Things to do – Visit Israel https://israel.travel Mon, 19 Dec 2022 13:34:38 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 Tel Aviv & Jerusalem https://israel.travel/tel-aviv-jerusalem/ https://israel.travel/tel-aviv-jerusalem/#respond Wed, 27 Mar 2019 07:58:09 +0000 https://israel.travel/?p=3741 Where else can you have fun in the sun, enjoy a world-class culture scene and step into events that have driven human history? Tel Aviv, a bustling a highly modern metropolis, boasts beaches with fine golden sand, a hip atmosphere and ample opportunities for fun infused with authentic Middle Eastern flavor, not to mention great […]

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Where else can you have fun in the sun, enjoy a world-class culture scene and step into events that have driven human history?

Tel Aviv, a bustling a highly modern metropolis, boasts beaches with fine golden sand, a hip atmosphere and ample opportunities for fun infused with authentic Middle Eastern flavor, not to mention great food and coffee. Just forty minutes away, experience an entirely different beat and pulse: Jerusalem, a city of such unparalleled beauty, it will be easy to understand why for millennia it has been so inspirational for so many.
While both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are two busy, vital and intriguing cities that offer a multitude of must-see attractions, they couldn’t be more different. Despite their geographic proximity, they have entirely different landscapes, scents and flavors. Where else could you so easily combine the ultimate beach destination with one of the most ancient and holiest cities in history?
So here’s a sample menu of what you can do on a vacation in both cities.

Tel Aviv – the city that never sleeps

So you’ve landed in Tel Aviv… Experience all the excitement the first Hebrew city dishes up. Discover the stunning azure hues of the Mediterranean, the quaint spots in the White City, its markets, restaurants, special flavors and scintillating night life. Catch a few waves and see exactly why Tel Aviv is known as the non-stop city, living and breathing vitality, 24 hours a day.
So let’s go.

Neve Tzedek

Discover the magic of this spectacular and beautifully renovated neighborhood, located on the southern end of the Tel Aviv Promenade, next to Jaffa. Start your morning with a culinary experience that includes a typical Israeli breakfast: delicious baked goods, eggs, cheeses and dips, green salad or chopped salad, orange juice and, of course, excellent coffee. The recommended tour of Neve Zedek takes you to historical landmarks and small, wonderful museums.

Hatachana

After recharging, go visit Hatachana, which is close by. There you can visit renovated Templar buildings, as well as Jaffa’s old train station, completely redone. The site tells the tale of the train station, with its Jaffa-Jerusalem line, that operated here from 1892-1948.

Jaffa

Next, take a walk along the stunning Tel Aviv beach promenade to Jaffa. We recommend visiting Jaffa Port, considered to be one of the world’s most ancient ports. Lounge at one of the many cafes that dot the wharf, and watch the fisherman at work. Then, continue towards the colorful flea market, where you can treat yourself to a vintage item, Armenian ceramics, a hamsa or any of a multitude of souvenirs. At night, the area transforms itself into a hopping bar and restaurant scene.

Pedal down the beach

Tel Aviv is known as Israel’s bicycle capital. On a nice day, those of you with a sporty spirit can rent a bike at a one of the Tel-O-Fun stations or any other rental spot around town. Biking from Neve Zedek to Tel Baruch beach in the northern part of the city is a phenomenally fun experience.

Eretz Israel Museum

If you find yourself in the northern section of town, we suggest you visit the Eretz Israel Museum. It is a multidisciplinary museum that focuses on the history and culture of Israel through permanent and temporary exhibits dedicated to archeology, ethnography, post and philately, folklore, Judaica, traditional crafts, popular art, cultural history and local identity.

Rothschild Boulevard

Looking for an inviting location where you can enjoy a great meal? Try eating at one of the fine restaurants on or around Rothschild Boulevard, right in the heart of the city, it is one of the three zones that make up the White City, recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site. This street, which perfectly defines the essence of Tel Aviv, offers you a prime opportunity for people watching. You can also take a stroll and take in the impressive Bauhaus architecture, the old kiosk and the small museums that relate the fascinating story of Tel Aviv and its first neighborhood, Ahuzat Bayit.

Nightlife

If you plan on staying in the city, you can opt to take a room at one of the big hotels located on the beach, near the promenade, or at one of the lovely boutique hotels. And if you’re still energized and raring to go, now’s the time to enjoy yourself at one of the popular bars, nightclubs, the Opera House, a dance performance or any of the many events and festivals in Tel Aviv.
Done sampling the good life in Tel Aviv? Now enjoy the best of both worlds by heading out to Jerusalem. It’s only 40 minutes away! The Holy City awaits you!

