Our last two days on this most memorable adventure were spent at the Dead Sea. We visited Masada, floated in the salt & mineral rich sea, Jeep 4 wheeling in the Judean Desert and began our trek home. Masada is an UNESCO World Heritage site. Built around 103-76 BCE by the Hasmoneans. Later greatly enhanced by the Romans under the rule of King Herod. After Herod died, Jewish Freedom Fighters inhabited this fortress. The most notable event is this was the demise of last bastion of this rebel group. When they decided they could not defeat the Romans, they chose death by their own hands as opposed to slavery. It is estimated about 960 people died that fateful night before the Romans broke through its walled defenses. Masada's ruins lie on a plateau 450 meters above the Dead Sea. It is approximately 650 meters long and 300 meters wide. Quite a fascinating historical area to explore. The cable car up the little hill is part of the adventure for sure. Especially to experience how many people can be crammed in for one ride. Kinda reminds you of the days of when people tried to get a couple of dozen people into a phone booth... The afternoon was spent bobbing. That's right bobbing like a fishing bobber. The salt and mineral content is so high in the Dead Sea that it is absolutely impossible to sink. Like floating without a flotation devise. So cool! Our pre farewell dinner and debriefing meeting was totally fun including the post trip quiz pitting the 4 teams against each other. There is no doubt we learned a vast amount of information, but remembering... The quiz certainly challenged us. Ironically all four teams ended in a tie. The last day begins with us climbing into Jeeps to go 4 wheeling in the desert. Treated to s yummy lunch under acacia trees. So much fun! Sadly, our last ride on the big bus to drive back to Tel Aviv. Starting our journey home. Thank you so much for traveling with us!
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