What everyone needs to know:<\/h2>\n\n- Don’t show up late to the airport – they really do take security very seriously<\/li>\n
- Make sure you pack appropriate clothing if you plan to visit any holy sites – ladies, you need to keep your shoulders and upper arms covered. Pants or skirts below the knees. \u00a0Guys, your head will need to be covered and you shouldn’t wear any tank tops or shorts.<\/li>\n
- If you’re going in the summer, it’s going to be hot…it’s a desert! If you’re going in the winter, it cold be cool or cold depending on where you are. \u00a0I remember my sister sending pictures of snow in Jerusalem one winter. \u00a0So pay attention to the weather.<\/li>\n
- From sundown on Friday through sundown on Saturday, Jews observe the Sabbath. \u00a0If you go to Jerusalem on a Fri\/Saturday, be prepared that most things will be closed.<\/li>\n
- The currency is the New Israeli Shekel and you’ll see it\u00a0abbreviated\u00a0as NIS. However, when you’re looking at exchange rates look for ILS. \u00a0Not surprisingly, this can be confusing to some people.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Next, how to get around Israel:<\/h2>\n\n\n- Ben Gurion International Airport is the main airport and serves both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. \u00a0There are other smaller airports, but Ben Gurion is the one you’ll be flying into.<\/li>\n
- You can’t really fly between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem so you’ll have a few other options<\/li>\n
\n- Rental Car – you can rent a car from Avis or EuropCar. \u00a0But it can be expensive and people really drive crazy in Israel, so be prepared. \u00a0You also must have an International Drivers License – you can get one from AAA in the US.<\/li>\n
- Cab – you can get a cab from one city to the other, but it will probably cost you around $150 USD each way<\/li>\n
- Bus – there are lots of public buses and they’re cheap, but I wouldn’t recommend the bus.<\/li>\n
- Sherut – a Sherut is a shared van that will take you from one city to the other and makes many stops. \u00a0From what I can tell, prices are about $20 USD each way<\/li>\n
- Train – there is a train, but it’s the slowest mode of transportation and I couldn’t find any current pricing.<\/li>\n
- By car, cab, bus or Sherut, your travel time will be about 1 1\/2 hours each way and can vary depending on traffic (up or down). \u00a0I understand that the train is about 2 to 2 1\/2 hours.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\nThis is my favorite poster. We got it on our first trip to Israel in the early 80s – and believe it or not – it hangs in my mother’s house to this day!<\/div>\n\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/boardingarea.com\/blogs\/verygoodpoints\/files\/2012\/08\/My-Flight-To-Israel-300x208.jpg\")
<\/a>My Flight To Israel<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
What to do in Israel:<\/h2>\nIf you’re on a short trip, you’ll probably want to focus on Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. \u00a0I would suggest at least two days in each city. If you’re there for a bit longer, you could explore Haifa or Eilat and spend some time at the Dead Sea.<\/div>\n<\/div>\nIn Jerusalem:<\/div>\n\n\n- Everyone will want to visit the Old City and you should enter through the Dung Gate<\/li>\n
\n- Via Dolorosa – the Way of the Cross<\/li>\n
- The Wailing Wall or Western Wall<\/li>\n
- Church of the Holy Sepulcher<\/li>\n
- In the Jewish Quarter, you can go shopping in the Cardo and find amazing antiques and a little bit of everything<\/li>\n
- The Dome of the Rock and Temple Mount (if they’re allowing visitors)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Other things to do in Jerusalem:<\/li>\n
\n- Take a walk through the Shuk Machane Yehuda an outdoor market where you will find everything and anything you could possibly want.<\/li>\n
- Tour the Israel Museum<\/a> where you can see the Dead Sea Scrolls (check online to see what exhibits will be on display during your visit) \u00a0This is one of the few things that is open on Saturday in Jerusalem.<\/li>\n
- \u00a0Visit\u00a0Ammunition Hill\u00a0– a national memorial site which tells the story of the Six Day War<\/li>\n
