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Visitors who come to Israel (especially for the first time) are fascinated by many things about the country - the landscapes, the food, the warmth and hospitality of locals…the list goes on. Something else they’re also fascinated by is the fact that Israel is a country based on Jewish traditions, customs, and laws.People praying at the Western Wall, Jerusalem. Photo byOndrej BocekonUnsplash"You Don't Need to Believe in God to be a Jew…"The calendar is based around Jewish festivals, the main language spoken is Hebrew and half the world’s Jewish population lives here. Visiting holy Jewish sites in Israel, it’s hard not to feel it. But what many don’t understand is that Judaism in Israel (and the world) means different things to different Jews. Some believe in God, and others don’t (“I’m a Jewish atheist” they’ll tell you). Some are essentially traditional, taking comfort in the rituals they learned as children.One Size Doesn’t Fit AllOf those who do believe, there’s a wide spectrum, in terms of their practices…ranging from traditional “candle lighting” on Friday evening and celebrating Jewish holidays to strict adherence to Jewish law in every single aspect of their daily lives. Today, we’re looking at Orthodox Jews, which is an umbrella term for the many sub-groups within it. We’ll try and answer the most popular questions asked, such as “What do Orthodox Jews believe?, “Why do Orthodox Jewish women wear wigs?”, “Why do Orthodox Jews only eat certain foods?” and a few more. Besides, we’ll look at their history, traditions, and even the way they are coping with change in the modern world. In short, we’ll try and make this very complicated subject a little bit easier to grasp. Interested? Then read on…Chanukah candles. Photo by Menachem Weinreb on UnsplashWhat Do Orthodox Jews Believe?Orthodox Jews believe in a strict interpretation of Jewish law (‘halacha’ in Hebrew) which they think is grounded in the Torah (the first five books of the Hebrew Bible), both oral and written, and the revelation made to Moses by God on Mount Sinai. Something that’s important to state here is that Orthodox Jews are not one group - rather many sub-groups. Arguments rage between them at times, as to how strict interpretation of Jewish law should be. However, they do all adhere to certain core beliefs. As said before, there is a central belief that the Torah was revealed to Moses by God on Mount Sinai who, in turn, transmitted it to Joshua and the Elders. Since then, they believe, the Torah has been passed down in an unbroken chain to the present day. At Mount Sinai, the Jewish people entered into a covenantal relationship with God. This meant, effectively, that God was promising protection to the Israelites if they obeyed the Ten Commandments he had given them. ‘Torah min HaShamayim’ - they believe that this revelation to Moses was a divine event and that the entire text is the literal word of God. God is one and indivisible, the sole creator, first and last (according to the Principles of Maimonides, a 12th-century rabbi and scholar who wrote ‘The Guide for the Perplexed’).The bimah in a synagogue. Photo byLainie BergeronUnsplashGod cannot be subdivided - Jews do not believe in the Trinity (the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost) and this is something that sets them apart from Christians, theologically speaking. They do believe in a future Messiah, who will be from the line of King David and will restore the Third Temple. Jews do not believe Jesus was the Messiah - their monotheistic outlook means that they cannot accept Jesus as a deity. Of course, Jews do believe Jesus existed - they just do not believe he was the Son of God, and that he died to save the world. However, more modern Orthodox interpretations of Jesus are a little more positive - especially from rabbis such as Irving Greenberg and Jonathan Sacks. Indeed, Rabbi Greenberg theorised that Jesus could be a Messiah, just not the Messiah. Jews do not believe in the concept of salvation because they do not believe people are born in a state of sin. Judaism should be practiced within a community. For example, Jewish sacred texts and prayer books often use ‘we’ and ‘our’ and Jews pray in groups of not less than ten (a minyan). On Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish year, Jews repeat verses that ask for forgiveness as a people, not as individuals.Judaism is a faith of action rather than belief - deeds count far more than words. For many Jews, this includes a belief in ‘tikkun olam’ (in Hebrew 'repairing the world’) which involves contributing to the betterment of your surroundings and fellow humans. This may well be why Jews focus far more on the here-and-now than other religious groups. Jews believe in World to Come (Ha Olam Haba in Hebrew) but have no clear idea, theologically, of what it might entail.Photographer at the Wailing Wall, Jerusalem. Photo by Tim Mossholder on UnsplashThe History of Orthodox JudaismOrthodox Judaism began in Eastern Europe, in the early 18th century, primarily as a reaction to Reform Judaism. It leaned towards a more traditional approach to Jewish law (as opposed to the Jewish liberalism of the time, which rejected the divine origins of the Torah and argued that obligatory ritual observance was unnecessary). As a result, the term ‘Orthodox’ was taken up by Jews who wanted to show that they were faithful to ritual and tradition, and unwilling to ‘modernize’ their beliefs. That idea still remains true today, with arguments continuing to rage between Orthodox Jews (both in Israel and the diaspora) and traditional/reform Jews, who argue that Judaism needs to be more flexible and adaptable, to deal with the challenges of the secular world. Some of the biggest disputes revolve around ancient Jewish customs - such as circumcision of infant boys, dietary laws, and the biblical prohibition against intermarriage. For Orthodox Jews, these laws are non-negotiable - they are the cornerstone of their faith.Laws, Customs and TraditionsKashrut - keeping kosher is an essential part of an orthodox Jew’s daily life. The dietary laws prohibit the mixing of milk and meat (quoting a passage in the Book of Deuteronomy) and other foods such as pork and shellfish are strictly forbidden. Orthodox Jews also use two sets of plates and cutlery in the home (some even insist on two sinks and two ovens!) Shabbat - one of the central tenets of the Orthodox Jewish faith is keeping Shabbat. This means that from Friday at dusk until Saturday night, no form of work can be undertaken. There is a prohibition on using electricity (phones, TVs, computers are switched off and cars sit idle in the garage), making Friday night blessings throughout the evening, and attending prayer services.A Jewish man choosing etrog (citron) for the holiday of Sukkot.Photo byEsther WechsleronUnsplashPrayer and study - many Orthodox Jews pray 3 times each day (morning, afternoon, and evening) and all Orthodox Jews place great value on religious learning. They will study the Hebrew Bible (to varying levels) and the rabbinical commentaries that accompany them, as well as send their children to Jewish day schools and, if living in the diaspora, on summer trips to Israel.Dress - modern Orthodox Jews cannot be easily differentiated from the general public (apart from the ‘kippah’ that they wear on their head) but ultra-Orthodox Jews are easily identifiable in their attire. Men wear large fur hats (‘shtreimels’) and long black overcoats (‘kapoteh”). This dress was worn by their forefathers, in Eastern Europe, long ago and they continue to wear it as a sign of humility and respect. Women are expected to dress modestly, with no bare arms and skirts below the knee. Some Orthodox women also choose not to wear jeans/pants).Fun fact: shtreimels come in all shapes and sizes, according to the particular sub-sect e.g. wide and velvet indicates a Hungarian Hassid; a rounded felt hat denotes a Gur Hasid and a fedora usually sits on top of a Chabad devotee.A Jewish man holding Canon. Photo by Fotoz on UnsplashModesty and Purity“Why do Orthodox women wear wigs?” is a question often asked, and the answer is that they consider it to be an act of tremendous modesty (‘tzniut’). The ‘sheitel’ as it is called, is worn by married women, who believe that their hair is a beautiful and special part of themselves that only their husband should see.Married women also attend a ritual bath each month (‘mikvah’) which is designed specifically so that they can purify themselves. In the two weeks before immersion in the mikvah, the man and wife do not have sexual relations but after she has visited the ritual bath, marital relations can resume.In mainstream Orthodox Judaism, men and women will mix both in daily life and at communal Jewish events (although not at prayer, where they sit separately). However, the more Orthodox sects generally discourage such mingling (whether it be separate school systems, segregated musical concerts, and even no mixed dancing at weddings). In some instances, a girl and boy will only have met two or three times before their marriage is arranged by their families - which means that on their wedding day they may not have ever held hands or kissed, let alone had sex.Haredim walk toward the Jaffa Gate into the Old City of Jerusalem. Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplashDifferent Kinds of Orthodox JudaismModern Orthodox - Modern Orthodox Judaism is a philosophy that strives to combine adherence to Jewish law with life in a modern, secular world. Modern Orthodox Jews (both in Israel and abroad) keep biblical commandments (observing Shabbat, the dietary laws, praying regularly at synagogue ) and usually raise their children with this kind of identity, as a way of continuing their heritage.However, modern Orthodox Jews are also a part of the 21st century and enjoy many of its benefits. They will use the latest technology, watch Netflix, socialize with people from other religions and cultures, and travel widely. Whilst they are knowledgeable in matters of Jewish history and law, they also partake in secular education, embracing both the humanities and sciences. The result is that they are well represented in today’s professions - from law and medicine to business and the arts. Open Orthodox - in recent years, the term ‘Open Orthodox’ has become a point of interest, essentially referring to a less ‘rigid’ kind of Orthodoxy. Whilst open Orthodox Jews, like modern Jews, believe that the Torah was given to Moses, by God, on Mount Sinai, they support a greater role for women in synagogues/prayer and aim to be inclusive, non-judgmental, and intellectually rigorous. Religious Zionists - referred to as ‘dati leumi’ (religious nationalists) are Orthodox Jews in Israel who keep ritual Jewish law but are also strong proponents of Zionism. A Jewish man at the Tower of David, Jerusalem. Photo byJoshua SukoffonUnsplashHaredim - in a nutshell, this term refers to Jews who are more strict about their observance than most Orthodox Jews. Also referred to as ‘ultra Orthodox’ (by other Jews) their motto is ‘change nothing’ and this goes for almost every aspect of their lives! As a result of this isolationist approach, Haredi Jews have very little contact with the outside world.In Israel, many Haredi Jews live in tight-knit communities such as Mea Shearim in Jerusalem and Bnei Brak (close to Tel Aviv). Most of them speak Yiddish instead of Hebrew (Yiddish was, historically, the language of the Jews in Poland), wear clothes that modern people find strange (see ‘customs’ above), and generally do not mix either with non-Jews or Jews they feel are not sufficiently pious.Haredi Jews do not have televisions in their home, the internet is always forbidden to children, and cellphones are discouraged. They have large families - often as many as 12 children - and birth control is often forbidden by their rabbis. Because they have had no secular education, they do not work in professions but are more likely to be found in business and the diamond industry. Most Haredi men consider Torah study to be their primary purpose (many regard it as more important than earning money) and the majority do not recognize the establishment of the state of Israel, since it was established by pioneers and not God). Some even openly describe themselves as ‘anti-Zionist’, whilst living in Israel! Some of the many Haredi sub-sects include Bobov, Satmar, Chabad Lubavitch, and Spinka. Three of the most well-known are: Jewish men praying at the Western Wall, Jerusalem.Photo byThomas VogelonUnsplashHasidic - broadly speaking, Hasidic Jews are a subset of Haredi Jews. They place a unique emphasis on the traditions of their forefathers in Eastern Europe (the ‘Ashkenazim’) and are extremely fraternal - men and boys spend a great deal of time together at synagogue. They have a reputation for emotional and spontaneous singing and dancing at public Jewish gatherings (taking the view that Judaism should be about joy) and adhere to their leaders (Rebbes) at all times. Litvaks - Litvaks hail from Lithuania and make up about a third of the ultra-orthodox population in Israel. Historically, they were recognized for their intellectual prowess and today they are truly dedicated to Torah study. The stereotypical ‘Litvak’ is stubborn, skeptical, and critical! Even today, the popular conception of a Litvak is one who is well-educated but a bit of a cold fish!Sephardim - In Israel, the Sephardic ultra-orthodox are a growing community. Of Middle Eastern origin, they are represented by their own political party, Shas (a Hebrew acronym for Sephardi Torah Guardians) and the main difference between them and the Ashkenazi Haredim is that they follow the rulings of their own rabbis, which are rooted in the traditions of Jews who once lived in the Islamic world. When it comes to support for the state of Israel, they are definitely less hostile than their counterparts.Orthodox Judaism TodayToday, Orthodox Jews live not just in Israel but in Europe, both North and South America, Australia, and South Africa. The majority would call themselves ‘modern orthodox’ (see above) but there are small communities of ultra-orthodox Jews, the most prominent of which are in parts of Israel, Crown Heights, and Borough Park in New York and Stamford Hill, in London. We hope this brief introduction has made things a bit clearer for you and if you’re interested in seeing an area such as Mea Shearim, in Jerusalem, why not book a private Jerusalem tour with us, which can be customized to your needs? Looking for a Jewish Tour package, or a Private Jewish Tour? Then feel free to contact us.Kippahs on sale in Safed, Israel.Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin

Two or three decades ago, when you came to Israel the chances are that you’d be ordering ‘typical Israeli fare’ if you went out to eat. This could be traditional Eastern European food, such as gefilte fish, chicken soup, borscht and cholent (beef stew). Or it might be something more Moroccan - spicy peas, baked cod and orange cake. And then there was ‘Israeli street food’ - falafel, sabich, shawarma, jachnun and malawach. It was all good - but it wasn’t too adventurous.Restaurants in Tel Aviv by night. Photo byYaroslav LutskyonUnsplashThings sure have changed. Israel now has a thriving food scene and, without a doubt, Tel Aviv is at its epicenter. This lively Mediterranean city, with its non-stop nightlife, has, in recent years, become a foodie paradise, with fantastic restaurants springing up in every neighborhood. Indeed, there have been so many that it’s hard to know how to pick ten for this piece.But pick ten we will. Now we’re not saying that they’re necessarily “the best restaurants in Tel Aviv” - after all, that would be way too bold a statement to make. But in their own way, they all stand out - for their cuisine, their service, their style and their flair. Some are ‘fine dining’ establishments and others are more casual, with a very easygoing atmosphere. Here, we give you a taste of the city - from meat and fish to vegan and gluten-free, from tasting menus to tapas and from fine wines to unusual cocktails. Pick one and try it for yourself. And then pick another. In fact, extend your vacation in Israel - because once you’ve started eating in Tel Aviv, you might never want to stop.Tel Aviv perfectly combines the past and the future. Photo byShai PalonUnsplash1. Shila - Sharon Cohen Kitchen & Bar, Tel AvivStarting in the city’s north, we have Shila and for many locals and visitors to Israel alike, there’s no doubt about it - it’s the best seafood restaurant in Tel Aviv. Described by many as gastronomic heaven, it’s a great place not just to eat but also to have fun. Admittedly, the food is not cheap here but the dishes are very creative and it’s fair to say some of them are really gourmet quality. Dishes that are consistently rated highly include the blue swimmer crab, octopus carpaccio, and scallops with bacon. (Note - this is a seafood-heavy menu and very much not-kosher). For dessert, do try the pistachio turron - mousse, financier, and raspberry sorbet; it’s delectable! They also have a superb wine list. With its lively atmosphere and efficient service, Shila is definitely a fine dining establishment. But it’s also one of the city’s trendiest places - both for couples on romantic dates and groups, who love the closed outdoor seating. And because it’s open late, it’s great for Night Owls. Shila, Ben Yehuda Street 182. Tel: 02 522-1224Shila - Sharon Cohen Kitchen & Bar, Tel Aviv. Photo from Shila by Chef Sharon Cohen Facebook page2. Nina Hachi, Tel AvivThis kosher sushi and Asian-inspired restaurant has both a modern and relaxed atmosphere and is a firm favorite with locals and visitors to Israel who observe the Jewish dietary laws. With its warm wooden decor and arty presentation, you can be sure of generous portions and top-quality fresh sushi.Vegetarians will love the gyoza, spicy fried tofu, sweet potato maki, and the wonderful coconut curry. f you like raw fish, the tataki (beef/tuna) or salmon caterpillar sushi rolls are a great choice. If you’re a meat-lover, try the Teppan Yaki chicken and if you have a sweet tooth, there’s tapioca in coconut, or be adventurous and order some mochi! And one last thing - they actually have special fish dishes for pregnant women! A great kosher eatery.Nina Hachi, Ben Yehuda Street 228. Tel: 02 624-9228Nina Hachi sushi restaurant, Tel Aviv. Photo fromNini Hachi Facebook page3. Alena Restaurant at the Norman Hotel, Tel AvivThe Norman Hotel is one of Tel Aviv’s most luxurious establishments so it’s no surprise that their in-house dining options are rather classy too. In the words of Alena themselves, guests can partake of an ‘exciting menu that enhances European-inspired favorites with a Mediterranean and Galician flourish’. Intrigued? You should be. Their menu includes tortellini with hyssop butter, drumfish with toasted fennel, a charred octopus skewer, and calamari with crystal shrimp. They also pair their desserts with wines (a nice touch!) - we recommend the olive oil chocolate tart, accompanied by a Port. And if you’re not exhausted at the meal’s conclusion, head to the Norman’s Library Bar, which is incredibly elegant and full of charm - their gin martinis are to die for too! Then walk it off with a stroll on Rothschild Boulevard, which is two minutes away…The Norman, Nachmani 25. Tel: 03 543-5555.Alena Restaurant at the Norman Hotel, Tel Aviv. Photo fromThe Norman Tel Aviv Facebook page4. OCD, Tel Aviv“Does Tel Aviv have a restaurant with a Michelin star?” visitors often ask. Well, not yet, but if there’s any establishment worthy of one then we think it’s OCD. Under the watchful eye of chef Raz Rahav, a select few diners around a bar (19 per sitting) get to partake of a 19-course degustation menu, using local food from artisan producers. OCD is open exclusively for dinner, with two seatings per evening - and you may well have to book many months ahead, to be assured of a reservation. A fusion of eastern Mediterranean and haute cuisine, diners have no idea what will be on the tasting menu when they arrive but can choose from different categories of food beforehand (vegetarian, fish and seafood, meat, vegan, etc). As you sit around the bar, the open kitchen is in the background, so you can watch the sous chefs preparing each plate, quite meticulously. Indeed, it can be quite mesmerizing, watching them put so much effort into every small detail.From black caviar and trout sashimi to cauliflower pancakes and beet chutney, people continually rave about the unique textures and tastes of the gourmet food. Very pricey - but this kind of meal really does come at a price! Our tip: Order a Moscow Mule cocktail to really make the evening special.OCD, Tirtsa 17, Tel Aviv. Tel: 03 556-6774.A sandwich byOCD, Tel Aviv. Photo from OCD TLV Facebook page5. Taizu, Tel AvivOpened in 2013, by the acclaimed chef Yuval Ben Neriah, this is probably one of Tel Aviv’s best Asian restaurants. Inspired by Ben Neriah’s travels through Southeast Asia, dishes served are a twist on authentic street food from Cambodia, Vietnam, India, China, and Thailand.Taizu’s food is inspired by the five Chinese elements - fire, water, wood, metal and earth and his shareable plates reflect this theme well. Chilli crab, tiger shrimp dumplings, steamed buns and Szechuan wontons are all favorites with diners and every Sunday evening they serve a specially-themed Indian dinner, with extraordinary creations such as octopus tandoori. The desserts don’t disappoint either - we recommend the ‘mango sphere’ - mango mousse, carrot curry cream, saffron and white chocolate. Excellent service, original recipes and a wonderful atmosphere - Taizu is simply splendid, which probably accounts for the several awards it has won in the last 5 years. Prepare to open your wallet! Taizu, Derech Menachem Begin 23. Tel: 03 522 5005.Sesame-covered fish tartare by Taizu, Tel Aviv. Photo fromTaizu Restaurant Facebook page6. MESSA, Tel AvivMessa, which means ‘table’ in Spanish, is a chef restaurant established in 2004 and its menu is based on ingredients and recipes from around the globe. Combining French, Mediterranean, Italian and Asian influences, the dishes are colourful and creative. They also take decor very seriously - everything is designed to make you feel comfortable, from the restaurant area (painted entirely white) to the bar area (decked out entirely in black). Lamb pate with brandy sauce, foie gras, beef tartare, caramelized salmon with Asian dumplings (stuffed with mushrooms, peanuts, and ginger), gnocchi with pumpkin, and cheek meat ravioli in a garlic cream are some of the delectable creations they serve up. Semifreddo brulée, double cheesecake with fondue and vegan tahini parfait with raisins and pistachios are all perfect for those with a sweet tooth. This is not an everyday dining experience, and it really is expensive, but it’s worth it if you want to splurge. Messa is located in the Sarona neighborhood, so if you’ve energy after dinner, you can stroll around the area and admire the restored houses that were once part of the German Templar Village, built in 1871.MESSA, HaArba’a 19. Tel: 03 685-6859A dish from Messa's menu, Tel Aviv. Photo from Messa Restaurant Facebook page7. West Side TLVManaged by chef Omri Cohen, this upscale establishment is arguably one of the best kosher restaurants in Tel Aviv. Located inside the high-end Royal Beach Hotel, it’s made a name for itself, serving fine Mediterranean fish and meat dishes, as well as plenty of salads and vegetarian options. Red tuna tartar, Nebraska sirloin with Jerusalem artichoke, oxtail gnocchi, mushroom risotto, and tomato salad with citrus dressing are some of the menu’s offerings, and plates are beautifully balanced, with flavors that are both intense but fresh. They also have a version of the British dessert ‘Eton Mess’ - with strawberries, meringue, and cream - but, since the restaurant is kosher meat, the ‘cream’ is actually non-dairy, although very tasty! (They also have dark chocolate creations, which are excellent). Diners rave about the excellent service at the West Side, and how polite, attentive, and professional the servers are. Overlooking the sea, it’s designed in ‘NYC style’ - spacious, comfortable and contemporary. If you’re observing Jewish dietary laws, this is a great choice for dinner.West Side, Hayarkon 19. Tel: 03 740-5054.A dish with Za'atar and mint,West Side TLV Kosher Restaurant. Photo fromWest Side TLV Facebook page8. Meshek Barzilai, Tel AvivNestled in the heart of the charming Neve Tzedek neighborhood, Meshek Barzilay is by far and away one of Tel Aviv’s best vegan restaurants, and a real trailblazer when it comes to sourcing local produce. Placing their emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce, they’ve definitely proved in the last few years that food can be tasty and creative without using meat, fish or dairy produce.Their tempting appetizers include tempura vegetables, avocado Panjabi and Indonesian salad. Mains don’t disappoint either - the artichoke and cashew cheese pizza is excellent, as are the Masala Dosa and sweet and sour tofu. And if you thought vegan desserts were boring, think again. Their ‘drunken pear’, lemon tart, ‘Chocoluz’ and ‘Wild Thing’ are all worth trying, and visitors rave about their ‘chocolate leaves.’Service is friendly and professional and there’s both an indoor area and a terrace. Meshek Barzilay also offers a separate kid’s menu and a set-price dinner each Sunday night. Trust us, if you eat here, you will leave, asking yourself “How can vegan and gluten-free food be this good?”Meshek Barzilay, Ahad Ha’am 6. Tel: 03 516-6329.Various soups byMeshek Barzilay, Tel Aviv. Photo from Meshek Barzilay Facebook page9. Vicky Cristina, Tel AvivIf you’re a fan of tapas, then head in the direction of Vicky Cristina, which offers original and authentic Spanish dishes with all kinds of colors and flavors. Located in HaTachana (the old railway station in Tel-Aviv/Jaffa), it’s a great place for a fun night out, with its bar area with high stools, courtyard, and garden with mosaic-covered sculptures.Some say the atmosphere is more reminiscent of Barcelona and Madrid than the Levant and as you dig into the plates, with a pitcher of sangria next to you, you could well feel that way. There are all the dishes you’d expect - patatas bravas, fried calamari, Spanish omelet, garlic shrimp…and the menu changes throughout the year, according to what seasonal produce is available.Our tip: sit outside on the patio, next to one of the city’s oldest ficus trees, and let yourself be swept away by the live music and (if you’re lucky) flamenco dancing performances. Not cheap but a fun night out.Vicky Cristina, Hatachana (The Station), Tel Aviv. Tel: 03 736-7272Sashimi byVicky Cristina, Tel Aviv. Photo fromVicky Cristina Facebook page10. Rustico, Tel AvivWe think it’s fair to say that whilst Rustico is not super expensive, or gourmet, it’s still one of the best Italian restaurants in Tel Aviv. In their own words, they serve classic fare - salads with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, pizzas and pasta, lasagnas, risottos and seafood, all with typical Italian warmth and informality.The dishes are flavourful, well-presented, and generous in their portions and there’s a huge terrace outside, which is perfect for warm days. Inside, the atmosphere is cozy but the wait staff are still alert, attentive and professional.Dishes that never disappoint are the gnocchi with mascarpone and chestnuts, chicken liver with black pepper, sherry butter shrimp linguine, mushroom risotto and sea bream fillet. The pizzas are fantastic and vegan cheese is available for three of the options. Their classic - ‘the Rustico’ - with tomatoes, mozzarella, arugula and parmesan is, frankly, out of this world.Rustico has a good wine list, the bartenders can whip up excellent cocktails and there are a few nice little touches - like serving patrons a shot of limoncello, whilst they’re deciding on dessert or ordering espresso. And if you have a sweet tooth, you could do worse than try their tiramisu or créme brûlée... Whether you’re seated at a table, around the bar or outside on the terrace, this is the closest thing you’ll get to sitting in Piazza Navona in Rome, with a 6 pm aperitif. Rustico, Rothschild Boulevard 15. Tel: 03 510-0039Dinner at Rustico, Tel Aviv. Photo credit: ©Asaf Karela, from Rustico Facebook pageWe hope your taste buds have been tickled with this list of wonderful restaurants, and that you’re tempted to book a table. Finally, if you’d like to take one of our tours of Tel Aviv (including the Jaffa Port and flea market, or a Food Tour of the Carmel Market) don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.

