Jordan entices Middle East travelers with luxurious SPA vacations

"Tourists are becoming increasingly selective when it comes to holiday destinations. The emphasis is very much geared towards particular interests, such as health, fitness and beauty. And as people move towards more healthy ways of living, the popularity of the spa vacation has increased. This is why we have embarked on various spa projects to offer visitors from the region a unique in-depth relaxing experience," said Marwan Khoury, Managing Director of the JTB.

One of the most spectacular natural and spiritual landscapes in the whole world - the Dead Sea eastern coast of Jordan, the lowest spot on earth at 410 metres below sea level - is steadily evolving into a major new hub of tourism in the region. New infrastructure, hotels and archaeological discoveries are converging to make this region an enticing choice for visitors.

The leading attraction at the Dead Sea is the hot, soothing, super salty sea water - ten times saltier than normal sea water - and rich in chloride salts of magnesium, sodium, potassium and bromine amongst others. The unusually warm, salty, buoyant and mineral rich water allows swimmers to float effortlessly on their backs. Combined with filtered sun rays, oxygen, rich black mud along the shoreline and the adjacent freshwater and thermal mineral springs, as well as luxurious hotel accommodation, the Dead Sea with its healing powers, is a must-see attraction for holidaymakers.

Meanwhile, at 120 metres below sea level, and in one of the most breath-taking desert oasis in the world, lies another natural wonder - the Ma'in Springs with its hyper-thermal waterfalls -drawing thousands of visiting bathers every year. The mineral rich waters that feed the 109 hot and cold springs in the valley originate from winter rain falls in the highland plains of Jordan. Visitors will find deluxe accommodation offering spa treatments such as mud wrapping and facials, jet shower, under-water massage and hydrojet beds.

Furthermore, Jordan also offers visitors the opportunity to visit the Afra springs in the south near Tafila, and Al Himmeh mineral spring in the north. With daily direct flights from the Gulf countries to Amman, Jordan offers the perfect holiday choice for Middle East travellers.

"The spa and wellness industry has tremendous potential - at the JTB we are investing heavily in marketing this aspect of tourism in the Gulf region. Jordan is in a unique position offering such a diverse choice of natural spa destinations," added Khoury.