Dim Distress with the Red Sea

 Continues from Jizan-The Gateway to a Magic Land

On our first evening at the Coral Gulf, we were all excited to explore the waves of Red Sea. The Sun hurried down behind the clouds, leaving crimson shards behind on the sky. 

Coral Gulf Beach

The sky was still bright when we reached the shores of Red Sea. However, the brightness of the Sky was not visible in the Sea. The land and water had already turned dark with the setting rays of Sun. However, the lure to wade in the water was unstoppable and we got in. “Ouch!” It was my first reaction! Something pricked on my feet and the sand under that slipped!

Much synonymous with the hotel’s name, the beach at the Coral Resort was covered with corals. Hard and lifeless corals scattered around the beach with carcasses of fish, empty cans and bottles. The water was shallow for a long way. The sand near the shore was slimy and covered. For the first time, I felt scared to get into the Sea.

Yet, when I drew back in disappointment, there were others in the group, who were still inexorable. Shreya ran into the water and Sreejith had to accompany her against his will. Little Ayan and Duaa also joined them with Nadeer.

As I and Shehnaz waited for the crew to come back, stars started spreading their gleaming carpet on the sky. The wind blew putting a veil on our day today anxieties. The group returned soon and the men went out in search of ‘homely’ dinner.

I and Shehnaz gathered the kids and retreated to the bedroom balcony. We sat on the balcony floor watching the serene nature. A mongoose was running on green grass as a white fur on a green carpet. As we started to talk freely as you do with your close friends, a memory came clear in my mind. Mine and my friend Amitha’s incessant conversations at the roof of our hostel under the wind and stars from the Bengal Bay. Yes, the best moments in your life might repeat at similar places and with similar people. 

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