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IN PICTURES: A high at the lowest point on earth
By Sara Miller, Haaretz Correspondent
A few days of R&R in a desert oasis is a perfect way to recharge batteries exhausted by the madness of city life. It's also ideal for those who love the warmth of the sun on their bodies, but are looking for a destination that is a departure from the run-of-the-mill sea and sand holidays.
An hour out of Jerusalem (follow the signs for the Dead Sea or head straight for Route 90), the cluster of hotels at the Ein Bokek resort rise mirage-like on the horizon, each one with a perfect mirror image reflection in the sea.
There are a range of hotels at the resort to suit a variety of budgets. The area also boasts a youth hotel and bed and breakfast, both at reasonable prices. For a truly inexpensive experience, take a tent and camp out on the shores of the sea.
Once in the area, there is more to do than just float in the Dead Sea (although that is an experience not to be missed). A short drive from the hotel area is the Ein Gedi nature preserve, where a five-minute walk takes you to the first in a series of waterfalls, and where flora and fauna abound. (Tip: Take a hat and plenty of water - the weather is nearly always hot.) Nearby are also the Masada hilltop fortress and the Qumran caves - both steeped in history and definitely worth exploring.
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