- Spend time at Yad Vashem<\/a> – the Holocaust\u00a0Museum. \u00a0There is no entry fee, but you should be aware that children under 10 are not permitted. The museum is closed on Saturday and public holidays.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\nIn Tel Aviv<\/div>\n\n
\n- No trip to Tel Aviv would be complete without a visit to the beach. \u00a0If you can, stay at a hotel along the promenade for an amazing view of the Mediterranean\u00a0Sea. \u00a0The promenade is an amazing place to walk and people watch.<\/li>\n
- Stroll the streets of Neve Tzedek – an artsy neighborhood with galleries, bars and restaurants. It’s a very hip and cool place to spend an afternoon.<\/li>\n
- Spend some time on Shenkin Street – a funky shopping district with unique\u00a0boutiques, cafes and restaurants.<\/li>\n
- If you want to check out some museums, stop by the Diaspora Museum to learn the history of the Jewish people or one of the many art museums.<\/li>\n
- A trip to old Yafo pronounced Y\u0101f\u014d in Hebrew\u00a0(also spelled Jaffa & pronounced\u00a0Y\u0101f\u0101<\/em>\u00a0in Arabic)\u00a0is a must. \u00a0A visit to the historic port city is like walking back into time. \u00a0 In Yafo, you can see\u00a0Andromeda rock,\u00a0\u00a0the rock to which Andromeda\u00a0was chained in\u00a0Greek mythology. \u00a0The alleys are like mazes that lead you through the city to the harbor. There are beautiful churches, mosques and synagogues to visit as well. \u00a0If you saw the 1981 film, Clash of the Titans you’ll recognize some of the scenes as they were filmed in Yafo.<\/li>\n
- Nachalat Benyamin- \u00a0Stop by on Tuesday afternoon and Friday mornings when you’ll find great arts and crafts- local artists set out on the streets selling their one of a kind items.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
- Azriely Towers- \u00a0In addition to the shopping mall there is a nice restaurant at the 50th floor with a great view of Tel Aviv! \u00a0A very cool way to see the city.
\n<\/span><\/li>\n- Bugrashov Street- want a local experience? \u00a0This isn’t a tourist attraction but for locals (and my family) this is Tel Aviv. \u00a0If you want to get a sence of the local atmosphere and see the real Tel Avivians, just sit down at one of the coffee shops and enjoy. \u00a0One of our family favorite coffee shops is Olive. You’ll love it.
\n<\/span><\/li>\n- Looking for some Gay friendly spots? You won’t have to look far. Tel Aviv is welcoming to everyone (unlike Chick-fil-a) Check out the nightlight at \u00a0“Evita.” \u00a0On Sunday evening the bar has a special atmosphere with songs from the Eurovision Song Contest (Europe’s Song Olympics) – very good atmosphere. If your gay & like the gym, we recommend the “Holmes Place” inside the Dizengoff Center.
\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\nWhat to eat:<\/h2>\n
<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
The food is one of the best parts of a trip to Israel. \u00a0I love Israeli food. \u00a0I’ve complied a list of my family favorites<\/div>\nTel Aviv :<\/div>\n\n\n- Catit<\/a> – a fabulous Mediterranean restaurant with lots of fresh fish and French\/European\u00a0inspirations<\/li>\n
- Mul-Yam<\/a> – which means “across from the sea” in Hebrew is one of the best sea food\u00a0restaurants\u00a0you’ll find.<\/li>\n
- Tzion – a\u00a0Yemenite restaurant Tel Aviv unfortunately they don’t have a website, so you’ll have to ask your hotel for directions but here’s their phone #03-5107414<\/li>\n
- \u00a0Lechem Erez<\/a> cafe – known for its delicious breads and salads, you’ll find several locations in Tel Aviv. \u00a0The website is Hebrew only, so ask your hotel for directions<\/li>\n
- Benedict – a breakfast restaurant in Tel Aviv (though it’s open 27\/7), the eggplant and feta Shakshuka is highly recommend. \u00a0Benedict is located on the corner of Allenby and Rothschild.<\/li>\n
- Clara – If you’re looking for a place to get drinks, check out Clara at the old Dolphinarium.<\/li>\n
- Susanna – Sit outside at Susanna in Neve Tzedek, again, no website, but a local favorite.\u00a09 Shabazzi St, Tel Aviv<\/li>\n
- Barbounia\u00a0<\/a>– located next to the Adiv hotel (one of my hotel suggestions later in the post) and an absolute family favorite.<\/li>\n
- Humus anyone? \u00a0Some great spots for Humus are<\/li>\n
\n- Humus Gan Eden on Allenby and Geula streets. \u00a0Try the mushroom humus.<\/li>\n
