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The Miraculous Waters Of The Dead Sea

June 8, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

So Salty That Nothing Can Live

The Dead Sea, a fascinating hypersaline lake, bringing health and healing to many. This land locked body of water is also known locally as the Salt Sea, where it’s shores are shared by Jordan, Israel, and The West Bank. It is one of the most unique places in the world. The Dead Sea and the shores that surround her, are over 1,300 feet below sea level. It has the unique honor of being the lowest place on the face of the earth. If that weren’t unusual enough, it is also the deepest hypersaline lake in the world. This fascinating lake is over 1,200 feet deep.

Peace And Tranquility Envelope You

As you arrive at the lake, it seems like the perfect place to spend the day, swimming in the beautiful and healing water. But just try to stand up, and you will get the biggest surprise. It is impossible to walk or stand. Your body will immediately want to float. The good news is, you will not sink. The bad news….just try to get out. Due to a natural buoyancy, anyone can easily float. Can’t swim? No problem, just lay back and relax. Let every muscle relax as you lay back, breathing in the fresh air. You are floating on the amazing Dead sea. Peace and tranquility will be your companions.

Are you one of these people who worry about critters in the lake? No need to worry, fish are totally unable to live in the harsh waters. Imagine water that is 8.6 times saltier than the ocean! Nothing lives in this harsh wonderland other than certain bacteria’s and microbial fungi. It is so salty that you can actually see different shapes of solid salt that have formed over the years. These salt shapes and figures are interesting to look at. Use your imagination and you can even see animals of salt and other shapes in these amazing waters.

“Miracle minerals of Life” in the salty Dead Sea.

The shores surrounding the Dead Sea are home to many health resorts. The mineral content of the water is extremely high. It is refreshing to the skin. People with skin ailments flock to these resorts to heal their dry flaky skin. There is healing in the water. There is health in the air. Due to the limited number of flowers that grow in the salty sand, the pollen count is quite low. The atmosphere surrounding the lake is also very low in allergens. There is very little pollen to blow around on a windy day. Even though very few things grow in this salty environment. There are beautiful flowers that call the area home.

Flowering Flamboyant Trees Live In The Desert Near The Dead Sea

There may not be many flowers near the Dead Sea, but these rare flowers of the desert are beautiful. Better known as the Flame Tree, these gorgeous flowers beckon you to tarry in the area. The desert is indeed blooming near the Dead Sea.

An Oasis In The Desert

Looking for a healthy retreat, or a place to relax? The Dead Sea can be your oasis in the desert. In the fresh desert air, you will rest and relaxation. In the mineral rich waters you will find healing. Leave your worries at home, pack your bag, and grab your passport. It is time for a desert experience at the Dead Sea.

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Published on steemit.com@exploretraveler on June 18, 2017 at:

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The Holy City Of Jerusalem

April 4, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

The Holy City Of Jerusalem

Jerusalem, the city of God, is located on the plateau within the Judaean Mountains. This ancient city is midway between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea. It is among the oldest known cities of the world, dating back to the Ninth Century BCE. This magnificent city with all her grander is considered Holy to three major world religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It is the ancient home of the Children of Abraham and is the center of Jewish worship.

Ancient Jerusalem, known as the City Of David, dates back to the 4 millennium BCE. According to the Old Testament (Tanakh), King David captured this city and it became the forever capital of The United Kingdom of Israel. His son, King Solomon had the First Temple built. and in the year 1538 Suleiman the Magnificent built walls around what is now the Old City. Since the nineteenth Century, the Old City has been divided into four quarters: Armenian, Christian, Jewish, and Muslim.

The Armenian quarter is located in the southwest corner of the walled city. This quarter can be accessed through both the Zion Gate and the Jaffa Gate. The Armenians first came to Jerusalem in the fourth century. Christianity is the official religion of Armenia. Jerusalem has the oldest diaspora community outside of Armenia. At the center of the quarter is the Saint James Monastery, where all activities and decisions go forth.

The Christian quarter is in the Northeast quarter and borders the other three quarters at different places. The Christian and Armenian quarters are basically considered as one community except for language differences. They are over 40 Holy sites in the Christian quarter.