One thing that’s always good to know, when you’re planning a perfect vacationin Israel, is where to buy groceries, toiletries and any other items you suddenly find you’re without. Whether you’re staying in a hotel and just want to pick up a couple of things whilst you’re on a day out, or you’ve chosen private accommodation and decide upon eating meals at home, getting the lowdown on the amenities in your area is essential. And that goes, especially for Israel.Fresh fruits and vegetables at the supermarket.Photo byDilek AltayonUnsplashIn this article we’re going to be looking at supermarkets in Israel - from the cost, the produce they stock, whether or not the food being sold is kosher, the hours they’re open, how you can pay, and extra services they might provide (such as home delivery). Luckily for tourists, over the years Israel has become very international so Israeli supermarkets have never been more interesting, in terms of the products they stock.First things first…cost!Israel supermarket pricesThe first thing we need to state - unfortunately - is that Israeli supermarket prices are not cheap. Tourists from around the world often gasp, the first time the checkout cashier hands them a receipt. Some say this is because Israel has an ‘island economy’ and others argue that it’s because of lack of competition and cartels at work but, whatever the answer, be prepared to put your hand in your wallet, particularly if you’re in the heart of Tel Aviv. Arguments are raging in Israel about the high cost of living, as this goes to print, and the government keeps promising to intervene, but the public isn’t convinced. As things stand, anything imported will cost you dearly (think European cheese and American pancake mixes) and even dairy products (Israel has a big dairy industry) can be eye-watering. But if you’re savvy and willing to look around, you can keep the cost down somewhat, which we’ll explain more about below.A line of shopping carts. Photo byDonald GiannattionUnsplashDo Israeli supermarkets accept American dollars?As a rule, none of the Israeli supermarkets accept US dollars (or euros/pounds) but the good news is that credit cards are welcome everywhere, and even Apple Pay in places like the Victory supermarket. And of course, paying by cash is no problem either - you’ll find ATMs from various banks in towns and cities across Israel (all with English options on their screens).“Is it Kosher?”If an Israeli supermarket is kosher is a big deal for many observant Jews and this means more than one thing in Israel. Firstly, for a supermarket to be kosher it needs to have certification from a rabbinical authority. Secondly, it cannot be open from Friday afternoon to Saturday evening (as this would violate the Jewish Shabbat). And thirdly, it can only sell products that have been produced in a certain manner (i.e. wine that has been overseen in its making, meat that has been slaughtered according to Jewish ritual law).To explain it in the most simple form, religious Jewish dietary laws prohibit the eating of certain foods (most famously pork and shellfish). Moreover, they will never sell ready-made produce where milk and meat have been mixed (e.g. chicken parmesan, cheeseburgers). So if you’re a fan of shrimp, parma ham, or pork sausages, you’re going to have to head to one of the non-kosher stores (many of which are found in Russian neighborhoods or big cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa).Greens and vegetables in the supermarket. Photo byMatheus CenalionUnsplash“How Much?!” - From the Cheap to the ExpensiveWhen you come to Israel, you’ll need plenty of patience, sunscreen, and money. We are not joking. Tel Aviv was recently voted the World’s Most Expensive City (surpassing Zurich, Paris, and Singapore) and even if you eschew hotels for self-catering, you’ve still got to eat. Luckily, competition has grown in the last few years, so if you’re happy to compare prices and maybe shop at a store a little further away from you, it will help your wallet.Cheap Supermarkets in IsraelRami Levi - this chain of stores claims to reduce the price of your basket by up to 20%, compared to many of its rivals, and many regard it as one of the cheapest supermarket choices in Israel. Rami Levi offers attractive prices, regular promotions and has even introduced a ‘Digital Wallet’ which offers a fast and convenient way to be given further discounts and benefits. Victory - operating 20 discount stores in Israel, here you can buy food, toiletries, and sometimes clothing and leisure products. They also operate a number of neighborhood grocery stores.Yeinot Bitan - this family-owned Israeli supermarket chain has around 250 stores in Israel. It sells affordable food and household goods.Osher Ad - this Israeli supermarket has great prices and is great if you’re buying in bulk or have a large family to cook for. For this reason, it’s popular with religious families, who tend to have more children.A man in a supermarket.Photo byAtomsonUnsplashExpensive Supermarkets in IsraelShufersal - Shufersal (or ‘Supersol’ as most people refer to it) is the largest chain of supermarkets in Israel and sells everything you can imagine and more. Both in-store and online, you can pick up staples, specialty food products, electronics, cosmetics, and even furniture for the home. Look out for their smaller outlets, called ‘Supersol Sheli’. It is closed on Shabbat.Tiv Tam (aka “In the City’) - this upmarket chain caused a stir when it became the first supermarket to sell pork in Israel, as well as staying open on the Jewish Shabbat and major Jewish holidays. You’ll find branches of them all over major cities and they often stock specialty items (Madeleines from France, American salad dressing, Italian balsamic vinegar).AM/PM - this supermarket chain is very popular in Israel and, today, has over 40 branches across the country, a few of which are open 24/7 (including Shabbat). If you spend over 300 NIS, delivery is usually free and their website has some English options. Mega - also operating in the big cities, Mega sells good quality products and has occasional bargains, but it can be costly. Not open on Shabbat.Waves of peppers in the supermarket. Photo byJess TorreonUnsplashClosed or Open on Shabbat?In much of the country, but particularly in Jerusalem (where many of the locals observe the Shabbat strictly) supermarkets will be closed. If you want to buy groceries, a good option is to head to the Old City, where the Muslim Quarter is bustling on Saturdays (stores in the Christian Quarter will also be open). Not only can you pick up all kinds of fruits and vegetables, but you can also stop at one of the hummus joints, for a healthy local lunch. In Tel Aviv and Haifa (which are, respectively, more secular/mixed) you’ll find open supermarkets, particularly Tiv Tam and AM: PM. (These are also places where you can buy non-kosher food).Freshly cut organic fruit in a supermarket. Photo byOren ElbazonUnsplashVegan and Gluten-free Israeli SupermarketsThe trend towards healthy eating has never been greater than now - Tel Aviv has more vegan restaurants per capita than almost anywhere else in the world and the demand for health food stores has never been higher. So if you’re looking for a vegan or gluten-free supermarket in Israel, we’d recommend:Teva Kastel - this store began life as a place to buy vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements but over time it’s expanded, and today you can pick up over 10,000 products there - all-natural and organic. These include dried fruits, crackers, eggs from local farmers, honey, fruits and vegetables, and healthy cereals.Nitzat haDuvdevan - this is a natural food store chain that has outlets across Israel. In it, you’ll find organic fruits and vegetables, non-dairy products (almond milk, vegan cheese, etc), meat substitutes, natural cosmetics, essential oils, and green cleaning agents. It’s not cheap, but the products are high-quality.A mountain of groceries.Photo byNico SmitonUnsplashBest Supermarkets in Tel AvivWhat’s the best supermarket in Tel Aviv? Well, that very much depends on your specific preferences. If you want something that’s open on Shabbat, we’d have to recommend Tiv Tam, although (as we remarked above) it’s neither cheap nor kosher.If you’re looking for good value, we’d have to recommend Victory or Rami Levi, who have increasing numbers of branches in the non-stop city. However, remember you can’t shop there from Friday at 2 pm until Sunday morning.Best Supermarkets in JerusalemJerusalem isn’t as wealthy as Tel Aviv, so you’re more likely to find cut-price stores and supermarkets here. Along with the above-mentioned, look out for: ‘Cheaper Kol’ on Kanfei Nesharim 31, ‘Super Cheap’ on Nissim Bachar 37, ‘Super Deal’ on Hebron Road 28.24/7 supermarkets in IsraelIn cities like Tel Aviv (which are very secular) you are going to be able to find the most 24/7 supermarkets - particularly AM:PM, Tiv Tam (In the City), and Super Yuda. In Eilat, there are a few small places that are open through the night, including the 24/7 kiosk called Hakol Dvash at Yotam Street 45. They will always be more expensive than their rivals - you are paying for the privilege of buying ice cream at 3 am!However, in many parts of the country, the most you’ll be able to find is a convenience store at a garage, or - if you’re in Druze, Arab and Christian areas - local shops at which you can buy all kinds of food and toiletries. Bear this in mind if there’s something specific you want and pick it up before Friday afternoon!A man in the supermarket at night. Photo byJordan MadridonUnsplashSupermarkets vs Makolets in IsraelThe ‘makolet’ is an institution in Israel - it’s a small grocery store/convenience store (as opposed to a full-scale supermarket). It’s often family-owned, and it’s somewhere you can rely on for necessities and newspapers, late at night and often on holidays. Of course, you’re going to be paying more - these small businesses can’t compete with the big chains. However, they’re open at all hours, stock odd things you might not easily find otherwise and, best of all, you get to make friends with the makolet man (who, because of what he does, knows more about the goings-on in your neighborhood than anyone).Spices at the Israeli market.Photo by Jeremy Bezanger on UnsplashSupermarkets vs Open-Air Markets in IsraelIsrael has fantastic open-air markets, the most famous of which are the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv and Mahane Yehuda in Jerusalem. For sure, you’ll get great bargains here, and it’s certainly an experience, wandering from stall to stall, listening to vendors yell in Hebrew and Arabic, with music blaring in the background. Fruit and vegetables in Israel are usually cheaper and a bit fresher here than in supermarkets, since they’re arriving daily and, of course, you get a more ‘personalized’ service. Of course, it’s easier and perhaps more convenient to go to a supermarket than wander in an open-air market - there’s more likely to be parking and a home delivery service. Personally, we’d advise everyone visiting Israel to make a tour of Carmel market or a trip to Shuk Mahane Yehuda - they’re so much fun, very atmospheric and they’ve also got plenty of bars and cafes where you can grab lunch or a craft Israeli beer.An aisle between rows of shelves in a supermarket.Photo byNathália RosaonUnsplashOnline Supermarkets in IsraelIn recent years (and never more so since the pandemic) it’s become a real trend to order your shopping online. Supermarket deliveries in Israel, and particularly in Tel Aviv, are easy and convenient to arrange - and there’s usually an option for ordering in English.Those we’d recommend include Shufersal, Mega, Rami Levi, and Victory, all of which have many outlets around major urban areas. Delivery charges usually range from 15-30 NIS and you can even have your groceries within 4 hours of ordering if you plan things right. It’s not obligatory to tip your delivery guy but it’s definitely a decent gesture, especially if they’ve climbed up lots of stairs! In general, 5-10 NIS is a fair amount.An assortment of spices for sale in an Israeli shop. Photo byAndrew PerabeauonUnsplashWhat to buy in Israeli supermarketsIf you’re looking for fresh, local food, then you’ll be delighted. The country’s diet is very Mediterranean, but there are a few things that Israelis love to eat, including: white cheese- Israelis far prefer white to yellow cheese - either cottage or a plain white spread. It’s what every kid eats for supper; olive oil- local brands, especially from theGolan Heights, are bursting with flavor.You can also buy Bamba- this peanut-flavored snack is beloved by every child in Israel - and many adults are addicted too; halva- made with sesame seed and flavored with pistachio, almond, and vanilla, it’s a low-sugar option for anyone with a sweet tooth; olives- black, green, purple - they’re a staple here, and oh so good; tahini- this toasted ground sesame paste is good served alone or as a dip (mixed with garlic and lemon). Yum.The tahini sauce.Photo bycleo stracuzzaonUnsplashSouvenirs/Gifts you can buy from Israeli SupermarketsIf you want to take someIsraeli souvenirs home, you’re spoilt for choice, and as well as jewelry, clothing, sculpture, and art, there’s food! Presents you can buy in Israeli supermarkets include Medjool dates (traditionally grown in the Arava desert), as well as boutique wines (from the Galilee, the Golan, and Jerusalem), Arak (a traditional anise-flavored spirit), Silan (a date syrup), and locally-sourced honey. Finally, for chocolate lovers, pick up a few bars of Elite’s ‘milk chocolate and nuts’ flavor - the packaging is very distinctive, with a cow on the front! If you are interested in day tours or private excursions in Israel with the local professional guides, feel free to contact us.Olives at the Israeli market. Photo by Jeremy Bezanger on Unsplash

“Whoever said money can’t buy happiness didn’t know where to go shopping”, Gertrude Stein wrote. One thing many of us like to do when taking a vacation is treating ourselves to something we’ve thought about purchasing for a while - something unusual, something we can’t buy easily at home, something original. And usually that ‘gift’ to ourselves is an item of clothing - something that will last, something unique, and something we can show off once we get home.A couple on the beach promenade in Tel Aviv, Israel.Photo byToa HeftibaonUnsplashNow whilst it’s true that when you say ‘fashion’ you immediately think of cities like Paris, Milan, New York and London, there are many other countries that are coming up in the ranks in the fashion stakes and one of them is Israel. If you’re coming on vacation here, chances are you’ll be in one of the two biggest cities - Jerusalem or Tel Aviv - and the good news is that in both places there are endless shopping opportunities.Israeli Fashion Designers Who’ve Taken the World by StormSome of the popular Israeli clothing brands that are easy to find you’ll find in the big chains - Golf, Castro, Mango, Fox and Next. They sell all kinds of apparel that’s perfect for casual days at the beach and evenings in more fancy restaurants. They’re all quite reasonably priced and a good way to get bang for your buck. But if you’re looking for one-of-a-kind pieces, then where do you search?Today we’re going to look at some of the Israeli fashion designers who’ve taken the world by storm in recent years, and the kind of creations they’ve come up with. These popular Israeli clothing brands aren’t limited to one country either - some of these talented and ultra-driven designers are now New York-based, with flagship boutique stores in the US and around the world. In the infamous words of Anna Wintour, ‘You either know fashion or you don’t.” So let’s get to know it…Fashion neon sign. Photo byJason LeungonUnsplashDorin Frankfurt.Designed and Produced LocallyDorin Frankfurt is surely one of Israel’s leading fashion designers who has been making women’s apparel since 1983. Operating in the heart of Tel Aviv (both her factory and stores are based there), she produces limited edition designer clothes at affordable prices and for many Israeli women is the ‘High Priestess’ of style.Working with Margit Segal (who is still her partner today), Frankfurt insists that the operation remains in Israel and has resisted attempts to have work outsourced to the Far East. She employs many skilled local women and looks upon her business as a responsibility to others as well as a money-making venture.Dorin Frankfurt designs pieces that are incredibly elegant but also sustainable - she believes that clothes should be made to last in your wardrobe and keep you happy for years - she is no fan of the cheap, ‘throw-away’ culture. Moving away from European-style, her garments have what she calls an ‘Israeli style’ and her first jeans and vintage collections were actually named ‘austerity” (since, in the 1980s, Israel was experiencing a terrible recession).In 1995, she launched a menswear line and over the years she has designed outfits for the theatre and ballet. Recently, she has been joined in the business by her daughter Kianne, who graduated from the Shenkar School of Engineering and Design and is now in charge of the accessories division - bags, shoes, jewellery, etc.Dorin Frankfurt’s flagship store in Tel Aviv is an institution and her clothes are collected into the wardrobes of dedicated followers not just in Israel but also in England, Norway, New Zealand, the USA and South Africa. Mother and daughter still believe in her original aim - to create quality Israeli fashion items produced locally, rather than outsource to cheap-labour markets abroad.Dorin Frankfurt, 164 Dizengoff Street, Tel Aviv. Tel: 054-5925553.Dorin Frankfurt. Photo from Dorin Frankfurt Facebook pageMaskit.Hints of McQueen and ElbazLaunched back in 1954, Maskit has a fascinating history. Dreamed up by Ruth Dayan (daughter of the legendary Israeli General, Moshe Dayan) her aim was to create luxury but contemporary clothing. Her secret? To embroider the garments with traditional techniques that hailed from countries such as Syria, Tunisia, Hungary, Yemen and Bulgaria.Her enterprise created many jobs for local women at a time when Israel was in its infancy and the economy was struggling, but the brand was so successful it was soon being worn by stars of the era, including Audrey Hepburn, who made Maskit’s ‘Desert Coat’ famous.Eventually, the designs were being sold at New York’s top department stores (Saks, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf) and collaborations with Yves Saint Laurent, Givenchy and Christian Dior followed, alongside the opening of a flagship store in Manhattan. The company closed in 1994 but was relaunched in 2014 when Sharon Tal came on board. Tal’s experience at Alexander McQueen (she was head of the embroidery) and her internship with legendary designer Alber Elbaz has made her an invaluable part of the modern company. Maskit’s style is definitely still ‘desert chic’ - the colours are exotic and the fabrics natural - and their boast that their brand has as much history as Israel is surely true.Maskit, 48 Hei Beiyar Street (Kikar Hamedina), Tel Aviv. Tel: 03-688 4004Maskit outfit. Photo fromMaskit Design Facebook pageMews. Not Just a LabelIf black is the new black, then you can’t go wrong by making a trip to Mews. Founded in 2014, by Gal Shenfeld, this line’s unique selling point is in the colour - practically every garment is black. And, let’s face it, how can you go wrong with black - you can match it with anything, it never goes out of style and it’s the best shade to wear if you’re looking for a slimming effect.Based in Tel Aviv, this luxury women’s wear company is made up of classic garments, the fabrics all of the highest quality. They focus on movement and texture and their logo - ‘Not Just a Label’ - couldn’t be more apt. Shenfeld’s vision is to make clothes in a minimalist design, using cutting-edge materials and techniques.Located in the beautiful Neve Tzedek neighbourhood, close to the famous Shabazi Street (a must-visit for anyone who likes boutique clothing stores), their cotton sleeveless jumpsuits, crepe knot bow one shoulder midi skirt dresses and exquisite, meticulously designed eveningwear are what you’ll get when you buy from Mews. And, just like Maskit and Doron Frankfurt, everything you purchase will have been designed and made in Tel Aviv.Mews, 12 Tachkemoni St, Tel Aviv. Tel: 052 677 3733.Mews showroom, Tel Aviv. Photo fromMews InstagramDoron Ashkenazi.Classic Tailoring with Attention to DetailWhen it comes to Israeli men’s clothing brands, you can’t leave out Doron Ashkenazi, one of Israel's most celebrated designers when it comes to male fashion. Raised in Israel, he began his career at the Accademia di Bella Arti di Firenze, where he studied design and pattern making. On returning to Tel Aviv, he decided to start his own line, and in 1989 the company was launched, at their store on the trendy Shenkin Street. His emphasis has always been on classic tailoring techniques that pay tremendous attention to detail. In that respect, his designs are quite timeless, even though he does often use bold colours. His suits are loved by men across Israel and the wedding clothes he designs for grooms are gorgeous. At his store, you’ll see Italian design fused with Mediterranean-style streetwear, which creates a unique look. Whether you want casual or glamorous, his linen creations always turn heads. Even better, in recent years, Doron Ashkenazi has turned to recycling garments, in an attempt to rescue surplus material and be more socially responsible. His creations included a denim-style jacket made out of grey reflected fabric, flecked with all kinds of colours. If you had to sum up his style, it’s all about capturing the aesthetic of urban Tel Aviv. As he always said ‘It’s about creating a unique product.’Doron Ashkenazi, 187 Dizengoff Street, Tel Aviv. Tel: 02 527-2679Doron Ashkenazi - Menswear. Photo fromDoron Ashkenazi Facebook pageShahar Avnet. A Mix of Fashion and ArtShahar Avnet studied at the prestigious Shenkar College of Engineering and Design and after graduating, in 2016, was thrust into the spotlight, when a project of hers was represented at Graduate Fashion Week in London. Her creations are a heady mix of fashion and art, and she uses a range of techniques, including collage, drawing and embroidery in the dresses she designs. Avnet is a particular fan of tulle (soft silk cotton) and this was showcased by Beyonce, who wore one of her pieces on her world tour with Jay Z - nude-toned and long-trained… for sure her clothes are bold, fearless and designed for the independent woman. You also have seen her work if you’re a fan of Eurovision - the hit “Toy” was performed by Netta Barzilai, who won a multi-coloured kimono designed by her. Shahar Avnet is based in Tel Aviv and her couture is full of feminine silhouettes, intricate embellishments and all kinds of unusual details. And as she once commented, in Vogue” “The Beatles taught me that ‘all you need is love…my garments carry the label ‘love yourself’.Shahar Avnet, Kibbutz Galuyot Road 45, Tel Aviv. Tel: 052-881-1084Shahar Avnet dresses at Design Museum Holon, Israel. Photo from Shahar Avnet Studio pageGalia Lahav.Designing for the StarsWhen it comes to Israeli clothing brands popular in the US, you’ve got to mention Galia Lahav, who has made a real name for herself designing couture, in particular bridal wear. She established her own fashion company in Tel Aviv in 1984 but it was only after 20 years that she branched out internationally. Today, women like Jennifer Lopez, Bar Rafaeli and Priyanka Chopra wear her luxury creations, but it’s Beyonce who catapulted her into the limelight when she chose Lahav to design a dress for the renewing of vows and wedding. Lahav’s bridal wear is romantic, sensual, figure-flattering and puts its emphasis on comfort. Her dresses also have delicate embroidery, plunging backlines and dramatic trains. If you look at Beyonce’s dress, it was an off-the-shoulder creation, featuring chantilly lace, Swarovski crystals and pearls decorating the bodice. The price tag was estimated to be around $12,000 but - hey - the bride clearly thought it was worth it. Lahav also hit the headlines when she designed dresses for Venus Williams (in her role as Maid of Honour), six other bridesmaids and the bride’s mother, at the star-studded wedding of her sister Serena. The dresses, all of which were shades of nude, had different designs, ranging from plunging necklines to a more demure look. The result? Spectacular. Lahav also designs collections in evening wear, shoes and dresses and is a regular participant at New York Bridal Fashion Week.Galia Lahav, Herzl Street 9, Tel Aviv. Tel: 03 527-3075Wedding dress byGalia Lahav House of Couture. Photo fromGalia Lahav DesignsNili Lotan.Designs for the Modern, Urban WomanNili Lotan was born in Israel and is now based in New York. Like Avnet, she graduated from Shenkar College of Engineering and Design but quickly moved to Manhattan, since she saw it as the epicentre of the fashion world. She worked with top fashion houses including Liz Claiborne and Ralph Lauren.In 2003, she launched her own label, aiming to produce luxurious yet timeless pieces for women and 3 years later, she opened a shop above her atelier, in Tribeca. Putting in just $20,000, after two months she had made $250,000! Lotan was and still is a rule-breaker - she doesn’t believe in designing for the season. In fact, at first, she began her business by selling six basic pieces - two jackets, one top and three pairs of trousers, all made with Italian fabric. As she went from strength to strength, she expanded her range and now designs jeans, handbags and belts. This year, she expects to generate $100 million in revenue. Nili Lotan designs are definitely for the modern urban woman - they are sophisticated yet simple. She believes in clothes being comfortable, as well as chic and she loves natural colours - black, light blue and peach. Today you will see actresses and models like Julianna Moore, Jennifer Anniston, Cindy Crawford, Gigi Hadid and Rihanna wearing her dresses. As Lotan remarks, a wardrobe comprised of elegant pieces will serve you for years to come. Nili Lotan, 188 Duane St, New York, NY 10013. Tel:+1 212-219-8794A leather jacket byNili Lotan. Photo fromNili Lotan Facebook pageATA.Modest, Simple and FunctionalLast, but not least, we come to ATA. This is not an individual but an Israeli clothing brand, but we have to include it here because of its long and interesting history. The first company in the country to manufacture and design textiles, it was created in 1934 and ran until the mid-80s, when it closed down. However, in 2016 it was re-established as a brand and is currently based in Tel Aviv.ATA was founded by Erich Moller, whose family had come from Czechoslovakia, because of ideological conviction. He bought land on which to construct a factory and ATA came to stand for ‘Ariga Totzeret Artzenu’ (‘Textiles from Our Land’). Unsurprisingly, many of the workers came from kibbutzim and for many years employees and management earned similar salaries.ATA made its mark after World War II, by producing practical clothes that Israelis could buy with ration coupons. These included uniforms, shirts, trousers and the tembel hat (a national symbol of Israel, worn by committed zionists). ATA was known for its quality, and being committed to modesty, simplicity and functionality. After being closed for over 20 years, it was reestablished in 2016 and today works on the principle that clothes are meant to serve people, as well as offering a glimpse into our lives and cultures.ATA, Kikar HaBima 3, Tel Aviv. Tel: 03 962-7270If you are interested in a private tour of Tel Aviv, don’t hesitate to contact us.ATA clothing brand, Israel. Photo from ATA Facebook page

