Anshai Goes to Israel!

Sunday morning, the Anshai crew woke up early to check out of our hotel in Jerusalem and head to the Negev desert. Our first stop was to pick up our tour guide, Josh, in his hometown of Ma’ale Adummin. He lives in a settlement on the very edge of Jerusalem. 

On our way down to the desert, we discussed various issues of the settlements, West Bank, and Bedouin communities. Josh emphasized the Industrial Zone where Jews and Palestinians Work together every day. More in depth discussions of the complexities would occur on our way back from the Negev at the end of the day.

Our first stop was Masada. Our group broke into two, those that wanted to hike the Snake Path (approximately 1.5 miles, climbing over 1100 feet) and those riding the cable car. On top of Masada, we were greeted with magnificent views of the Dead Sea and the desert landscape. Josh taught us the history of Masada as a Roman palace and then a Jewish fortress, and how differently they used the structures. For example, the Roman bath house was converted into a mikveh, and the horse stables became a synagogue.  Josh even included a scavenger hunt to keep the kids occupied as he provided more in-depth details for the adults.

After lunch at the Masada facility, we headed north to the Dead Sea beach. On the drive we were able to see how far the sea has receded and learn how large sink holes are formed when flood water runoff in the ground dissolves the salt, causing the land above to collapse.  

Before heading into the Dead Sea, the group had the opportunity to ride a camel. Even though it was a cool, breezy day, we were all excited to go for a dip into the Dead Sea. The water was more choppy than normal which added a little extra fun floating on top of waves.

We finished at the sea and headed north through the Jordan Valley. During the drive, Josh explained how Israel's innovations in desalination have eliminated the drought in this country that is half desert.   

We arrived at our hotel, well after dark, on the shores of the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee). After a late dinner, and a long drive, it was time to rest up for our next busy day in Tsfat.