Summary
“I can’t float.” That’s the first thing Dave said when he entered the Dead Sea in Jordan. It’s a fact, and I am envious of Dave because he can always lay back in a pool, relax, and enjoy floating on the top of the water with very little effort. Unless I constantly tread water, wave my hands, or kick my feet, I cannot float. The minute I stop moving, I sink.
So, it was very exciting when we went to the Dead Sea in Jordan. This is a place where anyone can float, and I was determined to put this rumor to the test.
About the Dead Sea
The Dead Sea isn’t exactly a massive expanse. It stretches only 67km long and 18 km wide at its widest point. However, it is deep. At 77 m (or 1,237 ft) deep, the Dead Sea holds the title of the deepest ultra-salty lake in the world.
At 423 meters below sea level, the banks of the Dead Sea in Jordan represent the lowest point on earth. It is indeed the lowest body of water globally, with the lowest elevation on the earth’s surface. How fascinating is that?
The Dead Sea boasts a salt level of a whopping 33%.
To illustrate the saline levels, the ocean has a salt concentration of only 3.8%. The Dead Sea nearly triples that with its 33% saline content. That, my friends, is exactly why we humans have such an easy time floating in the Dead Sea.
Where is the Dead Sea Jordan?
The Dead Sea is conveniently located just 60km or 37 miles from Amman, Jordan. It’s an easy drive along the Dead Sea Highway, officially known as Route 65.
Many day tours are available from Amman, or you can additionally rent a car or hire a driver to take you to the Dead Sea.
Experience the Dead Sea Firsthand
Being at the Dead Sea is pretty cool. Not only does it provide an awesome break in your Jordan adventure to spend a day or two by the sea, but it is also a significant historical destination.
Historically, the Dead Sea served as a refuge for King David, a health resort for Herod the Great, and even played a part in the mummification process for the ancient Egyptians. This sea has undeniably witnessed a rich tapestry of history.
For a more immersive experience, staying overnight is recommended to truly explore everything the Dead Sea has to offer. Our stay allowed us access to a beautiful private beach directly on the Dead Sea, along with infinity pools and lounge chairs to relax in after floating in the salty waters.
Located at a narrow point of the sea, we enjoyed a clear view of Israel across the water, and at night we could see the lights of Jericho flickering from a country so close yet so distant for many Jordanians.
Our Experience at the Dead Sea
Embracing our roles as tourists, instead of heading directly for the water, we made a detour for the famous mud. You can’t visit the Dead Sea without indulging in slathering your entire body with the rejuvenating black goo—it simply wouldn’t feel complete!
The medicinal mud from the shores of the Dead Sea is renowned for its healing power. After rinsing off, your skin feels just like a baby’s bottom. It’s no wonder that many people visit the Dead Sea specifically for its healing benefits, often spending a month at a time.
Though we weren’t overly concerned about the medicinal properties, we did want to capture a good photograph!
How to Swim in the Dead Sea
Once we were fully covered in mud, we took our waterproof camera into the water to float amidst the buoyant waves.
The water was warm, feeling quite similar to any other body of water I had stepped into. I did worry about how the salt concentration would affect the camera, but thankfully, it remained unharmed.
The moment I laid back into the water, I couldn’t believe the sensation. It felt like I had water wings on my legs and shoulders, enabling me to float effortlessly in the thick waters of the Dead Sea.
Although Dave floated higher and easier than me, I was proud to be floating too!
Caution is crucial when swimming in the Dead Sea. It’s nearly impossible to swim due to your buoyancy; instead, just relax and float. Additionally, avoid putting your head underwater, as that salt will sting your eyes.
Floating in the Dead Sea
During our time in the Dead Sea, Dave wished he had brought a newspaper to capture that quintessential tourist shot of us reading in the water. But nonetheless, we made it work with some playful snapshots.
We enjoyed our time floating until the salt concentration began to sting my skin. Dave lasted a bit longer, relishing every moment in the water, as it could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Strong Salt Water of the Dead Sea Stings
The salt concentration in the Dead Sea is intense, so care is needed to avoid submerging your face. It stings the eyes fiercely, and if you have any cuts, you’ll feel the burn, making it difficult to last long in this second-most densely salted body of water in the world.
Holiday Inn Resort on the Dead Sea
After our fun, we returned to the hotel pool for a bit of relaxation.
The Holiday Inn Resort sits directly on the Jordan side of the Dead Sea. You might be thinking, Holiday Inn Resort?
We lounged in the “adult-only pool” area and took in the stunning views of the various pools, including multi-level and wading pools. This resort has a plethora of pools. We even discovered a quiet kiddy pool near our room, complete with a canopy to shield the little ones from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
This resort is not your typical Holiday Inn. It’s more upscale than those we usually choose during our travels. After all, we were there to enjoy the Dead Sea experience rather than just the hotel.
If you appreciate the comforts that come with a Holiday Inn, this is a solid choice. However, it doesn’t entirely reflect the Middle Eastern atmosphere. Nevertheless, sometimes feeling a bit of Western comfort can be an unexpected delight while traveling.
We capped off our day with dinner at the Movenpick Hotel. Their attentive PR representative welcomed us, offered a tour of the hotel, and treated us to a delightful meal.
We enjoyed a full day at the Holiday Inn without any disturbances. However, once at the Movenpick, we felt as if we could comfortably stay for a week, captivated by the ambiance.
They offered fabulous entertainment right in front of us, and we would have loved to partake in trying Sheesha while enjoying the performance of the Belly Dancer. The venue was beautiful, and it provided a perfect slice of the Middle Eastern experience right in the heart of the region.
