Advertisement
|
|
Viewing Seven Things to Know Before You Go Swimming in the Dead SeaSeven Things to Know Before You Go Swimming in the Dead Sea
|
The Dead Sea is one of the most amazing places on earth. It is the lowest place on the planet (about 420 feet below sea level) and attracts thousands of visitors every year. This article has some tips to help make your Dead Sea visit unforgettable. By Noga Bargill The Dead Sea is a very salty lake with 30% salt (a regular sea has about 3% salt). This is one of the most amazing places on earth. It is the lowest place on the planet (about 420 feet below sea level) and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Some are looking for health benefits from the special mineral waters and mud baths, some love the ultimate spa experience available at the hotels located along its shores, and some just want to escape cold winters. Others combine a unique float in the Dead Sea with visiting historic sites and desert hiking tours. Here are some tips to make your Dead Sea visit unforgettable! 1) No one really "swims" in the Dead Sea. "Floating" is the more appropriate term. It is a similar sensation to wearing a life jacket in water, only you are not wearing a life jacket. Imagine how a cork looks bobbing in water - only you are the cork - and you will get the idea. 2) Since nude bathing is not permitted at the Dead Sea, you will need a bathing suit. If you have purchased a sensational Gottex swimsuit during your travels in Israel do not wear it for your Dead Sea float. The minerals can be very hard on swimwear and cause stains that are nearly impossible to remove. In addition, it is a good idea not to shave for a couple of days before entering the water as "throwing salt into a wound" or cut will have the usual effect. 3) After putting on your old swimsuit that you are prepared to leave in the trash, you need another piece of essential gear - plastic water sandals for wading into the water. They are available for purchase at the beaches. The salty bottom can cause cuts on bare feet. Lastly be sure to grab a magazine or newspaper to read as you float for the quintessential Dead Sea photo-op. 4) Now you are ready to "take the plunge" - ONLY DO NOT. You will want to WADE carefully into the water to avoid getting any in your eyes. Settle slowly into the water and watch your feet bob to the surface. Hold your arms up and amazingly, you will not sink! Relax and enjoy. When you finish your floating adventure, remember to rinse yourself thoroughly as well as anything you have been wearing. 5) After your fantastic float, you may be ready to pamper yourself with fabulous spa treatments at one of the many seaside hotels. The Dead Sea has been known for its curative properties for thousands of years. Treatment for skin conditions and breathing problems are even paid for by some European health funds. However, you need not have any health problems in order to enjoy a unique Dead Sea experience - the mud-wrap. In a softly lit room, you are covered with the Dead Sea mud, wrapped in a blanket, and left for about 20 minutes to meditate or wonder what is so special about the Dead Sea mud. You will know when you unwrap. 6) While you are in the area, do not miss a tour of Masada, the location of one of King Herod's famous palaces. This one has three tiers literally hanging off the mountain. Masada is also where the last Jewish resistance to the Roman conquest ended with the suicide pact of the defenders. 7) For the action-minded, the area offers plenty of opportunities for hiking. Check out the hike to the desert springs at En Gedi, where along the trail you can see all kinds of desert wildlife. Then suddenly you will hear water splashing and come upon the waterfall and pool - a real desert oasis. Finding running water in the desert is a true mystical experience. See you at the Dead Sea - and bring all your friends. Do not forget your camera! About the Author: Get 2 Israel is a leading Israel travel company, providing online reservations for Israel hotels, as well as car rental city guides for Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, Eilat, and the Dead Sea. Comprehensive travel information for tourists at http://www.get2israel.com. Article source: 111 Travel Directory: Triple1.com (triple one dot com) More free articles: 1st Rate Articles - 1stRateArticles.com |
|