Jerusalem is an extraordinary city, and in this statement, we do not exaggerate - few people who visit here leave without feeling moved. Whatever your age, faith or cultural background, it’s a city that has the power to bewitch - at any time of the day or night. Whether you’re exploring the Old City, visiting Jerusalem museums, wandering thecobblestoned streets and narrow alleyways of its endless neighbourhoods, or simply sitting in a coffee shop, watching the locals walk by, you’ll be endlessly fascinated.Mount Scopus night view of Jerusalem, Israel.Photo bySander CrombachonUnsplashToday, we’re looking at things to do in Jerusalem by night, when sunlight gives way to dusk and, all over the city, landmarks light up. Whether it’s walking along the Via Dolorosa, en route to the Wailing Wall, strolling along Jaffa street, stopping off to grab a bite at Mahane Yehuda Market, or paying a visit to the extraordinary Israel Museum (which is open until 9 pm each Tuesday) we think you’ll remember your experiences for years to come.And one other thing - just like tourists are often concerned about the security situation in Israel, but once they arrive feel incredibly safe, the same is true of the streets of the capital. Whilst the city is ‘shared’ by Jews, Muslims and Christians, your risk of being robbed or hurt is much lower than in other major cities around the globe. Not to mention that the locals are incredibly friendly, and love to help, in the event that you need directions, assistance or simple advice!That means if you’re looking for something to see in Jerusalem at night, after the sun goes down, fear not - all you need to do is put on your walking shoes. Let’s take a look at some of the attractions in Jerusalem that await you, on a night tour of Jerusalem. You’ll have no trouble finding fun things to do in Jerusalem at night. Even better, none of these activities will cost you a dime.Let’s begin…Jerusalem skyline at night. Photo byLavi PerchikonUnsplash1. The Kotel / Western Wall / Wailing Wall, JerusalemThe Kotel (also known as the ‘Wailing / Western Wall’) is the holiest place in the world for all Jews and one to which most aspire to visit, in their lives. Located in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City, it is an exposed section of a much longer retaining wall, which is 57 metres (187 feet) high. But this is not any wall - it is the remaining wall of the Second Temple, built by King Herod (known as the Master Builder of his time).The Western Wall is so holy to Jews because it lies close to Temple Mount (inside the wider compound of Al Aqsa Mosque) but because of visiting restrictions, the closest to it that Jews can pray is the Western Wall. Temple Mount is where Jews believe the third (and final) Temple will be built, when the Messiah comes, and for believers, it is the place where God manifests his divine presence. The Foundation Stone, within the Mount, is also the place Jews believe creation began and where Abraham was ordered to sacrifice his son, Isaac. This is why, when Jews pray, it is always in the direction of the Wall (and Mount). Entering into the large plaza and catching sight of the Western Wall is an extraordinary experience for anyone visiting Israel. Up close, you will see men and women (in different sections) touching the stones, swaying in prayer and placing notes to God within the stones’ crevices. The site is not just free but open 24 hours a day - the only ‘condition’ for entrance is a modest dress - women should not have bare shoulders or legs and men should cover their head with a kippah (if you do not have one, you will be given one at no charge).Truly, there is something magical about visiting this Wall after the sun has gone down. Illuminated, and with Jews there at prayer at all hours, it is a good place to sit quietly and in awe. The best night, arguably, to visit is Friday at dusk when many Jews gather there to dance, sing, and usher in Shabbat (their Sabbath). The prayers they offer have been recited by Jews for centuries, and sitting there gives you the ideal opportunity to learn more about this tradition, as well as enjoy the soulful melodies and even spontaneous dancing!People pray at the Western Wall at night.Photo bySander CrombachonUnsplash2. The Jerusalem Chords BridgeThe Chords Bridge (also known as the Bridge of Strings) is a cantilever cable-stayed bridge that, today, is one of the city’s most eye-catching landmarks. Visible from many parts of the capital, it sits at the entrance to the city (it is the first thing you see when you arrive by road) and is currently the tallest structure in Jerusalem.The Chords Bridge was designed by the Spanish architect and engineer, Santiago Calatrava, and took six years to build. With its 66 steel cables, its design is a fusion of old and new - much like Jerusalem. If you look at it from a distance, it resembles a ship’s sail but (as inspired by the Spaniard) it can also be interpreted as a harp (the harp that King David played in the Bible story) or a tent in the desert.Calatrava deliberately designed the building with pedestrians in mind (fun fact: he doesn’t own a driver’s licence) and the bridge, made of concrete, steel and Jerusalem stone - has a glass-sided pedestrian walkway. This means that you’re able to walk across it from Kiryat Moshe to the Jerusalem bus station area. Oh, and it’s also illuminated, which makes it even more beautiful to visit by night.The Jerusalem Chords Bridge by Santiago Calatrava. Photocredit: © Dan Porges3. Yemin Moshe, JerusalemOverlooking the Old City, Yemin Moshe is surely one of Jerusalem’s charming and picturesque neighbourhoods. It also has a wonderful history - it was one of the first residential neighbourhoods established outside of the Old City Walls, at the end of the 19th century.Yemin Moshe’s existence owes itself to the famous financier and philanthropist Moses Montefiore, who hailed from England. In his lifetime, he made seven trips to what was then Palestine and was so impressed with what he saw that he made vast financial contributions in order that medical clinics and educational institutions could be set up. On his final visit, he set up a fund to be used for the building of six neighbourhoods, to alleviate some of the unsanitary conditions within the Old City at that time. One of these was Yemin Moshe and, erected in 1892, it boasted synagogues, communal cooking facilities and 137 houses, not to mention stunning views over the Hinnom Valley.Today, it is truly an iconic Jewish neighbourhood, in which many artists live. They are bound by only one condition - that they maintain the quarter’s original character. So if you want to visit this beautiful area at night, feel free, but remember that it’s an area that’s quiet and genteel, so try to respect the privacy of its inhabitants. The ‘stand out feature’ of the neighbourhood, save for its cobbled streets and beautifully manicured gardens, is the famous Montefiore Windmill. Originally designed as a flour mill, it was used as an observation point in the War of Independence and has huge cultural significance for the neighbourhood.There’s a small building next door in which is a replica of the carriage Montefiore used to travel in, on his journeys. Yemin Moshe is also close to the King David Hotel and YMCA if you’re in the mood for a drink or dinner afterwards.Yemin Moshe neighbourhood, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin4. Mahane Yehuda Market, JerusalemThe Mahane Yehuda Market ("shuk" in Hebrew) isn’t just the best place in town to come and buy your fruits and vegetables - it’s also one of the hippest places to spend an evening. Located between Jaffa Street and Agrippas streets, it has two main open ‘passages’ and in between lots of narrow alleyways and, when night falls, you’re in for a treat.Historically, when the stall owners went home, the market was deserted but all that’s changed in the last 10-15 years, with the advent of a wide array of bars, cafes and live music. By far and away the best evening to visit is Thursday when it’s jam-packed with locals who don’t have to go to work the next day.There are so many places to grab a bite or drink that you’ll be spoilt for choice, but some of the ones we’d recommend include:Beer Bazaar - big microbrewery fans, this joint stocks over 100 different kinds of beer and plenty on tap besides. Que Pasa - the tapas here have become a big hit - although there’s no meat served, there are plenty of small fish, vegetable and dairy dishes, including mullet, porcini bruschetta, sardines and tortilla. They also host local musicians, giving you a chance to enjoy some live music.Meorav Yerushalmi - for all the carnivores out there, this is the best place in town to get a famous Jerusalem mixed grill. All of their delicious meat is stuffed into a pitta (salad and fries on the side!) The portions are enormous and the queues long and if you get there after 11 pm, they may well be sold out! Azura - this family-run, wallet-friendly spot has been in business for 25 years and we know why - they serve Iraqui, Kurdish and Tunisian dishes at a very decent price. Whether you want hummus, shakshuka, meatballs or chicken stew, you’ll leave sated and happy.A fruit stall at Mahane Yehuda Market, Jerusalem. Photo byRoxanne DesgagnésonUnsplash5. First Station (Tachana Rishona), JerusalemClose to the German Colony neighbourhood, the First Station is yet another place that’s hip and happening, both with locals and tourists. Historically, it was the last stop on a train line that ran from Jaffa to Jerusalem but fell into disrepair after the service was discontinued. In 2013, all that changed, when the site was renovated and transformed.Today, it’s a fantastic cultural and entertainment venue, where all kinds of city events, international festivals and food markets are held. The old rail yard is now covered with wooden decks and incorporates old parts of the architecture (the ticket hall, concourse and old station house). Inside, you’ll find pubs, restaurants, food stalls and vendors with their carts. There are many musical events and performances and, particularly in the summer months, it’s a wonderful spot to spend an evening.Colourful tents atFirst Station (Tachana Rishona), Jerusalem.Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin6. Mishkenot Shaananim, JerusalemAdjacent to Yemin Moshe, and meaning ‘Peaceful Dwelling’ this was Jerusalem’s very first neighbourhood, built outside the walls of the Old City, on a slope above the Sultan’s Pool, which affords you fantastic views of Mount Zion. Today, this historic spot is very popular with artists, and as you walk around you will see many venues showcasing culture and art. (There’s also a lovely guesthouse there if you’re looking for somewhere tranquil to lay your head!)The smaller of the original buildings is now home to the Jerusalem Music Centre and Convention Centre, an international cultural institution. Since Yemin Moshe is so close to it, many regard the two neighbourhoods as being ‘merged’. Just like its counterpart, Mishkenot Shaananim it is home to lovely gardens, charming narrow roads and wonderfully-restored residential buildings. And, of course, look out for the windmill!Mishkenot Shaananim neighbourhood, Jerusalem.Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin7. Kikar Safra, JerusalemThis city square, located in downtown Jerusalem, is home to the city’s municipality complex. Its exact location is the once ‘seam line’ between East and West Jerusalem, which was precisely why it was chosen - to demonstrate that the city should serve all residents. Built in 1993, it couldn’t be more different than the previous structure, which was constructed in 1867, in the Ottoman Empire era.At the primary entrance, from Jaffa Road, you will see a fountain, rows of palm trees and a huge sculpture named ‘Archimedes Screw’. Nearby is the Daniel Garden. The entire plaza is about 4,000 square metres and is surrounded by buildings all used by the city. Kikar Safra is a popular place for Jerusalemites to meet each other, and it’s also known for hosting fairs, festivals and political demonstrations. Fun fact: this square is the spot to which sports fans always flock when their city’s team wins a prominent basketball or football trophy. It’s also the spot where the largest Sukkah (huts roofed with branches) is built, each Fall, at the festival of Sukkot.Safra Square, Jerusalem.Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin

When visitors come to Israel, depending on how much time they have they often want to combine their stay in the Holy Land with a trip to one of its neighbouring countries - Egypt or Jordan. And whilst Egypt has the lure of diving spots, it’s Jordan that most tourists head to, for a chance to see the magnificent lost city of Petra, nestled in the desert.Tourists on a day tour in Petra, Jordan. Photo credit:© istockphotoTravelling in Israel and BeyondIndeed, in the last ten years, there has been an explosion of interest in Petra Tours- it’s an archaeological/historical/geological/engineering wonder, that’s for sure, and with it being reasonably close to Israel, there’s no reason not to take a couple of days to travel there and experience one of the seven new Wonders of the World. No wonder so many people are looking for a Tel Aviv-to-Petra Touror affordable tours to Petra from Jerusalem.Travelling to Jordan OverlandIsrael has three border crossings with Jordan - in the north, the centre and the south of the country. Most tourists opt for the third one, at the edge of the city of Eilat. It is known as the Wadi Araba or the Yitzhak Rabin border crossing. In this article, we're going to take you through the entire process - travelling from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, down to Eilat, located on the Red Sea. Then, from Eilat to the actual border crossing, we’ll go through the hows, wheres and whys - what time the border opens, what time the border closes, how much a visa for Jordan will cost you and how to continue onto Petra, Wadi Rum or Amman, once you reach the other side! OK. Are you ready to find out more?A jeep tour in Wadi Rum Desert, Jordan. Photo credit: © istockphotoHow do I get to the border with Jordan from central Israel?Travelling from Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa and other parts of the country is not too difficult, since Israel is a small country with well-developed infrastructure. Essentially, there are three ways - public transport (in the form of an Egged bus), arental car (easily available) or a short flight from Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv to the Ilan Ramon Airport, which is 15km from Eilat.Egged is the national bus company of Israel (its green buses are a familiar sight, all over Israel) and they run to Eilat regularly from the big cities. Getting from Tel Aviv to Eilat or from Jerusalem to Eilatwill take around 5 hours and a one-way ticket will cost you around 70 NIS. Buses leave every 2 hours and begin running at 6 am.Eilat is approximately 397 km from Tel Aviv, and 352 km from Jerusalem so, if you don’t hit traffic or stop for coffee, you could technically arrive in 4 hours. There are a number of car rental companies you can turn to - Budget, Shlomo Sixt, Hertz and Eldan included - and prices can be quite competitive, especially if you shop around on the internet.Flying from Ben Gurion to Ilan Ramon airport is your fastest option - it’s a quick and painless 55 minutes in the air and you only have to be at Ben Gurion an hour before departure. Both Arkia and Israir offer regular domestic flights which can start from 150 NIS one way (approx. $46).Al-Khazneh, the Treasury temple at night, Petra, Jordan.Photo credit: © istockphotoHow do I get from the Ilan Ramon airport to the Wadi Araba border crossing?You’ll land in Eilat’s new airport, Ilan Ramon, which is a state-of-the-art facility that opened recently. Located just 15 km north of Eilat, it will take you about 20 minutes to travel from the airport to the city centre. You can journey there either by private taxi (which you can find at a stand outside the building), order anairport transfer beforehand (best done by using a reputable Israeli tour operator like ourselves) or use public transportation in Israel. If you’re taking a taxi, you can ask the driver to drive you straight to the border. You should expect to pay anywhere between 130-150 NIS (40-47 USD) for the entire journey (feel free to bargain) and the journey should take around 20 minutes. Ordering a private car will cost more - anywhere from 200-300 NIS (62-95 USD).If you’re taking public transport, you can use numbers 30, 31, 32 and 50, which all stop at the Eilat Central Station. These public buses run every 20 minutes from the airport to the city. Once you’re in Eilat, you can then pick up their hourly bus in the direction of the border crossing. The only ‘problem’ is that it will drop you around 1.5 km from the border. This means if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in high season (when it’s very hot) it might not be a good option.However, the cost of using public buses means that you will be able to travel all the way from the Ilan Ramon airport to the Araba/Rabin crossing for less than 10 NIS/ 3 USD (which is very reasonable, in price terms). If you’ve come in a rental car, the good news is there’s a large parking area close to the border where you can leave your car for free (it is forbidden to take an Israeli car into Jordan).Wadi Araba/Yitzhak Rabin border crossing, Israel.Photo credit: © istockphotoIs the Wadi Araba/Yitzhak Rabin border crossing currently open?As we all know, Covid restrictions are changing constantly. At the height of the pandemic, this border was sometimes closed entirely and at other times working on limited opening hours (09.00 to 13.00). But the good news is that, yes, as this goes to publication, the Wadi Araba/Yitzhak Rabin border is currently open for tourists. At present, these are the guidelines you need to follow, in terms of the Corona situation:1. You will need to show proof of a negative PCR test that you have taken no more than 72 hours before crossing the border. The test needs to be carried out by a recognised institution - home tests are not acceptable. There are many clinics and shopping malls across Israel at which you can take this test.2. You must present then a confirmation of entry form to Jordan - of course, it can be filled in online.3. When you arrive at the Jordanian side of the border, you will be asked to take another PCR test. You will have to pay for the cost of this test.Whilst things seem to be moving in a forward direction, vis a vis the pandemic, to save you major time, energy, cost and frustration, we strongly advise that you check with the Israeli authorities before you set off for the border.Camels in Petra.Photo credit: © istockphotoWhat are the operating hours for the Araba/Rabin border crossing?Regular working hours at Israel’s southern border with Jordan are Sunday to Thursday 06.30 - 20.00; Friday and Saturday 08.00 to 20.00. Please note that the border crossing is closed on two of the major Jewish holidays, Rosh Hashanah (the New Year) and Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement). Additionally, when political tensions arise between Israel and its neighbours, the border may be closed at short notice. If you’re planning on travelling to Jordan from Israel during an ‘outbreak of conflict’ then keep up-to-date with the local news.Is it possible to buy a visa on arrival at the Araba/Rabin border crossing?The good news is that, for the majority of people, it is very easy to purchase a visa for Jordan on arrival at the border. This can be paid for either with cash or a credit card (see below). Woman in the dunes of Wadi Rum, Jordan. Photo byKaram HamadnehonUnsplashWhat are the facilities like at the Araba/Rabin border?The facilities at this crossing are very modern! As mentioned before, there is a free parking lot close by, vending machines (for buying drinks and snacks), a currency exchange stand and a decent Duty-Free section, stocked with perfumes, alcohol and chocolate. The Araba/Rabin border crossing is also accessible for disabled people. At the car parking lot, there are spaces reserved for those with disabilities. Additionally, the Yitzhak Rabin terminal has passages that have been widened so that wheelchairs can be pushed through with ease. (Wheelchair use is free of charge).There should also be luggage porters there, if you need help.How much will a Jordan visa cost me?At the time of writing this, a visa to enter Jordan will cost you 40 JOD (which is approximately $56) a double-entry visa will set you back 60 JD ($85.00 USD) and if you, by chance, need a multiple-entry visa, expect to pay 120 JD ($170). A bridge in Eilat. Photo credit: © istockphotoWhat happens once I’ve left the Israel side and arrived in Jordan?Once you’ve arrived at the Jordanian side, you will have to show proof of your Corona test from Israel and then a subsequent PCR test, carried out by the Jordanian officials. You will then need to purchase your visa (see above). Once you have a visa, and all your Corona work has been deemed to be in order, you will pass through to the exit terminal. If you are travelling with a group, this will be where you rejoin your guide/bus.If you are travelling independently, you are going to find yourself at the mercy of a ‘taxi cartel’ that operates between the border and Aqaba. It is only a 12-minute journey but there is no public transport, so you really have no other option than to pay the set fee for a taxi.This can be anywhere between 10-12 JOD. Simply tell the taxi driver to take you to the bus station in Aqaba, you can then find "monit sherut" (ten-person vans) that operate regularly and will take you on to Petra or Amman. The Jordanian flag.Photo byYazan obeidatonUnsplashCan I take a Guided Tour of Petra?Yes, you can, and this is something we’d recommend for many reasons. If you take a group tour to Petra, there are many things you won’t have to deal with - visa and language issues, haggling for a taxi to take you from the border to Aqaba, finding transport onto Petra, looking for accommodation and - of course - queuing up for your entrance tickets (in high seasons, the lines can be very long).You’ll also have the services of an experienced guide - someone who speaks fluent English (or perhaps even French, German or Spanish) but knows Arabic too, which is really helpful. He or she will know all the ins and outs of your trip, how to make things go smoothly from start to finish and of course, will always be there in the event that a problem arises.If you book a guided Eilat-Petra tour, a bus will pick you up from central Eilat and take you directly to the crossing. Once there, you will be met by one of our representatives, who will assist you in dealing with the practicalities of crossing. It is a quick and painless way of dealing with the international border, and many people who have taken our trips say that it’s one of the best things about travelling with a guide - knowing that any potential difficulties will be taken care of.Having said that, it is possible to travel to Petra independently - just be aware that you may encounter some hassles along the way, in terms of bargaining for transport, from the border to Aqaba and then onto Petra itself. It will also require more time, of course.A hotel in Wadi Rum, Jordan.Photo byNikolay HristovonUnsplashCan I cross back from Aqaba to Eilat?Absolutely. The border crossing works both ways - just take a taxi from Aqaba to the border and, once there, present your passport to the Jordanian authorities. Depending on how many days you have spent in Jordan, you will be asked to pay an exit tax of 10 Jordanian dinars. However, if you have both arrived and are departing from this crossing, and you have stayed more than 3 nights, this tax will be waived. In terms of Corona paperwork, you will need to:1. Present a confirmation of entry form to Israel:2. Show proof of a negative PCR test to the Israeli authorities. This needs to have been taken not more than 72 hours before entry to Israel & to Jordan and, as with above (crossing into Jordan) cannot be a home test.3. Take a PCR test at the Israeli border, before being granted permission to travel on into Israel.Now all that remains is to wish you a good journey!Boat in the Red Sea, Eilat.Photo credit: © istockphoto

There are so many exciting things about visiting Israel and one of them is definitely the food scene. Israel is an immigrant country, which means that everywhere you look you’ll find dishes that hail from Germany, Tunisia, Russia, Morocco, Austria, Iraq and a few other countries besides. The fact is, your taste buds are in for a great adventure and no more so than in the country’s capital, Jerusalem.Anna Italian Cafe, Jerusalem. Photo fromAnnaItalianCafeInterestingly enough, locals and visitors used to look to Tel Aviv for gourmet and foodie experiences but in recent years, that’s all changed. Jerusalem has suddenly blossomed into a foodie heaven, with an explosion of fantastic restaurants, wherever you turn, and - trust us - there’s something for everyone - meat-lover, fish aficionado, gluten-intolerant, and vegan-friendly besides.Today, we’re going to give you a rundown of the 10 best restaurants in Jerusalem. But before we start, we need to explain to those of you who don’t know a bit about the Jewish dietary laws. They really have an impact on eating out in the city, so it’s good to know in advance what you’re signing up for! Religious (observant) Jews, who make up less than half of Israel’s total population but are well–represented in the capital, abide by ‘halachah’ (Jewish law) and something that is essential for them is the separation of milk and meat. This, in a nutshell, is what is meant by the term ‘kosher’ (though it’s definitely a complicated subject).The Old City of Jerusalem rooftop view.Photo credit: © ShutterstockReligious Jews, therefore, will only eat at restaurants that have certification from a Rabbinical authority. To obtain this, the restaurant must not just keep milk and meat separate (not serving it together in dishes i.e. chicken in a cream sauce) but also keep kitchen utensils in a certain way (to ensure this is done, rabbis will carry out inspections regularly).Moreover, to obtain a kosher certificate, the restaurant cannot be open on the Jewish Sabbath (from Friday at dusk to Saturday evening) as this would involve working and the exchange of money, which is prohibited by Jewish law. It’s important for you to know this, to ensure you don’t arrive at a restaurant on Friday night, anticipating a delicious dinner, and find it in darkness!At the top of each listing, we’re putting each restaurant’s kosher status (whether or not they abide by these laws), and if they are open on Shabbat, to make things easier for you. And one last thing - eating out in Jerusalem is a big trend so we’d advise making reservations in advance, so you don’t end up disappointed. Here you go - and enjoy!View of Jerusalem from the Tower of David.Photo credit: © Shutterstock1. Restaurant Dolphin Yam,Jerusalem (not kosher, open on Shabbat)Located in a preserved building in downtown Jerusalem, this is one of the most popular fish and seafood restaurants in the capital. Dolphin Yam (which means ‘Sea Dolphin’ in English) has a reputation well earned - it’s been in business for over four decades and is renowned for outstanding food, fair prices, and friendly customer service.This Jerusalem restaurant offers all kinds of delicious fish, and an array of seafood scallops, calamari, crab, shrimps, and mussels (all definitely not kosher!). The appetizers are well-known - breads (often focaccia) and salads in huge amounts are brought to your table and, for vegetarians, often a meal in themselves.Other dishes we’d recommend include the roasted head of cauliflower and beef fillet medallions. Although this is a fish restaurant, they do have meat platters (if you’re keen on lamb chops, kebabs, and skewers, with an option to add foie gras). Dolphin Yam has a comprehensive drinks list, including wines from small vineyards in northern Israel. To finish, try the creme brulee or some halva ice cream.Dolphin Yam, Shimon Ben Shatahk 9, tel: 02 623 2272.Aspecialty from the Dolphin Yam restaurant's menu, Jerusalem. Photo fromseadolphin.co.il2. Restaurant Chakra, Jerusalem (not kosher, open on Shabbat)Situated in the city centerthis fine dining restaurant offers fabulous service and a rotating menu, with local wines. Their outside courtyard is perfect for sitting in on a warm summer evening and the decor is as modern as the food.Chakra serves up upscale Mediterranean food, with something for everyone. They have an excellent choice of appetizers, which include chopped liver (a classic Jewish dish), eggplant roasted on an open fire, hummus with green chili, and carpaccio.Mains include tuna tartar, mussels, rump steak, steamed salmon with bok choy, and - for the vegetarians - an artichoke and Reggiano pappardelle, paired with pear, blue cheese, and pecan endive salad. Their excellent wine list includes French and Italian classics with some high-end Israeli wines - Flam, Recanati, and Kastel. Leave room for dessert - their ‘deconstructed lemon tart’ is delicious and the strawberry mega eclair with meringue fingers and whipped cream is to die for. Our tip: try the Jalisco lychee cocktail or one of their excellent grappas. Chakra, 41 King George Street. tel: 02 625 2733.One of the specialties of Chakra restaurant, Jerusalem.Photo from chakra-rest.com3. Angelica Restaurant, Jerusalem (kosher meat)This much-loved high-scale restaurant has a kosher meat menu and offers diners a superb experience, combining exquisite food with exemplary service. The chefs here pay a great deal of attention to presentation and strive to make the food creative. Angelica offers both a dinner menu and a tasting menu for the discerning eater. Appetizers include the chicken liver pate (a classic), smoked trout, beef tartare with capers, and a quail egg. Vegetarians will delight in their mushroom risotto and winter root vegetables. Mains do not disappoint - diners rave about the goose breast, Asado stew, and famous hamburger. The tasting menu costs 290 NIS (92 USD) for five dishes.Some of their best wines come from the Golan Heights and even though this is a kosher meat restaurant, they do serve the lemon tart, chocolate fondant, and ice cream for dessert (which, considering they are not made with milk, are quite delicious). As well as the main restaurant, Angelica offers ‘The Chef’s Room’ (good for private events) and ‘The Stage’ which is ideal for medium-sized groups.Angelica, King George Street, tel: 02-6230056.Kosher Chef Restaurant in Jerusalem - Angelica. Photo fromangelicarest.com4. Mona Restaurant, Jerusalem (not kosher, open on Shabbat)This elegant eatery, situated in a stone building named the Artist’s House, with a tree growing through the indoor part of the restaurant (yes!) is famed for its modern Israeli cooking and a favorite of old-time Jerusalemites. (The Artist’s House, by the way, formerly housed Jerusalem’s famous Bezalel School of Art and Design).Styling themselves as a bistro, of late they have redesigned their menu, which now comprises a larger number of smaller dishes, rather than the traditional ‘appetizer, main, dessert’ idea. Some of these include the New York steak, veal cheek, sashimi with labane (a local cheese) and tomato seeds, and a traditional chicken consomme.Mona’s service is both professional and friendly and the waiters know their stuff - their recommendations are always good. Cocktails have generous amounts of alcohol and the tart tatin is highly recommended. Not cheap, but thoroughly worth it.Mona, Shmuel HaNagid 12 Tel: 2-622-2283.Delicious lunch at Mona Restaurant, Jerusalem. Photo frommonarest.co.il 5. Mamilla HotelRooftop Restaurant, Jerusalem(Kosher but open on Shabbat for cold dishes)Situated on the rooftop of the luxury Mamilla hotel, this fantastic restaurant offers high-quality dining, with spectacular views of downtown Jerusalem thrown in. And let’s face it, there’s nothing like looking down on the Old City, the King David hotel, and the YMCA whilst you sip on a cocktail or indulge in a steak.The Rooftop Mamilla serves a very sophisticated menu, including dishes such as ‘duck in a blanket’, foie gras, sashimi, roasted goose breast, and delicious mushroom risotto for the vegetarians. This restaurant has a reputation for employing knowledgeable sommeliers with a superb array of wines both from Israel and abroad. Their desserts do not disappoint either - try the sorbet on a hot evening or the coconut malabi (a new twist on a classic Middle Eastern dessert).Mamilla Rooftop is kosher but it is actually possible to eat there on Shabbat - there are restrictions (cold food and payment beforehand) but it’s very doable. But whenever you’re going, book ahead, because this is a very popular venue.Rooftop Mamilla, 11 King Solomon Street, 02-5482230Goose breast, asparagus and sautéed green onions in maple sauce,Rooftop Mamilla. Photo from mamillahotel.com6. Piccolino Restaurant, Jerusalem (kosher dairy)You’ll find Piccolino in theNahalat Shiva neighborhood. This no-meat kosher dairy restaurant has a good reputation, friendly service, live music, and delicious soups, salads, pasta, pizza, and fish.The varied menu includes a cheese plate appetizer, various antipasti, and mains that include the truffle and salmon pizza, eggplant parmesan, and arancini (traditional fried Roman rice balls). Fish lovers will enjoy the salad with tuna steak and Norwegian salmon drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette. For dessert, we’ve heard good things about their pecan pie, creme brulee, and cheesecake. And as well as beer and wine, they also serve milkshakes. Yum!Piccolino, Yo’el Moshe Solomon tel: 02-624-4186.A dish from the Piccolino restaurant menu, Jerusalem. Photo from piccolino.co.il7. Anna Restaurant, Jerusalem (kosher dairy)Close to Ben Yehuda Street in New Jerusalem, you’ll find ‘Anna’ in the Anna Ticho House, a historic building with a beautiful interior - it was one of the first homes built outside the Old City, in the 1860s. Serving delicious Italian food with an Israeli twist, it’s a wonderful place to eat lunch or dinner.Anna has a diverse wine list and knowledgeable staff.Chef Nimrod Norman serves up an array of simple yet fantastic dishes including sea bass, salmon, ravioli, and pappardelle. His signature dish - ‘Gnocchi Anna’ - is well-known for its soft, fresh pasta, roasted tomatoes, asparagus, and creme fraiche.And don’t forget to save room for dessert. Whether it’s lemon tart, tiramisu, or key lime pie, you won’t be disappointed - and the espresso at the meal’s end will blow your mind! HaRav Agan 10, tel: 02 645-3746.A dish from the Anna restaurant menu, Jerusalem. Photo fromdualis.org.il8. MachneYuda Restaurant, Jerusalem (not kosher, open on Shabbat)Possibly the hottest restaurant in Jerusalem at the moment, this eatery is located just a stone’s throw from the famous Mahane Yehuda Market and is a must-visit for anyone who loves food. Whatever you choose will be good - salmon gravlax, prime rib, seafood pasta, or a simple polenta ragout. Dishes that diners rave about include Amberjack tartare with a wasabi vinaigrette, oxtail and Jerusalem artichoke, and refreshing gazpacho. Wash it down with one of their famous cocktails or a shot of Arak (a local spirit) and don’t forget to order their chocolate mousse - it’s out of this world.Cooks in a restaurantMachneYuda, Jerusalem.Photo frommachneyuda.co9. Touro Restaurant, Jerusalem (kosher meat)Situated in the picturesque neighborhood of Mishkenot Shaananim, with the Old City and Kidron Valley as its backdrop, this first-class kosher meat eatery will leave you truly longing for more. Known as a fine-dining establishment, service is both attentive and yet relaxed and the staff really do go above and beyond for their guests.For appetizers, we’d recommend the charred eggplant or Asiatic salad. For mains, try the mushroom and chestnut risotto, gnocchi beef fillet, or tagliatelle Alfredo with soy cream. And for dessert? For the risk-averse, there’s a strawberry sorbet but if you really want to push the boat out, order the chocolate bonbon with crema, cherries, and coconut patisserie cream. Costly, but definitely worth it.Touro, Sh.A. Nakhon Street 2, tel: 02 570-2189. A dish from the menu of theTouro Restaurant, Jerusalem. Photo fromtouro.co.il10. Adom Restaurant, Jerusalem (not kosher, open on Shabbat)Adom (‘Red’ in Hebrew) is a restaurant in one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in Jerusalem - the historic train station area. Now known as ‘The First Station’ complex, it is located in Emek Refaim, the heart of the German Colony, a charming and vibrant neighborhood and particularly popular with young people. Adom is a wine bar and restaurant offering a stylish and tasty menu and that, combined with its extensive wine collection and vibrant atmosphere, may be why it’s been voted one of Israel’s top ten restaurants. Adom’s menu changes regularly and on it, you’ll find salads, pasta, fish, seafood, and meat. A cheeseburger from the menu ofAdom Restaurant, Jerusalem. Photo fromwww.adom.restCarnivores will delight in the chicken liver pate or delicious Osso Bucco and vegetarians can feast on vegan shawarma and the ‘Beyond Meat’ hamburger. You can also order fish fillet specials and a variety of seafood, courtesy of the talented chefs Eran Buzaglo and Moti Davis.In terms of alcohol, Adom serves a range of boutique Israeli wines as well as some amazing desserts. We’d be remiss not to recommend you try the kadaif mille-feuille, made with a labane mousse and white chocolate and pistachio ganache. Round it off with grappa and you’ll leave Adom sated and smiling. Our tip: Check out their lunch specials at 69 NIS and 99 NIS respectively. Adom, David Remez 4, tel: 02 624-6242.Interested in Israeli cuisine? Then feel free to join the Carmel Market Food Tour or Israeli Street Food Tourin Tel Aviv, Israel's gastronomic capital. For those wishing to explore Jerusalem, we offer a wide range of Jerusalem toursAdom Restaurant, Jerusalem. Photo fromadom.restaurant

