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Israel, a magnificent country and certainly should be at the top of your list of places to visit!
What often happens is that many spend only a night once they disembark from their flight, exhausted and anxious to get some rest before venturing out to explore and discover the secrets embedded in this ancient land.
For those of us who study culture and wish to capture the spirit of its people – one must plan a day or two, for it is in this magnificent city that one can enjoy the nightlife, soak up the sun and gain an understanding of these wonderful and most creative people – perhaps the most creative on earth!
Jews refer to Tel Aviv as reflection of the “new Jew,” from the pain of its past, they persevere and breakdown all encumbrances to self-expression, hope, beauty and creativity. Not only have they developed a magnificent city architecturally, but financially the economy has been booming for the spirit of entrepreneurship and creativity is encouraged and supported.
One is amazed at the transformation of this city, blending ancient architectural structures with modernity, influenced by German architects of the 1920’s & 30’s.
Bauhaus Center Tel Aviv was established in 2000 by Dr. Asher Ben-Shmuel, Schlomit Gross and Dr. Micha Gross. This breathtaking City of White with Bauhaus architecture designated it a world heritage site by UNESCO. Tours of this architectural landscape are available through a professional tour guide, or you can self-venture as they have audio guides available.
Not only is the architecture breathtaking, but National Geographic has called Tel Aviv, “Miami Beach of the Mediterranean.” No matter where you place your towel, you will soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you. Take a stroll up the boardwalk to visit Tel Aviv Port where trendy shops, restaurants, bars, & nightclubs will greet you! Walk along the wooden deck promenade that is designed like an ocean wave and breathe in the salty sea breeze and gorgeous sunsets.
If you wish, you can walk along the Tel Aviv Promenade and visit the old port of Jaffa. (More details in my article on Jaffa). Enjoy people watching and enjoy scrumptious hummus and a cocktail in one of the cafes.
Carmel Market is the heartbeat of Tel Aviv! Take in the smells of fresh produce, spices, fish and souvenirs. It is here that I developed a love of fresh squeezed pomegranate juice! I tried to get it in other places, but it just does not taste the same! Pomegranates thrive in this climate and I believe the best in the world!
It is opened every day from 7 to dusk, except Fridays when it closes one hour before the Sabbath.
Tel Aviv is booming at night and in March they will be celebrating 2014 Purim on March 17th. This is in celebration of Biblical story of Ester where the Jews of Persia were saved from certain death under King Achashverosh in 485-465BC. The celebration involves dressing up in fancy dress, revelry and a lot of drinking!
In case you plan a visit in February, on the 28th is their Samsung Marathon. Over 35,000 runners will be participating!
As to culinary arts, for those chefs amongst us, a new trend is to assist the chef in creating delicacies for your guests! Fulfill your fantasy and latent cooking expertise as many of the restaurants welcome you to work behind the scenes with their top chefs. Do call before as the slots fill up quickly. Some of the best restaurants that are featuring this fun include: Wine Bar, Cordovero, Cucina Tamar and Baccio.
Enjoy your stay in Tel Aviv – definitely a place to relax and to regroup before embarking on your further adventurers throughout the Middle East!
Happy Travels!
February 13, 2023
