I had been there in December for 2 weeks. Very big area. Excellent hotel in Hurghada.

*WARNING*: Hotel actively solicits positive TripAdvisor reviews by running a reward contest! This review is independent of that program.

Armed with the previous reviews, we managed our expectations for the Desert Rose and were very pleased with our vacation! Primarily, as some of the few English-speakers among a predominantly Russian clientele, we were treated like celebrities. All of the staff were thrilled to see us, went out of their way to address even the smallest concern, and actively sought us to encourage us to their activities. For some, the signage and announcements in Russian might be off-putting, but for us it was as though we had our own private resort.
Positives:
- Plenty of sun loungers throughout the day, beach or pool.
- Felt perfectly isolated from poor-man's Las Vegas that is Hurghada.
- Close to the airport BUT without traffic or flyover noise.
Negatives:
- The main building and rooms reek of old, wet smoke! Beware that you must request a non-smoking room in advance, and that there are few of them. However, if you get one of these and don't use reception or the pay-internet, then you can avoid this.
- The activities plan is unclear: You never know what's on when and where, and the Animation team don't either.
- Absolutely nothing to do if it rains (as it did 2 of our 4 days). No indoor swimming or activities, no Animation plan, NOTHING.

My partner and I disagreed regarding the food. He thought that there was a great deal of choice; I disliked the way that they used leftovers (chopped ham from breakfast in a chef's salad at lunch, for example) and thought that choice was limited.

Would stay again if in Hurghada, but likely no to both.

08.12.2010 - 15.12.2010
It is Super hotel! Sea, Shopping, Great food, Beautiful places, Room Service is 5*!

We stayed in Desert Rose last year for 1 week for a vacation. I should say that the hotel seems rather old, however the rooms are tidy and clean. The food and drinks there were good, though they were often serving the same stuff every day.
All the personnel was very friendly, nice and helpful. However, there were some Russians who were staying there too and their attitude to the personnel was very unpleasant. I think that's why some people get bad service. If you treat bartenders with respect they will respect you as well.
I used the spa center for a massage and it was quite a relaxing experience.
All in all, it was a nice and enjoyable vacation with my husband.