The last stop on our whirlwind trip to Jordan was the Dead Sea. With only a Western-styled bathing suit, we opted to avoid the public beaches (for fear of committing a cultural faux pas) and entered the water at a westernized hotel, which had a private beach.
Bordered by Jordan and Israel, the Dead Sea seemed like a necessary stop - both historical and iconic. We had heard the salt levels were difficult to describe, but it wasn’t until we ourselves floated in the water that we fully understood. With over 34% salinity, the water was like rubbing alcohol to any exposed to any cuts, rashes or open skin (eye ducts or lips). Ouch!!! We had been warned not to dunk our head under, and thankfully heeded the advice. Nick got a mouthful to taste the salinity - something he immediately regretted. It didn’t taste anything like overly salted water, it was just…. toxic!
Regardless, floating with zero effort was a complete trip, and had me giggling like a kid. I highly recommend making the stop if you’re in Jordan, though it’s something that can easily be done in just a few hours.