- Humus Abu Dabi on King George near the Dizongoff Center. \u00a0Try the mishausha humus there.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- \u00a0Dizengoff center- on Friday there is a \u00a0“food market” which is basically the best ever Jewish food, it’s like home-made cooking<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\nJerusalem<\/div>\n\n
\n- The YMCA Jerusalem, Three Arches Restaurant – yes, I said the YMCA. \u00a0This is one of my favorite memories and a great experience when visiting Jerusalem. You can make reservations to see cultural dancing and then head to the restaurant for dinner. \u00a0There is tons of outdoor seating and its known for its salads and meat pies. \u00a0In Israel, salads are served with most meals and consist of things like humus, Tahini, a Moroccan or Israeli Eggplant Salad, and more.<\/li>\n
- Caffit – a great, traditional restaurant in the German area. \u00a0There is no website, so here’s the address\u00a035 Emek Refaim St, Jerusalem<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
Where to Stay:<\/h2>\n
This is where it gets tough. \u00a0Many of you have already learned, after booking your very cheap flight, that hotels aren’t so cheap! So here are some suggestions<\/p>\n
Tel Aviv:<\/p>\n
\n- Upper End<\/li>\n
\n- Stay on the promenade<\/li>\n
- Sheraton Towers<\/a> is very nice and very pricey (rooms go for about $300 USD or 12k points\/night) You can also check out SPGs Beat The Timer<\/a> website for deals – I’ve seen them occasionally<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Middle – Upper Middle End<\/li>\n
\n- Dan Panorama Hotel<\/li>\n
- Park Plaza Orchid<\/a> (Club Carlson) – I stayed there before it was a Park Plaza hotel. \u00a0Great views!<\/li>\n
- Sea Hotel Executive Apartments\u00a0<\/a>\u00a0– looking for something a little different? \u00a0These apartments are a great choice and a family favorite.<\/li>\n
- Leonardo Basel<\/span><\/a> on Hayarkon st – this is the most reasonable\u00a0recommendation\u00a0yet. Around $140- 150\/night in December!\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Middle Range<\/li>\n
\n- Hotel Basel Tel Aviv\u00a0<\/a>– my family has stayed here. It’s very clean and simple. \u00a0Across the street from the beach.<\/li>\n
- Arbel Suites Hotel<\/a> – another place the family has stayed, this is a very simple hotel. \u00a0There’s no restaurant but it’s very welcoming and more centrally located.<\/li>\n
- Adiv hotel <\/a>which will reopen in Dec 2012 as the Mendeli Street Hotel – a great location and used to be great prices, but not sure what will happen when it reopens.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\u00a0Jerusalem:<\/div>\n\n
\n- Upper End<\/li>\n
\n- The King David hotel<\/a> – the most obvious splurge hotel in all of Israel. The King David is famous for a reason.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Middle – Upper Middle End<\/li>\n
\n- Dan Jerusalem<\/a> – for a great hotel in Jerusalem, the Dan chain is a good choice ‘<\/li>\n
- Crowne Plaza Jerusalem<\/a> – I’ve listed this as middle-upper middle due to the prices. It’s a great location, but\u00a0pricey. \u00a0Good option if you have points.<\/li>\n
- Inbal Hotel<\/a> – while neither my family or I have stayed here, it’s been recommended by friends<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Lower End<\/li>\n
Next, how to get around Israel:<\/h2>\n\n\n- Ben Gurion International Airport is the main airport and serves both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. \u00a0There are other smaller airports, but Ben Gurion is the one you’ll be flying into.<\/li>\n
- You can’t really fly between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem so you’ll have a few other options<\/li>\n
\n- Rental Car – you can rent a car from Avis or EuropCar. \u00a0But it can be expensive and people really drive crazy in Israel, so be prepared. \u00a0You also must have an International Drivers License – you can get one from AAA in the US.<\/li>\n
- Cab – you can get a cab from one city to the other, but it will probably cost you around $150 USD each way<\/li>\n
- Bus – there are lots of public buses and they’re cheap, but I wouldn’t recommend the bus.<\/li>\n
- Sherut – a Sherut is a shared van that will take you from one city to the other and makes many stops. \u00a0From what I can tell, prices are about $20 USD each way<\/li>\n