There is a famous saying that stretches back into time immemorial - that Jews are the People of the Book. This is also one of the things modernIsrael is know for. Now if you ask many people why this is, they will tell you that the saying arose because Jews, historically, have been so committed to learning and reading. And of course, whilst this is surely the case, what many don’t realise is that the expression originated in the Koran - the Muslim’s holy book!Old scrolls of the Jewish Bible and Menorah.Photo byDiana PolekhinaonUnsplash‘The People of the Book’In Arabic ‘Ahl Al-Kitab’, ‘People of the Book’ (in this case, not just Jews but also Christians) were those who lived in Muslim lands and followed monotheism (a belief in one God). Although they were regarded as ‘infidels’ they were also accorded a special status - People of the Book (since they possessed a book that described a revelation from God). As a result, they were tolerated and allowed to practice their own belief system (albeit keeping a rather low profile!)Today, many people associate the term with the idea that Jews have a great love of literature and prize learning above all other things. And whilst this is definitely the case (think of how many Jewish Nobel Prize winners there are, not to mention authors, screenwriters, and scholars) in its strictest sense ‘People of the Book’ refers to the Jews’ relationship with their holy books; their sacred scriptures. What do these sacred texts contribute to Judaism?The sacred texts of Judaism cannot be underestimated and their importance goes far beyond their religious teachings and messages. They refer not just to religion in Judaism but the long and rich history and culture of the Jewish people. Moreover, In Hebrew, there is a term ’Or Lagoyim’ which, basically translated, means ‘light unto the nations’. Originating from the prophet Isaiah, it essentially implies that Jews have a moral and ethical obligation to behave according to the highest standards, in order to set an example. In essence, it is a way of encouraging Jews to act in a way that presents the most positive aspects of Judaism (i.e. justice, compassion, and charity).Father and son praying at the Western Wall. Photo byAnton MislawskyonUnsplashBooks on Jewish Customs and TraditionsIn Israel itself, the majority of citizens are Jews but not all of them consider themselves religious (i.e. believers in God). Their collective outlook is wide-ranging - from secular to traditional and orthodox to ultra-orthodox. However, if you ask many secular Jews if they feel they have a connection to the scriptures, they will say yes, because whilst they do not believe every word that is written in the Bible, they still take the view that it embodies many of the historical, cultural, social and philosophical stories of the Jews over the ages. So, yet, many traditional Jews (i.e. those who do not adhere to strict Rabbinic law but maintain an appreciation for the history and culture of Judaism) have a relationship to the Hebrew Bible. These teachings often have a deep impact on them - however secular they might feel in day-to-day life. This is why, on the major holidays in the calendar, you will see Jews not just in Israel but across the diaspora visiting synagogues, partaking in ancient traditions, and reading from their holy Jewish books. Whatever their private belief systems, they feel bound together by something bigger than themselves, and the stories of Judaism they have learned as children are a big part of this.Kipas for sale at a stall in Safed, Israel.Photo credit © Dmitry MishinThe Books of the People of the BookThere are many kinds of Jewish holy books and Jewish prayer books, used by Jews at prayer in the synagogue and for study in their homes or dedicated ‘yeshivas’ (Jewish seminaries). Today we are going to look at a few of them - how they came to be written, what they mean to Jews, when (in particular) they are read, and what they offer both the scholar and the layperson, in terms of a guide to religion and life itself. Whether it is the Hebrew Bible, a specific prayer book for a holiday festival, a commentary, or an analysis, these texts cannot be underestimated - they are the alpha and omega of the world’s oldest monotheistic faiths.Sacred Texts of JudaismEssentially the most important one - and that which is more read by Jews than any other - is the Hebrew Bible (referred to by Christians as ‘The Old Testament'). How many books are in the Jewish Bible?The Hebrew Bible is organized into three main sections - Torah (‘the Teachings’). Neviim (‘the Prophets’) and Ketuvim (‘the Writings’). This is often referred to by Jews as Tanakh - an acronym derived from the first letters of its three divisions (Ta, Na and Kh). This is what is known as the Hebrew Canon (coming from the Greek-Hebrew word ‘measuring rod’, referring to a sacred body of scripture). The open Tanakh. Photo by © Ri_Yavia PixabayThe TorahThe Jewish Torah is composed of five books - Genesis (Bereshit), Exodus (Shmot), Leviticus (Vayikra), Numbers (Bemidbar), and Deuteronomy (Dvarim). Also known as ‘the Five Books of Moses’ it deals with some of the Bible’s earliest major stories, many of which are incredibly well-known around the world, and read to children at a young age. These include:-God’s creation of the world, in seven days.-Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden and their expulsion, as punishment for disobeying God.-Cain and Abel - two brothers who fought, leaving one dead and Cain as the Bible’s first murderer.-Noah and the Ark - when God sent a flood to punish his people, it was Noah who was spared, along with his family and animals, the human race was rebuilt.-Abraham’s journey to the Promised Land (and the Covenant he made with God) and the subsequent ‘Akedah’ (‘Binding of Isaac’)-Moses and the Burning Bush - an extraordinary moment, where Moses stumbled on a bush that was burning but not consumed - the moment Moses was chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.-Plagues, Pharaoh, the Exodus from Egypt and the Parting of the Red Sea - the extraordinary story of the Israelites’ slavery, the cruelty of the Pharoah, the ten plagues sent by God and the Jews’ flight, in which the Red Sea parted to let them through on their journey to the Promised Land.-The giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses from God, on Mount Sinai-Battle of Jericho - the story of Joshua and his army encircling the city of Jericho and, subsequently, with God’s help seeing the city walls fall.Divided into different ‘portions’ (parashot) they are read throughout the year, in the synagogue. There are 54 of these weekly Torah portions and together they span the cycle of the Jewish year. When the reading is complete, Jews celebrate the festival of ‘Simchat Torah’ which is a ‘Rejoicing of the Law.’A person reading the Book of Ezekiel in the Hebrew Bible.Photo byEran MenashrionUnsplashProphets and WritingsAs well as the five books of Moses, there are the Prophets and Writings, which include famous stories such as Jonah and the Whale, Samson, and Deliah and David and Goliath. These are part of a ‘Masoretic text’ - a Jewish canon. Altogether, there are 24 books in this canon and between them, they make up the entire Tanakh.This Masoretic text was copied and distributed by a group of Jewish scholars known as the Masoretes between 7-10 CE. It is considered, today, to be the authoritative traditional Hebrew text of the Jewish Bible. For sure, it was meticulously assembled and codified. Mesorah refers to markings of the text of the scriptures and concise notes in the margins of the manuscripts. Today, in the Jewish community, there is a stream of Judaism named in this vein - ‘Masorti’ which means ‘traditional’.Among the Dead Sea Scrolls found in Qumran are the most accurate manuscripts of the Masoretic texts of the Hebrew Bible. These are the oldest surviving biblical texts.Qumran Caves, Israel.Photo byKonrad HofmannonUnsplashThe TalmudMeaning ‘teaching’ these are ancient scriptures within which are Jewish ideas, stories, and sayings and this includes the Mishnah and Gemara. The Talmud contains the history of Judaism as well as specific laws and beliefs and religious Jews regard it as a basic tool for learning. One could also say that it is a huge collection of sayings, arguments, and counter-arguments relating to every aspect of life.Talmud means ‘learning’ in Hebrew and many orthodox Jews devote their entire lives to studying it. Scholars believe the Talmud was completed approximately 1700 years after the written Torah was received. Two of the most famous commentators were Hillel and Shammai, who lived in Jerusalem at the time of the reign of King Herod. They became famous for their Talmudic disputes - indeed, the Talmud records over 300 areas of disagreement between them. Today, all over the world, Jewish centers on university campuses are named after Hillel, welcoming students from all backgrounds.Talmud Complete Volume Set. Photo by © Shatishira via PixabayMishnahThe Mishnah is the first major written collection of the Jewish oral traditions and also the first major work of rabbinic literature. Made up of writings and teachings by sages who lived in the period at the end of the Second Temple (and in the 100 years that followed the destruction of the Temple) it is also referred to as the ‘Oral Torah’.The Mishnah is divided into six sections (‘Orders) which are-Zeraim (‘Seeds’) - laws dealing with agriculture.-Moed (‘Seasons’) - laws concerning the observation of the Sabbath and festivals.-Nashim (‘Women’) - laws regarding vows, marriage, and divorce.-Nezikim (‘’Damages’) - dealing with torts, both in civil and criminal matters.-Kodashim (‘Holy Things’) - the laws of the Temple and dietary laws.-Tohorot - relating to purity and the distinction between clean and unclean.A reading Jewish man at the Wailing Wall, Jerusalem.Photo by ©tdjgordonvia PixabayGemaraFrom the Hebrew verb ‘gamar’ which means to complete or finish, the Gemara is the part of the Talmud that looks at a rabbinical analysis and commentary on the Mishnah. The sages who lived in the Land of Israel and also Babylonia (which we now know in modern times as Iraq) continued to study traditional teachings, including the Mishnah.All of their discussions were preserved (either by memory or written down) and later on edited in a form that included the conversations of sages from across the ages. The Gemara came into being because these sages wanted to blend biblical and rabbinical traditions, by explaining the difference between the two in texts. The Babylonian and Palestinian GemarasThere are actually two works known as “Gemara” — the Babylonian Gemara (referred to as “Bavli” in Hebrew) and the Palestinian (or Jerusalem) Gemara (referred to as “Yerushalmi“). Both of them were written using a combination of Aramaic (the vernacular in Babylonian times) and Hebrew. The Babylonian Talmud is considered to be more complete and authoritative. Shulchan AruchSometimes referred to as ‘the Code of Jewish Law’, the Shulchan Aruch (literally ‘prepared table’ in Hebrew) is probably the most influential Jewish book of law, presented in a very straightforward way. Written by Joseph Caro of Safed in Galilee (who came from a Sephardic family expelled from Spain), it is truly a compendium of areas of halacha (Jewish laws). Today, observant Jews will refer to it when deciding how to conduct themselves in many areas of daily life - such as honoring parents, renting an apartment, dealing with illness, and death.Yahrzeit (memorial) candles against the background of a Torah.Photo by ©Ri_YaviaPixabayJewish Books Relating to the FestivalsThere are important books used by Jews on the major Jewish holidays - each one containing a different liturgy and prayers, according to the particular festival. These ‘machzors’ are used on the High Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year) and Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement - the holiest day in the Jewish calendar). Many observant Jews also use special machzorim at Pesach (Passover), Sukkot, and Shavuot, which are the three pilgrimage festivals in Judaism.The KabbalahKabbalah, in Hebrew, means ‘reception’ or ‘correspondence’ and today it is regarded as an esoteric and somewhat mystical school of Jewish thought. It sprung up in the 12th century, claiming secret knowledge of the unwritten Torah, and essentially it is divided into three sections - the theoretical, the spiritual, and the magical. It is fair to say that many of these texts are obscure and not easy for readers which are not familiar with Jewish spirituality.The most famous of these texts is the Zohar, a mystical commentary on the Torah written in medieval Aramaic. The Zohar (which means ‘Radiance’ in Hebrew) contains musings on the nature of God and the origins of the universe. According to tradition, the Zohar was revealed by God to Moses at Sinai then passed down orally until Rabbi Shimon bar Yohai wrote it down in 2 CE.However, the general scholarly consensus is that it was written by Rabbi Moshe de Leonard in 13th century Spain. In Kabbalah, letters, numbers, and words are considered to be very powerful and it is clear that the Zohar had a great influence on kabbalah, setting the scene for many subsequent texts. Today, many Jews and non-Jews journey to Safed, in northern Israel, which was historically a center of kabbalah and today is a city of kabbalistic learning.If you are interested in the Jewish sites in Jerusalem and Northern Israel, feel free to join our Jewish tour packages or Jewish-oriented private tours.At the synagogue in the Old City of Safed, Israel.Photo credit © Shutterstock

“So, when travelling to Israel, how long do you need to spend in Jerusalem?” This is a question we’re asked constantly, in our role as tour operators in Israel, and the fact is, however much time you have, invariably you’re going to long for more. That’s because Jerusalem is quite extraordinary - a city that’s thousands of years old, with every crevice of its Old City walls oozing history. Home to three religions, whether or not you’re a believer, you’re going to find it hard not to be moved after you’ve walked the streets here.The Church of the Pater Noster, Mount of Olives, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockJerusalem has it all, you see. Historicalandarchaeological sites,museums, religious landmarks, attractions for kids, breathtaking views and restaurants. Many ‘Yerushalmis’ (the Hebrew word for Jerusalem residents) will tell you that they’re constantly discovering new things in their city. And as for the Old City - well, it might be small (less than one square kilometre) but at every twist and turn there’s something to turn your head.Jerusalem is many things - beautiful, complicated, intense, troubled, breathtaking, magical, exhilarating and awe-inspiring - and a must-visit city for anyone visiting Israel. But most tourists visiting the Holy Land have a limited time frame, so what are the top 10 attractions in Jerusalem?Today, we’re going to look at a potential Jerusalem itinerary for someone planning on spending four days in the Israeli capital, a guide of what to see and do in Jerusalem. Four days, in our opinion, is a good introduction…and hopefully, you’ll enjoy it so much, you’ll want to return.The Church of All Nations, Mount of Olives, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockDay 1. Arrival and looking aroundToday’s a day for getting settled in, perhaps having a stroll in downtown Jerusalem, grabbing some dinner at one of the city’s excellent restaurants then getting a good night’s sleep at one of the best Jerusalem hotels you pre-booked. If you have the time and energy, we’d definitely recommend a visit to the Israel Museum, which is close to the famous Jerusalem landmark of the Knesset (the Israeli Parliament).Within the museum, you’ll find (amongst other things) fine art, a sculpture garden, a model of Jerusalem at the time of the Second Temple and the Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered in the 1940s in the Judean desert and now housed in a stunning purpose-designed building. For dinner, why not treat yourself and book a table at the Mamilla rooftop restaurant, close to the Jaffa Gate? You can enjoy magnificent views of the Old City whilst feeling a fresh Jerusalem breeze on your face. The inner corridor of Israel Museum, Jerusalem. Photo byYanny MishchukonUnsplashDay 2. Getting acquainted with the Old City of JerusalemDay two is all about Jerusalem’s Old City. It might be small but - trust us - if you see even half of what we’re suggesting, you’ll have sore feet by the day’s end. This tiny area is full of iconic landmarks and, depending on your focus, you can spend hours at just two or three of them. Holy sites in Jerusalem are everywhere you look, but here’s some you shouldn’t miss: There are many churches in the Christian Quarter, the most famous of which is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Built on the site of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, inside you can marvel at the magnificent architecture (the wooden carved doors at its entrance are original, dating back to 326 CE!) the Rock of Calvary, and various chapels (Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox and Egyptian Coptic) in the magnificent complex.If you want to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, follow the Via Dolorosa, stopping at the Stations of the Cross.Or visit theChurch of St. John the Baptist - recognizable by its silver dome. The Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, built in 1898, offers services in English, German, Danish and Arabic.The highlights of the Muslim Quarter have got to be the Suk (the Arab Bazaar) and Temple Mount. Wander the network of alleyways, shop for bargains and grab yourself a black coffee (flavoured with cardamom) and sit and watch the world go by, just soaking up the atmosphere. Whatever you want to take home with you can be found here, including local spices, soaps, embroidery, sweet treats, woodwork and all kinds of beautifully-decorated Armenian pottery.The third Station of the Cross,not far from the Ecce Homo, Jerusalem.Photo byJorge Fernández SalasonUnsplashTemple Mount, also known as Haram esh-Sharif, is dominated by the Dome of the Rock, built by the Umayyad caliphate in 691 CBE. One of theUNESCO World Heritage Sites in Israel, it is probably Jerusalem’s most famous landmark, because of its distinct golden dome.There are many things to see within the compound - fountains, prayer locations and arches - but access to non-muslims is limited so check in advance when visiting is possible, or take a Jerusalem Temple Mount & Dome of the Rock Tour with us, where an experienced guide can help you get the most out of the experience.In the Jewish Quarter, head first to the Western Wall (‘Kotel’ in Hebrew) which is all that is left of the Temple built by Herod the Great. Jews from around the world come to pray here and watching them touching the stones, silently, is a moving sight. For adventure lovers, you can take an underground tour of the Western Wall Tunnels or visit the Tower of David, an ancient Citadel close to the Jaffa Gate (housing a museum) and a symbol of Jerusalem.Another popular area is around the Cardo, which was the main thoroughfare in Jerusalem in Roman times. Stretching from the Damascus Gate to David street, it was built in the Byzantine period, in 6 CE, and some of its columns have even been restored, so you really can go back in time as you stroll along. If all this is a bit overwhelming, and you’re not quite sure what to focus on, why not opt for a mix of everything with our Jerusalem Old and New Tour.Christ Church, the Old City of Jerusalem.Photo byBig G MediaonUnsplashDay 3 - Mount of Olives and Mount ZionThe Mount of Olives lies east of the Old City, close to the Kidron Valley. There are a considerable number of holy sites there, including a number of impressive churches, so choose carefully! Christian sites on the Mt of OlivesAugusta Victoria Hospital - this church hospital lies on the north side of the mount, offering specialised medical care. Within the complex lies the Lutheran Church of the Ascension, identifiable by its 50-metre high bell tower, as well as a meeting centre and cafe for pilgrims.Church of Mary Magdalene - under the jurisdiction of the Russian Orthodox church since the 1920s, it was built in 1888 by Tsar Alexander III to honour his mother. The traditional design of the roof (popular in 17th century Russia) includes seven distinctive gilded domes. Church of the Pater Noster is part of a Carmelite Monastery and on its walls are inscribed translations of the Lord’s Prayer in 140 different languages. Dominus Flevit Churchis a small Catholic Franciscan chapel, built on the ruins of a 5th-century Byzantine church. Its iconic design (tear-shaped and with its often photographed window) is down to the Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi.Garden of Gethsemane - this is the spot where Jesus prayed before his betrayal by Judas Iscariot and subsequent arrest. Scientists have discovered that the olive trees in its garden are some of the oldest in the world - around 2,000 years!The Garden of Gethsemane, Jerusalem. Photo byStacey FrancoonUnsplashMuslim holy sites on the Mt of OlivesThe Mount of Olives is holy to Muslims, as they believe it is the site where the Kaaba (the black stone located in Mecca) will return, in order to be reunited with the rock inside the Dome of the Rock (the spot at which Muslims believe the world was created) There is the tomb of Rabi’a al Adawiya,this cleric who introduced Sufism into the world of Islam, as well as the tomb of Mujir ed-Din, a medieval historian.Jewishholy sites on the Mt of OlivesJewish cemetery- Mount of Olives is home to a historic area used as a burial ground for Jews since biblical times. Some of the most important Kings of the Hebrew Bible are buried here and according to Jewish tradition, this is the site at which the messianic era will be ushered in.Tomb of the Prophets - according to tradition, this is where the last three Hebrew prophets are buried - Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi are buried. Mount of Olives, Jerusalem. Photo byAdam KringonUnsplashVisiting Mount ZionThis hill in Jerusalem, just outside of the Old City, is holy to Christians, Muslims and Jews and, in many senses, a metaphor for the entire Promised Land. Some of the sites you may want to explore on Mount Zion are:Christian sites on Mount ZionDormition Abbey - run by a Benedictine Order, this Catholic Abbey marks the spot where Mary, the mother of Jesus, was said to have died. Built by Kaiser Willhelm II, it has a distinctive round shape, a cone-shaped dome and a magnificent mosaic floor. The Protestant cemetery - established by Presbyterian missionaries, this is the final resting place of many Protestants, including Oskar Schindler. Made famous by the Steven Spielberg film, Schindler today is considered a righteous gentile by the State of Israel, for his heroism in saving 1,200 lives in the Holocaust.Dormition Abbey, Jerusalem.Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplashJewish sites on Mount ZionKing David's Tomb - sacred to Jews, this is the spot which is where it is believed David, the celebrated warrior King of Israel, is buried. The building in which it is housed is designed in Romanesque style and dates back to the time of the Crusades.The Chamber of the Holocaust (‘Martef HaShoah’) - this small Holocaust museum was opened before Yad Vashem in 1949. The walls of the courtyard and passages are covered with plaques that resemble tombstones and erected as a monument to over 2,000 Jewish communities destroyed by the Nazis. Muslim sites on Mount ZionThe Dajani Cemeteries - these three Muslim burial sites are owned by the Dajanis, historically one of Jerusalem’s most distinguished families. The Dajanis also own the compound where King David’s tomb is located (see above). Our tip: if you have a particular interest in the Jerusalem Christian sites on the Mount of Olives, then why not join our Footsteps of Jesus tour? And don't forget about the dress code visiting Jerusalem holy sites.King David’s Tomb, Mount Zion, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockAs night falls, why not head back into central Jerusalem, towards the famous Mahane Yehuda Market on the Jaffa Road? Bustling and chaotic by day - beloved by locals as the best place to buy fruits and vegetables - at night it’s transformed into a cafe and bar venue, where you can grab a drink or have a bite. It’s incredibly atmospheric and - in our opinion - one of the best places to get a sense of what Jerusalem is all about.There’s also the rooftop restaurant at Notre Dame, close to the Damascus Gate, where you can take in breathtaking views of the Old City. They have ‘cheese platters’ which you can pair with fine wines, traditional Middle Eastern food and also steaks/seafood. If you arrive at sunset, you’ll be grateful you did so!Man selling fruits at Mahane Yehuda Market, Jerusalem. Photo byTim MossholderonUnsplashDay 4 - Your ChoiceToday, we’re giving you a few different activity ideas, depending on your interests (and whether or not you’ll be taking kids along with you). City of David - if you’re curious to know where it all began, then why not take a City of David Jerusalem Tour? The original settlement of Jerusalem, it offers a number of attractions, including archaeological experiences in Emek Tzurim national park, walking tours through underground water tunnels that date back 3,000 years and a nighttime show named ‘Hallelujah’.Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum - this is Israel’s official monument/museum to those who perished in the Holocaust. Whilst not a ‘fun’ afternoon out, Yad Vashem is essential visiting for anyone interested in this dark period of Jewish history. The architecture of the museum is stunning and the Monument to the Children particularly moving. As solemn as it is, its emotional, historical and cultural significance cannot be underestimated.Jerusalem Biblical Zoo - for anyone with kids (or anyone who just loves animals) this zoo is a fabulous attraction. The birds and animals all live in conditions that replicate their natural habitats - from the African Savannah to the tropical rain forests. Jerusalem Biblical Zoo.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinThere’s also a ‘petting pool’ for youngsters and a children's zoo, where the kids can feed goats, sheep and rabbits. And just a short walk from the zoo is the Israel Aquarium, featuring all kinds of marine life from the Sea of Galilee, the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea.Before you settle into your last evening at your hotel, why not consider visiting the neighbourhood Ein Kerem for dinner? Located in southwestern Jerusalem, this charming hillside village is an oasis of greenery and one of the major Christian holy sites in Israel, since it is believed to be where John the Baptist was born. Ein Kerem’s streets are narrow and charming, filled with cafes, boutique stores, artist galleries and independent jewellery workshops, which you can explore, before heading off to one of their several stylish restaurants. The perfect way to end your last night in Israel’s capital.We hope this suggested Jerusalem itinerary is of help - and if you have less than four days to spare, why not try our 3-day classical Jerusalem package tour? In any event, however long you’re planning to spend in Israel’s capital, be prepared to be blown away…Happy travelling!Convent of the Sisters of Zion, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

