Taglit Birthright Winter 2012 - Day 5
Posted on 12/20/2012 @ 12:00 PM
Today was our fifth day on the trip, and my favorite by far. Never having been to the Negev desert before, I was amazed by what such a seemingly desolate landscape can offer.
We woke up in Yerucham to a quick breakfast and chilly morning of mountain biking. Ido, our guide, encouraged us to dress lightly, so most of us went out wearing a t-shirt and shorts. Just like Miami, right? Not even close... The wind was freezing, the sand whipped our eyes and the sun, our only friend, was hidden behind thick clouds of dust. But once we started riding all of that changed. We raced across fields formerly uninhabited, looking at settlements built by students from Ayalim. For a second, I thought I might one day be so bold, but quickly got distracted by wild camels led perusing the land for something to eat.
Back on the bus, we were told our next stop would be Ben Gurion's grave. Sde Boker is a cliff-side tribute looking out on a Grand Canyon-like valley. Families visiting from all over surrounded us as we learned how a short, funny-looking guy from Poland (Ben Gurion) took his vision for a Jewish homeland to create the modern state of Israel. Clearly, a polarizing figure, but a natural born leader and powerful politician, no doubt.
Next, we headed out for the Dead Sea. I'd heard a lot about how the salt content of the water makes you float, but I had no idea how amazing it would be. I felt like I was swimming in space, pushed up from below by some unknown energy. The mud we rubbed on our skin was pretty incredible too. In a few minutes, we were exfoliated and ready for our last stop.
After a hilariously awkward camel ride, we learned how the Bedouin culture has thrived in this peninsula since the 7th century. Today, they carry on tradition, living in tents made of camel and goat hair. They drink coffee made from young beans and cardamom, inviting travelers into their home for friendly conversation and a minimum three days of warm meals. Unfortunately, we only have until tomorrow, so it seems like we'll have to cram it all into one night. I'm sure we'll feel in the morning, but for now it's all part of the journey!
Andries Vaisman
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