- Train – there is a train, but it’s the slowest mode of transportation and I couldn’t find any current pricing.<\/li>\n
- By car, cab, bus or Sherut, your travel time will be about 1 1\/2 hours each way and can vary depending on traffic (up or down). \u00a0I understand that the train is about 2 to 2 1\/2 hours.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\nThis is my favorite poster. We got it on our first trip to Israel in the early 80s – and believe it or not – it hangs in my mother’s house to this day!<\/div>\n\n<\/a>
My Flight To Israel<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
What to do in Israel:<\/h2>\nIf you’re on a short trip, you’ll probably want to focus on Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. \u00a0I would suggest at least two days in each city. If you’re there for a bit longer, you could explore Haifa or Eilat and spend some time at the Dead Sea.<\/div>\n<\/div>\nIn Jerusalem:<\/div>\n\n\n- Everyone will want to visit the Old City and you should enter through the Dung Gate<\/li>\n
\n- Via Dolorosa – the Way of the Cross<\/li>\n
- The Wailing Wall or Western Wall<\/li>\n
- Church of the Holy Sepulcher<\/li>\n
- In the Jewish Quarter, you can go shopping in the Cardo and find amazing antiques and a little bit of everything<\/li>\n
- The Dome of the Rock and Temple Mount (if they’re allowing visitors)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Other things to do in Jerusalem:<\/li>\n
\n- Take a walk through the Shuk Machane Yehuda an outdoor market where you will find everything and anything you could possibly want.<\/li>\n
- Tour the Israel Museum<\/a> where you can see the Dead Sea Scrolls (check online to see what exhibits will be on display during your visit) \u00a0This is one of the few things that is open on Saturday in Jerusalem.<\/li>\n
- \u00a0Visit\u00a0Ammunition Hill\u00a0– a national memorial site which tells the story of the Six Day War<\/li>\n
- Spend time at Yad Vashem<\/a> – the Holocaust\u00a0Museum. \u00a0There is no entry fee, but you should be aware that children under 10 are not permitted. The museum is closed on Saturday and public holidays.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\nIn Tel Aviv<\/div>\n\n
\n- No trip to Tel Aviv would be complete without a visit to the beach. \u00a0If you can, stay at a hotel along the promenade for an amazing view of the Mediterranean\u00a0Sea. \u00a0The promenade is an amazing place to walk and people watch.<\/li>\n
- Stroll the streets of Neve Tzedek – an artsy neighborhood with galleries, bars and restaurants. It’s a very hip and cool place to spend an afternoon.<\/li>\n
- Spend some time on Shenkin Street – a funky shopping district with unique\u00a0boutiques, cafes and restaurants.<\/li>\n
- If you want to check out some museums, stop by the Diaspora Museum to learn the history of the Jewish people or one of the many art museums.<\/li>\n
- A trip to old Yafo pronounced Y\u0101f\u014d in Hebrew\u00a0(also spelled Jaffa & pronounced\u00a0Y\u0101f\u0101<\/em>\u00a0in Arabic)\u00a0is a must. \u00a0A visit to the historic port city is like walking back into time. \u00a0 In Yafo, you can see\u00a0Andromeda rock,\u00a0\u00a0the rock to which Andromeda\u00a0was chained in\u00a0Greek mythology. \u00a0The alleys are like mazes that lead you through the city to the harbor. There are beautiful churches, mosques and synagogues to visit as well. \u00a0If you saw the 1981 film, Clash of the Titans you’ll recognize some of the scenes as they were filmed in Yafo.<\/li>\n
- Nachalat Benyamin- \u00a0Stop by on Tuesday afternoon and Friday mornings when you’ll find great arts and crafts- local artists set out on the streets selling their one of a kind items.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
- Azriely Towers- \u00a0In addition to the shopping mall there is a nice restaurant at the 50th floor with a great view of Tel Aviv! \u00a0A very cool way to see the city.
\n<\/span><\/li>\n- Bugrashov Street- want a local experience? \u00a0This isn’t a tourist attraction but for locals (and my family) this is Tel Aviv. \u00a0If you want to get a sence of the local atmosphere and see the real Tel Avivians, just sit down at one of the coffee shops and enjoy. \u00a0One of our family favorite coffee shops is Olive. You’ll love it.