One of the many reasons people travel is to see and experience things outside their comfort zone, and that definitely includes trying new cuisine. And the good news for any ‘foodie’ going to plan a perfect vacation in Israel is that your taste buds are in for a delightful surprise. With its eclectic population (Jews here hail from Europe, Africa, South America and Asia), there’s a dish for every palate and Israeli street food really has its roots in immigrant experience.Food sold outside Mount Zion gate, Jerusalem.Photo byRiaonUnsplashPrepare Your TastebudsMoreover, whilst Israel has really upped its game on the food front (with plenty of high-end fine dining experiences) if you’re on a budget, or simply don’t want to blow a fortune on lunch/dinner, you’re going to be pleased. Whether you’re in the big cities of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv or tiny towns up in the Galilee or down in the Negev, you’ll be confronted with certain ‘street foods’ that the locals adore, particularly dishes made with simple but fresh Mediterranean ingredients.Cheap, Healthy and FreshVegetarians and vegans will be in seventh heaven. If you’re looking to eat without meat, Israel won’t disappoint you - indeed, you’re going to be amazed at how easy it is to find plant-based foods, without skipping on taste or flavour. And, as you can imagine, the other great thing about Israeli vegan street food is that it’s cheap - for less than $10, you’ll be chowing on dishes that will keep you full for hours (and won’t necessarily wreck your cholesterol levels either!)Today we’re looking at some of the best street foods in Israel - many found in ‘holes in the wall’ in the backstreets and beloved by the locals for their down-to-earth atmosphere and warm welcome. Often run by families, for generations, you’re often going to have to wait in line but actually, that’s a good thing - after all, the longer the line, the better you know the food is going to be! Hungry? Then read on…Shakshuka, a dish of eggs poached in tomato sauce. Photo byUlvi SafarionUnsplashFamous Israeli Street Food1. Falafel - you can’t talk about Israeli street food without first mentioning the humble falafel. For decades, it’s been Israel’s favourite snack and although some will tell you it’s had its day, don’t believe them - you’ll find falafel stands on every Israeli street corner (each with their own ‘secret’ recipe for making this delectable dish).For anyone who doesn’t know, falafel are bite-sized balls made out of chickpeas, flavoured with herbs and spices and then deep-fried, before being placed in a soft pita (which acts pocket) and served with tahini (a sesame seed paste) fresh salads and sometimes even a slice of eggplant thrown in! Falafel is popular all over the Middle East (it actually originated in Egypt, where it was first made with fava beans) and is incredibly popular amongst vegetarians. Every falafel you try in Israel is bound to taste slightly different, depending on how much garlic, parsley and spices are used, but few come away feeling disappointed. Falafels and salad in a takeout box. Photo byPille R. PriskeonUnsplash2. Sabich - hot on the heels of the humble falafel is the sumptuous sabich. This Iraqi Jewish sandwich is made either of pita or laffa, and is made up of egg, potato, salads, tahini, parsley, eggplant and a delicious mango sauce called ‘amba.’ The ingredients are simple yet fantastic and when you bite into one, it’s a veritable flavour explosion. The history of the humble sabich can be traced back to the Iraqi Jews who arrived in Israel in the 1950s. On Shabbat mornings when they were in a hurry to leave for synagogue, they would eat a cold meal of these foods, stuffed in a pita (having cooked the eggplant the previous evening). In the early 1960s, a stand in Ramat Gan (a suburb of Tel Aviv) began selling them and the trend quickly caught on. Today, it’s beloved by Israelis - some of whom enjoy it with hummus and sour pickles. The ultimate sandwich…An Iraqi falafel shop in Jerusalem, Israel. Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplash3. Hummus - we’re not sure if hummus needs an explanation but here goes…this delicious dip/spread is made from chickpeas, lemon, garlic and tahini and is a quintessential Middle Eastern dish. In Israel, it’s fair to say that hummus isn’t just a food, it’s a way of life. Also, wherever you go in Israel you’ll find people telling you that their town/region’s hummus is by far and away the best! Hummus in Israel comes in all shapes and sizes - topped with pine nuts, sprinkled with sumac and cumin and some partnered with ‘foul mudammas’ (a fava bean dip). You’ll also see locals eating it with slices of raw onion and sour pickles - yes, it sounds very odd but - trust us - a lot of people try it and become instant converts.Hummus is also popular in Arab communities all over Israel, especially in Galilee, Jerusalem and the small village of Abu Gosh and, just like falafel, every place serves it a little differently, sometimes using recipes handed down over the generations. Bottom line - you can’t come to Israel without indulging in a few plates of this delicious chickpea spread…Ingredients for hummus. Photo byNatalia YonUnsplash4. Bourekas - if you want to indulge, and don’t care about the calories, then head for a bourka stand in Israel. These delicious crispy yet flaky phyllo dough parcels are stuffed with all kinds of savoury ingredients before being sprinkled with sesame seeds on their tops. And because they’re small (ergo portable), they’re the ultimate ‘to go’ food in Israel - grab a few, and munch away, morning, noon or night.Originally from Turkey, (the word ‘borek’ in Turkish means ‘pie’) you can find them filled with potato, salty cheese, yellow cheese and spinach. They’re popular not just in Israel but all over the Middle East and particularly with Jews from North Africa, who serve them at festivals and family celebrations. 5. Shawarma - popular across the Levant, this roasted meat (which could be lamb, veal, chicken or turkey) is cooked slowly on a revolving spit, before being cut into thin slices and served in pita/laffa with different sauces. This is not the healthiest of snacks (watch out, arteries) although in Tel Aviv they’ve even opened a ‘vegan shawarma’ joint called Goodness, which promises all the taste without the possibility of a heart attack! Jaffa oranges against the background of an Israeli flag. Photo byBenjamin RascoeonUnsplash6. Malawach - this delectable flatbread is composed of layers of puff pastry (which resemble a thick pancake). The bread is brushed with oil then cooked in a frying pan - it's so buttery, you won’t believe it. Brought to Israel in the 1950s by Yemenite Jews, it was traditionally eaten by them at breakfast and served with grated tomato, a fried egg or even sometimes a drizzle of honey. This flaky bread is not good for your waistline but the perfect treat after a late night out, an indulgent breakfast or simply when hunger strikes!7. Shakshuka - introduced to Israel by Tunisian Jews, this classic North Africa/Middle Eastern dish is incredibly popular amongst Israelis, particularly for breakfast. It’s a simple concept but one that everyone seems to love - eggs poached in a sauce of tomatoes, onions, garlic and green peppers. Traditionally served with pita bread, it’s incredibly satisfying - spices always vary but prepare to taste cumin, coriander, caraway seeds and even turmeric in your order.Classical Shakshuka. Photo bySara DubleronUnsplash8. Malabi - this traditional Israeli dessert is centuries old and made from rice flour, milk. sugar and flavoured with distilled rose/pomegranate water. It is a traditional Sephardic Jewish dish (Sephardic Jews hail from west Asia and northern Africa) and is served at the end of the holy Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, to break the 25-hour fast. Malabi is also served at Turkish Jewish weddings, as a way of symbolising the sweet life that awaits the new couple. 9. Knafeh - this Middle Eastern dessert is made with spun pasty then soaked in a sweet syrup, before being layered with sweet cheese, nuts and pistachio. It’s particularly famous in Nablus, in the West Bank, where it’s made with their traditional Nabulsi cheese. Whether you eat it soft or crispy, the gooey cheese, sweet taste and orange flavouring are to die for and we’re sure you won’t settle for one piece.10. Halva - this delicious sesame seed candy is beloved by Israelis and the perfect snack if you’re on the go. Mixed with sugar, or honey, it's often flavoured with vanilla or swirled chocolate pieces and look out for the pistachios too! Flaky and dense, you’ll see it sold not just in supermarkets but in huge wedges at food markets (vendors will cut off pieces for you, so you can mix and match!)Halva at the Carmel market shop. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinStreet food in Tel AvivSo, what are the 10 best-kept street food secrets in Tel Aviv? From the Carmel Market to the mean streets of Dizengoff and the alleyways of Jaffa, we’ll tell you…1. Abu Hassan, Jaffa - this family-owned hummus joint in Jaffa has been voted best of its kind in Israel and we know why. Simple and delicious, this is local food at its best and the servings are so large, they can often feed two. A must visit.2. Ha Kosem, Shlomo HaMelech Street - In English, the name means ‘the Magician’ and this downtown Israeli street food joint is an institution. Whether you want falafel in a pita, shawarma in a laffa or chicken schnitzel on a plate, they’ll help you out - and whilst you’re waiting in the long long line, they bring out piping hot falafel balls to keep your spirits up. Our tip: try the ‘rimonada’ (a cold drink made of lemonade and pomegranate juice). 3. Sabich Frishman - always busy with the locals, they’ll stuff your sabich with goodies you can’t imagine and the mango sauce is superb. Worth every minute of waiting and every shekel - and the guy behind the counter will make it as spicy as you like. 4. Mashawsha, Pinsker - this Galilee-style eatery is close to the Tel Aviv beach and specialises in mashawsha. This is a ‘light’ hummus with tahini which has a more airy texture. They also serve falafel balls, jugs of sweet lemonade and excellent knafeh. Great value and friendly staff to boot.5. Dr Shakshuka, Jaffa - known for its Libyan-style home cooking, this place is a real institution. Enjoy breakfast there on Friday morning, whilst lingering over a coffee in their courtyard, before spending time at the Jaffa Flea Market, full of second-hand goodies and hipster bars.A food stall in the Carmel Market, Tel Aviv, Israel.Photo byNicole BasteronUnsplash6. Shmuel - in the heart of Tel Aviv’s Carmel Market, this is the place to go if you want meat - kebabs, chicken breast, liver - and all in pita bread. A great place for a casual lunch - it might be no-frills but the food is 100% authentic. 7. Shlomo and Doron - street food in the Carmel Market never was this good. Creative preparation makes the taste exceptional and the prices are very reasonable. Don’t worry about the basic appearance of the place - this hummus is top-notch, so grab a table outside and indulge. Our tip: if you’re not too full from lunch, try the malabi dessert. 8. Burika Centre - the twist in this snack is that it’s put in a fresh pita, and accompanied by sauces and vegetables. Our tip: try the potato and egg with tahini and tomatoes. Unbelievable! 9. Shakshuka - just off the main drag of the market, you’ll find this unpretentious little place. Their homemade shakshuka is fab and they also do Greek, Italian and Spanish versions! With some of their crusty bread dipped in the dish, you’re going to leave happy. 10. Sabich Tchernikhovsky - prepared lovingly and with great attention to detail, this tiny place is well-known in Tel Aviv. Stand in line, order one then sit on a bench opposite and enjoy it. The fried eggplant is wonderful and if you really want to push the boat out, order one with cheese!Assorted spices stall, Tel Aviv, Israel. Photo byJeremy BezangeronUnsplashStreet food in JerusalemLina, Old City - in the Old City’s Christian Quarter, just off the Via Dolorosa, this popular hummus joint has six tables but is always popular, particularly for its hummus with pine nuts, creamy eggplant dip and crunchy fries. Run by two brothers, who took it over from their dad (his pictures are on the wall) the food is good value for money and super tasty.Arafat, Old City - close to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem’s Old City, this tiny place has no menu, friendly staff and just a few tables. They only serve two things - hummus and chicken with rice, but no one ever complains! The hummus is creamy, flavourful and made every hour. The only problem is they often sell out early, so don’t arrive after 2 pm!Knafeh cooked in Jerusalem street. Photo by Jorge Fernández Salas on UnsplashStreet Food at Mahane Yehuda Market, JerusalemFalafel Brothers Levy - a renowned spot in the Jerusalem food market, on the corner with Agrippas street, this falafel joint is a legend - the crispy balls are crunchy and flavourful, the pita is soft and the salads are fresh. There’s almost no seating so you’ll have to get it to go, but you won’t be disappointed.Ha Agas - this family business is beloved by locals and vegans alike for their hummus, stuffed vegetables, black lentil patties and vine leaves with rice. Just a few tables inside but there’s always something good boiling in a pot. Cheap, yummy and friendly - it’s a must-try! Our tip: try the hibiscus juice!FishenChips - this fast food joint in Mahane Yehuda Market features the British classic, but without the mushy peas and swapping mayonnaise for salt and vinegar on the chips! Crunchy batter on the outside and soft flaky fish on the inside, you can order either red tuna or cod. There isn’t much seating so head for the benches across from the stand and soak up the market atmosphere.If you want to try Israeli street food, join eitherCarmel Market Food Tour.Fresh juice stall, Jerusalem. Photo byShalev CohenonUnsplash

We’re back today, continuing our series of major historical events in Israel. In part one, we looked at major turning points in biblical times - from Abraham’s arrival in the Promised Land, King David and Solomon’s reigns, the capture of Jerusalem by the Romans and the life and times of Jesus. In part two, we explored other important historical events in Israel, ranging from Byzantine and Arab rule, the Crusades, the Ottoman Empire and the British Mandate.Israeli flag on a pole, Jerusalem, Israel. Photo byTaylor BrandononUnsplashWe left things at the moment the State of Israel was proclaimed in Tel Aviv by Prime Minister David Ben Gurion, in the Hall of Independenceon 14th May 1948. A few hours later, the state officially came into being, when the British ended their rule. The stage would soon be set for the bloody War of Independence, between Israel and its Arab neighbours, and this - unfortunately - would be the first of many.When it comes to historical events in Israel in the modern era, it’s a tall order to know where to begin. After all, let’s face it, this is the Middle East, and when it comes to politics you could discuss this region for years and still be confused. For sure, Israel has been embroiled in a number of conflicts with its neighbours since the establishment of the state, and whilst it would be convenient to gloss over them, the reality is that these conflicts have shaped and formed the country - and continue to do so, even today. Here are ten of the most important events that we think deserve a mention, in the last 73 years…Independence Hall, Tel Aviv.Photo credit: © Shutterstock1. 1947–1949 Palestine War (aka in Israel as the War of Independence)After the United Nations voted in favour of the partition of Palestine into two states - one Jewish and the other Arab - conflict between the two peoples intensified. The day after Israel declared independence, Arab forces from Transjordan, Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon and Syria attacked. The ensuing war was fought on different fronts - in the north, south and east - and was extremely bloody for both sides.The war took its toll, no more so than in Jerusalem, where a huge battle raged for control of the road (‘corridor’) leading into the city. Other enormous battles took place at Latrun, and in the Sinai. At the outset, Arab forces had the upper hand; by ‘phase two’ the Israelis had recaptured ground and at the end of the war, the Arab armies had been driven out and Israel secured its borders.In the midst of this, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians fled, or were told to leave by their leaders (depending on whom you choose to believe). It was a terrible war for Israel - 6,373 were killed in action, which amounted to almost 1% of the population. Huge numbers of Palestinians and Arab forces also lost their lives. But the fact is that the State of Israel had survived its birth.The Wailing Wall at night, Jerusalem. Photo bySander CrombachonUnsplash2. The Eichmann Trial - 1961-1962Adolf Eichmann was one of the chief architects of the Holocaust but, for many years, evaded justice, disappearing from Europe after the Second World War. In 1959, news reached Israel that he was still alive and living in Argentina, as ‘Richard Klement.’ Mossad (Israel’s security service) enacted a daring plan, kidnapped Eichmann and brought him to Jerusalem, where he was put on trial for his crimes.The Eichmann trial left the public spellbound as, day after day, survivors stood up in court and told their stories (many for the first time). It marked a turning point in society - up until then, the Holocaust had not been greatly discussed - and the trial bought the horrors to public consciousness. Eichmann was found guilty of crimes against humanity and the Jewish nation and war crimes and hanged in the spring of 1962. His ashes were scattered at sea.Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum.Photo credit: © Shutterstock3. The Six-Day War - 1967This war between Israel and the Arabs took place between 5th and 10th June 1967. After Israel understood that Arab armies were mobilising against her, she carried out a devastating pre-emptive strike on Egypt’s air force (at that time, on the tarmac), and within three days had won the ground war. After Jordan entered the war and began shelling Jerusalem, Israel responded with a devastating counter-attack, Israel recaptured the capital and its paratroopers entered the gates of the Old City and continued onto the Western Wall - the photographs captured are utterly iconic. Simultaneously, in the north, Israel captured the Golan Heights from the Syrians.The outcome was a tremendous victory for Israel and a terrible loss for the Arab nations. Public reaction in Israel was nothing short of euphoric - however, it also marked a new aspect to the ongoing conflict, since more than one million Palestinians in Jordan had been captured and were now under Israeli rule. In the meantime, Yitzhak Rabin was lauded as a hero for his efforts as Defence Minister and Gamal Nassar, Egypt’s President, handed in his resignation. The power balance had indeed shifted.Syrian Fortification, Mt. Bental. Photo credit: © Oksana Mats4. The Yom Kippur War - 1973After their loss of territory (and public face) to Israel in 1967, the Arab armies set about planning a ‘rematch.’ On Yom Kippur - Israel’s most holy day - when millions of citizens were praying in synagogues, they launched a surprise attack on two fronts - the Egyptians in the Sinai peninsula and the Syrians up in the Golan Heights.Israel was caught entirely off guard (it later transpired that they had shrugged off intelligence warnings). For his part, Sadat, the Egyptian Prime Minister, took the view that if Israel was defeated, they would be forced to negotiate for peace (after 1967, they had won a great deal of territory and, thus, held a strong hand). Initially, the Arab armies made impressive gains - after all, it would take Israel several days to become fully mobilised. The fighting lasted from 6th to 25th October, when a ceasefire brokered by the UN came into being. But the cost for the Jewish nation was high - heavy casualties and fury at the government for being caught off-guard. Eventually, Golda Meir, the Prime Minister, was forced to tender her resignation.Remnants of the Valley of Tears Battle, Golan Heights.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin5. War in Lebanon - 1982Tensions on Israel’s border ran high all through 1981, with katyusha rockets being fired into small communities in northern Israel by south Lebanon PLO (Palestinian Liberation Organisation) guerillas. In June 1982, Israel’s Prime Minister Ariel Sharon launched ‘Operation Peace for Galilee’ in an attempt to force the Lebanese government to take action against the PLO. Israeli forces went overland, all the way to Beirut, even though Israel’s Prime Minister, Menachem Begin, had ordered the army not to move more than 25 km into Lebanese territory. The Israeli army then besieged Arafat (the PLO leader) and his guerillas, as well as destroyed over 100 Syrian anti-aircraft missiles. The fighting lasted about three months.In the chaos that followed, Israel miscalculated and turned a blind eye when Christian ‘Phalangist’ militia forces entered two Palestinian refugee camps. Hundreds of men, women and children were murdered at Sabra and Shatila and in Israel tens of thousands of people took to the streets, outraged by the massacre. Later, an Israeli enquiry would find Arik Sharon guilty of negligence and he was forced to resign. After the horrors of the Lebanon war, when a new government replaced Begin, they began enacting a ‘phased withdrawal’, though keeping control of a 19 km security buffer zone.Rosh Hanikra sea grottoes on the border with Lebanon, Israel.Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin6. The Gulf War - 1991After Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait, in the summer of 1990, coalition forces (led by the USA) began an aerial and naval bombardment of Iraq in January 1991. Iraq had made no secret of the fact that it would attack if invaded and promptly responded by firing Scud missiles at Israel. Millions of citizens had to hide in bomb shelters and sealed rooms and donned gas masks, terrified of a chemical attack using nerve agents such as sarin. All in all, 74 Israelis were killed - two directly and the rest dying of heart attacks and suffocation. There was a great deal of damage to property and although Israel never entered the war directly, it came close (at one point, Israeli commandos were about to board helicopters but were persuaded by Dick Cheney, the US Foreign Minister, to lay low).7. The First and Second Intifadas - 1987-1993 and 2000-2005In Arabic, ‘intifada’ means ‘uprising’ or ‘shaking off’ and the two intifadas that took place in Israel between 1987-1993 and 2000-2005 can best be described as organised, grassroots protests by Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza against Israel. Broadly speaking, their aim was to end Israel’s occupation of these territories and to create an independent Palestinian state.The First Intifada began at the end of 1987, in the form of throwing rocks and Molotov cocktails by young Palestinians at Israeli troops…military reprisals by Israel were sometimes severe and this led to an escalation of violence, in the form of rifles, explosives and hand grenades. Over 2.000 people died in the First Intifada, at a ratio of 3 Palestinians to every Israeli.Gaza Strip on the map. Photo byCHUTTERSNAPonUnsplashThe First Intifada came to an end after Labour were elected and, under Rabin, the Oslo Accords were signed - the Palestinian Authority was created with the objective of a two-state solution coming into being in the following five years. For a number of reasons (especially the one below), this never came to pass.The Second Intifada was sparked off after the failure of the Camp David Accords (between Bill Clinton, Ehud Barak and Yasser Arafat) combined with an ill-timed visit by Ariel Sharon’s to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. The Second Intifada was drawn out and particularly bloody - many civilians died as well as the military forces. Palestinians took to suicide bombings, which proved to be an effective means of bringing terror into public spaces. The Israeli army responded with tank and air attacks, targeted killings and gunfire. In the five years that it lasted, there were endless bombings of popular spots such as a disco in Tel Aviv, a hotel in Haifa over Passover and a pizzeria in Jerusalem. Crowded buses were also targeted and this ‘cult of martyrdom’ shook the Israeli public substantially.The death toll, all in all, came to around 1,000 Israelis and 3,000 Palestinians, as well as 64 foreigners. Amnesty International condemned the killings on both sides. Dome of the Rock, the Muslim shrine on the Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock8. The Assassination of Yitzhak Rabin - 1995Yitzhak Rabin, a decorated military leader and Israel’s Prime Minister, was re-elected in 1992, running on a platform of making peace with the Palestinians. Under his rule, the Oslo Accords were signed, which split the Israeli public into two camps - those who supported peace efforts and those who believed it could only lead to more terror. Many protests were held against Rabin, particularly in Jerusalem and outside his private home in the Tel Aviv suburbs, and the general political climate became tense and even hostile. This culminated in the events of 4th November 1995, when Rabin was assassinated at the end of a huge Peace Rally, supporting the Oslo Accords, in central Tel Aviv.The gunman, Yigal Amir, a far-right religious student shot Rabin three times as he walked down the stairs of the square at which he had been the key speaker. He was rushed to nearby Ichilov Hospital but died soon after arrival. The Israeli public was left in a state of shock and disbelief and Rabin’s funeral was attended by dignitaries from across the world. Famously, Bill Clinton stood up and gave his eulogy, ending it with the now immortalised Hebrew words ‘ Shalom, haver’ (“‘Goodbye, friend’). Amir was put on trial and found guilty. He remains in prison until this day but has still not expressed remorse for his actions. A library and research centre devoted to Rabin was built in Tel Aviv and is open to the public.Rabin Square, Tel Aviv, Israel. Photo byYoav AzizonUnsplash9. The Gaza Disengagement - 2005It was Prime Minister Arik Sharon who put forward (and carried through) the plan of unilateral disengagement from the Gaza Strip, in 2005. Close to 9,000 Israeli settlers were living in 21 settlements throughout the strip, and in the absence of a peace plan, Sharon decided it was necessary to evacuate the area to improve Israel’s security and status on the international playing field. After the plan was approved by his Likud party, Sharon pushed through the plan, leading to criticism from individuals in his own camp and support from more left-wing elements of Israeli society. Operation Yad L’Achim (‘Giving Brothers a Hand’) gave settlers the opportunity to leave voluntarily, with soldiers offering to help them pack. Most, however, refused.On August 15th, compulsory evacuation began. Some settlers left peacefully but others had to be removed forcibly. Many barricaded themselves into their homes (some threatened to set themselves alight) and had to be dragged, kicking and screaming, out their front doors. After seven days, the evacuation was complete and this brought to an end 38 years of a Jewish presence in Gaza. The territory was handed over to the Palestinian Authority but two years later the secular ruling party, Fatah, was defeated by Hamas (a militant Islamic organisation).An old pier in Gaza.Photo byEmad El ByedonUnsplash10. War with Hamas - 2014 and 2021After Hamas was elected, on a platform that supported the destruction of Israel, Israel responded by declaring it a ‘hostile entity’. Sanctions followed and in the following years, there were a series of rockets fired by militants to which Israel responded with airstrikes, as well as the capture of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, after a border ambush.In the summer of 2014, Israel launched a military operation named ‘Protective Edge’, following the kidnap and murder of three Israeli teenagers. It was a particularly awful conflict, lasting seven weeks with many deaths, both of Palestinian militants and civilians and Israeli soldiers. After a large-scale ground invasion, to destroy a network of underground tunnels built by Hamas, an open-ended ceasefire was announced.In May 2021, after several more years of tensions, another crisis was triggered in Jerusalem, with violence breaking out at Temple Mount. Shortly afterwards, Hamas issued an ultimatum to Israel and when it was refused, launched a barrage of rockets into Israel at 9 pm. An eleven-day conflict continued, which culminated in airstrikes, as part of Operation ‘Guardian of the Walls’. Over 3,500 rockets were fired into Israel in the next eleven days, although 90% of them were intercepted and destroyed by the Iron Dome (an air defence system). By the end of this latest round of conflict, 260 Palestinians (many of them militants), 12 Israeli civilians and one Israeli soldier were dead. Since then, Egypt has attempted to broker a long-term deal between Israel and Hamas but this has not been successful and most believe it is just a matter of time before the next war breaks out.If you are interested in the modern history of Israel, feel free to read our article on historical figures in Israel as well as to join our Golan Heights tours and Tel Aviv tours.Tel Aviv after a rocket attack, 2021.Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin

