The new seven wonders of nature

The Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth and one of Israel’s most popular tourist sites, is one of 28 finalists for the shortlist in an international competition to grade the seven natural wonders of the world.

At over 400 meters below sea level and with luxury hotels in the Ein Bokek area, the Dead Sea is known as the lowest and largest natural health spa in the world. Due to its mineral rich mud and oxygen rich air, this natural phenomenon offers tourists and health-seekers relief from various ailments including muscular tensions, rheumatic pain, asthma and various skin diseases. Tourist attractions in the area, among others, include the Roman fortress at Masada, the Ein Gedi and Einot Tzukim nature reserves and Qumran - home to the Essenes sect and the area where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered.

The Dead Sea was selected from an original list of over 440 sites from 220 countries The Megillot Dead Sea Regional Council proposed the candidacy of the Dead Sea for the competition in order to promote tourism to the region.

The competition organizers expect over a billion people from around the world to participate in the online voting at new7wonders.com, which will continue into 2011, when the finalists will be announced.

To find out more about travel to Israel visit thinkisrael.com.