The Dead Sea (also called the Salt Lake) is not only one of the saltiest bodies of water on the planet, having a salt concentration many times more than that of the ocean; it is also the lowest point on land, found roughly four hundred metres below sea level. The lake’s extreme salinity makes it virtually impossible for any life to thrive in it thus earning its name. The only living things found in the water are microscopic organisms such as bacteria and algae. The lake is about fifty five kilometres long and eighteen kilometres wide and reaches a maximum depth of almost four hundred metres.
The Dead Sea is a highly popular tourist spot, with many people visiting for religious reasons (the Dead Sea Scrolls were unearthed here between 1946 and 1956) and many others visiting for health reasons. In fact, Herod the Great, the Roman king, frequented the Dead Sea because he believed it had salubrious effects. Many believe that the water can heal skin diseases such as psoriasis. Currently, salt from the lake is used to make cosmetics and other skin care products.
This lake is situated in the Jordan Rift Valley and is mainly fed by the Jordan River. It is possible to visit the Dead Sea through Jordan, either through Aqaba or Amman, the country’s capital. It is roughly a three hour drive from Aqaba, but only a short ride away from Amman. The Dead Sea beach in Amman is called the Amman Beach and while there are buses that stop by, it is much easier to hire to cab. The area is partly developed and one can find several food stands close to the beach.
The Dead Sea is undoubtedly one of the most intriguing natural attractions in the world and no trip to the Jordanian capital can be considered complete without visiting this natural spectacle. Tourists looking for a hotel in Amman Jordan can try the Millennium Hotel Amman. This Amman hotel is conveniently located close to many of the city’s trendiest shopping malls and restaurants. Providing elegantly decorated rooms complete with all the modern conveniences, it is a terrific place to stay.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
