Weary bodies from around the world flock to the lowest point on earth. They walk around like a strange tribe covered with black sea mud to allow the nutrients from the rich earth sink deep into their skin. Others wade through the salt crusted banks into the sea and float, buoyant by the dense water filled with salt and other nourishing minerals. After hours taking in the natural and curative powers of the sea, they will return to for further luxuriating at one of the top resorts in the Middle East the Kempinski Ishtar Dead Sea Jordan.
Jordan is an incredible destination with some of the world’s most spectacular places to visit. Wadi Rum and its Mars-like desert landscapes, Petra, Jordan’s Wonder of the World, and the countless sites we’ve all heard about in the bible. This is the cradle of history and the place where Cleopatra and Mark Anthony, the Queen of Sheba, and Aristotle roamed. The location where John the Baptist saved souls is just a few kilometers from the resort. Jordan is also a safe and resilient destination and with no recent unrest or tourism-related issues, travelers are beginning to come back to experience all of the wonders of this magical land.
One must-have experience in Jordan is a visit to the Dead Sea area. This is literally the lowest place on earth and is 420 meters below sea-level. Nowhere else has the natural variations that this area possesses. The most unbelievable experience is floating in the water. Because the water is so rich with salt and nutrients, you can’t help but float. There’s a light film that covers the body with 20 different minerals and nutrients in the water known for their curative powers. People have come here for thousands of years to bathe and receive its healing wonders. The air is also 15% more oxygenated, delivering more oxygen to the blood. The air density additionally creates a filter for ultraviolet rays, so there’s no need for sunscreen. There’s also no pollution.
The place to take in all the wonders of the area is at the Kempinski Ishtar, one of the top resorts in the world as recognized by Condé Nast, Travel+Leisure and other purveyors of luxury travel. It is a well-deserved distinction as the resort provides an exceptional and memorable experience from the expansive indoor and outdoor areas to lavish accommodations and delicious Middle Eastern décor. The dining experience is a stand out as well and there’s also a world class spa. All of this in the cradle of history and on the shores of the Dead Sea.
At the resort’s entrance is a striking fire and water feature indicating the grandeur and opulence within. The resort was built as a tribute to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and features authentic Arab architecture, design, and decorative elements. There are generations-old olive trees throughout the property as well as palm, lemon trees and bamboo in lush landscapes and fertile gardens.
The resort is an hour drive from Amman and many of the city's well-to-do socialites mix with other hotel guests from Europe, the US, and Asia. They come for the wonderful experiences at the resort as well as the natural and historical wonders of the area.
This is a large complex with 345 rooms, suites, and villas. Each is designed with contemporary Arabic décor. The accommodations go from large rooms to the three master bedroom Royal Villas with private pool, private beach, butler and chauffeur. The Ishtar Junior Suites are spacious with modern and contemporary design, dramatic neon lighting and modern Middle Eastern design. The outdoor area is equally as memorable with rafters and bamboo roof letting in mottled light onto the outdoor patio. The furniture and space make it the perfect place for breakfast or just to peer out the latticed window for uninterrupted views across the vast sea towards the west bank. It’s the perfect place to enjoy dramatic sunsets.
The resort of this size caters to all types of guests from Americans, European, and other Middle East travelers. The dining options seem endless to cater to these different palates. The Ashur Grill is the place for delicious Italian food complimented by a large selection of fine Italian wine. The grilled seafood is also a standout there as well. The setting is romantic overlooking the moonlit sea by the infinity edge pool and dining by candlelight on red and white linen while live music plays nearby.
This is, after all, the cradle of civilization and there are endless historical sites to see around Jordan. At the resort, there’s also plenty to do. There are nine pools; the lazy river pool is the place for families with children, while other pools are for adults and yet others are catered towards a younger crowd. The infinity edge pool is the place where toned 20- and 30-somethings suntan in between clicking cocktails while an international DJ spins house music. At sunset this is a sexy scene as the music ramps up while the sun goes down.
Children also enjoy the expansive kid’s club with a dedicated staff on hand to watch over the little ones while parents get some much needed alone time.
Ishtar Spa by Renses is also on the property, which is the largest spa in the region, expanding over 10,000 square meters. There are 20 treatment rooms with private shower facilities, hydro-facilities with a steam room, sauna, and whirlpool.
In-the-know travelers come back to Jordan because it is safe and contains some of the most impressive sites and experiences in the world. Floating in the Dead Sea or covering oneself in the nutrient rich sea mud is one of those sensations every worldly person must experience.