\n<\/span><\/li>\n- Looking for some Gay friendly spots? You won’t have to look far. Tel Aviv is welcoming to everyone (unlike Chick-fil-a) Check out the nightlight at \u00a0“Evita.” \u00a0On Sunday evening the bar has a special atmosphere with songs from the Eurovision Song Contest (Europe’s Song Olympics) – very good atmosphere. If your gay & like the gym, we recommend the “Holmes Place” inside the Dizengoff Center.
\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\nWhat to eat:<\/h2>\n
<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
The food is one of the best parts of a trip to Israel. \u00a0I love Israeli food. \u00a0I’ve complied a list of my family favorites<\/div>\nTel Aviv :<\/div>\n\n\n- Catit<\/a> – a fabulous Mediterranean restaurant with lots of fresh fish and French\/European\u00a0inspirations<\/li>\n
- Mul-Yam<\/a> – which means “across from the sea” in Hebrew is one of the best sea food\u00a0restaurants\u00a0you’ll find.<\/li>\n
- Tzion – a\u00a0Yemenite restaurant Tel Aviv unfortunately they don’t have a website, so you’ll have to ask your hotel for directions but here’s their phone #03-5107414<\/li>\n
- \u00a0Lechem Erez<\/a> cafe – known for its delicious breads and salads, you’ll find several locations in Tel Aviv. \u00a0The website is Hebrew only, so ask your hotel for directions<\/li>\n
- Benedict – a breakfast restaurant in Tel Aviv (though it’s open 27\/7), the eggplant and feta Shakshuka is highly recommend. \u00a0Benedict is located on the corner of Allenby and Rothschild.<\/li>\n
- Clara – If you’re looking for a place to get drinks, check out Clara at the old Dolphinarium.<\/li>\n
- Susanna – Sit outside at Susanna in Neve Tzedek, again, no website, but a local favorite.\u00a09 Shabazzi St, Tel Aviv<\/li>\n
- Barbounia\u00a0<\/a>– located next to the Adiv hotel (one of my hotel suggestions later in the post) and an absolute family favorite.<\/li>\n
- Humus anyone? \u00a0Some great spots for Humus are<\/li>\n
\n- Humus Gan Eden on Allenby and Geula streets. \u00a0Try the mushroom humus.<\/li>\n
- Humus Abu Dabi on King George near the Dizongoff Center. \u00a0Try the mishausha humus there.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- \u00a0Dizengoff center- on Friday there is a \u00a0“food market” which is basically the best ever Jewish food, it’s like home-made cooking<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\nJerusalem<\/div>\n\n
\n- The YMCA Jerusalem, Three Arches Restaurant – yes, I said the YMCA. \u00a0This is one of my favorite memories and a great experience when visiting Jerusalem. You can make reservations to see cultural dancing and then head to the restaurant for dinner. \u00a0There is tons of outdoor seating and its known for its salads and meat pies. \u00a0In Israel, salads are served with most meals and consist of things like humus, Tahini, a Moroccan or Israeli Eggplant Salad, and more.<\/li>\n
- Caffit – a great, traditional restaurant in the German area. \u00a0There is no website, so here’s the address\u00a035 Emek Refaim St, Jerusalem<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
Where to Stay:<\/h2>\n
This is where it gets tough. \u00a0Many of you have already learned, after booking your very cheap flight, that hotels aren’t so cheap! So here are some suggestions<\/p>\n
Tel Aviv:<\/p>\n
\n- Upper End<\/li>\n
\n- Stay on the promenade<\/li>\n
- Sheraton Towers<\/a> is very nice and very pricey (rooms go for about $300 USD or 12k points\/night) You can also check out SPGs Beat The Timer<\/a> website for deals – I’ve seen them occasionally<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Middle – Upper Middle End<\/li>\n
\n- Dan Panorama Hotel<\/li>\n
- Park Plaza Orchid<\/a> (Club Carlson) – I stayed there before it was a Park Plaza hotel. \u00a0Great views!<\/li>\n
- Sea Hotel Executive Apartments\u00a0<\/a>\u00a0– looking for something a little different? \u00a0These apartments are a great choice and a family favorite.<\/li>\n
- Leonardo Basel<\/span><\/a> on Hayarkon st – this is the most reasonable\u00a0recommendation\u00a0yet. Around $140- 150\/night in December!\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Middle Range<\/li>\n
\n- Hotel Basel Tel Aviv\u00a0<\/a>– my family has stayed here. It’s very clean and simple. \u00a0Across the street from the beach.<\/li>\n
