The wind was blowing hot at 40 degrees Celsius but the peaceful turquoise lake only 20 meters away looked promising. Leaving my sandals and shirt, I walked toward the water, feeling the heat of the tiny pearl-pebbles I was treading on. Half way across, I started running. Fast. Reaching the water, I was nearly expecting to hear the sizzling of the water as I sank both feet in. No. The lake water was probably over 34 degrees... I went in deeper sitting down in the water. It was a very "oily" sensation but yes, you actually do float! My face was sweating and it was only minutes before salty sweat drops burned my eyes. It was a painful retreat...This was my "introduction" to the Dead Sea. For me, hell on earth, nothing survives out here...