Hello!! How is it going? The day after the marathon we went to the Dead Sea to relax and take in all the sights and sounds and salt. It’s one of the saltiest bodies of water on Earth (at 32% salt vs. about 3% salt in the ocean). I woke up early and walked on the treadmill for a bit to loosen up.
Breakfast was the usual feast…
Then, the group piled into the van to head to the Dead Sea. It was about a 1.5 hour drive from Jerusalem.
It’s so weird, I didn’t feel like I was across the world from home. This looks a lot like some parts of California
On the drive we learned more about Jerusalem history and some of the strife that has been going on here for years. Gaby our guide was so good about answering all our questions and I had a ton. The border between Jerusalem and Jordan goes right through the Dead Sea.
I was really excited to get into the water. I was hoping it would magically heal any lil tightness from the marathon. Supposedly people come from around the world to enjoy the Dead Sea’s mineral rich waters to help heal them.
The water is very buoyant because of the salt content. We were told to get in to our knees and then just sit back and the water would hold us back. We look silly because it was cold so we stalled like this for a while before committing to it.
It is very cool! The water keeps you up floating no problem. It almost felt thick.
The Dead Sea was amazing. The water was thick and so salty. After I got out and dried off I was COVERED in salt crystals. My skin also felt almost oily for the rest of the day. I guess it has a lot of minerals too. I kind of went crazy in the shop there and bought some Dead Sea salt for my bath and lotion and soap.
We ate lunch there…
Then, we headed to Tel Aviv for dinner. On a rest stop I spotted this fun bathroom and a McDonald’s.
I had to peek inside, but didn’t see anything super fun / out of the ordinary from US McDonald’s. I was just super curious.
Morning in the Dead Sea, sunset over the Mediterranean…this is amazing.
Question: What’s your fountain of youth that keeps you feeling good?
I think mine is running and watermelon.
Denise says
I’m thinking that isn’t a good think that the GIANT burger at McDonalds over there is called the “big America”!
Kari says
I thought it was interesting the ad in McDonald’s for “Big America”! My fountain of youth has been and will always be playing with puppy dogs! Seriously, what else can bring a big, burly person to use “baby” talk? 🙂
Shannon Schell says
What an amazing experience!! So excited for you (I know I sound like a broken record, but it comes from the heart).
My “fountain of youth” would definitely be eating clean 90% of the time; the paleo plan works for me. I also drink a ton of water, drink very moderately and of course, some running!
Flower says
They should have called it ‘To da loo’ That would have been hilarious.
My fountain of youth: Wendy’s frosty with reeses peanut butter cups (except when I eat them all the time and then not.)
Danielle @ afloat on a full sea says
Hmmm my fountain of youth is definitely dancing and ice cream sundaes! With extra sprinkles, please and thank you. The dead sea looks amazing. What an incredible adventure you’re on!
Taylor says
How neat!!! I want to go there!! My fountain of youth is hydration!! I drink a lot of water all day long!
Rachael @ Catch Me if You Can says
i know the dead sea is super salty but im surprised your skin felt oily the next day i would think it would be all dried out because of the salt…guess its the extra minerals as well. that is such an awesome experience i cant wait to go someday!
Sally @ sweat out the small stuff says
Lately I feel achy and old and I think it’s that I don’t drink enough water. So maybe water will be my fountain of youth. Poland Spring!
Sue Wong says
Hi Monica! Just wondering what do you mean by “the water is thick”?
Samantha @ believeandrun says
My fountain of youth would be running and drinking a ton of water. It seems to do the trick