For the first time we visited Sharm in the winter months, after having been unsure of the water temperature and calmness at this time of year. We ought not to have worried since the sun was warm and the sea welcoming.  As we stayed in the water snorkelling for long periods, we tried wearing wetsuits which compensated for the slightly lower sea temperature (and helped avoid sunburn).

Our hotel was the Sonesta Beach, a large low-rise complex of white buildings set in well-tended grounds on the north end of Na'ama Bay, with its own beach area right at the start of the reef. The hotel was busy, but the sea much less crowded than in the summer months. This increased our snorkelling pleasure greatly. As always, the sea clarity and calmness was at its best in the mornings and we snorkelled from about 9 to 10 each day, returning at about 3 pm for another hour of pleasure despite somewhat reduced visibility. Each time we were inspected curiously by (we believe) the same magnificent spangled emperor that we have met each time that we have snorkelled in Na'ama bay in the last few years. Don't ask why we nicknamed it 'Harry the hake' - it doesn't make much sense to us either, just seemed to suit him (or her).

Taking advantage of the cooler winter sun, we took a trip to St. Catherine's monastery and the coloured canyon, both up in the Sinai hills. The monastery was busy, but our group was alone in the canyon and enjoyed the rugged scenery.