Tourists who decide to journey to Israel come for all different reasons - sunshine, beaches, hiking trails, archaeological sites, food workshops, and adrenaline-charged activities such as sailing, rafting, and off-road jeep tours in the Judean desert. But one of the biggest attractions of a trip to the Holy Land - whether you’re a believer or not - is the fact that it’s home to three of the world’s major religions - Judaism, Islam, and, of course, Christianity.The dome over the Rotunda (Jesus's Tomb),Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinFor Christians, visiting Israel is often the pilgrimage of a lifetime. Every year, tens of thousands of Christians - both Protestants and Catholics - arrive in Israel, intent on exploring the life of Jesus. They will journey from his birthplace in Bethlehem, onto Nazareth, where he spent some of his early years, then continue to Galilee, where he spent a considerable period of time ministering, before traveling to Jerusalem, where Jesus spent the last week of his life. There, they can retrace his footsteps, from the Last Supper with his disciples, to betrayal and arrest, in the Garden of Gethsemane, then his journey along the Via Dolorosa, to the cross, and finally to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where he was buried and rose again. At any time of the year, but particularly Easter or Christmas, this pilgrimage can be a very moving experience for Christian tourists.View of the Dormition Abbey on Mount Zion, Jerusalem, Israel.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinChristian Population, Dioceses, Parishes, and Communities in IsraelSo how many Christians live in Israel? The number is approximately 200,000, which amounts to 1.5% of the population. The largest Christian community in Israel is the Greek Catholics (Melkite), who make up 40% of the total. Then you have the Greek Orthodox at 32%, Roman Catholics in Israel at 20%, and the Maronites at 7%. The remaining Christian groups amount to around 1% of the total.Seven of the jurisdictions of the Catholic Churches in Israel overlap with each other - Armenian, Chaldean, Greek Melkite, Armenian Latin (Roman), Chaldean Maronite, and Syriac. At present, there are 103 Catholic parishes in Israel and the Palestinian Territories.Garden of Gethsemane, Jerusalem, Israel. Photo byStacey FrancoonUnsplashRepresentatives of the Holy See in IsraelThe diplomatic relations between The Holy See and the State of Israel were first established on 30th December 1993. Three weeks later, after the two states adopted a ‘Fundamental Agreement’ a Vatican Nunciature in Israel and an Israeli embassy in Rome were opened. As the Vatican sees it, this ‘normalization’ is, to some degree, a way of promoting better Christian-Jewish relations which, historically, could be described as poor.Israel Catholic Travel GuideToday we’re looking at Catholic influences in Israel - because, for sure, the land of Israel is inextricably bound up with central events in Christian history, particularly the life and times of Jesus. It’s no surprise then that so many Catholics find the idea of a trip to the Holy Landand of visiting the Catholic holy sites in Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Galilee completely compelling.Inside the Dormition Abbey on Mount Zion, Jerusalem, Israel.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinCatholic Churches in JerusalemLet’s start with Jerusalem, which has a considerable number of Catholic churches and holy sites, including: 1. Church of the Holy Sepulchre - also known as the Church of the Resurrection, this is probably the most famous church in the Old City and presumed to be the site where Jesus was both crucified and then rose from the dead. Custody of the site is shared between the Roman Catholic (also known as ‘Latins’), Greek Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic, Coptic Orthodox, Ethiopian Orthodox, and Syriac Orthodox Churches.2. Bethphage - situated on the Mount of Olives, east of the Old City, Bethpage is mentioned in the Christian Bible as the place where Jesus sent his disciples to look for a donkey. This donkey (ass) he would later use to ride into Jerusalem in what Christians now celebrate as Palm Sunday. Meaning ‘House of the Early Figs’ Bethphage was built in 1883 and today it is run by the Franciscans.Candles lit in the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, Jerusalem.Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin3. Room of the Last Supper - located on the top floor of King David’s Tomb, the Cenacle is extremely holy for Catholics, since it is considered to be the place where Jesus held the Last Supper. ‘Cenacle’ in Latin means ‘dining room’ but Catholics also refer to the word as ‘retreat’. Today the building is controlled by the state of Israel although the Vatican contests this and says it belongs to the church.4. Dominus Flevit - this Roman Catholic church sits on the Mount of Olives, opposite the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem. Although only built in 1955, it occupies an ancient site, standing on the ruins of a Byzantine church that dates back to the 5th century. Designed by the Italian architect, Antonio Barluzzi, its famous window depicts a chalice and cross, within an arch-shaped design. Today, the administration of the church is carried out by the Franciscans.5. Dormition Abbey - on Mount Zion, close to the Zion Gate, this Catholic Abbey belongs to the Benedictine monks and is said to be the spot at which Jesus’ mother, Mary, died. Completed in 1910 by the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, the site dates back to the 5th century.Dominus Flevit Сhurch, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock6. Flagellation Church - found in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City, near to the Lions' Gate, this Roman Catholic church is part of the Franciscan Monastery of the Flagellation. According to tradition, it is the spot at which Jesus was flogged by Roman soldiers before he walked along the Via Dolorosa, en route to his crucifixion. 7. Garden of Gethsemane - located at the foot of the Mount of Olives, this is an incredibly holy site for Catholics, as it is where Jesus prayed before his betrayal by Judas Iscariot and his subsequent arrest. Next to it is the Basilica of the Agony (also known as the Church of All Nations), built on the foundation of a Byzantine church that dates back to the 4th century.8. Church of the Pater Noster - part of a Carmelite Monastery, this church also sits on the Mount of Olives. On its walls are a series of ceramic tiles, all bordered with colorful flowers, inside which the Lord’s Prayer is written in a wide variety of languages. Entrance to the Church of Pater Naster. Jerusalem, Israel. Photo credit: © Shutterstock9. Church of St. Anne- built in the 12th century, and situated just at the beginning of the Via Dolorosa. St. Anne’s is considered to be one of the most beautiful Crusader Churches in Israel. Today, it is owned and managed by the White Fathers, an Order of the Catholic Church so named because of the color of their robes. 10. St. Peter in Gallicantu - Built on the slopes of Mount Zion, this church is named after the disciple Peter’s denial of Jesus 'Gallicantu’ in Latin, which means ‘cocks crow’ and refers to Peter refusing to acknowledge his relationship with Jesus three times. The church today belongs to the Assumptionist Fathers, a French Order established in 1887 and so named for Mary’s assumption into heaven.11. St. Stephen Church - located on the ancient road to Damascus, just outside the walls of the Old City, this Dominican monastery and French school for Biblical Archaeology, lie on the slope of the hill close to the Garden Tomb. Church of St. Anne, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock12. 3rd Stationof the Cross- this is the point where Jesus fell for the first time, on his walk to Calvary. It is also the place where you will find a Polish catholic church, purchased by Armenian Catholics based in Poland. 13.4th Station of the Cross - according to tradition, this is where the Virgin Mary stood and watched her son Jesus suffer, as he walked with this cross to his death. This is also the location of the Armenian Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Spasm, built in 1881. 14. 5th Station of the Cross - the fifth Station of the Cross is outside the Franciscan Chapel of Simon of Cyrene, and at this popular pilgrimage stop, it is traditional to place your hand inside the imprint where Jesus is thought to have leaned against the wall. 5th Station of the Cross, Jerusalem.Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin15.6th Station of the Cross - here sits the Greek Catholic Church of St. Veronica, built in 1866, and today run by the Little Sisters of Jesus. It is believed to be the place where a woman named Veronica wiped Jesus’s face of blood, with a cloth. 16. Church of the Visitation - formerly known as the Abbey Church of St. John in the Woods, this catholic church in Ein Kerem, a hillside village in south-west Jerusalem, is run by Franciscans and honors the visit paid by the Virgin Mary (the mother of Jesus) to Elizabeth (the mother of John the Baptist). 17. Monastery of St. John in the Desert - built next to a spring on a wooded slope, this monastery is also run by Franciscans and is a short distance from Ein Kerem (considered to be the birthplace of John the Baptist).Church of the Visitation, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem. Photo credit:©Dan PorgesCatholic Churches in Central Israel and the West Bank1. Emmaus Church of the Crusaders - also known as the Church of the Resurrection and the Abbey of St. Mary this Benedictine monastery sits in Abu Gosh, a village close to Jerusalem. Traditionally, it is known as the place where Christ first appeared after his resurrection.2. Shepherds' Field - southeast of Bethlehem, in Beit Sahour, this Roman Catholic church is run by the Franciscans. It marks the place, according to Catholic tradition, where Christ’s birth was first announced by the angels.3. St. Lazarus - situated in the town of al-Eizariya (identified with biblical Bethany), this West Bank church is close to what Christian tradition says is the tomb of Lazarus and also the site of the house where Mary, Martha, and Lazarus once lived. 4. Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem - one of the oldest working churches in existence, this is a very holy site for all Christians, who believe its grotto to be the spot at which Mary gave birth to Jesus. Its actual guardianship is shared by three Church denominations - Armenian, Roman Catholic, and Greek Orthodox.Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem.Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin5. Milk Grotto, Bethlehem - also known as the Grotto of our Lady, Christian tradition says is the place where the Holy Family found refuge during the Massacre of the Innocents before they could flee to Egypt. The name comes from the story that the Virgin Mary spilt a ‘drop of milk’ on the cave’s floor.6. Emmaus Qubeibeh, Qubeibeh - this catholic church, owned by Franciscans, is about 10 km (7 miles from Jerusalem). Its sanctuary is where, according to tradition, a resurrected Jesus appeared on the road to Emmaus before two of his disciples, Simeon and Cleopas. 7. House of Parables, Taybeh - this is situated in the Palestinian Christian village of Taybeh, about 30 km northwest of Jerusalem. The ‘Parable House’ lies within the Roman Catholic church courtyard and its wooden door is estimated to be 2,000 years old.8. Church of Nicodemus, Ramla - Managed by the Franciscans, since the 16th century the site of this monastery is considered to have been the home of Joseph of Arimathea, who was one of Jesus’ disciples and asked for permission to take him down from the cross and bury him. The Milk Grotto, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockCatholic Churches in Galilee1. Stella Maris, Haifa - this 19th-century Carmelite monastery was built on the orders of Brother Cassini and opened in 1836, ‘Stella Maris’ meaning ‘Star of the Sea.’2. Wedding Church, Cana - also known as the ‘First Miracle Church’ and today operated by Franciscans, it is considered to be the place where Jesus performed his first miracle, turning water into wine at a poor couple’s wedding feast.3. House of Peter, Capernaum - this modern catholic pilgrimage church is part of a Franciscan monastery. Presumed to be the spot at which the disciple Peter once lived, it sits on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.4.Church of Beatitudes - situated on a small hill, overlooking the Sea of Galilee, this church sits close to the ruins of a small Byzantine-era church, dating back to the 4th century. The spot is considered to be where Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount.Church of Beatitudes, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock5. Muhraqa Monastery - this Carmelite Monastery is situated at the spot where the Prophet Elijah is supposed to have confronted the false prophets of Baal. Situated in the village of Daliat-el-Carmel, it affords spectacular views of the Jezreel Valley.6. Church of the Annunciation, Nazareth - also referred to as the ‘Basilica of the Annunciation’ this church is managed by Franciscans and stands over the cave which Catholics believe was once the home of the Virgin Mary. Its cupola dominates modern Nazareth and today it is the largest church in the Middle East.7. Church of St. Joseph, Nazareth - this Franciscan church was built in 1914 over the remains of much older churches. According to tradition, this is where the carpentry workshop of Joseph, Jesus’s father, stood.8. Synagogue Church, Nazareth - this Greek Melkite Catholic church lies in the heart of Nazareth and is so named because of a claim that it is the same building that was once the village synagogue in the time of Jesus. Church of the Annunciation, Nazareth, Israel. Photo credit: © Shutterstock9. Church of Multiplication, Tabgha - this Benedictine church is located in Tabgha, on the northwest shores of the Sea of Galilee. It is built on the site of two former churches, dating back to Byzantine times.10. Church of the Primacy of St. Peter, Tabgha - this Franciscan church in Tabgha, also close to the shores of the Galilee, commemorates and is supposed to mark the spot where Jesus reinstated Peter as leader of the Disciples. 11. Сhurch of Transfiguration, Mount Tabor - this church is part of a Franciscan monastery built in 1922 by the Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi. It is considered by Catholics to be the site at which the transfiguration of Jesus occurred when Jesus met with Elijah and Moses. 12. Church of St. Peter, Tiberias - next to a monastery in Tiberias, on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, this unusual Crusader church is administered by Koinonia Giovanni Battista, a Catholic community in Italy. Its roof is shaped like a boat that has been upturned, which references St. Peter, a fisherman on the Galilee who Jesus eventually chose as his lead disciple.Church of Multiplication, Tabgha, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockIf you are interested in visiting Catholic churches in Israel, feel free to check out our Christian Israel Tour Packages and Christian day tours.

So you’ve decided to book a trip to Israel? Well, first of all, congratulations - or ‘Mazel tov’ as we say in Hebrew! Trust us, you’re going to have a perfect vacation. Not only is this country full of bucket list attractions - from holy sitesand archaeological remains to sandy beaches, lush green hills and silent deserts - but it’s also a great choice of holiday for the independent traveller. Most people speak English (and many speak it fluently), public transport is widespread and cheap and since Israel is the ultimate ‘start up nation’ you can be sure there’ll be all kinds of modern conveniences to make your trip a pleasure.Jaffa Port, Israel.Photo byFaruk KaymakonUnsplashOnce you’ve booked your flight, arranged your Corona paperwork (welcome to the Brave New World) and bought your travel insurance, the big question you’re going to face is what kind of accommodation to choose. And let’s face it - this is really important because where you choose to sleep is going to take up a considerable part of your budget.Now, one thing we have to admit is that Israel is not a cheap country to visit - and luxury hotels are eye-wateringly costly. Even so, that shouldn’t be a reason for you to avoid visiting, because there are plenty of ways to travel in Israel on a budget one of the best ones being to seek out accommodation that won’t break the bank. And the good news is that there’s something for every price range, whether you’re in the big cities of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem or roaming around the Galilee or Negev desert.From youth hostels in Jerusalem and cheap hotels in Haifa to private sublets in Tel Aviv, kibbutz accommodation in Galilee, and Airbnb rentals in Eilat, you just have to know where to search, and that’s where we come in. Take a look at some of our recommendations for affordable accommodation in Israel - and once you’ve booked one, hop on your flight and start enjoying yourself! Dead Sea Area, Israel. Photo byItay PeeronUnsplash1. Budget Hostels in IsraelSo fear not if the swanky Waldorf Astoria and ritzy Royal Beach are out of your reach, because there are still plenty of affordable options all over Israel, ensuring you can stay somewhere clean, comfortable and well-situated, without having to take out a mortgage. And the first option is budget hostels.Budget Hostels inTel Aviv, IsraelThe Spot - located in the Tel Aviv Port (Namal), and just a stone’s throw from the beach, the Spot Hostel offers a wide range of accommodation from ‘pods’ and ‘mini rooms’ as well as singles/doubles/family options. Close to the famous Dizengoff Street, and also Yarkon Park, they have a bar, screening room, co-working space and a great local breakfast included in the price. They also offer walking tours of Tel Aviv, beer workshops (!) and ‘open mic’ nights.Florentin Hostel - set in the cool, hipster neighbourhood of Florentin, sandwiched between Neve Tzedek and Jaffa, this modern five-floor building is clean, comfortable and quiet and, according to travellers, has spotless bathrooms! Popular with young backpackers, Florentin Hostel offers travellers the use of a huge terrace, breakfast and free walking tours of Bauhaus Tel Aviv.Florentin, Tel Aviv; Israel. Photo credit: © Jenny EhrlichBudget Hostels in Jerusalem, IsraelThe Post - this hostel has a unique past - the building in which you’ll stay was once the Central Post Office of Jerusalem. Designed by the British Mandate, it was designed in an international style, with touches of Jerusalem design. Walking distance both from Mahane Yehuda Market andJerusalem's Old City, the Post offer dorms and private rooms, as well as a large lounge, recreation room and rooftop bar! They also host bands, workshops and their kitchen is well-equipped.Jaffa Gate Hostel - Set inside the Old City wallsof Jerusalem, and an easy walking distance from the Tower of David, Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Western Wall, the Jaffa GateHostel offers both dorms and private rooms, late check-outs, no curfew and fantastic views from their rooftop. Consistently described in reviews as clean, friendly and inexpensive, it’s a slice of peace and quiet in the busy Old City of Jerusalem.The Post Hostel Lobby, Jerusalem, Israel. Photo take from theposthostel.comBudget Hostels in Eilat, IsraelAhla Plus - situated in a modern village in central Eilat (10 minutes from the beach) Ahla Plus offers hammocks, swings, a common lounge and an enormous kitchen. Comfy and stylish dorm rooms and colourful decor throughout, you can hire bikes and obtain helpful information on dive stores in the city, if you want to explore the Red Sea underwater.Budget Hostels in the Galilee, IsraelAviv Hostel - in a charming stone building, just outside Tiberias, this small hostel is just 2 minutes by foot from the Sea of Galilee as well as 2km from Hamat Tiberias National Park. Described as ‘homey’ and ‘comfortable’ the staff are incredibly helpful (even if you arrive late at night!) and also has a terrace/rooftop bar with great views.Sailing Boat at the Sea of Galilee.Photo byDave HerringonUnsplashBudget Hostels in Haifa, IsraelLocated in the charming neighbourhood of the German Colony, the owners of the Haifa hostel - Omer and Danielle - have a reputation for friendliness and the hostel itself is described as well-maintained, extremely clean and with great showers. They offer vegan pancakes with silan (date syrup) for breakfast, and the space has a ‘chilled’ vibe as well as a great co-working space.Budget Hostels in the Golan HeightsLocated in the Odem Forest national reserve, the Golan Heights hostel offers simply furnished rooms with free wifi, a shared living room, lockers and linens and a basketball court outside. Guests can use the kitchen and also the BBQ facilities outdoors. This is a good location if you want to horse ride, cycle, enjoy hiking trails or visit wineries. Mount Hermon, the Nimrod Fortress and the Banias Waterfalls are all within easy distance.Carmel Beach, Haifa, Israel. Photo byYousef EspaniolyonUnsplash2. Cheap Hotels in IsraelUnlike many other countries, the Israeli hotel ranking system doesn’t put much stock in the star category system, arguing that in these times of Tripadvisor, it isn’t a reliable indicator of quality. In any event, whether they’re right or wrong, it’s certainly true that you can read reviews online before you book, and judge for yourself. Cheap hotels in Tel Aviv, IsraelThe Port Hotel - in the fashionable ‘Old North’ of Tel Aviv, and close to the Namal port and Hilton Beach is the Port Hotel, which offers small but modern rooms, all with a private bathroom, flatscreen tv and a mini-fridge. Their roof terrace affords panoramic views of the city and theMediterranean Sea and the buffet breakfast is of good quality. Outside, you’re a stone’s throw from Dizengoff Street and Yarkon Park, and just a short cab ride from the city centre.Savoy Sea Side Hotel - just 2 minutes walk from the beach, and also the Carmel Market, the central Savoy Sea Side offers ‘intimate hospitality with a European flavour. This boutique hotel has a minimalist design throughout, and some bedrooms come with a bathtub. Breakfast is served on the roof terrace and is rich and plentiful. Travellers really seem to appreciate the welcoming staff.Aerial view of Jaffa and Tel Aviv, Israel.Photo byShai PalonUnsplashCheap Hotels in Jerusalem, IsraelThe Annexe - located in the Old City, just 600 metres from the Western Wall (Kotel), this gem of a budget hotel offers small and basic but clean and comfortable rooms each with its own kettle, desk and private bathroom. With its enviable location, it’s very close to some very popular sites, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of all Nations.De Cardo - this small boutique hotel offers real value for money and is close to the Old City, as well as many eateries and bars (some of which are open on Shabbat). They have very affordable family rooms, and whilst facilities are basic, everything is very new and clean. They do not provide food, so you will have to find breakfast elsewhere. The light rail is close by, for travelling around Jerusalem.Sunset in Jerusalem, Israel. Photo byDavid HolifieldonUnsplashCheap Christian Hotels in Jerusalem, IsraelAustrian Hospice - Located on the Via Dolorosa, in the Old City, the Austrian Hospice has been welcoming Christian pilgrims to Jerusalem since 1854 and has a stellar reputation for clean, comfortable accommodation and a hearty breakfast. They offer both dorms and private rooms and can accommodate groups (although you must plan ahead). The view from their rooftop is to die for and they also have a cafe which serves marvellous Austrian food, including schnitzel and homemade apple strudel with cream! Highly recommended.Rosary Sisters Convent Guesthouse - Situated just 5 minutes walk from the Old City, this comfortable and quiet guesthouse is run by nuns, whose profits are donated to charity. Accommodation includes 30 rooms (single, double, triple, some with baths) and dorms. They are clean and simple and everything is spotlessly clean. A continental breakfast is included in the price - lookout for the homemade preserves made of apricots from their garden. They also provide free coffee and tea all day.The Wailing Wall, Jerusalem, Israel. Photo bySnowscatonUnsplashCheap Hotels in Eilat, IsraelPalms Hotel - Palms Hotel offers good value for money, featuring a swimming pool, a children’s club, sun terrace and rooms with air conditioning and mini-fridges. A typical Israeli breakfast is served each morning and the hotel is just 10 minutes walk from the beach, cafes and bars and Eilat’s main shopping area. Cheap Hotels in the Dead Sea Area, IsraelThe Dead Sea doesn’t have too many budget options, but one we would recommend is the Hi Ein Gedi Hostel. Clean and comfortable, it’s a great option, especially for families and the views from the bedroom balconies are fantastic. The breakfast/buffet dinners offer lots of fruits and vegetables and they offer packed breakfasts if you’re setting off early to climb Masada at sunrise! The only drawback is that they’re 30 km from the beach, so you’ll need a car. Floating while reading a book at the Dead Sea. Photo byToa HeftibaonUnsplashCheap Hotels in Galilee, IsraelKibbutz Inbar Country Lodging - Nestled in the Galilee, this guest house/B&B has clean, comfortable lodgings for the independent traveller, as well as an outdoor pool (perfect for the hot months). Its location is excellent if you’re interested in exploring some of the most famous Christian pilgrimage sites in Galilee, including the Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Capernaum and the Mount of Beatitudes.Cheap Hotels in the Golan Heights, IsraelZimmer Nof L’Hermon - a ‘zimmer’ in Israel is a cabin/suite/private guest accommodation and many of them are quite luxurious. This one is close to Mount Hermon in Majdal Shams, one of Israel’s Druze villages. Whilst not too fancy, it is fully equipped with a kitchenette, flatscreen TV, terrace and garden and the nearby hiking trails are spectacular. It’s also just 40 km drive from Safed, the mystical and charming town in the Upper Galilee, famous for its winding alleys and Artists’ Colony.Ruins of Capernaum Synagogue, Galilee. Photo credit: © Shutterstock3. Sublets in IsraelIn our modern world, we have a lot of options when it comes to finding accommodation and one thing that many people take advantage of now is Facebook, as a ‘marketplace’ to buy and sell. In Israel, it can be an incredibly valuable resource, since there are groups across the country (especially in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem) advertising rooms, apartments and large houses for sublets. Whether you’re looking for a pied-à-terre in the city or a villa up in the Golan Heights, it’s worth looking at what people are offering. As we’ve said before, most Israelis speak excellent English (and sometimes also French, Spanish and Russian) and it’s easy enough to chat with people online, or via WhatsApp.Subletting someone’s home can also give you a real feel for how locals live in Israel - you can ask your host beforehand for recommendations of ‘off the beaten track’ activities that many Israeli tourists never see, and because you’ll probably have access to a decent kitchen, you can make a trip to the local markets (such as the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv or Mahane Yehuda in Jerusalem) to pick up produce for your home-cooked meals.Nimrod Fortress in the Golan Heights. Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin4. Airbnb in IsraelWe’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Airbnb here, because for many travellers it’s a simply indispensable resource. Israelis have embraced the ‘rent a room’ (or ‘rent a home’) concept in large numbers and all over the country, there are locals ready to welcome you into their lives, at very competitive prices.The obvious advantage of Airbnb accommodation - apart from being cheaper than most hotels - is that you’ll have an authentic stay and (much like subletting) you’ll hopefully find yourself in contact with friendly locals, who can give you lots of inside tips. Israel’s Airbnb offerings are incredibly varied - from private rooms in a shared house to the rental of tiny studios/apartments, which are functional, affordable and have everything you need to make your vacation comfortable and fun.A street in Acre, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin

