel. Pre booked a tour on the Red Sea, where I'm told there will be some snorkeling. Was a bit anxious. Driving to the Red Sea was an experience in itself. The landscape kept changing, from desert to coastal, and it was truly beautiful. Arrived at the dive center and promptly found myself completely bewildered by the equipment. Snorkel, mask, flippers… it's a whole new world of awkwardness. The guide, a guy named Khalid, was brilliant. Patient, reassuring, and genuinely enthusiastic. Getting into the water was… cold. And then, BAM! Coral, fish, colours that explode in front of the naked eye. It was like being in a giant, fish-filled aquarium. One of the best experiences in my life.
- Afternoon: After snorkeling with the fish, had lunch at the center. The fish was fresh, and the staff were truly kind. After lunch, I decided to walk around a little bit in the markets nearby. Of course, I got lost. Completely and utterly lost. Wandered around for an hour, speaking a terrible mix of English and pathetic hand gestures. Everyone, and I mean everyone, was willing to help. I eventually stumbled upon a friendly shopkeeper who, after much gesturing and a lot of laughter, pointed me in the right direction. Finally found my way back to the hotel, feeling a bit battered but also deeply grateful and amazed at the generosity of strangers.
- Evening: Another meal at the hotel. This time, I went for something simple: pasta. Comfort food, I needed it. Then, feeling a touch homesick, I called family. It took 40 minutes. Then slept.
Day 3: Digging Into the Past (And Probably Getting Sand in My Shoes)
- Morning: Got the courage to go into the old town, which I heard was supposed to be incredible. The guide I ended up getting was great, and provided tons of history.
- Afternoon: It was a sensory overload. The crowds, the sounds, the smells - it’s a world away from everything I'd known. The guide was great though, so it was a blast.
- Evening: Back to the hotel, and my sense of adventure was truly spent. Ordered room service, watched some bad TV, and collapsed into bed, exhausted but in a good way.
Day 4: Rambling and Ruminating and Getting Rained On (Maybe)
- Morning: Woke up feeling remarkably well-rested. Took my time getting ready. Ate a leisurely breakfast, pondering what I'd seen and done in the past few days. So many emotions were coming up, and I started feeling grateful.
- Afternoon: After lunch, decided to find a place to sit and watch the world go by. Was feeling introspective. Wanted to just relax for a while.
- Evening: Back at the hotel. I’m in my room, and wondering what tomorrow will bring.
Day 5: Departure (and a Slightly Heartbreaking Goodbye?)
- Morning: I'm not really sure I want to leave. The thought of departure felt a bit crushing. Had a final, desperate breakfast, savouring the bland familiarity of the hotel’s coffee. Packed, feeling that familiar mix of sadness and relief.
- Afternoon: Airport. The same as the first day, but different. This time, I knew my way around a little. Was still a chaotic mess, but I navigated the airport with the confidence of a seasoned pro.
- Evening: On the plane. A sense of calm washed over me as I looked out the window. The desert was gone. But what I had experienced, the incredible people, and the strange places I had seen, and the new experiences I felt grateful for, came to me.
And there you have it. A slice of my messy, imperfect, and utterly unforgettable adventure in Sharma Ash Sharmah. I hope this was helpful in showing how to have fun and experience new things while being scared out of your mind.
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Hampton by Hilton Sharma Ash Sharmah: Luxury? Let's Get Real...
1. Is Hampton by Hilton Sharma Ash Sharmah actually 'luxury'? I saw the pictures...
Okay, let's be honest. "Luxury" in Saudi Arabia can mean a few different things. And while the Hampton by Hilton might *aspire* to luxury, let's just say it's more like 'upscale comfort'. Think 'solid, clean, with nice amenities'. You won't be swimming in a gold-plated infinity pool, or having a personal butler named Bartholomew (though wouldn't that BE something?). It's comfortable, and after a day sweating in the desert or haggling in the souk, that’s *exactly* what you need. The pictures, you know, they always show the *best* light. But the rooms are genuinely well-appointed, the beds are ridiculously comfortable (I swear, I almost didn't get out of mine for three days). And that's a win in my book.
