Dead Sea
Lake · West Bank ·
Lowest point on Earth, buoyant saline waters, mineral mud, oases
Lowest point on Earth, buoyant saline waters, mineral mud, oases
"Set at the Earth's lowest elevation, the Dead Sea's hyper-saline waters keep bathers afloat and are surrounded by clear, tranquil waters, mineral formations, sandy beaches, natural pools, and waterfalls." - Anne Olivia Bauso Anne Olivia Bauso Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Visit the Lowest Point on Earth The Dead Sea, which borders Israel and Jordan , is the lowest point on earth, sitting 1,410 feet below sea level, and continuing to drop as both countries divert water from the River Jordan. As one of the world’s most saline bodies of water (almost 10 times saltierthan the ocean), the Dead Sea cannot sustain life, hence its name. Yet the sea’s therapeutic properties attract thousands ofvisitors annually. Thehigh saline content enables bathers to sit upright in the water and read a book or newspaper. Visitors also enjoy covering their bodies in mineral-rich mud, which is thought to cleanse and purify the skin. Either stay at one of the region’s luxurious hotels and get your spa treatments there, or hit one of the public beaches on a day trip and slather the mud on yourself."
"A uniquely tactile natural attraction where even brief contact can surprise young children — one toddler gingerly put his feet in the water and immediately pulled them back, illustrating how unfamiliar sensations make for vivid travel memories." - Alison Fox Alison Fox Alison Fox is a Travel + Leisure contributor. She has also written for Parents.com, The Wall Street Journal, and amNewYork. When she’s not in New York City, she can be found at the beach or on the slopes. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Visiting the Dead Sea felt unique and relaxing, and along with Jordan’s ancient architecture and desert settings it was one of the standout experiences that made my trip thoroughly enjoyable." - Matthew Kepnes
"As the lowest point on Earth and covering over 600 square kilometers, the Dead Sea's water is extremely salty (over eight times the ocean), which makes you float and has long attracted people to take photos of themselves bobbing in the mineral-rich water; be aware that cuts will sting, industrial exploitation has shrunk the shoreline and created sinkholes in places, and there are many health retreats along the shore because of the salt and minerals like magnesium and bromide. " - Matthew Kepnes