The Jewish quarter is in the Southeast quarter and is home to many major Synagogues and Yeshivas, including the Hurva Synagogue which has been the target of destruction numerous times. The newest restoration of Hurva Synagogue was rededicated in 2010. This is the center of all Jewish activity worldwide. Jews worldwide come here to celebrate the major feasts each year. To all Jews worldwide, Jerusalem is the center of all religious activity.

The Muslim quarter is in the Northeast quarter of the city and is the largest and most populated quarter in the city. Until 1929, the Muslim quarter had a mixed population of Christians, Jews, and Muslims. Currently, more than 60 Jewish families still live in the Muslim quarter.

Outside the Walled City is the modern city of Jerusalem. It is a beautiful, modern city which is the capital of Israel. In Jerusalem, you will find markets, parks, skyscrapers, and every modern convenience. As you look beyond the city, your eyes will feast on a green and productive desert. Yes, in Israel, the desert is blooming.

The first of the major feasts of the Biblical Year is drawing close and Jerusalem is in a state of preparation for this year’s Passover. As the city prepares to celebrate their freedom from Egypt and the crossing of the Red Sea there is a hush of reverence. Even many non-religious Jews stop to celebrate the Passover and relive its message. In Jerusalem, the city completely stops doing any business for each weekly Sabbath and each of the Seven Major Feasts of God. This is the most sacred city in Judaism! All Jewish prayers the world over are prayed while facing Jerusalem. Jerusalem is considered the City of God.

There is never a wrong time to make a pilgrimage or to go on an adventure trip to Israel. With a dessert that is blooming, you will enjoy fresh fruits year-round. You will find many market places, including Yehuda Market open year-round to serve the needs of locals and visitors. Grab your passport and pack your bag. We will see you in the Holy Land.

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Refuge In The Judean Desert

March 9, 2016 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Refuge In The Judean Desert

Ein Gedi is a refuge in the Judean Desert. An exciting tourist destination, it sits on the banks of the Dead Sea. It is an oasis in the midst of a harsh and relentless desert. It is sandwiched between the harsh Judean Desert and this amazing sea of health. Ein Gedi is one of the most exciting destinations in Israel, next to Jerusalem. It’s natural and unrestrained beauty is tantalizing. It’s history is intriguing. The Dead Sea is the lowest place on earth. It is also the saltiest place on earth. This makes any Dead Sea adventure an exploration in health and rejuvenation.

Ein Gedi is nestled among the rough and wild mountains of the Judean Desert. This is perhaps one of Israel’s harshest deserts. Nestled between the outstanding Dead Sea and this harsh and wild desert is a natural oasis of health and beauty. This is an exciting destination and jumping off point to explore this vast and fascinating area. With its captivating history, inspiring day trips, and many spas, it is the perfect place to spend several days.

Ein Gedi also provides the perfect place to discover the hidden beauty of this amazing desert. Here you will see a green garden of Eden at the edge of a dry and hot desert. There are two year around springs that flow all year. There are rivers that run through the steep canyons . These canyons are surrounded with lush green vegetation and trees. Indeed, the desert is green and blooming.

Kibbutz Ein Gedi was built in 1953 and has a lovely botanical garden. Here you will find many unusual plants and trees from all over the world. There are some unique plants in the garden that can only be viewed at night. A walk through the kibbutz in the evening will allow you to see some plants that only show their beauty at night. Visitor accommodations are in nice guest houses on the kibbutz, a near-by field school or if you prefer, you can camp on the shore of the Dead Sea.

Ein Bokek is another near by day trip. This is a beautiful area of reeds and shrubs. It is an area that is always spring. This area in the desert has both water and shade. What an oasis for those who thirst and are weary. High in the Judean mountains is the source of this abundant water, which then leaks through the limestone. Here you will also find the ruins of a wall that survived from the Byzantine era and the remains of a bathhouse. It is a perfect half-day trip on a hot afternoon. It is always spring at Ein Bokek.

Ein Tzukim is another nearby jewel. Ein Tzukim is a natural reserve and archaeological site on the northwestern shores of the Dead Sea. There are three sections to the natural reserve. One part is open to the public and has many natural pools of mineral water for bathing. These pools are surrounded by tall foliage. The second section has many different native fish and is only open to the public for tours on Fridays. There is a third section of the reserve that is open to scientists only.

The archaeological site is the ruins of a community thought to be built about the same time as the buildings at the Qumran Community. It is a rather large ruins and is quite interesting. Because of similar building styles, it was most likely inhabited by members of the same community.

