One word describes Dahab: Paradisal. And to no surprise, my first intention of only two days here has turned into six, as I have been practically hypnotized by its idyllic, tranquil vibe, and have spent many an hour on pillows by the water side, smoking hookahs and simply staring into the distance. It is places like these though, that remind me how strangely I am wired, as the inactivity of relaxation inevitably leads to depression, and I am delighted, though hesitant, to leave. It hasn't all been lethargy though. My first true experience of snorkeling happened here, at the blue hole, an 80 metre deep cavern off the coast of Dahab. surrounded by massive reefs of coral and home to aquatic creatures I have only seen on television. Schools of electric blue and silver, angel, parrot and blowfish, sea urchins and spindly eels...the reefs are alive with animated colors, an aesthetically magical world just below the surface. A hike up Mt. Sinai reminded me just how difficult hiking can be after four days of vegetation, and planted in me a new respect for Moses. Wandering here for 40 years is not appealing. It is hot, shadeless, and completely devoid of moisture and life. I had the pleasure of being accompanied by Sindre, a Norwegian who is poised to set a Guinness world record for ascending the highest peaks in every European country in the shortest amount of time. Needless to say, hiking with him was a somewhat humbling experience, and entertaining, as being within the shadow of Gebel Musa invariably leads one to discussions of a theological nature, and eventually to a tiring bout of negotiations with taxi drivers for the best price back to Dahab.
