Journey to Israel: South to Masada, the Dead Sea, Kibbutz Lotan and Eilat

Yesterday, we began the day by hiking Masada. Masada (meaning fortress), is a first century ancient palace and fortress in the Judean desert. High upon the mountain, Jewish rebels held off the Romans for more than three years before committing mass suicide. (More on Masada)

Our next stop was the Dead Sea, which earns its name by being comprised of 36% salt—and everyone floats!

After lunch, we made our way to the southern tip of Israel, the port city of Eilat on the Red Sea. Yep, that Red Sea, the one that God parted for Moses when the Israelites made their way from slavery to freedom. Eilat is one part Las Vegas, one part Coney Island, one part Israeli Club Med.

Today, we spent the morning at Kibbutz Lotan, a Reform Jewish Kibbutz one hour north of Eilat in the desert. Our young guide, Or, was deeply enthusiastic as he taught us how to make bricks from clay and straw, the composting system for the kibbutz, and about their environmental internships.

The rest of the day we spent swimming in the pool & Red Sea (at more than 100 degrees Farenheit, the pool is a welcome refuge from the heat). Tonight, we’ll find dinner at one of the many beach restaurants.