Mount Sodom is a hill along the southwestern part of the Dead Sea. It is another part of the Judean Desert Nature Reserve. Here you will find awesome desert beauty. Mount Sodom is made up of earth, rock, and salt. It continues to grow taller each year. One of the pillars of salt is named “Lot’s Wife.” The story of how Lot’s wife looked back when fleeing from Sodom and Gomorrah is found in the book of Genesis in the Bible. This Bible narrative begins in the 19th chapter of the book of Genesis.

This is an area of many caves waiting to be explored. Just south of the Valley of Elah is the remains of Adullam, a Biblical city. After the battle between David and Goliath, David became a hero to the people. It also caused great jealousy in the heart of King Saul, who then sought to kill him. It was here that David, the future king of Israel, fled to get away from King Saul.

Adullam was also the Village home of the wives of Judah. Judah was the fourth son of the Patriarch Jacob who became known as Israel.This was one of several cities that King Rehoboam, son of King Solomon, fortified. He fortified these cities with food, oil, and wine. He also had great collections of shields and spears.

Another day trip by jeep are the Qumran Caves. Here you can discover the remains of the town where the 2,000 year old Dead Sea Scrolls were written and unearthed. This was during the time of the Second Temple. Qumran is located on the Northwest shore of the Dead Sea. It is believed that the Dead Sea Scrolls belonged to a small community of hermits that are called the Dead Sea Sect. You can see these scrolls while in Jerusalem at the Shrine of The Book.

Climbing Up The Side Of Masada

The dramatic ascension up to the ancient fortress of Masada is breathtaking. The spectacular view of the valley below and the wide expanse of the desert is magnificent. You will see amazing views of the Dead Sea, Masada, Gomorrah, Sodom, and Ein Gedi.

Masada was King Herod’s Fortress in the sky. It is believed that King Herod built Masada between 37 and 31 BCE. The fortress stands more than 440 feet above the Dead Sea and is completely isolated with deep gorges and canyons all around it. It has been beautifully preserved. It is a short walk from where you get off the cable car to the fortress. What magnificent and unspoiled beauty.

Masada was the last Jewish stronghold that stood against the Roman invasion. There are many Jewish symbols here that are well-preserved. The fortress with it’s sad story has been well protected because of its desert location. The hot dry climate and it’s remoteness have helped to preserve this beautiful fortress. Josephus writes about Masada in his book, “The Jewish War.”

Soothing Miracle Waters

Soothing miracle-working waters of the Dead Sea border Israel, the West Bank, and Jordan. What an amazing resource of health to all three areas. Like Eden, it provides health and renewal to those who visit her shores. It’s amazing beauty is relentless. It’s shores provide calmness and relaxation. It’s miracle waters bring healing to many, leaving your skin smooth like the day you were born. Many skin diseases reportedly have been healed in this amazing body of water.

King Herod was the first person known to take advantage of this ancient miracle water. Now this location has gotten International attention. Tourists flock there from all over the world seeking healing and relaxation.

Surrounding Area Of The Dead Sea

The area surrounding the Dead Sea has many hotels, hostels and guest houses to accommodate visitors to the area. There is also camping on the Dead Sea near the kibbutz. There are many fine restaurants and several shopping centers. The area has mineral baths, mud baths, spas, and health resorts.

For those who like an adventure, there are jeep tours, bicycle tours, and even camel tours. There is Bedouin hospitality and tent camps in the desert. The area has many art galleries, cultural centers, archaeological sites and ruins that have been well-preserved. This is a unique area with fascinating architecture and local markets.

There are also several resorts in the area where those that have severe skin problems can come and spend a couple of weeks and get personalized assistance. Here, they enjoy the healing waters of the Dead Sea. Dotted throughout the area are numerous gift stores where you can buy Dead Sea products to take home, such as bath salts, skin creams, and soaps.

The Northwestern side of the Dead Sea is also a Pilgrimage site for Christians who visit here especially during the time of Easter. After leaving the Dead Sea they continue on their Pilgrimage to the Jordan River, which is the traditional site of the Baptism of Jesus. Pilgrimages have followed this route over the centuries and still continue to do so. Many pilgrimages are set up by Church groups and they travel together. You can also contact a local tour guide to arrange to add you to a Holy Land pilgrimage.

