Upon hearing the words “Dead Sea” – you may actually think that it is dead, but in reality, it is not.
Based on its description, it is called “dead” because of its high salinity which prevents macroscopic aquatic organisms, such as fish and aquatic plants from living in it, though minuscule quantities of bacteria and microbial fungi are present.
The Dead Sea is famous for being the lowest point on earth, at 400 meters below sea level.
It is bordered by the countries of Jordan and Israel. Given the scientific explanation that I mentioned in the previous paragraph, it is also known to have therapeutic benefits
Yes, you’ve read it right.
The rich concentration of minerals in its water, mud, zinc, and oxygen-rich air has been clinically proven in the treatment of psoriasis and other skin diseases, rheumatism, high blood pressure, asthma and more. Isn’t it amazing?
Beforehand, our local guide reminded us not to swim, but instead to simply float in the water. In case you are worried about not knowing how to float, you don’t have to worry! Because the water has a magical feature that will allow you to float effortlessly.
Of course, there are a couple of things that you should not do when you visit and step foot into the Dead Sea other than not being allowed to swim.
Here are a couple of tips I highly suggest you do not:
– Do not dive, drink the water and splash the water as you definitely don’t want to get that water in your eyes and even in your throat. → In case you are wondering why, let me tell you — the Dead Sea water is almost 10 times saltier than that of a typical sea. Imagine how much it could hurt!!
– Do not wear your fancy jewelries → you wouldn’t want to risk your beautiful jewelries as there may be a chance of it tarnishing upon bringing it into the waters of the Dead Sea.
– Do not also put your phones or cameras in the water.
Of course, after warning you with the things you should not do, I cannot forget to give tips to my future fellow travelers.
Here are a couple of tips that I highly recommend:
– Bring your slippers to protect your feet from sharp edges of the area. → given that it is the lowest point on Earth, it is important to bring slippers as you will have to go down from your vehicle and walk a few steps to actually see the water.
– Make sure to put mud on your body, shoulders, legs, even in your face and neck, (avoid your eyes) then let it set in for a while then rinse it off in the water then try to float. The minerals absorb through your skin and would definitely do wonders for it!
– Staying on the Dead Sea shouldn’t be longer than 10-15minutes →afterwards, you have to rinse off with regular water as soon as you get out. And don’t worry, the area has a shower/changing rooms that you can use.
The guide also said that once you get out, you would feel like you’re 10 years younger than your age. That is for you to find out!