What’s 1423 feet below the earth’s sea level, has tourists raving about its special healing minerals, and is so rich with oxygen that not even the sun can burn you?
The Dead Sea, of course!
The Dead Sea, shared by Israel and Jordan, is a glistening, blue body of water with a high density of salt concentration; exponentially more so than the ocean.
Ein Bokek, on the south Israel side of the sea, is a hot spot for tourists. The south basin has a bright turquoise color, pristine, white, public beaches that are well-maintained. The views of the area are enough to make you feel like you’re in paradise. The canyons and rock bluffs will make you feel like you’re in Utah or Arizona State.
If you’re a beach lover, these are some of the best in the world. Among beautiful, they’re constantly cleaned to be spotless, there are always lifeguards on duty, and free amenities are offered. Free shade shelters, changing rooms, and showers are offered on site of nearly every public beach. They even have night-time lighting.
The hotels surrounding Ein Bokek will give you a sense of luxury with their spas, freshwater pools, mud & mineral baths, saunas, and their holistic beauty treatments.
Nearby is the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve. The reserve is a true oasis enveloping two canyons fed by natural springs. You’ll be able to view waterfalls, and natural freshwater pools (that you’re allowed to swim in) covered in vibrant vegetation. If you’re lucky, you may able to spot the Nubian ibex and the adorable hyrax’s that are native to the area. Close-by are the ancient ruins of a synagogue from 1600 years ago. Excavations are still ongoing.
What to be aware of.
A majority of the hotels around the Israel side of the Dead Sea include breakfast and evening meals; because of this, restaurant options are limited. There are also a handful of cafés.
Sinkholes are a very real danger around the Dead Sea. Freshwater streams find their way into underground deposits of salt causing them to dissolve. There is no way to detect where a sinkhole is or when it can open up. Unsuspecting individuals have been swallowed up. It’s important to stick to the designated shorelines that are marked safe to visit.
There are certain things you shouldn’t do if you plan to take a swim in the Dead Sea. You don’t want to enter the mineral water if you have any scratches or shaving knicks. They will sting immensely.
It’s advised not to wear jewelry upon entering the water. It will cause your items to instantly become tarnished.
Don’t go in barefoot. Scorching sand and sharp stones can be quite painful for your feet. Wear a pair of flip flops or water shoes.
Try not to splash or dip your head in the water. Just like the minerals in the water will ferociously sting your cuts or scraps, it will do the same to your eyes.