Moreno Horizon Spa & Resort

The archaeology and history that Egypt has preserved from 4500 years ago was what made me want to visit. The welcome at this place made me feel the visit wasn't worth it. The upper part of Hurghada has newer, better designed buildings, though I think the architecture improves more than the hospitality. One thing to know: Moreno spa and Hotelux marina beach are the same hotels. When booking an excursion or pickup, give both names to avoid problems. From the photos, the property looks attractive and in good shape, but inside it's dilapidated, with crumbling walls and very poor cleanliness. During our week, we saw several mice in the halls leading to the rooms, and large cockroaches about the size of a computer mouse. Apart from a few people you could count on one hand, the workers weren't kind or guest-oriented. They seemed annoyed and rude, and didn't make you feel at ease. It seemed they did everything for a tip. Over a week, I saw just two smiles, both after tips. Otherwise, they looked at me as though I'd sneaked into their house. Tourism is fundamental to them, so I don't understand how they can be so grumpy. If you do the job this way, do something else. You can't swim in the sea at night, or even get your ankles wet. The beach canopies are free of Russian guests because they cost 10 euros/dollars extra. The hotel workers stand and stare until you leave, without even giving you time to fold the towel and put it in your bag. The property is 99% Russian guests, who monopolize access points to alcohol and the beach loungers, which they compulsively reserve with sheets while they go out drinking. I wouldn't rule out drunkenness and alcohol-fuelled fights nearby. We saw more than one Russian guest, men and women alike, shouting angrily and arguing. The evening entertainment is Russian music, and directions around the property are in Russian. When travelling around Egypt, expect to tip for everything. Even smoking outside a newly paid bathroom requires a tip. Every person you meet, consciously or unconsciously, will ask for one. Everybody.

We had a very good stay and were satisfied. The beach was beautiful, and the Aqua Park was clean, safe for children, and well supervised. The animation team was excellent. Lifeguards at the pool, Aqua Park, and beach were very careful with children. Over the three days, the meals were varied, tasty, and very good quality. Day 1 had mixed grill, several kinds of fish, chicken, rice, pasta, lasagna, salads, and desserts. Day 2 brought grilled chicken, tandoori fish, duck, and Indian-style meat. Day 3 had grilled meat, turkey, chicken, fish, and shawarma. Reception staff were polite, though we didn't deal with them much because our accommodation representative handled check-in. Special thanks to Mr. Mohamed Abu Jabal for his respectful, genuine help whenever we needed anything.

The pools, beach, and outdoor area were 5 star, and the location was convenient, not far from local hotspots. Entertainment, cleaners, and bar staff were awesome. Rooms are hit and miss, some are very poor and some are okay. The reception needs an upgrade, and the front desk staff could use more training. Food was okay, but didn't change much. I'd say it's 3 star at best.

The beach is lovely, but the place is by a busy market, so it's noisy and crowded. The rooms were clean but old, and the reception staff were aggressive and not very hospitable. Still, I had a great experience at moreno.