Another amazing discovery in the area are the monasteries. During the fourth century it was quite common for Christian monks to build magnificent monasteries on the sides of the cliffs. Some of the most famous in the area are St. George Monastery, Quruntul Monastery, Khozeba Monastery, and Mar Saba Monastery. Some of these monasteries are still in use today and they share wonderful accounts of what life is like in these remote desert monasteries.

No matter if this is your first trip or if you have been here several times before, there is always more to see and do. Take time to enjoy the people, the rich history, and all the uniqueness of this area. This is one of the most fabulous places to visit in the world.

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Bethlehem And The Journey Of Faith

November 29, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Bethlehem And The Journey Of Faith

Bethlehem, a city of pilgrims. They come to renew their faith. A city where others discover their faith. And for others, it is the connection with history. In Bethlehem, history is alive. It is like the past is there today and today is a day so long ago. This is a rich city to explore. Within Bethlehem you will find the richness of faith and even some local folklore at the Milk Ghroto. Bethlehem is rich in Holy Sites. So join us as we explore Bethlehem, Israel.

You have arrived in the Holy Land and Bethlehem is your first stop. Bethlehem is a ancient and holy city. It’s most major Holy Site is The Church of The Nativity. The Church of The Nativity is located in the center of the ancient city of Bethlehem. It is revered world-wide as the birth place of Jesus. It is profoundly beautiful and very ornate. The gold with-in it’s walls shines and glimmers from the reflection of the light. Built in the year of 325 AD, it is one of the oldest churches in continuous use in the world. Queen Helena had the church constructed during the Byzantine Empire. Adjacent to the church is a Monastery built in the shape of a wooden cross. It is a simple building, peaceful without any frills. A beautiful garden is connected for prayer. It’s simplicity stands out when compared with it’s very famous and ornate neighbor. On the other side is the beautiful Church of St. Catherine.

The next stop is the Milk Grotto. It is here that the Virgin Mary took refuge with Baby Jesus during the slaughter of the innocent babies. In this grotto she found safety from the soldiers of Herod. It is also here that local folklore says that she spilled a drop of milk on the floor of the cave, turning the stone white. This is said to have created the chalky white stone. People from around the world who believe in the amazing fertility power of this stone, come here, to the Milk Grotto. They come to scrape a little of the stone and latter a mother to be consumes this fertility powder. This is thought to guarantee the fertility of the mother-to-be.

Not to be left out is the Old City of Bethlehem. It is located in the center of the modern city. Take a walk through the narrow streets of this ancient city. Stroll along the old cobblestone streets and narrow alleys. Enjoy the ancient ornamental stone houses that leap out from the past. Here the past is still alive as these ancient homes are current homes of many modern Bethlehemites. Continue on your walk down “Star Street” and you will come to the site of the Wells of King David.

King David’s Wells are located on King David street, just off Manger Square. In the square are three Great Cisterns marking the site where David’s army broke through enemy lines. The Philistine army was a formidable power but David’s army crashed through their lines to bring him water after the King prayed these famous words. “Oh that someone would give me water to drink from the well of Bethlehem.” This historic site is a walk back into yesterday.

Just east of the city is the town of Beit Sahour. It is here that the shepherds watched over their sheep. Since ancient time, these fields have marked the spot where the shepherds saw the Star and followed it to the cave where Jesus was born. Access to this cave is through the Church of the Nativity. As you go downstairs below the sanctuary of the church, you will see this most Holy Site. This site is ran by the Roman Catholic Church. Be sure to see the ancient Byzantine stone mosaic that commemorates this site. Near by is the alternative site that is administered by the Greek Orthodox Church. There is a small Greek Orthodox Church on this site. The walls of the Greek Orthodox Church are home to many icons showing the lives of the saints.The Greek Orthodox Church has a fairy tale garden complete with beautiful Olive Trees that are over 2,000 years old. This garden is beautiful in it’s simplicity.

Herodium is a volcano-like hill that is located near the city of Ancient Bethlehem. It is here on top of Herodium, that King Herod the Great built his mighty fortress and beautiful palace. Herodium is almost a half mile above sea level. Archaeologists have found a site that is believed to be the burial site of King Herod the Great. This ancient fortress is more than 2,000 years old. The ancient fortress is a fascinating site to explore.

