AN ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT IS NOT THE WORK DESTINATION

PORTIA JONES DREAMED OF BUT HURGHADA HITS THE SPOT

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Every January, I try to escape Britain's gloom for some sun and wine that does not cost £8 a glass. Each year, I also convince my long-suffering husband to log off and join me on escapades to sunny and cheaper places like Sri Lanka and Costa Rica. In January last year I was itching for a new destination, so what we now call "the Egypt saga" was set in motion.

Cut back to Christmas 2024 when, fuelled by mulled wine and poor judgement, I was doom-scrolling and found a deal that made me stop mid-sip.

It offered almost four weeks in an all-inclusive resort in Hurghada - an Egyptian resort town on the Red Sea - flights included, for just under £1,700 for both of us. I booked immediately.

No research and no caution. That was mistake number one.

I was so giddy with the adrenaline of bagging a bargain that I forgot the first rule of resort booking. Always check the reviews.

As a freelancer, I intended to work during my extended jaunt, preferably with a pina colada in hand, like the smug world citizens I see on Instagram.

Our booking promised a four-star resort with an aqua park and private beach. I imagined spacious rooms, stylish decor, peaceful pools and plenty of time to write.