Dahab
The name Dahab means “gold” in Arabic, but its origin is debatable. Some say it’s because of the golden color of the soft sand surrounding the area, some say it’s because gold was washed down the mountains of Sinai during floods and settled where the town is built, and others say there’s a spot in Dahab, when at a specific time during sunset, the sun reflects a golden color over the calm water surface.
Dahab lies between Qura Bay to the south and the smaller Ghazala Bay to the north and is divided into Assalah, Masbat, Mashraba and Dahab City. Assalah village is the most developed part of Dahab and is surrounded by palm trees, shops, campgrounds, hotels, bars, and restaurants that are along the shore of Ghazala Bay, of which, the unique on-the-ground restaurants are its main attraction. Being right on the beach, only meters from the ocean, they are a mixture of hippie and Bedouin style; a lot of colours, large cushions and low tables. Most of them have fresh fish stalls in front, so you can personally chose your dinner. Dahab is widely known for its windsurfing. However, scuba diving and snorkelling are a big attraction; among the most interesting sites is most definitely the blue hole. Camel, horse, jeep and quad bike safaris are also extremely popular.
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The Islands
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Light House
This is a fine dive, with a good range of features and depths to suit all levels of diver. Located just offshore at the lighthouse in Dahab bay, it features a sloping reef extending north around an outthrust point of land. This section, while excellent in profile and layout, is looking a bit tired and worn. Large pinnacles extend out from the point, reaching depths of more than 25m (80ft) before tailing off to a series of smaller coral heads reaching off into the depths. The reef then gives way to a wide, featureless sand slope before reaching a second sloping coral wall to the north.
Horse Riding
Being in Sharm and not to try camel or horse riding is unacceptable. So, a visit to one of the local stables is absolutely a must. Omar Riding Club is one of them. But since it is located in the desert, booking is highly recommended, as not many taxis will agree to go there; and if they do, you will probably be overcharged, breaking your carefully planned budget. Booking, on the other hand, insures you get free transportation.
Banks & ATMs
Opening hours for Egyptian banks are generally Monday to Thursday 8.30am-2pm, plus an evening shift (5-8pm in winter, 6-9pm in summer); some also open similar hours on Saturday, and from 10am to noon on Sunday (details are given as relevant in the text). Most foreign banks are open from 8.30am to 1pm Monday to Thursday, and sometimes on Sunday - link to list of banks and ATM guide - text about currency exchange, traveller checks, credit cards, moneygram and western union.
Fly A Kite
Bring back the memories of childhood when you used to run around flying kites, but guess what, there is no age limit and you can still enjoy doing it along the beach or at any of the national parks