Another amazing treasure near Bethlehem, just to the east, is Mar Saba Greek Orthodox Monastery. Located in the middle of the desert, just east of the city, Mar Saba is an amazing place to visit. This is a Monastery cut out of rock and it is intriguing to explore. This is especially true for men who can actually visit the whole site. Due to the customs and restrictions of the Greek Orthodox faith, women are only able to enter a tower located just inside the entrance gate. This Monastery is currently in use, so respectful silence is preferred. Even with the restrictions for women, the view is amazing. It is one of the Ten Best Sites around Bethlehem and a valuable asset to any itinerary.

Bethlehem has three major museums within the modern city of Bethlehem. The International Nativity Museum of Bethlehem is one of the most complete museum showing cribs from around the world. It is the most complete collection in the world. Each crib is complete is with the history and culture of the it’s native country. This is an astonishing collection and will amaze you. This unique museum is located in the historical Salesian Convent and Monastery of Bethlehem. It is on the ground floor of the Salesian convent. The convent also runs Cremisan, a small vineyard of tasty grapes. It is located on the slopes of a nearby hill. It is a beautiful vineyard. Be sure to pick up a bottle of Cremisan’s wine. The wine is excellent and it will keep you in memory of your many adventures of Bethlehem.

Bad Museum for Olive Oil production can be found in the Old City of Bethlehem. The building that is home to the museum dates back to the 19th century. In the museum are many relics found in the area by archaeologists, as well as the complete process of making Olive Oil. You will also find the many uses that Olive Oil is used for highlighted. Some of these uses are cooking oil, lamp oil, medicine, food, soap, and cosmetics. It is a unique and educational museum.

The next unique museum is the Palestinian Heritage Center. It aims to preserve and promote Palestinian Cultural Heritage and art. The Palestinians of Bethlehem are well known for their beautiful embroidery. There is a small gift shop on site where you can buy fair trade items from the Palestinian artists around Bethlehem and the refugee camps near by. The woman in the different villages bring their best work to sell in the Heritage Center. It is an amazing place to explore and purchase native crafts of Bethlehem.

About 2 1/2 miles out of downtown Bethlehem is Al Khader Village. It is also called the Village of St. George. There you can visit the ancient Solomon Pools. These pools consists of three huge water cisterns made of local stone. These cisterns have provided water for the region for centuries. The water they give is extremely good. It tastes amazing. Adjacent to the pools is ,. Burak Castle is an Ottoman Turkish fortress. This castle dates to the 17th century. Also in downtown Al Khader Village is the Church of St. George. St. George is an Greek Orthodox Church. St. George is said to protect the Palestinian people of the Bethlehem area.

You will also want to make your last stop to see the wall that has been started around the Bethlehem area. There is a site where you can view the work of Banksy, an English graffiti artist. His work is know the world over. Much of his work is political in nature. One of his most famous works of graffiti is that of a Christmas tree surrounded by the security wall. Tourists from around the world come to view his work.

Whether you are coming to Bethlehem to discover your inner self, to expand your faith, make a Holy Pilgrimage, or to discover history, you will need more than a little time to explore the likes of this amazing city. This is a place with many intriguing sites. Here you will find living history. As you are wandering the different places in Bethlehem, take time for lunch. Their pita bread is beyond delicious. You will find many sidewalk cafes around the city. The food is awesome. The fruit and veggies are picked fresh each day. Make this the time you begin planning your Bethlehem adventure.

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Masada Adventure In The Judaean Desert

August 28, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Masada Adventure In The Judaean Desert

Masada, King Herod’s fortress in the sky, is magnificent! The journey to get there is breathtaking! As you board the cable care and ascend up the side of this rugged fortress, you have unbelievable views of the Judaean Desert. Look beyond the desert and you will see the Dead Sea. Masada, the royal citadel of King Herod, sits on the top of an isolated cliff on the edge of the Judaean Desert. It overlooks the magnificent Dead Sea Valley. During the time of King Herod, the way to get to Masada was difficult and treacherous. Today, you can approach from the West and make an easy 60 minute climb up the Snake Path. Coming from the East, it is even easier. The cable car brings you quickly up the side of this rocky bluff. It is fast! It is easy!What amazing views of the Dead Sea, Masada, Gomorrah, Sodom, and Ein Gedi.