- Arbel Suites Hotel<\/a> – another place the family has stayed, this is a very simple hotel. \u00a0There’s no restaurant but it’s very welcoming and more centrally located.<\/li>\n
- Adiv hotel <\/a>which will reopen in Dec 2012 as the Mendeli Street Hotel – a great location and used to be great prices, but not sure what will happen when it reopens.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\u00a0Jerusalem:<\/div>\n\n
\n- Upper End<\/li>\n
\n- The King David hotel<\/a> – the most obvious splurge hotel in all of Israel. The King David is famous for a reason.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Middle – Upper Middle End<\/li>\n
\n- Dan Jerusalem<\/a> – for a great hotel in Jerusalem, the Dan chain is a good choice ‘<\/li>\n
- Crowne Plaza Jerusalem<\/a> – I’ve listed this as middle-upper middle due to the prices. It’s a great location, but\u00a0pricey. \u00a0Good option if you have points.<\/li>\n
- Inbal Hotel<\/a> – while neither my family or I have stayed here, it’s been recommended by friends<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Lower End<\/li>\n
- \n
- Ben Gurion International Airport is the main airport and serves both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. \u00a0There are other smaller airports, but Ben Gurion is the one you’ll be flying into.<\/li>\n
- You can’t really fly between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem so you’ll have a few other options<\/li>\n
- \n
- Rental Car – you can rent a car from Avis or EuropCar. \u00a0But it can be expensive and people really drive crazy in Israel, so be prepared. \u00a0You also must have an International Drivers License – you can get one from AAA in the US.<\/li>\n
- Cab – you can get a cab from one city to the other, but it will probably cost you around $150 USD each way<\/li>\n
- Bus – there are lots of public buses and they’re cheap, but I wouldn’t recommend the bus.<\/li>\n
- Sherut – a Sherut is a shared van that will take you from one city to the other and makes many stops. \u00a0From what I can tell, prices are about $20 USD each way<\/li>\n
- Train – there is a train, but it’s the slowest mode of transportation and I couldn’t find any current pricing.<\/li>\n
- By car, cab, bus or Sherut, your travel time will be about 1 1\/2 hours each way and can vary depending on traffic (up or down). \u00a0I understand that the train is about 2 to 2 1\/2 hours.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\nThis is my favorite poster. We got it on our first trip to Israel in the early 80s – and believe it or not – it hangs in my mother’s house to this day!<\/div>\n\n<\/a>
My Flight To Israel<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
What to do in Israel:<\/h2>\n
If you’re on a short trip, you’ll probably want to focus on Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. \u00a0I would suggest at least two days in each city. If you’re there for a bit longer, you could explore Haifa or Eilat and spend some time at the Dead Sea.<\/div>\n<\/div>\nIn Jerusalem:<\/div>\n\n- \n
- Everyone will want to visit the Old City and you should enter through the Dung Gate<\/li>\n
- \n
- Via Dolorosa – the Way of the Cross<\/li>\n
- The Wailing Wall or Western Wall<\/li>\n
- Church of the Holy Sepulcher<\/li>\n
- In the Jewish Quarter, you can go shopping in the Cardo and find amazing antiques and a little bit of everything<\/li>\n
- The Dome of the Rock and Temple Mount (if they’re allowing visitors)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Other things to do in Jerusalem:<\/li>\n
- \n
- Take a walk through the Shuk Machane Yehuda an outdoor market where you will find everything and anything you could possibly want.<\/li>\n
- Tour the Israel Museum<\/a> where you can see the Dead Sea Scrolls (check online to see what exhibits will be on display during your visit) \u00a0This is one of the few things that is open on Saturday in Jerusalem.<\/li>\n
- \u00a0Visit\u00a0Ammunition Hill\u00a0– a national memorial site which tells the story of the Six Day War<\/li>\n
- Spend time at Yad Vashem<\/a> – the Holocaust\u00a0Museum. \u00a0There is no entry fee, but you should be aware that children under 10 are not permitted. The museum is closed on Saturday and public holidays.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
In Tel Aviv<\/div>\n\n- \n
