A Day in the Desert: Masada and the Dead Sea

Hello America! Sadly, we'll be joining you in two short days. Today, we woke up at 3 a.m. and boarded our tour bus in the darkness. Our long-winded ascension of Mt. Masada rewarded us with a breathtaking sunrise that we enjoyed as a new family after we finished the 900 foot climb to the top. After rehydrating with vast amounts of water, we began our tour of the top of the mountain, exploring old fortresses and the first Roman bathhouses. Our wonderful tour guide Omer also taught us how water was transported to the top of the mountain using a system of cistains and aquaducts. Perhaps one of the most incredible things we have seen so far came when we were taken to the edge of Masada and screamed into the Masada Valley to hear the echoes of our Jewish ancestors. Fun fact: spartans went to the same canyon because they wanted to tap into the same warrior spirit the ancient people exibited during the Roman siege of Masada. A quick hike back down and group 54 (the band of amiable rebels) was on their way again, this time headed to the Dead Sea. 45 minutes later we arrived at the beach. We exfoliated our bodies with the enriched mud of the sea and were astounded as our bodies floated effortlessly. It was a new and thrilling experience for most and when we left for lunch, everyone was tired, but satisfied. Driving back to the hotel, not a single eye was open and there was a symphany of snores. It was a peaceful ending to our jam-packed day. Michelle, Taylor, Bit Bit