The journey is an adventure! The views of Ein Gedi, an oasis in the Judaean Desert, are amazing. The valley leading to the Dead Sea has beautiful waterfalls and is a garden in the harsh wilderness of the desert. The water comes from the fresh water springs that flow down from the cliffs to the valley below. The extreme heat and the harshness of the desert is tempered by the bountiful springs from above.

Sodom and Gomorrah were two of the five cities of the plain. These were well watered and green. They were suitable for grazing livestock. They have often been referred to in history as the Garden of Eden of the Desert. From the cable car, you have views of these areas at the edge of the Dead Sea Valley where they are thought to have been.

As you ascend the cliff, you see views of the fortress itself. Masada is well preserved and beautiful. You also see glimpses of caves in the side of the rock. Masada stands 440 feet above The Dead Sea. Masada is completely isolated and fortified with deep gorges on all sides. This formidable rock is a natural place to build a fortress. Completely isolated with very limited access.

Look out across the valley and you have beautiful vistas of the saltiest sea on earth. The blue sea with the white salt is beautiful, even from a distance. This must be one of the most fantastic valleys in the world. Welcome to the Dead Sea, a place of refuge for King David and others who came after him. The Dead Sea was the worlds first health resort. Herod The Great made full use of this outstanding resource in his day. Looking across the valley, you can see the many modern day health resorts that line the shores.

What an amazing adventure! The ride up to Masada is beautiful and unique. In this brief ride, you will be amazed by the valley views. What grander! Mount Sodom stands in the background! This is the world of Masada! It is the unique beauty of the Dead Sea Valley! Be sure and savor the glimpses of the Jordan Rift Valley. This is the magnificent beauty of the Judaean Desert! All abroad……your cable car is ready to leave!

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The Dead Sea Experience

August 9, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

The Dead Sea Experience

The Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth, is magnificent and impressive. It is one the saltiest places in the world. Imagine standing on it’s shores and knowing that you are 1,300 feet below sea level. What is even more amazing is that at the bottom of the deepest part of the sea, it is 2,300 feet below sea level. How amazing this impressive sea is! It is so salty that the salt deposits are seen everywhere. The beautiful blue sea is so striking with the amazing white of the salt seen in the blue water. A few minutes soaking in it’s water softens the feet and chases away the dryness of the skin. Feet that are like the drought of the desert, regain their moisture. This sea is one of the wonders of our amazing world.

The Dead Sea has some of the saltiest water on this amazing planet. Imagine water where as much as 35% of the water is dissolved salt! It is a landlocked body of water that is almost 6 times as salty as any ocean. The deeper you go, the saltier it is! It is so salty that nothing can live in its waters. The greater the depth, the higher the concentration of salt. Toward the bottom, it is almost 10 times as salty as any ocean.

The Dead Sea is one body of water where you will know for sure that no creature will swim across your toes. There are no squirming fish in this water! There is no need to bring your fishing pole. The harsh life of this water does not lay out the welcome mat. There are only a few types of bacteria and one type of algae that call this sea home. A fish that finds itself in this water, is almost instantly killed and preserved by the high levels of salt.

So what is so special about this salty body of water? The answer is found in the salt. It is not just any table salt, but rather some of the most valuable mineral salts in the world. The concentrations are many times as strong as any ocean. This is a salt of miracles! It is a salt of healing!

What can you do at The Dead Sea? It is impossible to swim in its waters, as you will automatically float. It is an amazing place to just lay back and let the water support your weight. It is the perfect hang out spot! Relax, lay back, and read a good book. Close your eyes and let the gentle sea lure you to sleep. While you rest, the healing waters will do a miracle for your skin. Enter with rough and dry skin….exit with the skin of a baby. This indeed is a sea of healing.

Another wonderful activity is the covering of your body in the healing mud. Many come with extreme cases of psoriasis and arthritis. They come hoping for a miracle! Indeed, many find that miracle cure in the therapeutic mud baths. Not even your mother would object to you playing in this mud. The phenomenon of this mud goes beyond the curiosity of the mind. There is healing in the mud!

This fantastic sea is fed by the Jordan River! There is no outlet, but there is an extreme rate of evaporation. The temperatures of the surrounding desert being so high, it causes the water to evaporate and the salt to lay exposed. This salt is collected and shipped world wide for use in the fields of medicine, industry, agriculture, and beauty products.

