Dead Sea
The lowest point on
earth
The
sunset touching distant hills with ribbons of fire across the waters of
the Dead Sea brings a sense of unreality to culminate a day's visit to
the lowest point on earth, some 400 meters below sea level.
To
reach this unique spot the visitor enjoys a short, 55 kilometer drive from
Amman, surrounded by a landscape which could be from another planet.
En route a stone marker indicates "Sea Level", but the Dead Sea itself
is not reached before descending another 400 meters below this sign.
As the name suggests, the sea is devoid of life due to an extremely high
content of salts and minerals. But it is these natural elements which give
the waters their curative powers, recognized since the 2,000 years ago.
They also provide the raw materials for the renowned Jordanian Dead Sea
Bath Salts and cosmetic products which are marketed world wide.
The Dead Sea is normally as calm as a mill pond, with barely a ripple disturbing
its surface, but it can become turbulent. During most days, however, the
water shimmers under a beating sun. where rocks meet its lapping edges,
they become snow like, covered with a thick, gleaming white deposit that
gives the area a strange, surreal sense like that of another world.
The tourist facilities provide accommodations for changing into swimming
attire so the visitor can wade into the warm, soothing water. Try as one
may, it is impossible to sink in the thick brine which is four times as
salty as regular sea water. One can, however, recline on the water to read
a newspaper.
Seaside facilities include a modern hotel with a therapeutic clinic and
a restaurant /bathing / sport complex, meeting the needs of day visitors
or parties wishing to spend the night amidst one of the most dramatic and
moving landscapes in the world. Not far away, over the hills to the east,
is another special water adventure: the Ma'in hot springs, now developed
as a comprehensive spa, with a four star hotel, leisure, bathing and therapeutic
facilities.
For travelers in search of relaxation and therapy, Jordan offers healthful
spas in spectacular settings. The waters of the dead sea are intensely
saline and rich in minerals. At the lowest point on the surface of the
earth, it is also a magically serene and quiet place. The lovely Hammamat
Ma'in is another favored spot, with a hot waterfall, thermal springs and
a full complement of resort facilities.
