Pristine 'paradise' where holidaymakers could save over £1200 in December

Now could be the perfect time to dive into the luxury and culture for as little as £470 per person

Holidaymakers could escape the miserable autumn weather to find sun, sea and good times in abundance in a North African idyll much loved by Brits.

Egypt has long been an excellent choice for travellers thanks to its rich history, warm weather, and relatively affordable travel options. Hotels in the main tourist areas are usually an opulent affair offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional Egyptian hospitality.

Considering the country is made up of 90% desert its no surprise that it can be very hot during the summer months. But, as the year draws to a close temperatures are warm and pleasant during the day, with cooler evenings, making it perfect for activities like exploring ancient ruins, cruising the Nile, or going on a desert safari.

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Sharm El Sheikh is a traditional resort that is best known for its decadent luxury hotels, dune-filled deserts and bustling bazaars, while Egypt's second largest resort of Hurghada is home to some of the world's most colourful coral reefs, making it a popular destination for anyone who likes to dive.

The resort of Marsa Alam is fast becoming a premium tourist destination, especially for scuba divers. The coastal town is also close to the Emerald Mines and the Temple of Seti I at Khanais.

Thanks to a limited-time deal from travel giant TUI, sun worshippers could be soaking up the Egyptian ambience for less this winter.

Guests can save a whopping £626 on a stay at the Serenity Alpha Beach resort in Hurghada. Departing on December 6, the seven-night all-inclusive holiday includes return flights from London Gatwick with prices starting from £562.18 per person, based on two people sharing a room.

The hotel is a veritable feast for the senses with five bars, five swimming pools, six restaurants and a private beach. There are also plenty of facilities for younger guests including a kids club and a beachside playground.

There is also a diving centre that makes the most of the off-shore reefs, where visitors can book scuba trips to sunken wrecks, or opt for a night dive to see the sea life after dark.

According to Tripadvisor, the hotel has received a total 4.5 out of 5 rating overall. One delighted couple described it as a "beautiful hotel" adding "As you step off the transfer bus you are welcomed into paradise. The hotel grounds are beautiful so well kept, pools are plentiful and cleaned every day"

Another family who stayed in July also agreed saying "The hotel's environment is absolutely stunning. The surroundings, greenery, pools, and beach – all of it made us feel like we were in paradise."

A third five-star review said: "The hotel is defo a five star hotel with so many amenities. The grounds are stunning and well maintained and the beach is beautiful with the snorkelling just off the pier rivals any location around the world with thousands of fish literally on the doorstep."

Other great value Egyptian winter deals include seven nights at the Jaz Sharks Bay Hotel in Sharm El Sheikh from £470 per person, departing on December 8 or seven nights in a family room at the Case Mare Resort in Marsa Alam for £502 per person, leaving a week later on December 15.

If you really want to kick off the Christmas season in style, a week at the TUI BLUE Makadi Gardens could be all yours for as little as £717 per person. This chic adults-only hotel is part of the Tui Signature collection, offering upscale luxury for discerning guests. The price includes a double room with a garden view, departing from Bristol on December, 13.

If the Tui deals aren't quite what you are looking for, On The Beach is offering a week at the iconic Caves Beach Resort in Hurghada from £463 per person, while Love Holidays is offering good deals on a luxury stay at the Four Seasons Resort in Sharm el Sheikh.