The fact that Israel has such a warm and pleasant climate for much of the year is a huge reason it sees so many tourists. Like many Mediterranean destinations, it's blessed with beautiful sandy beaches, clear blue waters, endless cafes with outdoor seating, and plenty of sunshine. Indeed, between May and November, it’s rare for the entire country to see a drop of rain. View through the rain-specked window, Israel.Photo byRaimond KlavinsonUnsplashHowever, whilst rainy days aren’t common in Israel, they do still exist, and so if you are visiting in the winter and there’s a sudden downpour, what should you do? Well, you might not be able to hike, swim or cycle around but the good news is this is a country with plenty of indoor activities to keep you amused for hours.Below, we’re looking at things you can do that are amusing, entertaining, educational and will keep you dry whilst the wind blows and the rain pours. Whether you’re in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa or one of the small villages in the Negev or Galilee, we’re sure you’ll enjoy them. Hey, you won’t just learn something new but you might get so hooked on it that you’ll try it again. And then you’ll be thankful for the bad weather because if it hadn’t rained, you might never have headed indoors in the first place…A girl watching the rain. Photo byJorge RomanonUnsplash1. Visit a Planetarium in IsraelReady for an experience that’s ‘out of this world?’ Well, look no further than a trip to Israel’s most well-known planetarium, in Tel Aviv. Situated inside the Eretz Israel Museum, you’ll enjoy a fantastic show, whilst sitting in revolving seats! Learn about different galaxies and enjoy a ‘flight’, where you can explore the universe, each one with its billions of stars (which live, die and then are born again).English performances are available (check ahead of time).The venue also offers a show on Galileo and the modern telescopes.The planetarium accepts children over the age of 6, so it’s a great family attraction. There’s also ‘Madatech’ in Haifa, which is perfect for science lovers. Inside, you’ll find all kinds of hands-on experiences including a planetarium, interactive exhibitions, a robotics centre, 3D science films and even an innovation centre, that combines science with art.Starry sky.Photo byJoshua OhonUnsplash2. Crack the Code at an Escape Room in IsraelEscape Rooms are a global phenomenon - they’re perfect for any age, have clever designs and are wonderful if you want a bit of intellectual stimulation, as well as a fun day out. Since they’ve taken off in Israel, you’ve got so many to choose from, but here are three we’d recommend:‘Aladdin and the Magic Lamp‘- located in Haifa, kids will love searching for clues in the Sultan’s Palace and finding the magic lamp!‘Trapped’ - perfect for those who don’t scare easily, this Jerusalem escape room finds you in a blood-soaked lab, and with just an hour to save the lives of you and your friends.‘Mossad’- For aspiring secret-agents, there’s no better place to head than Tel Aviv where, in groups of 2-6, you’ll be put through your paces, with some serious assignments, to find out of you’ve got what it takes to takes to be an Israeli ‘James Bond’. Red escape room neon sign. Photo byZachary KeimigonUnsplash3. Defy Gravity with some Indoor Skydiving in IsraelA short drive from Tel Aviv is the city of Rishon LeZion and there you’ll find ‘Flybox’. It’s a new attraction in Israel which is becoming increasingly popular and it’s nothing short of indoor skydiving! Thought up in the 1990s, it is an ‘extreme sport’ but in a controlled and safe environment and, even better, it’s not just for adults - kids can try it out too.How does it work? This gravity-defying activity works by letting you hover over a wind tunnel - you enter by a lift which is generated by fans installed at the top of the tunnel that lifts the air. The tunnel compresses the air and increases the speed up to 275 km (170 miles) per hour. The tunnel you ‘fly’ in is see-through and 13.5 km here, meaning others can watch you as you soar through the air.As ‘Flybox’ says, it’s a perfect activity for couples, families and small groups alike and suitable for anyone aged 5 and up. You don’t need any experience or skills - there’s an instructor there to advise you, and ensure your safety and comfort and someone else will be keeping an eye on your airspeed. Get ready for take-off! Skydiving at Flybox, Israel.Photo from: www.flybox.co.il4. Take Up Indoor Rock Climbing in IsraelIf you’re the sporty type but don’t want to get soaked, then try I Climb, which is the largest indoor climbing group in Israel. They have six locations in Israel, including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Haifa. Their gyms give you the opportunity to lead climb, boulder, top rope and use an auto belay and, additionally, they offer a special climbing experience for kids.There’s also ‘Performance Rock’ in Tel Aviv, which is the first climbing wall in Israel devoted just to the bouldering method. The wall has more than 100 climbing routes (‘bouldering paths’ or ‘problems’) and there’s a wide range of levels and steps to discover. You don’t need any previous experience - just show up and progress through the ranks!A girl on a climbing wall. Photo byJonathan J. CastellononUnsplash5. Attend Cooking Classes in IsraelThere’s nothing more satisfying than learning to cook a new dish, and Israel’s full of cooking experts who are ready to share their expertise with you. Galilean Cooking Workshops - nestled in the Galilee, in northern Israel, this company offers you a chance to experience some real Middle Eastern hospitality, in a local’s home. Whether you want to be the guest of Druze, Christian or Muslim hosts, you’ll be assured of a warm welcome - the programme involves two hours of a cookery workshop. There you will get hands-on instruction in how to prepare traditional dishes before a sit-down lunch, where you try what you’ve made. It’s a great way to spend a few hours and not only will you improve your cooking skills - learning how to make food with fresh ingredients - but you’ll also get an idea of how locals live in the Galilee.Cooking workshop.Photo byMax DelsidonUnsplashLehem Zeh (‘This Bread’) - situated in Yeroham, in the Negev Hills, and just a 20-minute drive from Beersheba, this venture was established by Ariel Pollock Star, who moved to Israel from Cincinnati, USA and couldn’t find bagels in her local bakery so began making her own. The enterprise took off and she then established a collaborative cooking workspace, which she shares with other women-led ventures. Join her workshop and you won't just learn how to make these New York delights, but you’ll take six of them home with you (plain, sesame and onion - something for everyone!)Dan Gourmet in Tel Aviv -fantastic if you’re more than a beginner - they offer all kinds of food classes including Asian, Italian, pastries and the popular ‘Who’s Afraid of Fish?’ Nor will they be offended if you ask them questions about traditional Jewish cooking! Cooking with garlic. Photo byokeykatonUnsplash6. Enjoy a Ceramics Workshop in IsraelDown in the Dead Sea, you’ll find the studio of Estee Barak, who’s been making ceramics for over 30 years. Not only does she exhibit but she also offers workshops both in decorating ceramics and pottery throwing. Learn how to decorate a plate with Japanese firing methods or make your own pot on a wheel! Workshops last around 2 hours and can also be combined with a day trip to Masada and Ein Gedi.There’s also Keren Or’s lovely studio in Zichron Yaakov, close to Mount Carmel and Haifa, which offers workshops for couples, families, groups and individuals. Try your hand at ceramic sculpting, painting on plates/pots already fired, or have a ‘pottery for two’ afternoon tailored to your specific requirements. She also offers ‘team building’ days, for anyone who’s in need of workplace motivation!K-Clay ceramics studio, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin7. Ice-Skating in IsraelUp high in northern Israel sits Metula, which is a charming little town right next to the border with Lebanon (on a clear day, you can see for miles). In 1995 an activities and sports centre opened here and as well as swimming pools, a bowling alley, saunas and a shooting range, it offers an Olympic-size skating rink. Yes, and one that actually meets international standards) and with seating for over one thousand people.So for anyone who wants to have fun on the ice, this is the place to come - you can bring your own skates, rent a pair or simply sit and watch professionals practising with their trainers. (And if skating whets your appetite, and it’s a really cold winter, then take a short drive over to Mount Hermon on the Golan Heights…ok, it’s not inside but when snow falls, it’s a wonderful place to come and ski!Ice Peak, Holon - just 20 minutes drive from Tel Aviv, this skating rink is very organised and makes for a great family activity in Israel. Modern, clean and well-maintained, your ticket gives you access to the ice for 45 minutes at a time (your time slot will depend on the colour of the bracelet you’re given).Girl tying skates on.Photo by Matthew Sichkaruk on Unsplash8. Book a Chocolate or Candy-Making Workshop in IsraelHow many of us don’t like a sweet treat, now again and again? Well, if you’ve ever wanted to learn how to make some delectable sugary creations for yourself, attending a chocolate or candy-making workshop is the perfect rainy-day activity in Israel. Sarina Chocolate - about an hour’s drive north of Tel Aviv, on Moshav Ein Vered, feel free to indulge yourself. Childrens’ workshops take 2 hours and include making lollipops and chocolate paintings; adult workshops take around 3 hours and include learning how to create pralines, truffles and chocolate fondue! ToMoCandy - also not far from Tel Aviv - in Raanana - check out ToMoCandy. Here you can learn how to make vegan-friendly, gluten-free rock candy, at one of their fun and interactive workshops. Create your own personalised candies, and take home lollipops and two jars of your own handcrafted sweet treats. Perfect for birthday events as well as rainy days!Making chocolate cakes .Photo byToa HeftibaonUnsplash9. Indulge at a Spa in IsraelOn a grey and gloomy day, everyone deserves a treat, so why not indulge yourself at a spa? Israel has so many good ones but the two we’d recommend are in the north and south of the country. Carmel Forest - this little slice of paradise is nestled up in the Carmel, and offers one of the best spas in northern Israel, if not the entire country. For anyone who wants to escape the rain (and also anyone who’s stressed, tense or overloaded with life’s responsibilities) this is the place to head. Not only will you enjoy hospitality in a luxurious session but you’ll eat incredibly well. Carmel Forest offers wet and dry saunas, treatment rooms, a solarium, Turkish bath, swimming pool and jacuzzi and in addition to a range of spa treatments there are all kinds of health and wellness workshops on offer too, led by experts.Bereshit Mitzpe Ramon - with its spectacular location, overlooking this extraordinary Makhtesh Ramon Crater in the Negev desert, Bereshit is one of Israel’s top hotels. Not only does it have fabulous desert views, gourmet restaurants and beautifully-designed rooms, it also boasts a luxury spa. Like the Carmel Spa, it’s owned by the Isrotel group so you’re assured of high-quality service here.A woman getting a relaxing massage in a spa salon. Photo byengin akyurtonUnsplash10. Hang Out at a Bowling AlleyFinally, how could we miss out on the ultimate, fun rainy-day activity that everyone loves? Yes, it’s bowling. Israel has plenty of modern bowling alleys, well-designed with huge display screens and shiny alleys, so why not head off to one of them for some fun? It’s a great activity for the family, for groups and even for ‘date night’ (with a little alcohol thrown in). Arbel Bowling, in Netanya, is perfect for a fun night out and they also have an arcade, mini bumper-car area and laser tag activities.There’s also ‘Good Lanes’ in Maale Adumim, close to Jerusalem, which offers events for children’s birthdays, including pizza and refreshments and a special gift for the birthday boy or girl. And fear not adults, their bowling alley is also available for a private hire - enjoy pool tables, a lounge area, karaoke, a large projector screen and your choice of music. WIth ten electronic lanes, you can make a real party of it.Bring on the rain!If you are not afraid of the rain, join a day tour in Israel operated by Bein Harim. Bein Harim tours depart every day, rain or shine!Two sets of bowling pins. Photo byKarla RiveraonUnsplash

The Russian Ascension Church is part of the Convent of the Ascension, on the highest point of the Mount of Olives. The complex covers 54,000m² and is surrounded by a 1.5-meter-long wall. Inside the complex are a pilgrims’ hostel, a chapel, a freestanding bell tower, an olive grove, and well-kept gardens. Russian Orthodox nuns from around the world run the convent. They are known for their singing, icon painting, and embroidery. According to Orthodox tradition, this is where Jesus ascended to heaven forty days after his resurrection (Acts 1:9-11). In 1870, Archimandrite Antonine Kapustin bought land on the Mount of Olives and established the Russian compound where the church stands. This was in part an effort to expand the Russian presence in the Holy Land.Where Did Jesus Ascend to Heaven?The Bible identifies the Mount of Olives as the site of Christ’s ascension. But there are several churches on the mount that are dedicated to this Biblical event. The Russian Orthodox Ascension Church stands on the southern peak of the Mount of Olives. Nearby is the Dome of the Ascension. Most Christians believe that Jesus ascended to heaven from where the 4th-century Dome of Ascension stands. Today, the small eight-sided structure is within a walled compound that includes a mosque. On the northern peak of the Mount of Olives is the Greek Orthodox Viri Galilaei Church. It is named after the “men of Galilee” (Acts 1:11) who were addressed by two angels after Christ’s ascension. A fourth ascension church is part of the Augusta Victoria church-hospital complex where Palestinians from the West Bank and Gaza Strip receive medical care.The Fascinating Features of the Russian Ascension ChurchThe standout feature of the Russian Ascension Church is its 64-meter (about 200ft) high square bell tower that symbolizes Christ’s ascension. It was built for pilgrims to see the Jordan River from the tower belfry. The freestanding tower holds an eight-ton bell brought from Russia. It was the first church bell to ring in Ottoman Jerusalem. In the church, there are flagstones from an earlier Byzantine church that once stood here. Stains on the ancient flagstones may be the blood of nuns slaughter during the Persian invasion of 614. The beautiful church murals were painted by the convent nuns. On the outside wall of the church is a stone where according to Orthodox tradition Mary stood as she watched Christ’s ascension.A small cemetery lies within the convent complex, and there are several interesting gravestones. The founder of the Russian complex, Antonin Kapustin is buried to the left of the church entrance. In 1909, one of the convent’s first leaders, Father Parthenius, was found stabbed to death in his room. He is buried behind the church. His murder was never solved and the murderer was never found.The Chapel of John the BaptistAccording to tradition, a Christian woman named Joanna saw Herod Antipas’ wife disposing of St. John’s head. Joanna retrieved the head and secretly buried it in a clay jar on the Mount of Olives. In the 4th-century St. John appeared to two Syrian monks and told them where the head was buried. Helena, the mother of the Christian Emperor Constantine, ordered the construction of a chapel where the head was found. Today the Chapel of St. John the Baptist stands behind the Russian church. The chapel incorporates a mosaic floor from a 5th-century Armenian chapel that once stood here. There is a hole in the mosaic floor where the head of John the Baptist is said to have been found.

The Mount of Olives rises across the Kidron Valley from Jerusalem’s Old City. On the mountain slopes is the most sacred and largest Jewish cemetery in the world. It has been in use since King David made Jerusalem his capital 3,000 years ago. The cemetery holds about 150,000 graves, but there may even be more. Prominent Biblical figures, great statesmen, creators, and religious leaders are buried on this sacred ground. Many Jews want to be buried in Jerusalem, but the Mount of Olives holds even more significance as a Jewish burial site.What Makes the Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery so Special?Jewish writings (midrash) state that the resurrection of the dead will start on the Mount of Olives when the Messiah arrives. The risen dead will then cross Kidron Valley to Temple Mount. Today Temple Mount is home to the Dome of the Rock. But Solomon’s Temple stood on Temple Mount until 586BC, and the Second Temple stood there until 70AD. According to Jewish tradition, a third Temple will occupy Temple Mount when the Messiah comes. The bodies on the Mount of Olives are buried with their feet facing Temple Mount so they can simply rise and walk straight ahead to the Temple.There may have been more practical reasons for the site of the cemetery. People of ancient Jerusalem would have buried their dead to the east. This would prevent west-blowing winds from bringing the smell of death into the city. The topography of the mount meant that a graveyard was more practical than trying to build or cultivate the land, and the relatively soft rock made it easy to dig graves. The location, not too far from the city, offered a peaceful resting place.Interesting Graves in the Jewish Cemetery on the Mount of OlivesThe Christian prophet Zechariah is buried in the Mount of Olives cemetery. Zechariah mentioned the Mount of Olives as the place where the resurrection of the dead would begin. Other graves include one of King David’s sons, 15th-century rabbis, and the former Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin (1913-1992). The cemetery holds the graves of Eliezer Ben-Yehuda (1858-1922), father of modern Hebrew, and Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook (1865-1935), Zionist and Chief Rabbi of Palestine under the British Mandate. Buried here is Judah HeHasid (1660-1700), who led a large group of Jewish immigrants to the Holy Land in the 17th-century. The grave of famed Hebrew fiction author and Nobel Prize laureate, S.Y. Agnon (1887-1970) is in the Mount of Olives cemetery.More recent Mount of Olives graves belong to British Jewish businessman Robert Maxwell (1923-1991) and American businessman Sheldon Adelson (1933-2021). You can even find Christian royalty buried on the Mount of Olives. 12th-century Danish queen, Boedil Thurgotsdatter and Princess Alice of Battenberg (1885-1869), the mother of the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, are both buried here. Abraham Zelmanowitz (1945-2001), an American victim of the 9/11 tragedy, is buried on the Mount of Olives, as well as several Israeli terror victims.The Mount of Olives Cemetery TodayThe Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery is still in use today. It costs an average of $30,000 or more to be first in line for resurrection. Space is rapidly running out, and soon there will be no room for new graves on the Mount of Olives. But you can still stroll among the graves, old and new, as you consider the incredible history “buried” here.

The people of Israel have been making wine for thousands of years. In the Bible, there are many references to wine and vineyards. Among the rolling hills, and green fields of the Upper Galilee is a small village called Kfar Tabor. This is where the Tabor Winery was born. Today, they continue the tradition of winemaking in the Holy Land, producing a wide selection of award-winning kosher wines. The winery’s original vineyards are at the foot of Mount Tabor, but they source grapes from vineyards in Israel’s top wine-growing regions. They produce an extensive range of wines from various grapes grown in different soils and a variety of climates. The best wine-making regions in Israel are the Golan Heights, Galilee, Judean foothills, and the central mountains. Winemakers at Tabor Winery are driven by their passion, love of the land, and innovation. This internationally recognized winery still has the heart of a family business.The Tabor Winery StoryThe Tabor story goes back over a hundred years to when philanthropist Baron Rothschild invested in the future of Israel as the Jewish nation. He supported Jews settling in the Holy Land and financed many of their efforts, including the Carmel Winery in Zikhron Yaakov. In 1901 Rothschild supported the establishment of a small town named Mes’ha, after a neighboring Arab village. Then in 1903, Zionist Menachem Ussishkin encouraged the village to take a Hebrew name. And so, Tabor Village (Kfar Tavor) was born in the shadow of Mount Tabor. The village has always had a connection to grape cultivation. But it never really got off the ground in a big way until 1999, when the Tabor Winery was established.Four experienced wine-growing families pooled their resources to create the new winery. At first Tabor Winery was a boutique winery, but they have grown to gain international recognition. In the first year, Tabor Winery produced approximately 30,000 bottles. Today it can produce about 2 million bottles a year. As the winery has grown, so has the variety of wines they produce. In 2005, IBBL bought Tabor Winery, giving them wider distribution and support. They continue to produce quality wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Petit Syrah, Petit Verdot, Chardonnay, Viognier, Gewurztraminer, White Riesling, Merlot, Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, Tanat, Cabernet Franc, Roussanne, Barbera, Sauvignon Blanc, and French Colombard. Tabor wines are available in the UK, Europe, USA, and Japan.Tabor Winery’s Dedication to ExcellenceTabor Winery is committed to crafting fine wines while caring for the land and nature. The Tabor vineyards have kept to ecological standards since 2012. They have implemented various actions to protect the environment and restore nature. Tabor Winery’s ecological efforts are overseen by the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel.Kosher wine is notoriously expensive. Producing it requires strict standards and certification. Tabor Winery offers world-class wine, that is kosher and affordable. Tabor produces what is known as QPR wine, or Quality-to-Price-Ratio. This means the wine is of high quality, but the price is low. Their Earth series, in particular, has been awarded for its excellent Quality-to-Price-Ratio. Tabor Winery continues to push the boundaries of winemaking and to maintain the passion of the original boutique winery that grew up in the shadow of Mount Tabor. The Tabor Winery Visitor Center is set in an idyllic location. Here you can sample wines from the Tabor Winery’s exclusive collection. Professionals are on hand to tell you interesting facts about winemaking in Israel and share entertaining stories of wine lore.

Visiting the Holy Land isn’t just about visiting religious sites. It also means getting to know the country, people, and local attractions. One of the fascinating places to visit in Israel is the House of Marzipan and Chocolate. The Marzipan Museum is in Tabor village, at the foot of Mount Tabor, in the Galilee. Farmlands and beautiful almond groves surround the rural village. The museum is part of the Tabor Visitors’ Center. Here you can learn about the agricultural settlement’s three main crops–olives, grapes, and almonds. Local industries produce olive oil, wine, and marzipan from these crops.Tabor Marzipan MuseumMarzipan is made from almonds grown by the Tabor village farmers. In 1998, locals opened the first marzipan sculpture display at the small Tavor Museum. As interest in the unusual sculptures grew, the museum needed a bigger home. In 2001, the Marzipan Museum moved into the Kfar Tavor Visitors’ Center. Talented marzipan artists have crafted fun and fascinating marzipan scenes and figures. Among the marzipan displays, are a Jerusalem street scene, Elvis, international leaders, animals, fairy-tale characters, and plates of food made of marzipan. Imagine a marzipan pizza, a marzipan forest scene, marzipan Netanyahu, or a bowl of marzipan fruit!Things to See and Do at the Marzipan MuseumThe museum offers hands-on workshops where you can create your marzipan figures. There are also chocolate workshops where you can make pralines. If you’re traveling with kids, this is an excellent break from sightseeing.A visit to the Marzipan Museum starts with a short introductory video. Learn how marzipan is made from the almonds grown by local farms, and the process from field to table. Take a look through a large window at the marzipan factory at work. Then, walk through the small museum admiring the many marzipan sculptures. Visitors can taste the marzipan and even try almond milk. You can join a marzipan workshop or chocolate-making workshop. On the way out, stop at the museum store for baked goods, almonds, olive oil, marzipan, and chocolates. The store also sells locally grown spices and natural products from the Galilee.

Kibbutz Ein Dor is nestled among farmlands at the foot of Mount Tabor, in the Lower Galilee. The small agricultural community was the first Jewish settlement founded after Israeli independence in 1948. The Kibbutz is home to the Kibbutz Ein Dor Archaeological Museum. It was established in 1986 to house ancient artifacts found in the Lower Galilee and Jezreel Valley. On display are historic agricultural tools, and items people used in their day-to-day lives hundreds of years ago. The exhibits come from various historic periods and different cultures. But the museum aims to do much more than simply display archaeological artifacts. Ein Dor Museum is not just a collection of pottery shards and ancient stones. It aspires to encourage coexistence between the diverse cultures living in the region.What Makes the Ein Dor Archaeological Museum Special?The archaeological museum uses interactive exhibits, workshops, outdoor exhibits, and state-of-the-art displays to nurture regional coexistence. The museum teaches visitors about the cultural roots and challenges faced by people living here many years ago. A better understanding of their neighbors, their history, and mutual love for the land, should bring cultures together. Thousands of Arab and Jewish schoolchildren visit the Ein Dor Archaeological Museum each year and come away knowing a little more about the people they share the land with.Ein Dor Archaeological Museum Flagship ExhibitsThe interactive Peace Labyrinth exhibit is designed to teach children aged 10 to 16, about how conflict arises and how to resolve it. Explanations are displayed in Hebrew and Arabic. The exhibit is a labyrinth, with sections representing the four stages of a conflict. The award-winning Learning from the Past-Building Bridges Today exhibit promotes coexistence. Groups learn to better understand other cultures and their history, through archaeological artifacts.The newest wing of the museum focuses on day-to-day activities in ancient cultures. It covers harvesting, preparing food, pressing olives for oil, and working in the olive groves. In the past, life was often determined by the seasons. With every season came new challenges and tasks. Visitors can try performing some of these seasonal tasks, like grinding wheat or tending the olive groves. This section of the museum gives new life to ancient festivals and celebrations, like the annual Olive Festival and the Milk and Honey Festival.Ancient Crafts WorkshopsVisitors can take part in ancient crafts workshops and make olive oil, grind wheat into flour, or weave wool. This lets visitors feel what it was like to live in the Galilee hundreds of years ago. The craft workshops are determined by the ancient seasonal tasks and available natural resources. There are various activities focused on local culture, and religion, past, and present. Seeing archaeological artifacts, and ancient agricultural tools is interesting, but the lessons this museum gives, are worth much more. Ein Dor Archaeological Museum has won prizes for its educational activities and has been recognized for promoting the values of coexistence in the Jezreel Valley Region.

