Sharm El Sheikh

... trip taken in 2002, account based on memories in 2006....

Last-minute trip booked online, organised by the Tour Operator "Maxitraveland". Flight: Air Europe Accommodation: Pyramisa Village.

The village lies on the coast towards the town of Naama Bay, next to other hotels. The complex is very large and, if you want, this allows absolute relaxation and privacy. Our room was a bit run-down. There are various restaurants, two pools and a dive centre (which I later learned is very competent). The entertainment is very low-key. It has a couple of small beaches and various crossing points (jetties) on the reef to go snorkelling. The umbrellas and sun loungers have been placed over the sea on a kind of rocky balcony. Outside the hotel there are many taxis. Many excursions are organised, both by the hotel and outside in the various towns (Naama Bay and Sharm).

We did: - quad biking and Berber dinner in the desert (very suggestive and "picturesque" - cover up with headscarves etc etc, the sand gets everywhere....) - camel ride and tea in the desert (very picturesque - I suggest wearing long, sturdy trousers) - Ras Mohamed Park and snorkelling (very beautiful, a shame that to snorkel you have to queue.....)

The town of Naama Bay looks a bit like Rimini with its modern venues. Everyone speaks Italian. The inner market is very distinctive. An excellent place for buying local crafts. A bit more "real" and "typical" is the town of Sharm which, at least in 2002, reflected local habits and customs.

In conclusion, a great place for snorkelling and scuba diving, an enormous choice of hotels, interesting excursions, hospitable people. Depending on the accommodation you choose, you can also have an economical and decent trip.