Not all the fun of the dead sea is limited to the water. It’s beautiful beaches are fun for those who enjoy taking the mopeds out on the sandy beach. Why not bathe in the mud, then hop on a moped and enjoy the shores of the Dead Sea while the healing mud works miracles on your skin? What a way to enjoy the day incognito!

There are many archaeological ruins around The Dead Sea and climbers will enjoy all the many cliffs to scale. Those with the energy to hike will enjoy a short hike up to Davids waterfall. This is a perfect place for a family picnic. Continue your hike to the end of the canyon and you will be rewarded with the most ominous view of The Dead Sea.

Many historical figures have found refuge in the shores, mountains, and cliffs surrounding The Dead Sea. Two of the more famous are David and Jesus. Many Jewish zealots and Christian monks have found peace and refuge on its shores.

Perhaps the area is best known for the nearby towns of Biblical Sodom and Gomorrah. A short distance South of the sea is a pillar of salt, believed to be Lot’s wife. According to the Torah, Lot’s wife ignored God and looked back behind her at the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah as they were being destroyed. This account is found in Genesis 19:26.

The Dead Sea was perhaps one of the first major health resorts in the world. Since the time of Herod The Great, health resorts have dotted its shores. It has supplied balms for mummification in Egypt for centuries. In recent times, it is the location for major treatment centers for the healing of psoriasis and arthritis. Some of the most exquisite soaps and lotions are made using the minerals harvested from it’s shores.

Another amazing curiosity is Highway 90. Travel Highway 90 through Israel and The West Bank and you will travel on the worlds lowest road. Indeed, it is 1,289 feet below sea level in several places. The Dead Sea is a deadly sea to wildlife, but for humans, it is some of the most healing waters in the world! Many who come leave with their miracle.

Three countries border its shores. It is shared by Jordan, Israel, and The West Bank. What an amazing and marvelous place! The Dead Sea is a place where you will make memories for years to come. As we stand on it’s alluring shores, we see miracles in the making! What a fantastic adventure! This is an unforgettable journey, a journey of healing, a journey of hope!

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Middle East Adventure Week Two

July 24, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Middle East Adventure Week Two

Middle East Adventure continues as we now embark on week two. Our guide, Elinoar Nitzani, arrives and we are off to see the hot and amazing Judean Desert. We pass the Qumran Caves, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered by a Bedouin Shepherd. Fragments from over 2oo books were found in these caves. The caves are beautiful and many can be seen from the highway. It is yet another example of natural beauty in the Middle East.

Reaching Masada our team experiences the most amazing beauty dating back to Roman times. Masada is a beautiful fortress built on an isolated rock cliff at the western end of the Judean Desert. This amazing Middle East fortress overlooks the Dead Sea. Josephus Flavius dramatically recounts the sad story of Masada, told to him by the only two survivors in his book, The Jewish War.

Arriving at the Dead Sea we experience the pleasures of the world’s lowest and saltest Sea. The Dead Sea, also known as the Salt Sea, is bordered by Israel, Jordan, and The West Bank. The shore of the Dead Sea is 1,388 feet below sea level. It is the world’s lowest point on earth! At 1,237 feet deep, it is the deepest hypersaline lake in the world. The saline levels of this lake surpass those found in the ocean by 8.6 %. The salinity of the Dead Sea is 33.7%, making it the saltest body of water in the world. The unusually high levels of salt concentrations makes it possible for people to easily float on the lake. This amazing body of water is too salty for any animal or fish to live in its waters. The Jordan River flows into the Dead Sea and is its only tributary. Biblically, the Dead Sea was a place of refuge for King David and has always been a place dedicated to health and beauty. What a fantastic place of natural beauty! This is another jewel in the Middle East.

From the Dead Sea we make a seamless transfer at the Taba Border Station. We say good bye to our Israeli guide, Elinoar Nitzani, and with the help of several drivers make the transfer into Jordan where we meet our new guide, Ahmad Hussein. After entering Jordan, we travel to Aqaba where we spend the night at the Intercontinental Aqaba Hotel. This quality 5 star resort hotel has all the amenities that one would expect in a quality resort. The service was excellent, and they serve a fantastic breakfast and dinner buffet. From our room, we have a treasured view of the Red Sea and the resorts own private beach. The Red Sea has dazzling and spectacular coral beds and is a major destination for divers and snorkelers.

