Ahlan, from the lowest point on earth

Alright, I will admit it...I am not writing on my laptop whilst floating gracefully in the Dead Sea. But, I'm sure with enough peaceful water and a nice stand, it could be done. It was too cold for me (around 50 degrees, which is just not warm enough for water floating) to get in. I know that may appear terrible, but I hopefully can get back there. Plus, it was a beautiful sight to see everyone just floating along at the surface. I just washed my hands in the water and they smelled like salt. They are also very soft. I do not think the 40 minute bus ride back to Amman was very pleasant for the swimmers. Everyone in the hotel came back to shower immediately. Those covered in mud also did not seem the relish the experience very much.

I look forward to a warmer day to come back. No one else was on the beach though, since it is the winter season. During orientation we had a lot of great panoramic views of the sea. I enjoyed being there when it was not the peak tourist season and not overwhelmingly crowded. While everyone was water bobbing, I enjoyed some time with a few stray cats. One followed me around and sat on my lap for awhile. She was very sweet.

My poor ears did pop though on the way there, since we decided down to dead sea level and then back up. I hope many of you can go someday.

Besides the dead sea, there is not much to report. Except that, be careful Americans, you will get charged if you ask for water. It is not free. In fact, you may get charged if you don't ask for water and you get it. We all did at a restaurant when we had coffee and water.

Cold report: it is mostly gone, I'm feeling much better. I'm amazed my body could recover. My voice is mostly gone, but that is a sign I will feel better.

Here is one PSA before I publish this post: After the next few days, I will not have a lot of internet access. Therefore, these posts may be few and far between. I will not have internet in my apartment, and although I will try to post once a week or so, they will not always be very detailed. I really want to get some pictures up, but it would just take too long. Once I get more familiar with the scene, I will get photos streaming.

Salaam,
Liz

p.s.
Fun facts: The Dunkin' Donuts here is called The Donut Factory. It has the same coloring and products as Dunkin' Donuts, so I think it is the same line. However, the coffee was much better than American Dunkin' Donuts.