- No trip to Tel Aviv would be complete without a visit to the beach. \u00a0If you can, stay at a hotel along the promenade for an amazing view of the Mediterranean\u00a0Sea. \u00a0The promenade is an amazing place to walk and people watch.<\/li>\n
- Stroll the streets of Neve Tzedek – an artsy neighborhood with galleries, bars and restaurants. It’s a very hip and cool place to spend an afternoon.<\/li>\n
- Spend some time on Shenkin Street – a funky shopping district with unique\u00a0boutiques, cafes and restaurants.<\/li>\n
- If you want to check out some museums, stop by the Diaspora Museum to learn the history of the Jewish people or one of the many art museums.<\/li>\n
- A trip to old Yafo pronounced Y\u0101f\u014d in Hebrew\u00a0(also spelled Jaffa & pronounced\u00a0Y\u0101f\u0101<\/em>\u00a0in Arabic)\u00a0is a must. \u00a0A visit to the historic port city is like walking back into time. \u00a0 In Yafo, you can see\u00a0Andromeda rock,\u00a0\u00a0the rock to which Andromeda\u00a0was chained in\u00a0Greek mythology. \u00a0The alleys are like mazes that lead you through the city to the harbor. There are beautiful churches, mosques and synagogues to visit as well. \u00a0If you saw the 1981 film, Clash of the Titans you’ll recognize some of the scenes as they were filmed in Yafo.<\/li>\n
- Nachalat Benyamin- \u00a0Stop by on Tuesday afternoon and Friday mornings when you’ll find great arts and crafts- local artists set out on the streets selling their one of a kind items.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
- Azriely Towers- \u00a0In addition to the shopping mall there is a nice restaurant at the 50th floor with a great view of Tel Aviv! \u00a0A very cool way to see the city.
\n<\/span><\/li>\n- Bugrashov Street- want a local experience? \u00a0This isn’t a tourist attraction but for locals (and my family) this is Tel Aviv. \u00a0If you want to get a sence of the local atmosphere and see the real Tel Avivians, just sit down at one of the coffee shops and enjoy. \u00a0One of our family favorite coffee shops is Olive. You’ll love it.
\n<\/span><\/li>\n- Looking for some Gay friendly spots? You won’t have to look far. Tel Aviv is welcoming to everyone (unlike Chick-fil-a) Check out the nightlight at \u00a0“Evita.” \u00a0On Sunday evening the bar has a special atmosphere with songs from the Eurovision Song Contest (Europe’s Song Olympics) – very good atmosphere. If your gay & like the gym, we recommend the “Holmes Place” inside the Dizengoff Center.
\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\nWhat to eat:<\/h2>\n
<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
The food is one of the best parts of a trip to Israel. \u00a0I love Israeli food. \u00a0I’ve complied a list of my family favorites<\/div>\nTel Aviv :<\/div>\n\n- \n
- Catit<\/a> – a fabulous Mediterranean restaurant with lots of fresh fish and French\/European\u00a0inspirations<\/li>\n
- Mul-Yam<\/a> – which means “across from the sea” in Hebrew is one of the best sea food\u00a0restaurants\u00a0you’ll find.<\/li>\n
- Tzion – a\u00a0Yemenite restaurant Tel Aviv unfortunately they don’t have a website, so you’ll have to ask your hotel for directions but here’s their phone #03-5107414<\/li>\n
- \u00a0Lechem Erez<\/a> cafe – known for its delicious breads and salads, you’ll find several locations in Tel Aviv. \u00a0The website is Hebrew only, so ask your hotel for directions<\/li>\n
- Benedict – a breakfast restaurant in Tel Aviv (though it’s open 27\/7), the eggplant and feta Shakshuka is highly recommend. \u00a0Benedict is located on the corner of Allenby and Rothschild.<\/li>\n
- Clara – If you’re looking for a place to get drinks, check out Clara at the old Dolphinarium.<\/li>\n
- Susanna – Sit outside at Susanna in Neve Tzedek, again, no website, but a local favorite.\u00a09 Shabazzi St, Tel Aviv<\/li>\n
- Barbounia\u00a0<\/a>– located next to the Adiv hotel (one of my hotel suggestions later in the post) and an absolute family favorite.<\/li>\n
- Humus anyone? \u00a0Some great spots for Humus are<\/li>\n
- \n
- Humus Gan Eden on Allenby and Geula streets. \u00a0Try the mushroom humus.<\/li>\n
- Humus Abu Dabi on King George near the Dizongoff Center. \u00a0Try the mishausha humus there.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- \u00a0Dizengoff center- on Friday there is a \u00a0“food market” which is basically the best ever Jewish food, it’s like home-made cooking<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\nJerusalem<\/div>\n\n
