We had a short sleep last night after our memorable night and an early morning wake-up call for checkout in Aqaba. It was sad to leave as we really enjoyed our experience in the southern part of Jordan and loved the hotel (Doubletree Hilton Aqaba). After breakfast, we headed north but this time along a different highway to the west. We actually drove right along the Israeli border for 2 hours as we approached the Dead Sea area. You could see the border the entire way that was settled in numerous peace agreements. As we got within visible distance from the Sea, you could see a distinct fog above the water. Yes- we were approaching one of the most bizarre pieces of geography in the world. Before going to the water though, we decided to do a few hours of religious history in this well-known region connected to the Holy Land. On the way to Mount Nebo, we stopped by what we thought was a typical stream that flowed into the Dead Sea. As we stepped in it, we saw that it was more than that. It was actually one of only three hot river streams that comes directly from the desert mountains (the other two are in Brazil and India). The water was very hot and burned for a few seconds when putting our feet in. As we stood in this spot, we looked up on the rocks and saw our first piece of religious history on the day. Many believe Lot's wife was turned into a rock pillar during the escape of Sodom. i
Next we drove up the long, steep mountain of Mount Nebo. This was moving as we saw the sight from Deuteronomy in which Moses was given a view of the Promised Land by god that he would never then enter. Christian tradition then believes Moses died and was buried along Mount Nebo. The view from the mountain allowed us to see the Holy Land including Jerusalem and Jericho. From Mount Nebo we went down to the town of Nebo as we visited a Mosaic workshop. Though I only anticipated gaining information for mainly social studies and science, this next hour allowed me to advance in art! Incredible workshop that employs over 200 disabled workers in which they put together mosaic art and pottery from the rocks/ground of Jordan. The gift shop was one that we had a hard time turning away from with all of their hand-crafted work. i
Next, we drove towards the Dead Sea to the Baptism Site of Jesus. Though it is conflicted, the baptism site is right along the border in Jordan from Israel. Jesus walked ACROSS the JordanRiver and into this town Bethany. As we saw the baptism site along the Jordan River, it was very, very interesting to be so close to the border. Both groups of people touched this holy water and each country had military personnel right by the water in case of a crossing. Additionally at this area we saw Elijah's Hill where Elijah ascended into heaven. i Amazing religious history to start off our afternoon! i
From these sites we went up close and personal with the Dead Sea. After lunch overlooking this big body of creature-less water, we went down for a swim. The big salt crystals along the bank is no joke- they were everywhere and incredible to see up close. The swimming part was what was crazy though! As many know, I am not a very good swimmer. Well, the Dead Sea is my savior. It is honestly a lot more powerful in its pull to the surface and allows anyone to float. We were floating in any position and our bodies just hovered the water. The high salt content (33%) allows for the floating and the crazy experience! It is as noted the lowest point on the planet and there is no marine life in it besides bacteria! It is a great place to visit to see but also medicine/cosmetics for many in the minerals taken from the Sea. One of the common things we tried is putting mud all over our bodies from the sea. Cleopatra was one woman in history that was very interested in the products that could be made from the Dead Sea and therefore led the path in receiving minerals from this interesting body of water. i
After swimming and mudding, we had to wash off the salt. It felt very good in my open shoulder cut as the salt helped with healing. We then sat at the empty set of infinity pools for a nice view of the water and desert.
It was then time to head to our new hotel in North Jordan- the Grand Hyatt Amman. Wow- Amman is a gigantic city! It is very crowded and known as the "white city" because of the buildings all being white. With the government policy, any new building built in Amman should be white. If they go with another color, water, etc. is not given to them from the government for free. As we drove up to the hotel it was sunset and there were several muslim gentlemen in the street that seemed to take the part of what we would usually think in asking for money..Nope- they were doing the opposite as they handed out water bottles and dates for drivers to break their fast as the sun went down. Very nice and another cultural experience that was unexpected at the end of the day. i
Tomorrow we will visit a few different places but mainly the famous Roman ruins of Jerrash. It is our last day in this wonderful country and we could not have asked for a better adventure. Speaking of adventure and my topic that is still on my mind from last night- family. Not only do Jordanians see the importance of family relationships but most believe in large families. Abdullah having 5 girls last night is a small family as many have kids in the double digits. Faith and family...can't argue with those priorities! i
Welcome August,
ZZ
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