A Day At The Dead Sea

 

After spending a day at the Dead Sea, I would have to say it is one of the more unique experiences I have had while traveling.  There are several things that make the Dead Sea an amazing place.  First it is the lowest point on earth, almost fourteen hundred feet below sea level.

Second, the salinity of the Dead Sea is over thirty-three percent (nine times greater then the ocean), making it inhospitable to any marine life.  Third, it is impossible not to float when you enter the Dead Sea which is what makes it unlike any other body of water I have ever been in.

Literally as you wade deeper into the Dead Sea, the hyper-salinity of the water pulls you into a floating position.  You can try to stand up in the water but it is extremely difficult to do so.  It is almost like a gravitational force pulls you back to a floating position.  The hyper-salinity of the water makes any small cut on your body sting so I wouldn’t advice shaving the day you visit the Dead Sea.  But once you settle in and float on your back it is extremely enjoyable to relax and soak in the beautiful scenery.

That being said, the Dead Sea is not a body of water for much recreation besides floating.  You have to carefully read the warning signs before floating in the Dead Sea.  Under any circumstance, it is not advisable to place your head under water.  Apparently, this guy did not read the warnings.  I witnessed him placing his head under water and almost instantly he realized his mistake.  I can’t imagine how his eyes felt but the anguish on his face certainly gave me an idea.

There are no boats on the Dead Sea due to the hyper-salinity and the corrosion that would occur on the undersurface.  In my opinion, the Dead Sea is a true wonder of the world.  However, it is disappearing which is disturbing.  You can see clearly how the water level has continued to decrease over the years as the layers of salt deposits continue to form on its shores.  It main tributary, the Jordan River, has seen water diverted away from it which has continued to decrease the water level of the Dead Sea.

Like any natural wonder, human interests continue to threaten its very existence.  I am very happy that we decided to visit the Dead Sea during our trip to Israel and the Palestinian Territories.  For me, it was the probably the most enjoyable day of our trip as it was a very relaxing place to spend an afternoon. I would consider it a must-do on any trip to this region.