We all agree we have always dreamt of reading a newspaper comfortably floating on the water. We’ve tried it in swimming pools, bathtubs and even the Mediterranean sea, but it has never worked properly. Nevertheless, we didn’t lose our hope and kept in mind that  dream of swimming in that salty paradise that might be the Dead Sea.

Well, one thing is definitely true about the Dead Sea: you cannot sink. You will float on if you leave yourself just go on the water, which is a pretty cool experience. However, apart from the landscape and the potential pictures of your great feat, there’s very few else to enjoy about the bath itself. The real magic of the Dead Sea lies in its beauty.

Located at the lowest point on Earth, the Dead sea has a huge economic value for its beneficial conditions. The barometric pressure below the sea level produce great atmospheric conditions for asthmatics and the chemistry of its mud (mixed with different minerals) is recommended for those with skin diseases, such as psoriasis.

The cons? Its density and mineral content makes it not to feel like water, but like an oily liquid more similar to petrol. Ask anyone who tried, having a bath in the Dead Sea is not precisely the most pleasant experience. Anyway, it is a must, and if you (probably will) decide to go for it, do not forget to bring along with you tons of mineral water to rinse after (and, obviously, a newspaper or a book to nail the picture).

There are two ways to reach the Dead sea: either from Israel or from Jordan.

In case of coming from the Israeli side, there are different options alongside the West coast of the Sea:

• go through Palestinian territories until Metsoke Dragot area (hippie place), which is approximately one hour and a half drive from Jerusalem (Road 90). There’s neither proper access to the sea nor showers but it’s probably one of the most naturally beautiful areas to explore the surroundings.

 

• drive slightly more to the South from Metsoke Dragot to reach Kibbutz and natural reserve Ein Gedi, filled with natural springs, quite refreshing in the summertime, but you will need to pay to get in;

 

• keep on driving down to Neve Zohar/Ein Bokek area in the South of Israel, which is considerably further (30 mins from Ein Gedi) and packed with resort-style crowds. This one is probably the most convenient option to have a proper shower after the bath and admire the view along the road, very recommended if you are coming from the North. Ein Bokek is also accessible from the South overpassing Be’er Sheva (Negev Desert) if you’re coming from Tel Aviv/Jerusalem, but you’ll need to go through Highway 6 to reach Road 31, which is a major electronic toll highway you absolutely want to avoid. In case you’re coming from Eilat, feel free to join the joy of Road 90!

Probably the best idea is to rent a car, reach the Road 90 and start driving until feeling fulfilled by the amazing view, even though it depends on your starting point.

There are also public buses to bring you there but schedule might be a bit tight and there’s to keep in mind the Northern part of the Dead Sea is actually the West Bank

 

The Jordanian side is generally considered to be more beautiful and there are plenty of options for accommodation, even though it’s a very conservative area, so forget about a full nude or even topless experience. In order to visit this side of the sea, the easiest option is to either rent a car or find a private transportation that’s willing to take you from Amman. If this is your choice, we recommend to seize the opportunity and stay in one of the affordable resorts located in this area, directly facing the seaside.

Either one or the other option, do not forget to cover yourself on that highly beneficial mud and to lay under the sun until your skin has absorbed the top of it. Go back in the water and enjoy, after rinsing off that mud, the newly acquired softness of your skin.