The Dead Sea - Travel (Issue Four)

Arabia Felix Magazine
The Dead Sea
By Faris Sanabani
June 1, 2006, 03:31

The Dead Sea Resort is distinguished because it is located in a country small in size, but big in spirit.

The Arab world is full of diversity when it comes to food, clothing, customs, looks and behaviors. But a common language and an ancient culture and history bring out the best in them and attract millions of tourists to the Arab world every year.

For the thrill seekers there are miles and miles of open deserts as well as numerous peaks and mountains whose paths still offer many adventures. For those more faint hearted there are thousands of kilometers of white sandy beaches and islands; for the explorers there are old, ancient cities whose secrets are too numerous to tell. With all of these choices, there are many opportunities to enjoy the time with your family, friends or by yourself. However, one place stands above the rest even though it is located 400 meters below sea level, a place that is as enticing today as it had once been to the kings, emperors and prophets in antiquity. It is the Dead Sea Resort in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, a resort that is distinguished because it is located in a country small in size, but big in spirit.

The spirit of Jordan flows and travels throughout the world. Whether it is their foreign policies, their peaceful approach to settlement issues or their initiatives towards reform and attracting investment into the country, the people of Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan are on a path of prosperity. The spirit and hospitality of Jordan is felt immediately at first glimpse upon your drive from the airport. Numerous signs welcome you whether you are there for business or pleasure. At the hotels, countries from all over the world are represented by the variety of nationalities visiting Jordan daily and this is a direct reflection of the openness of the Kingdom of Jordan.

The Dead Sea, a geographic phenomenon being the lowest point on earth at 400 meters below sea level, boasts of a historical and spiritual legacy of its own that has made it a favorite spot for holiday makers. The trip from Amman to the Dead Sea resort is short and sweet, a 60 mile drive through a beautiful landscape that is virtually unchanged since ancient times. As you approach the resort, about 18 kilometers beforehand, there is a rest area identifying the sea level, 390 meters below, the lowest exposed point on the Earth’s surface. From there on, it is another ten minute down hill ride to the Resort where the heat welcomes you whether it is winter or summer. Some of the ideal places to stay are the Mövenpick Hotel or the Marriott Hotel, both of which are dedicated to pampering your senses and revitalizing your mind, body and spirit.

The Dead Sea is famous for its warm salty waters as well as its mineral rich mud with which the sun bathers smother themselves. It is this combination of the unusually warm water and the mineral rich mud that has attracted visitors since ancient times, including Herod the Great and the beautiful Egyptian Queen Cleopatra. The swimming experience is unforgettable as the high density of the water makes it virtually impossible to sink. That’s why the most appropriate and the most photographed pose is that of a visitor reclining in the water leisurely reading a perfectly dry paper.

A series of excellent hotels with spa and fitness facilities are there providing numerous options to fill up your day with. The nights on the other hand can be spent enjoying luxurious surroundings and majestic views at any of the numerous bars and restaurants. The sunset views at the Dead Sea are different than any other and the only way to understand them is to feel and see them for yourself.