Across the Dead Sea

Whatever people may tell you about being in the Dead Sea - it's true. The lowest

body of water on the planet (something like 1400 ft.below normal sea level), being

in it is the weirdest of sensations. You can't swim - except perhaps with a gentle

back stroke - and you are advised not to try, since you may not be able to right

yourself again. It's salinity is apparently about nine times that of the oceans, which

makes for water that nothing can live in - hence the name. But you can launch

yourself into it and live to tell the tale - take a good book with you (it won't get wet)

and be sure to shower afterwards.

This photograph was taken from the Jordanian shore, looking across to the disputed

area of Israel's West Bank. Whilst there are now numerous places that will

accommodate your visit, be aware that the Dead Sea is shrinking, so a bit of a hike

to the water may be necessary.

Whatever people may tell you about being in the Dead Sea - it's true. The lowest body of water

on the planet (something like 1400 ft.below normal sea level), being in it is the weirdest of

sensations. You can't swim - except perhaps with a gentle back stroke - and you are advised

not to try, since you may not be able to right yourself again. It's salinity is apparently about

nine times that of the oceans, which makes for water that nothing can live in - hence the name.

But you can launch yourself into it and live to tell the tale - take a good book with you (it won't

get wet) and be sure to shower afterwards.

This photograph was taken from the Jordanian shore, looking across to the disputed area of

Israel's West Bank. Whilst there are now numerous places that will accommodate your visit, be

aware that the Dead Sea is shrinking, so a bit of a hike to the water may be necessary.