Spa Retreat: The Dead Sea and Judea

In one of the most remote and unlikely places on Earth lies one of the most unique experiences one may ever encounter. The Dead Sea is located at 31°20′N 35°30′E and lies in the heart of Israel. The Dead Sea or "Salt Sea" is the lowest place on earth, approx. 1,300 feet below sea level. What makes the sea so unique is the fact that there is no outflow (inflow from the Jordan River) combined with the high evaporation rate - this body of water produces raw chemicals including chloride salts of magnesium, sodium, potassium along with many others. These natural wonders have been used and exported around the worlds for uses ranging from medical to industrial use. This lake is one of the saltiest bodies of water on the planet.

The Dead Sea is part of the Syrian Africa Rift Valley, and is surrounded by the Judean Mountains to the west and the Moab Mountains to the east. Contrary to the seas name this stretch of land is very much alive and active. Many from around the world have come to the lake seeking healing, restoration and relaxation. Many luxury hotels can be found on the shoreline, making this area a premier spa destination spot.

Fascinatingly enough the Dead Sea has a pollen-free atmosphere combined with a high concentration of bromine. Bromine has been recognized for its tranquilizing effect, thus reducing any nervous tension. Dead Sea Mud (sediment of the sea itself - mineral - rich) has been used therapeutically as well as cosmetically.

The Dead Sea as a Health Resort .

The Dead Research Center

Dead Sea treatments are used to help aid chronic conditions such as asthma and other breathing aliments, arthritis, various skin conditions and Parkinson's disease.

After floating effortlessly in the lakes warm waters you may want to explore the other breathtaking local fare.

Getting There:

El Al Airlines
Reservations & Information: 1-800-223-6700

Delta Air Lines
United States Reservations: 1-800- 221-1212
Calling from Tel Aviv, Israel: 972-3-513-8000
Calling from Amman, Jordan: 06-4643-661

United Airlines
International travel: 1-800-538-2929

Where to stay:

Le Meridien David Dead Sea Hotel
Address: Mobile Post Ein Boqeq
Dead Sea , 89680
Israel

Crowne Plaza Hotel
Ein Bokek
Dead Sea, 86930 Israel
Front Desk: 972-8-6591919
Fax: 972-8-6591911

Bear in mind the Dead Sea is a one and a half hour drive from Jerusalem and a two and half hour drive from Ben-Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv.

Sites to explore around the Dead Sea:

Masada- Masada is an architectural and engineering wonder located near the western shore of the Dead Sea and approx. 10 miles south of En-Gedi. According to Joseph Flavius, Masada was built by King Herod between 37 and 31 BCE and became his mountain fortress. Masada was later taken over by Jewish rebels after the Jewish Revolt in the first century.

Qumran Caves - Also located on the Dead Sea's western shore, the Qumran Caves are the site of the Dead Sea Scrolls that were found in 1947. The largest find in the caves was an 8 yard long, preserved manuscript of the book of Isaiah from the Bible.

En-Gedi Nature Reserve - En-Gedi is located 11 miles north of Masada and approx. 35 miles southeast of Jerusalem in the Judean Desert. Evidence of farming in this area dates back to the Iron Age. En-Gedi is made up of thick vegetation and numerous caves and is said to be where King David hid from Saul (1 Sam 23:29).

Jericho - The ancient city of Jericho is located north of the Dead Sea. Jericho is the world's lowest (sea level) inhabited city.

The Judean Desert is both simple and grandeur in nature and provides its visitors with a thought provoking awe. Rich in history and restorative qualities the Dead Sea and the Judean Desert are a special place. Whether the traveler is spa hopping or backpacking this arid region will leave an everlasting imprint on the 'thirsty' man's soul.