lerasp

We will be going to Jordan and Israel in Nov/Dec 2008. Which side is better for a visit to the Dead Sea? Either one would be a daytrip from Amman or Jerusalem, so not looking to stay in the area. Just spend an afternoon, float in the sea, and go back. which one would be a shorter drive? will have rental car in both. Also, if anyone has recommendations for hotels or areas that are good for daytrippers, it would be helpful. not looking for anything fancy, but a shower is a must. If there are public areas (non-hotels) that have showers, that would be ok as well. Does anyone know costs of using hotel facilities (shower, beach) for the day/afternoon?
thanks!

zlaor

We went to the Dead Sea from Jerusalem last September about an hour's ride.

http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog...4580/tpod.html


Once you reach the area of the hotels (after Ein Gedi & Masada) there is a public beach which you can float on, or you can buy a day pass from one of the local hotels to go to the spa etc.

It is a full day, you can do Masada in the same day (it's on the way) if you want a two-three hour diversion or see the great views from the top of the mountain.

Didn't go into Jorday - wish we did.

althom1122

I went to the Dead Sea from Amman. Slightly less than an hour, as I recall. We hired a taxi (through our hotel) for the day. There was a very nice public beach, with a few shops just above it. Floating in that water is amazing. You couldn't sink if you tried. You actually kind of sit in the water, almost like a recliner. Very cool.

lerasp

thanks for replies. did the public beaches have showers and changing rooms? was there a fee for the public beach?

zlaor

On the israeli side there are changing rooms & showers on the public beach. There is no charge to get on the beach.

CindyW

At Ein Gedi there is a small (very) fee to use the changing room and indoor shower, also to rent a towel.

lerasp

thanks everyone for replies! very helpful.

dmlove

Whichever way you go, don't shave right before you go - it stings!!

JoyceL

Also wear closed water shoes. The Dead Sea's ground is very rocky, and without water shoes you could cut your feet.

Host

Hi,
In the Jordanian side,everything is organized,they have shade and showers as well as restaurant.
Enjoy