2. What's the breakfast situation like? I *need* my morning coffee ritual.
The breakfast... *sigh*. Look, I went in with high hopes, fueled by jet lag and desperation. And it wasn’t *bad*. It's a buffet, so expect the standard Hampton fare: eggs (cooked every which way), pastries, cereal, some local options. The coffee, however, was a bit of a gamble. Some days it was strong and actually tasted like coffee. Other days, it was… well, let's just say it needed a LOT of creamer. But hey, the date pastries were usually on point. I may have eaten my weight in those. Don’t judge. It’s a desert climate; a little sugar is survival. And there’s something to be said for the simple pleasure of a warm croissant after a long flight.
3. Okay, but what about the location? Is it convenient? I don't want to be stranded in the middle of nowhere.
The location is… *okay*. It's in Ash Sharmah (also known as Sharma), which is close to the Red Sea coast. It's not right in the thick of things, which, depending on your perspective, is either a blessing or a curse. Getting around is easiest with a taxi or a rental car. There are some shops and restaurants a short drive away (definitely not walking distance in the heat!). I relied heavily on Uber. One memorable afternoon, I tried walking to a nearby restaurant, and after about 10 minutes of baking in the sun, I just about melted. Take a taxi or Uber, trust me. Lesson learned the hard way. It's a good base camp for exploring the area, but don't expect the hotel itself to be the hub of all activity.
4. Let's talk rooms. Are they clean? Are they… noisy? I can’t sleep without a good night's rest.
Rooms? Yes, they're clean. *Very* clean. Spotless, actually. Even the corners. I may have done a small inspection upon arrival. I'm a germaphobe, sue me. The staff takes pride in their work, and it shows. The noise level? Surprisingly quiet. You know how hotels can sometimes be a cacophony of doors slamming and people shuffling? Not here. I slept like a *baby* in my room. The air conditioning was *divine*. And let's talk about the shower pressure! Glorious. Just glorious. I may have spent a little too long in there, washing away the day’s desert dust. That, my friends, is a luxury in itself after a long day of excursions.
5. Any hidden gems or things I wouldn’t expect? Give me the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Okay, here's the real deal. The "hidden gem" I discovered? The hotel's staff. They're genuinely friendly and helpful. One of the staff members, a lovely man named Omar, went above and beyond to help me arrange a day trip to a nearby island. He didn't have to, but he did. That kind of service makes a difference. The bad? Hmm… maybe the lack of a stronger local flavor in the hotel. It's very international, which has its good sides, but I would have loved a little more Saudi influence (like, maybe a proper Arabic coffee station). The ugly? Honestly? I got *terrible* sunburn one day because I underestimated the sun. Just… pack more sunscreen than you think you'll need. Seriously.
6. What about the pool? Does this luxury hotel have an amazing swimming pool?
The pool... ah, yes, the pool. This experience is one of those things that made me question reality. I had a moment, a *significant* moment, at the pool. Let's just say, it left me a little… flustered. Picture this: sweltering heat, the sun beating down, and visions of a refreshing dip. I stroll out to the pool area, expecting a shimmering oasis, perhaps with a poolside bar and a charming little cocktail menu. *Nope.* It was there. The pool. But... it was closed. *Closed*! For cleaning or some vague maintenance. I'm talking the kind of closed where they have the little "Do Not Enter" signs and the whole bit. Disappointment? Understatement of the century. I felt like I'd walked into a mirage. My face went from anticipation to a slow-motion deflating balloon. The air crackled with the shared disappointment of two other people who also arrived with their swimming gear ready. So, no, this luxury hotel does not have a magnificent experience to provide at the pool. Remember, go for expectation management, and you'll survive the heat.
7. Okay, so, overall... should I stay there?
Look, if you're looking for a comfortable, reliable, clean, and frankly, *easy* place to stay in Sharma Ash Sharmah, then yes. Absolutely. It’s not over-the-top luxury, but it's a solid choice. It's a good base for exploring the region, and you can rely on a decent night’s sleep and a hot shower. Just don’t go expecting to be pampered like royalty. Think of it as a friendly, dependable friend who's always there to provide you with a comfy chair and a good night's rest after a long day in the desert. And maybe, just maybe, pack a backup plan for enjoying the pool.
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