The Dead Sea, or Salt Sea, is a salt lake bordered by Jordan to the East, and Israel and the West Bank to the west.
At the lowest point of Earth in any landmass, the body of water holds the title of having the highest concentration of salt in any body of water in the world.
Float around all day
The Dead Sea’s unusually high salt concentration enables people to easily float in the Dead Sea due to natural buoyancy. Every year, throngs of visitors from all over the globe to experience this unique and natural phenomenon.
In fact, in the Dead Sea, floating is the only thing anyone can do. Because of the buoyancy, it is made impossible to swim or dive. Bring a book, magazines or newspapers, layback and enjoy!
Healing properties
Why the ominous sounding name? The Dead Sea got its name because its salinity prevents the existence of any forms of living organisms in the lake. That same salt, on the other hand, provides tremendous relief to the many ailing visitors who often come to benefit from its healing properties.
This has eventually made the Dead Sea area a major centre for health research and treatment. The mineral content of the water and the location of the Dead Sea, more specifically the higher atmospheric pressure at this great depth have provided specific health effects.
Culturally diverse city
The Dead Sea isn’t all about idling around in the waters all day. There are in fact plenty of other activities in the region apart from floating around all day.
Many visitors will visit the natural mountain amphitheatre to watch the incredible sound and lights show of Masada. Expect impressive pyrotechnics and effects that will reveal the history of the region to your wonder!
Also, the Masada National Park offers hikes to a stunning view of the Dead Sea. However, before you visit the park, one can better experience what the area has to offer after visiting the Masada Museum, with a better understanding on the history of the location.
Getting there
At just over an hour away from Jerusalem, Jordan and Israel, the Dead Sea is a relatively accessible location. Join an organised Dead Sea tour, or get to the Dead Sea via a direct bus, car rental, or cab.
Interestingly, you can track your descent toward this lowest point on earth with a series of meterage signs on the road.
By Eu Shuqi
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