- \n
- The YMCA Jerusalem, Three Arches Restaurant – yes, I said the YMCA. \u00a0This is one of my favorite memories and a great experience when visiting Jerusalem. You can make reservations to see cultural dancing and then head to the restaurant for dinner. \u00a0There is tons of outdoor seating and its known for its salads and meat pies. \u00a0In Israel, salads are served with most meals and consist of things like humus, Tahini, a Moroccan or Israeli Eggplant Salad, and more.<\/li>\n
- Caffit – a great, traditional restaurant in the German area. \u00a0There is no website, so here’s the address\u00a035 Emek Refaim St, Jerusalem<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
Where to Stay:<\/h2>\n
This is where it gets tough. \u00a0Many of you have already learned, after booking your very cheap flight, that hotels aren’t so cheap! So here are some suggestions<\/p>\n
Tel Aviv:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Upper End<\/li>\n
- \n
- Stay on the promenade<\/li>\n
- Sheraton Towers<\/a> is very nice and very pricey (rooms go for about $300 USD or 12k points\/night) You can also check out SPGs Beat The Timer<\/a> website for deals – I’ve seen them occasionally<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Middle – Upper Middle End<\/li>\n
- \n
- Dan Panorama Hotel<\/li>\n
- Park Plaza Orchid<\/a> (Club Carlson) – I stayed there before it was a Park Plaza hotel. \u00a0Great views!<\/li>\n
- Sea Hotel Executive Apartments\u00a0<\/a>\u00a0– looking for something a little different? \u00a0These apartments are a great choice and a family favorite.<\/li>\n
- Leonardo Basel<\/span><\/a> on Hayarkon st – this is the most reasonable\u00a0recommendation\u00a0yet. Around $140- 150\/night in December!\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Middle Range<\/li>\n
- \n
- Hotel Basel Tel Aviv\u00a0<\/a>– my family has stayed here. It’s very clean and simple. \u00a0Across the street from the beach.<\/li>\n
- Arbel Suites Hotel<\/a> – another place the family has stayed, this is a very simple hotel. \u00a0There’s no restaurant but it’s very welcoming and more centrally located.<\/li>\n
- Adiv hotel <\/a>which will reopen in Dec 2012 as the Mendeli Street Hotel – a great location and used to be great prices, but not sure what will happen when it reopens.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
\u00a0Jerusalem:<\/div>\n\n- \n
- Upper End<\/li>\n
- \n
- The King David hotel<\/a> – the most obvious splurge hotel in all of Israel. The King David is famous for a reason.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Middle – Upper Middle End<\/li>\n
- \n
- Dan Jerusalem<\/a> – for a great hotel in Jerusalem, the Dan chain is a good choice ‘<\/li>\n
- Crowne Plaza Jerusalem<\/a> – I’ve listed this as middle-upper middle due to the prices. It’s a great location, but\u00a0pricey. \u00a0Good option if you have points.<\/li>\n
- Inbal Hotel<\/a> – while neither my family or I have stayed here, it’s been recommended by friends<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Lower End<\/li>\n
- Crowne Plaza Jerusalem<\/a> – I’ve listed this as middle-upper middle due to the prices. It’s a great location, but\u00a0pricey. \u00a0Good option if you have points.<\/li>\n
- Middle – Upper Middle End<\/li>\n
- The King David hotel<\/a> – the most obvious splurge hotel in all of Israel. The King David is famous for a reason.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Arbel Suites Hotel<\/a> – another place the family has stayed, this is a very simple hotel. \u00a0There’s no restaurant but it’s very welcoming and more centrally located.<\/li>\n
- Sea Hotel Executive Apartments\u00a0<\/a>\u00a0– looking for something a little different? \u00a0These apartments are a great choice and a family favorite.<\/li>\n
- Middle – Upper Middle End<\/li>\n
- Upper End<\/li>\n
- Mul-Yam<\/a> – which means “across from the sea” in Hebrew is one of the best sea food\u00a0restaurants\u00a0you’ll find.<\/li>\n
- Nachalat Benyamin- \u00a0Stop by on Tuesday afternoon and Friday mornings when you’ll find great arts and crafts- local artists set out on the streets selling their one of a kind items.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
- Everyone will want to visit the Old City and you should enter through the Dung Gate<\/li>\n
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