The Ghetto Fighters’ House was established in 1949 by a community of Holocaust survivors at Kibbutz Lohamei HaGetaot (the Ghetto Fighters Kibbutz). The founding members included holocaust survivors and resistance fighters from World War II. Some founding members fought in the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. The full name of the museum is Itzhak Katzenelson Holocaust and Jewish Resistance Heritage Museum, Documentation and Study Center. It is named after a Jewish poet who died in Auschwitz. Kibbutz members wanted to preserve the stories of heroism and self-sacrifice made by Jews who fought the Nazis. The museum at Kibbutz Lohamei HaGetaot is the oldest Holocaust museum in the world. The museum’s rare and extensive collection of Holocaust data serves as a vital part of Holocaust education in Israel.Jewish heroes of the HolocaustThe Jewish Warsaw exhibit tells the story of the founders of the museum and their daily lives, beliefs, and struggles during the Holocaust. The exhibit takes visitors from life in pre-war Poland through the Holocaust and the first years following the war. Visitors gain an understanding of the massive destruction of an entire culture. The Home of Testimony section of the museum holds 148 personal stories of the founders of the kibbutz. The Yizkor Hall (Memorial Hall) is a state-of-the-art archive of the personal papers, photos, religious items, artwork, and documents of people who lost their lives in the Holocaust. The Warsaw Ghetto Fights Back exhibit highlights the personal stories of Yitzhak Zuckerman and Zivia Lubetkin. They were leaders of the Warsaw ghetto uprising, and founders of the kibbutz. One of the museum exhibits focuses on the Jews of Holland during the Holocaust. About 80 percent of Netherlands Jewry were slaughtered during WWII.Children in the HolocaustThe Holocaust Museum at Kibbutz Lohamei HaGetaot has taken young visitors into account. There is a section dedicated to Jewish Children during the Holocaust. Before entering this section, visitors pass through a hall with 17 stained glass windows. The window designs were based on drawings by children in the Terezin ghetto. There is also an exhibit called Korczak of the Children. This exhibit tells the story of Janusz Korczak, a Polish Jewish educator and author of children’s books. The exhibit uses three-dimensional installations to tell Korczak's life story and the story of a boy deported to Treblinka. The museum runs a book-sharing project, so children can access books about the Holocaust.The Glass Booth of Adolf EichmannOn display is the original glass booth in which Adolf Eichmann sat during his trial. As you walk around the booth, quotes from a famous Eichmann interview echo through the room. Text reports and audio-visual displays show courtroom footage of the camp survivors testifying against Eichmann. The highlight of the Concentration and Extermination Camps exhibit is a scale model of the Treblinka concentration camp. The model was used at the Adolf Eichmann trial. Alongside the model are eyewitness testimonies, artifacts, and rare photos and video footage of the camp.Visiting the Lohamei HaGetaot Holocaust MuseumThe museum is much more than a collection of exhibits. It includes a study center, library, the Center for Humanistic Education, a publications department, and a department for research on the Holocaust of Soviet Jewry. The museum honors the Jewish resistance heroes, some of whom established the community that runs the museum. A visit to the Holocaust Museum at Kibbutz Lohamei HaGetaot ends on an observation deck where visitors can look out towards the future.

The incredible fortress city of Acre is on the coast between Haifa and Nahariya in the Western Galilee. Thousands of years ago people settled here to have access to the sea. But Acre lacked a freshwater source. In the Hellenistic Period (c.323BC-31BC) engineers created an aqueduct system to bring water to Acre from springs north of the city. In the 18th-century, the population of Acre had grown to about 40,000, and they needed a better water supply. Ottoman ruler, Pasha al-Jazzar extended the Acre aqueduct to accommodate the city’s growing needs. When Napoleon held Acre under siege in 1799, the system was badly damaged. Al-Jazzar’s adopted son and successor, Suleiman, rebuilt the water system in about 1814. The magnificence Pasha Aqueduct remained in use until 1948. Today you can still see sections of the 200-year-old aqueduct stretched out across fields and farmlands near Acre.Engineering the Acre AqueductThe water source was 14km north of Acre, at the springs near Kibbutz Cabri. The springs were on an elevated piece of land, about 70 meters high, and Acre is at sea level. This meant that Ottoman engineers could use the natural topography and gravity to channel the water towards the city. The first stretch of the system ran along a raised open aqueduct elevated by a series of beautiful arches. Each kilometer of the aqueduct had a 5-meter drop so that it gradually sloped down towards Acre. The raised aqueduct then joined the second stage of the system. This stretch of the route ran underground with a series of Siphon towers (suterazi towers) at intervals along the way. Water pressure forced the water up into the towers, through ceramic pipes to a pool at the top of the tower. Then gravity pulled the water down a second pipe to continue its journey underground to the next tower. A bit like water climbing over a wall, with gravity and water pressure forcing it up and over.Where to See the Acre AqueductA tour guide can show you the 1km-long section of the Hellenistic aqueduct near Ness Harim and several surviving sections of the Ottoman-era aqueduct. The most impressive section is the elevated aqueduct near Kibbutz Lohamei HaGetaot. At Manof Youth Village the raised aqueduct ends and the water continues through underground pipes. This section uses water pressure and gravity instead of the natural slope of the land. There are seven siphon towers, each 0.5km apart. See the towers at El A’uoji, in the Wolfson neighborhood, and on David Noi Street, in Acre. Then the water channel reaches Acre’s northern moat, and the pipes go underground beneath the city walls. The stone pipes continue to the defensive north tower and into the city.Bringing Water to AcreOnce the water reached Acre, they channeled it into several supply lines. Some of the water was stored in underground cisterns, like the one beneath the Al-Jazzar Mosque. Other channels led to over 30 public water fountains (sebils), like the one that stands at the entrance to the Al-Jazzar Mosque. Thanks to the innovative Ottoman engineers, the freshwater made this incredible 14km-long journey to the water fountains of Acre.

If you’re looking for endless untouched landscapes and hike trails with unexpected twists and turns, then head for Adamit Park. The park is on the Adamit Mountain Ridge, in the Western Upper Galilee. One of the park’s highlights is the Arch Cave, (in Hebrew, Me’arat HaKeshet or Keshet Cave). The dramatic arch is on a rocky cliff, overlooking Nahal Betzet Valley from a height of 150-meters. About 40-meters (130ft) below the arch is the shallow Keshet Cave. Like many other caves in the area, the Arch Cave was formed by natural erosion. At one point, the cave ceiling collapsed, leaving only the arch.Visiting Keshet CaveA path leads to the cave floor, and another path takes you to the arch above. Between the cave floor and the arch is the huge opening that forms a natural frame for the scenic views beyond. Keshet Cave attracts visitors who climb the rock steps to the top of the arch to take in the views. There are metal railings for visitors to hold on to, as they walk across the rock arch. Keshet Cave is also popular with extreme sports enthusiasts who can rappel from the arch down to the cave floor.Legend of Keshet CaveLegend has it that a band of highway robbers would prey on travelers crossing the Betzet Valley. One night the Prophet Muhammad appeared to one of the thieves and told him to convince the men to mend their ways. The thieves didn’t want to change, despite the constant pleas of the man who had seen the Prophet. To shut him up, the thieves told him they wanted to do one more robbery before they left the highway robbery business for good. They appointed the reformed thief as lookout and posted him on the cliff above the Keshet Cave. The thieves intended to throw the man off the cliff. At that moment, God caused the roof of the cave to collapse on the thieves, leaving only the stipe of rock where the reformed thief stood. This is the rock arch we see today.Adamit ParkThere is more to see in Adamit Park than the Keshet Cave. There are woodlands, groves of fruit trees, lookout points, and hike trails. You can discover many caves created by the abundant rainfall in the area, which has dissolved the dolomite rock over thousands of years. It’s worth seeing the Namer Cave where there are stalactites and stalagmites. A one-way scenic road circles east from the park entrance to the upper car park. Leave your car here and set out to explore on foot. Take the Scented Flowerbeds Trail or the Terrace Path that leads to the Keshet Cave. The scenic road continues from the upper car park to the Henion-Nof Recreational Area. Here there are picnic tables, toilets, drinking water, and fantastic views. Two paths branch off from the recreational area. One leads to the Keshet Cave, about five minutes away. The other path is a circular route to Khirbet Admit, through cedar forests and fields of spices.

Park Goren is in the Upper Galilee, in northern Israel. The park features the spectacular Montfort Fortress. The fairy-tale Crusader fortress clings to a steep slope overlooking the Kziv Stream and thick Mediterranean woodlands. Hike trails crisscross the rolling hills and gullies where there is lush vegetation and ancient ruins. Take a hike through the natural scenery to the Park Goren observation point where you can get the best views of Montfort Fortress.Hike Trails in Park GorenThere are many hike trails through Goren Park. Some lead you to recreational areas, others pass ancient ruins and thick woodlands. Take the Goren Park Scenic Trail that winds through woodlands and between the cliffs of Kziv Stream Gully. The route starts at the park entrance and stretches for about 8km. The Sinkhole Path is a short circular trail that passes several places where the rain has dissolved the chalk rock to create holes. A third trail cuts straight across the park from north to south. It is fittingly called Path Across the Park and ends at the Scenic Lookout Recreation Area. This area has a campsite and other facilities. From the recreational area, there is a wheelchair-accessible path that leads to an observation point overlooking Montfort Fortress.Montfort Fortress Observation PlatformA circular path links the Path Across the Park to the Carob Recreation Area and the observation platform. This is a short, easy trail that takes about 25-minutes to complete. The observation point is on the edge of a cliff. The views from here are breathtaking. You can look out across the gully and the Kziv Stream where the riverbanks are dense with vegetation. Thick Mediterranean woodlands create a carpet of green that sweeps up towards the spur of rock where the fortress is perched. A footpath leads from the observation platform to Montfort (Strong Mountain). The path takes you down into the Kziv Gully, past a 12th century water-driven flour mill and the remains of a Gothic-style structure. On the opposite riverbank are the remains of a Crusader dam wall, which was used to block the river flow and create a pool. The path then leads up to the fortress.Montfort FortressIn the 12th-century one of the richest noble Crusader families, De Milly, established a farm near where the fortress stands today. He owned property, villages and land in the area. In 1187, Saladin, Sultan of Egypt and Syria, captured the farm. It was reclaimed and rebuilt in 1192. In 1229, the Teutonic Knights bought the land. With financial help from Pope Gregory VI, the German Teutonic Knights built the fortress on the ruins of an earlier Roman fort. The Teutonic Knights were a Catholic military order founded in Acre to help protect Christian pilgrims in the Holy Land. The knights used the fortress as an administrative center, and for their archives and treasury. They built an inner and outer wall, but what remains are watchtowers and the fortress keep. At the rear of the structure, you can still make out where a moat once protected the castle from attacks. The tower at the northwestern gate is the most prominent part of the ruins.Not long after construction, in 1266, the Mamluk Sultan Baybars laid siege to the fortress. But thanks to the castle’s defensive walls and the difficulty of navigating the rocky terrain, the Sultan’s attack failed. A few years later, in 1271, the Muslim ruler attacked the fortress again. This time the Mamluks broke through the southern outer wall. The Crusaders were trapped in the inner fortress. They surrendered, rather than lose their lives, their archives and treasury. The Sultan had the fortress destroyed, and it has remained unoccupied ever since.

Discover some of Israel’s amazing artists and the country’s only artists’ village at Ein Hod. Ein Hod is located just south of Haifa at the foot of Mt. Carmel. The pastoral village community is nestled among olive groves and orchards with the sea on one side and the Carmel Mountain range as a backdrop. The village welcomes visitors and there is plenty to see and do. Ein Hod was founded in 1953 by a group of artists lead by Dada artist Marcel Janco. Today Ein Hod is home to 150 writers, architects, sculptors, potters, jewelry designers, painters, actors, musicians, and their families. Many of the artists are prize winners and ten have won the Israeli National Award. The village has 18 galleries, 14 workshops, restaurants, cafes, a museum, and several bed and breakfasts.What to See and Do in Ein Hod Artists VillageEin Hod Central Art Gallery is the heart of the community. At this gallery, the resident artists display their work in a shared exhibition space. Artists’ workshops and galleries can be found In addition to the Ein Hod Central Art Gallery. There are many artists who display their work in private studios and galleries. Others invite visitors into their studios to see them at work. Some of the workshops hold short and long art courses and others offer demonstrations and lecture evenings.The Janco Dada Museum was established to honor the founder of the village, Marcel Janco and it exhibits a permanent collection of Janco’s work. The museum also has exhibitions for young and up-and-coming artists. The museum is home to Dadalab; an experimental area where young artists can explore Dada art. Yad Gertrude is a performance venue for chamber music concerts donated by dancer Gertrude Krause, a former resident of the village. The venue also holds the village archives and exhibits work by deceased former residents.There are several quaint houses and courtyards which have been turned into beautiful cafes and restaurants. Among the great places to eat there is the Dona Rosa, an Argentinean restaurant located on the village square. The restaurant hosts live acoustic musical performances every Friday evening on the terrace of the stone building. Café Ein Hod is a homely and ethnic café where vintage goods are displayed in the space. Ein Hod has an excellent website where you can find out about guided tours of the village, the galleries, museums, restaurants, cafes, bed and breakfasts, and guided tours.

The Ein Chardalit (Hardelit) Spring is one of five springs that feed the Kziv Stream in the Upper Galilee. Ein Chardalit runs through the Nahal Kziv Nature Reserve. The crystal-clear water is easily accessible and has become a popular place to enjoy untouched nature. Pools of cool spring water are shaded by the surrounding vegetation. Fig trees, sycamore trees, oaks, raspberry bushes, eucalyptus trees, and tall reeds help to create this paradise oasis. Water levels vary according to rainfall and the seasons. The water in the pools is usually between knee-height and waist height, and along the stream, it is usually ankle to knee height. The national water carrier (Mekorot) pumps the spring water for use by local residents. Then they release the rest of the water back into the Kziv Stream. Ein Chardalit is in the western part of Nahal Kziv Nature Reserve where there are hike trails, natural attractions, and ancient ruins.What Does Ein Chardalit Mean?Ein is Hebrew for spring. Hardelit describes a fast, strong flowing stream that originates in the mountains and reaches a pool that holds at least 40 se’ah. Se’ah was an ancient unit of measurement found in the Bible (Genesis 18:6). It refers specifically to the depth of a ritual bath (mikvah).Ein Chardalit Hike TrailThe Ein Chardalit hike trail is a short, wet hike following the stream for 200-300-meters. The family-friendly route involves wading through the water. Wear shoes and clothing that you don’t mind getting wet. And don’t be tempted to go barefoot as the pebbles on the stream bed are difficult to walk on without protection. There is also a dry route alongside the stream. The trail starts after a five-minute walk from the Ein Harelit parking lot near Moshav Abdon. The first wading pool is about 200-meters from the start of the trail. If you continue about 1km, you’ll reach the pool created by the national water carrier pipe releasing water back into the stream. This is the larger and more impressive of the pools.Along the route, thick greenery surrounds you on both sides. At some places, the overgrown plants form a natural tunnel stretching from one side of the stream to the other. The water is shallow and calm most of the way. There are small fish in the water, and the sun breaks through the treetops to sparkle on the water surface. You can walk the Ein Chardalit trail at any time of the year. In summer water is at its lowest; in autumn you can enjoy fall foliage; in springtime, there are wildflowers, and in the winter the water level is at its highest.Nahal KzivThe Kziv Stream is a perennial stream that runs for 39-kilometers through northern Israel’s stunning countryside. It is the longest stream in the Western Galilee flowing from the western side of Mount Meron to just north of Achziv and the sea. The stream passes through the Nahal Kziv valley, a gully with thick vegetation. Overlooking the valley from the southern ridge is the 12-century Crusader Montfort fortress. Most of the stream runs through the Nahal Kziv Nature Reserve where you will find the Ein Chardalit Spring. Take a moment to escape the bustling cities and enjoy the idyllic hike through Ein Chardalit’s cool water.

The Ophel Promenade runs parallel to the eastern wall of Jerusalem’s Old City. It stretches from the Lions’ Gate and entrance to the Gihon Spring, around the southeastern corner of the Old City to the Dung Gate and the City of David archaeological site. The promenade is part of the Jerusalem Walls National Park that surrounds the Old City. On the western side of the promenade is the Old City wall, and beyond it stands Temple Mount. On the eastern side of the promenade is Kidron Valley and beyond it the Mount of Olives. Along the promenade are observation points at strategic locations to give visitors the best views in all directions. Highlights of the Ophel Promenade are the views of churches on the Mount of Olives, a close-up view of the sealed Golden Gate in the Old City walls, and views of the Ophel Archaeological Garden.What is the Ophel, and Where is It?The Biblical word Ophel refers to a part of a settlement built on an elevated and fortified piece of land. In the Bible, Ophel refers specifically to two cities, Samaria (Kings II, 5:24) and the City of David (Chronicles II, 27:3; 33:14 and Nehemiah, 3:26; 11:21). The City of David was King David’s city, established just outside the walls of present-day Jerusalem’s Old City. From the Biblical references, experts have established that Jerusalem’s Ophel was on the eastern ridge, sloping down to the Temple on Temple Mount. In the Bible, the Ophel is described as being an area of strategic importance. Roman historian, Josephus described the Ophel as a place on the eastern ridge, next to the southeast corner of Temple Mount. This area is now within the Ophel Archaeological Garden.Ophel Archaeological GardenA walk along the Ophel Promenade takes you past the Ophel Archaeological Garden, which is part of the Davidson Center Archaeological Garden. Here excavations have uncovered artifacts from the First Temple and Second Temple periods, as well as Byzantine and Early Muslim periods. A 3,000-year-old pottery shard was discovered bearing a description of Jerusalem. This artifact is known as the Ophel Inscription or Ophel Pithos and is the earliest alphabetical description of Jerusalem in existence. Remains from the First Temple Period (1200BC-586BC) include a segment of the wall that probably encompassed the city. Other findings from the same era include a jar with a Hebrew inscription, an inner gatehouse, and a corner tower. Not all archaeological experts agree with the dating of these findings. There have also been discoveries of Hellenistic-period buildings. Archaeologists uncovered Roman-era ritual baths where worshipers may have bathed before entering the temple. Also uncovered were the southern steps to Temple Mount, and some pots and stones still charred black from the fire that destroyed the First Temple. Excavations revealed Byzantine Christian structures and Muslim palaces from the Umayyad Period(661-750AD).Points of Interest along the Ophel PromenadeAlong the length of the promenade, you can see the ancient Old City walls built by Ottoman ruler Suleiman the Magnificent between 1537 and 1541. The Golden Gate is one of eight gates in the Old City walls. But it is the only one that is sealed permanently. The gate has deep religious significance. For Jews, it is the gate where the Messiah will enter the city. For Christians, it is where Jesus entered the city on Palm Sunday. And for Muslims, the gate is the site of Allah’s final judgment. As you turn the southeastern corner of the Old City, there is an observation point on the Ophel Promenade that looks out to Avshalom’s Tomb. The monumental rock-cut tomb is one of three in the Kidron Valley. The tomb with the conical roof is traditionally the burial place of Kind David’s rebellious son, Absalom. All of these ancient sites, and more, can be seen on a walk along the Ophel Promenade, from the Lions Gate to the Dung Gate.

The Garden Tomb in Jerusalem is situated off Nablus Road, just outside the Old City’s Damascus Gate. It is a tranquil garden of olive trees, and flower beds with benches along quiet paths. At the heart of the garden is an ancient rock-hewn tomb. The Garden Tomb is a place of Christian worship, and some traditions believe it to be the site of Christ’s burial. The tomb is a valid pilgrimage site, yet most experts agree that the Garden Tomb is not where Christ was buried and rose from the dead.Where was Jesus Buried?The Gospels do not say specifically where Jesus was buried, which has caused experts to disagree about the location of Christ’s tomb. The Bible tells us that Christ was crucified outside the city, near a well-traveled road, in a new rock-hewn tomb, in a garden (John 19:41). Since the 4th century, most Christians have held the Church of the Holy Sepulcher to be the site of Golgotha and Christ’s burial tomb. Two thousand years ago the site was outside the city walls. Since Christ’s burial new walls have been built, bringing the Church of the Holy Sepulcher within the present-day Old City. Both the Holy Sepulcher Church and the Garden Tomb would have been outside the city walls at the time of Christ’s burial. And both have ancient rock-hewn tombs. However, the Garden Tomb dates back to the 7th-9th-century BC. Reusing burial tombs was common practice, but this would contradict the Biblical passage that says Christ’s tomb was new.History of the Garden TombIn the 19th century, many scholars began doubting the traditional site of Jesus’ burial within the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. In 1842, German scholar Otto Thenius first proposed the garden as the burial site of Christ. He believed that the skull-faced cliff overlooking the garden was where Christ was crucified on the hill of Golgotha (or Skull Hill). In 1867, the rock-hewn tomb was discovered nearby. This all fitted with the Biblical reference to the place of Christ’s crucifixion being close to his burial cave. In the 1800s, there were several other scholarly supporters of the new tomb location, including British Major-General Charles Gordon. Gordon visited Jerusalem and concurred that the cliff was the site of Christ’s crucifixion. The cliff became known as Gordon’s Calvary. In 1894, The Garden Tomb Association bought the land to maintain it as a pilgrimage site. Volunteers come from around the world to help care for the garden and tomb. The tomb is visited mainly by Evangelical Anglicans, Protestants, and members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.“In the Garden a new Sepulcher, wherein was Never Man Yet Laid.” (John 19:41)Inside the Garden Tomb are two chambers with stone benches along the walls. Directly outside the tomb entrance is a groove in the ground. This was thought to be where a stone was rolled into place to seal the tomb. But the groove is not deep enough, and the stone would not have stayed in place. Although historically, it is unlikely that the Garden Tomb was Christ’s burial site, St. George’s Anglican Cathedral was built alongside the tomb for visiting pilgrims. The church was built in 1899 and is the seat of the Bishop of Jerusalem of the Episcopal Church in the Middle East.Why the Garden Tomb is SacredWith little solid evidence of the Garden Tomb being Christ’s burial site, it remains a traditional pilgrimage destination. It is a peaceful garden, where visitors can pray and meditate in the calm surroundings without being disturbed. This is in sharp contrast to the atmosphere in the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, which is always full of tourists. Visitors can walk along the garden’s gravel paths, among the flower beds and trees. It is possible to enter the tomb and enjoy a moment of reflection. The garden may not be Christ’s burial site, but it is evocative of the Biblical description.

Mishkenot Shaananim (in Hebrew Peaceful Dwellings) was the first Jewish neighborhood built outside Jerusalem’s Old City walls in the 19th-century. It was established on a hillside across from Mount Zion and the Old City. The name Mishkenot Shaananim can refer to the neighborhood or its most significant building. British banker and philanthropist, Sir Moses Montefiore, was the driving force behind the project. Today the neighborhood is one of the most picturesque in the city.The Birth of Mishkenot ShaananimMontefiore bought the land from the Ottoman Governor of Jerusalem, Ahmad Agha Dizdar in 1855. Construction was paid for by the estate of Judah Touro, a successful Jewish businessman from New Orleans, with the help of Gershom Kursheedt, a trustee of Touro’s will. The original intention was to build a hospital in the new neighborhood.But the plan changed, and the first Mishkenot Shaananim building became an almshouse. Jews were reluctant to live outside the city walls and be exposed to the dangers of Bedouin attacks, pillaging, and wild animals. Montefiore had a wall built around Mishkenot Shaananim, that could be locked at night. To encourage resettlement, people were even paid to move into Mishkenot Shaananim. At first, the inhabitants were poor, religiously observant Jews. Montefiore built an 18-meter-high windmill in Mishkenot Shaananim so that residents could produce flour and have an additional source of income.The Mishkenot Sha’ananim BuildingsThe first Mishkenot Shaananim building was an almshouse completed in 1860. It was a building with one-and-a-half-room apartments for the poor. Montefiore ordered ornamental wrought iron arches for the building’s facade from his hometown, Ramsgate in Britain. The Mishkenot Shaananim roof is crenelated like the nearby Old City walls. Each home had a Hebrew letter etched into the stone above the doorway, showing the family name of the inhabitants.A Hebrew inscription acknowledges the generosity of Montefiore and Judah Touro. In 1866, a second smaller Mishkenot Shaananim building was constructed further up the hillside, offering additional accommodation to the poor. The new Jerusalem neighborhood also had a water cistern, and a ritual bath (mikvah).Mishkenot Sha’ananim in the 20th-centuryIn 1892-1894, Mishkenot Shaananim merged with Yemin Moshe, another Jewish neighborhood outside the city walls. It continued to exist during the British Mandate, which lasted from World War I to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. When the new nation was founded, the 1948 Israeli-Arab War (Israeli War of Independence) erupted. The conflict resulted in the Arab Legion capturing the Old City.Mishkenot Shaananim was on the edge of no-man's-land, between the armistice line and the Jordanian-held Old City. This made the neighborhood a target for sniper attacks by Jordanian Legionnaires. Most of the inhabitants of Mishkenot Shaananim abandoned the settlement, leaving only the poorest residents. During this period, impoverished refugees used the abandoned Mishkenot Shaananim buildings, and the neighborhood became a slum. In the Six-Day War of 1967, Israel reclaimed the Old City and the rest of Eastern Jerusalem, including Mishkenot Shaananim. After several years, the Israeli government restored the neighborhood’s historic buildings and rehabilitated Mishkenot Shaananim.Visiting Mishkenot Sha’ananimOne feature that has stood the test of time is the Montefiore Windmill. It stands out above the rooftops and has become a symbol of the city. The windmill operated from 1857 until 1878 before being neglected and abandoned. More recently it has been completely restored, and today it is a museum and top tourist attraction. The smaller of the original Mishkenot Shaananim buildings now houses an international cultural institution, The Jerusalem Music Center and Convention Center. In 1973, the larger Mishkenot Shaananim building was renovated and opened as a guesthouse for artists, authors, and musicians. The affluent neighborhood has beautifully restored buildings with colorful gardens and quaint lanes. Many of the houses are now art galleries and studios.