Intercontinental Aqaba Hotel
AQABA RESORT ON JORDAN’S RED SEA
http://www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/gb/en/aqaba/aqjha/hoteldetail

Our first day in Jordan and we are able to relax and enjoy the Red Sea. Can you imagine all the stories it could tell around the campfire? In the afternoon we take a Jeep ride out into this Middle East desert. Just think, Lawrence of Arabia came this same way! Would you like to join us for tea in the desert? The Bedouins make an excellent pot of tea! What an enjoyable way to end the day! Our second night in Jordan we are spending in the modern city of Petra at the Movenpick Nabatean Castle Hotel. This 5 star hotel is amazing! Service is excellent and the food is marvelous.
http://www.moevenpick-hotels.com/en/middle-east/jordan/petra/hotel-petra-nabatean-castle/overview/

Today we get an early start, as we are spending the day at Petra, an ancient city carved into the sandstone of the desert. Petra is surrounded by tall and lofty mountains, filled with passage ways and gorges, riddled with mysterious caves and secret places. Petra has been inhabited since prehistoric times! This is a Nabataean caravan-city, hidden in the rocks between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea. This amazing rock-cut city was the capital city of the Nabateans. Can you imagine the secrets it could tell? Latter during Hellenistic and Roman periods, it became a major caravan center in the Middle East. As a caravan center, it helped Arabia with it’s incense trade, provided a way for China silks to become known world wide, and the spices of India became a household name. The mysterious Petra is a city lost among the rock. What amazing Middle East architecture!

There are several ways to get to the top of Petra, and most of the team elects to walk. The first leg of this amazing journey can be done with a cart and a donkey. Guests of a Bedouin driver, you can elect to take a cart for the first half of the journey. The Bedouins are active in providing different types of transportation for a reasonable fee. Once you get to the hidden city, you can walk to the top or choose to take a camel to the top. The camels are awesome and provide a safe trip to the top. Personally, I am delighted and enjoying my camel and donkey transportation! What an amazing way to travel in the Middle East!

This is the day that we prepare to see Madaba. Madaba is home to some of the most amazing mosaics on earth. We watch as skilled artisans demonstrate the art of mosaics. What a fascinating art!

From Madaba we prepare to climb to the top of Mount Nebo, like Moses did so many years before us. The view from this mountain seems like we can see whole Middle East. In the words of Moses, see the description of this amazing view of the Holy Land and beyond.
Deuteronomy 34: 1-3 (JPS Tanakh 1917)
“1 And Moses went up from the plains of Moab unto mount Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, that is over against Jericho. And the LORD showed him all the land, even Gilead as far as Dan; 2 and all Naphtali, and the land of Ephraim and Manasseh, and all the land of Judah as far as the hinder sea; 3 and the South, and the Plain, even the valley of Jericho the city of palm-trees, as far as Zoar.”

Our last stop before we leave Jordan is Jerash. Jerash is another ancient Middle East city built by the Romans. The ruins at Jerash are marvelous. We are amazed as we climb and walk this ancient city. This city has been continuously occupied for the last 6,500 years and many consider it a favorite destination in Jordan. Here in Jeresh, we meet antiquity in all it’s splendor. Ahmad Hussein is our excellent guide for this day. Our guide leaves us at the border crossing. We cross the border at Beit Shean and our driver returns us to The Market House in Tel Aviv.

Today we are up and ready early to visit the West Bank and the towns of Ramallah and Nablus. Ramallah is a Palestinian city in the central West Bank. While in Ramallah we are having a very traditional Palestinian lunch. The food is fantastic. All of the food we have had in the Middle East has been terrific! We are enjoying our day in the West Bank very much. We are so privileged to have Mr. Yossef Barakat and Mrs Silvia Barakat as our guides today. They are excellent guides and we enjoy our time under their guidance. The day is quickly ending and we return to The Market House in Tel Aviv.

This part of our journey is totally awesome. The Exploretraveler Team are thankful for all our guides and drivers and for Noah Tours and their countless hours of planning in our behalf. We look forward to our next adventure in the Middle East.

Guy/ Sales Department
Noah Tours Ltd.
Communication Centre Neve Ilan,
Harey Yehuda 90850, Israel

Office: +972-2-6339956
USA: +1 646 8639666
Fax: +972-2-6339959
Mobile:+972-54-5304562

guy@noahtours.com

http:www.noahtours.com

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