June 8 - We spent today in the desert.  It was a great day weatherwise  - a breeze and a little overcast.  Although the temp went over 100 degrees it was really not unbearable.  The breeze makes a big difference.

Our first stop of the day was Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found.

Heading south we took the cable car to the top of Masada.  Masada was built by Herod as a refuge in case of a revolt against him but is most famous for the Zealots hold out from Rome after the fall of Jeruselem.





After lunch (McDonalds is available at the bottom of Masada along with other choices) we journeyed thru Ein Gedi & discovered a whole family of Ibex. 

Our next experience was a swim in the Dead Sea

and then back to the hotel for dinner. 

About sundown when Shabbot was over we went down to Ben Yehuda Street to experience some Israeli nightlife.  Back to the hotel around 10:00 and then to sleep.