Weather lowdown
Although December is the first month of winter in Sharm el-Sheikh, the daily weather remains reliably dry and sunny and rather warm. Daytime temperatures rise to an average maximum of 23°C, and fall to an average minimum of 15°C overnight, and are combined with generally low humidity, making December a good time of year to visit for tourists who are most comfortable with moderate warmth rather than heat. Temperatures rarely fluctuate by more than a few degrees either side of the long-term average, and the long-term averages thus give a good indication of what tourists can expect during a typical holiday.
Rainfall is rare during December- the mean monthly rainfall is less than 1mm, and on average there are only 0.3 days with measurable rainfall, meaning that many Novembers pass by without any measurable rain. There are 248 hours of bright sunshine during an average November which is equivalent to 8 hours of sunshine per day. Sea temperatures fall back to around 24°C during a typical December, but this is still easily warm enough to support underwater activities.
There are usually no weather hazards around at this time of year, although on the very rare occasions that rain is encountered, it can potentially cause flash flooding due to the arid nature of the region.
Where to stay
Club Magic Life Sharm el-Sheikh Imperial
There are many good accommodation options around Sharm el-Sheikh, but also some dodgy ones, so choose carefully. The Club Magic Life Sharm el-Sheikh Imperial is particularly recommended for a choice of hotel with considerable options for diving, spa pools, and Jacuzzis.
Jaz Mirabel Park
Jaz Mirabel Park is located in the popular Nabq Bay area, and boasts a wide range of sporting facilities.
Savoy Sharm-el-Sheikh
Those who have large budgets can consider one of the numerous luxury hotels in the region such as the Savoy Sharm el-Sheikh, situated in SOHO Square, which also offers a high quality of service and catering options.
Sharks Bay Umbi Diving Village
Those on tighter budgets have a more limited range of good options, but there are some, including the Sharks Bay Umbi Diving Village which also contains a local dive centre.
Sharks Bay Oasis
For those after self-catering options, Sharks Bay Oasis is a very handy option for those interested in visiting, and staying close to, Shark's Bay.
Eating and drinking out
White Elephant Thai Restaurant and Sushi Bar
There are numerous restaurants available in Sharm el-Sheikh but some are considerably better than others. The White Elephant Thai Restaurant and Sushi Bar, a Thai restaurant situated at Royal Albatros Moderna, Peace Road, is a relatively expensive, but high quality, option which offers plentiful and high quality food, making it particularly suitable for a special occasion for those who enjoy Thai cuisine.
The Lounge
The Lounge at Mall 6 in Naama Bay, next to the Carrefour supermarket, offers a varied menu with a range of international food options, and also provides Thursday night karaoke.
Grand Slam Sports Bar
Those who fancy watching some sporting events from overseas and trying out some reasonable pub-style food can try the Grand Slam Sports Bar, situated at the Old Market, Jasmine Centre.
Tavern Bar
For those after a pub that will also provide good nightlife, the Tavern Bar, as well as selling good British-style pub meals through the day, has Karaoke every Thursday and Saturday night, and parties on Friday nights, and entertainment and quizzes are frequently provided.
Things to do
Edelweiss Equestrian Centre
A good horse-riding centre is the Edelweiss Equestrian Centre, which is situated at White Knight's Bay, and provides safari trips, horse riding lessons, boarding for horses, and the centre periodically hosts competitions and parties.
Alf Leila Wa Leila
Alf Leila Wa Leila, as well as offering hotel accommodation, is quite an impressive entertainment centre, located at Hadabaet Um El Said. The Museum of Ancient Egyptian Heritage is located here, and displays numerous pieces of ancient Egyptian art, giving an insight into ancient Egyptian civilization and the kinds of art that prevailed at the time.
One of the main centrepieces of the resort is the Fantasia Show, which is held in a large theatre after sunset, and features entertainment such as Egyptian music, Sindbad on his flying carpet, and snake and belly dancing. Restaurants and bars that are available on-site include the "Il Camento" Italian restaurant and the "Cave Du Roi" main restaurant. Sporting activities such as table tennis, billiards and basketball are also available.
