Avir swimming in the Dead Sea
This old ramp leading into the Dead Sea can be seen at Ein Bokek beach, adjacent to some very impressive five- to seven-star resorts. However, what was more interesting for Avir was the anticipation of a very memorable ‘swim’, but first he would have to check out the water temperature before taking the plunge. One doesn’t actually ‘swim’ in the Sea, but rather ‘floats’ and diving is out of the question because putting one’s head under the water can be a serious health risk. That’s why floating on one’s back is preferable and just sitting is also popular because the water is so dense from the salt content that it’s possible to actually ‘sit’. Avir, (pictured to the right of the photo) found the water temperature to be warm and rather pleasant.
The old saying about ‘rubbing salt into one’s wounds’ takes on a serious note here with Avir being very careful not to put his face under the water, as the concentrated saline levels can sting the eyes very badly, which is why swimmers are advised to keep a bottle of fresh water (for flushing the eyes) and a towel close by on the beach. Overall, this was one of Avir’s most favourite time in Israel!