Jerusalem – the world’s most beautiful city

Discover the city most sacred to three religions: Judaism, Islam and Christianity. Visit the historic sites, breathe in the dizzying scents, taste the special dishes, inhale the clean mountain air and have fun at the many entertainment hot spots around the city.

Ein Kerem

Even before reaching the city, you can visit the picturesque neighborhood of Ein Kerem. Just a 20-minute drive from the city center, it is known for its idyllic character. Nestled in greenery, Ein Kerem brings you breathtaking views, charming stone houses, churches and mosques, fascinating historical sites, enchanting alleys, galleries and special boutique shops, cafes and fine restaurants, as well as exquisite hotels, both old and new.

Bloomfield Science Museum

Jerusalem’s science museum is a magical kingdom for adults and children alike, filled with moving objects, optical illusions, electrical experiments and everything that has made our world a user-friendly place.

The Old City

At the top of any Jerusalem itinerary! The Old City of Jerusalem is, simply put, an ancient treasure trove of discovery and delight. The true essence of Jerusalem is hidden in the narrow, winding alleyways of the Old City: the special atmosphere, fascinating history and secrets are revealed among its ancient stones. Visit the Western Wall to be moved by the sanctity of the remains of the Temple and to place a note with a request to the Holy One between the stones.

Follow in the footsteps of Jesus, down the Via Dolorosa, to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre – home to the two holiest sites of Christianity: the site where Jesus of Nazareth was crucified and the empty tomb, from which he is believed to have resurrected. Continue to Mount Zion, where you can visit the Cenacle (also known as the Upper Room), traditionally held to be the site of the Last Supper. Then, as Jesus did frequently, visit the Mount of Olives for a moment of meditation at Gethsemane, where Jesus prayed and his disciples slept the night before the crucifixion. And, ascend to the rooftop of the Austrian Hospice of the Holy Family for a truly magnificent view of Jerusalem and the Old City.
To immerse you even deeper into the roots of ancient Jerusalem, tour the Western Wall tunnels, visit the Dome of the Rock, the holy site where Muhammad is believed to have ascended to Heaven, and the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, home to one of the most beautiful organs in Israel.

Machane Yehuda Market

You’ve been busy today. Starting to feel hungry? Now you can visit Machane Yehuda Market – Jerusalem’s bustling and vibrant open air market. Alongside the market’s well-known stands, many cafes and upscale food shops have sprung up in recent years.

Shopping in Jerusalem

Ready for some shopping and souvenirs? Buy Armenian ceramics or Judaica in the special and beautiful stores in the Old City. You will also find stores selling a plethora of souvenirs from Israel in the city center. You’ll find numerous clothing stores located on the Ben-Yehuda Promenade. And don’t forget to check out the second hand shops if you want to purchase something a little more authentic. What’s more, don’t miss a visit to the upscale Mamila mall, considered one of the city’s most active shopping centers.
So diverse, so distinct and any yet just a short commute apart, Jerusalem and Tel Aviv make the perfect destination package. Together, they bring you history and modernity, ancient artifacts and modern arts, fun in the sun and the most spiritual journey of your life. It doesn’t get any better than that! So what are you waiting for? Book your vacation now!

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Jerusalem’s Old City https://israel.travel/jerusalems-old-city/ https://israel.travel/jerusalems-old-city/#respond Sun, 17 Feb 2019 12:48:27 +0000 https://israel.travel/?p=3619 Feel the spiritual glow radiate within the great stone walls Visiting the Old City of Jerusalem is like travelling to a mystical, magical new world. Long considered one of the world’s holiest and most visited locations and home to structures and ruins significant to the three significant monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam, a walk […]

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Feel the spiritual glow radiate within the great stone walls

Visiting the Old City of Jerusalem is like travelling to a mystical, magical new world. Long considered one of the world’s holiest and most visited locations and home to structures and ruins significant to the three significant monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam, a walk through its hallowed passages is an exciting and life-changing source of historic, cultural and spiritual uplift that one simply must not miss out on.

A spiritually enlightening environment

Join the masses of tourists who visit Jerusalem’s Old City on a daily basis and allow yourself to be transported back in time. Witness how Jews, Muslims, Christians and Armenians live and interact as you visit the many awe inspiring and spiritually uplifting local sites, tucked away in the Old City’s winding alleyways and camouflaged by the uniformity of the cool, Jerusalem stone. Walk down the Way of the Cross and visit the many ornate local churches, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, pay your respects at the Garden Tomb, whisper a prayer at the Western Wall (Kotel), take a tour of the underground Kotel Tunnels or step into the very-busy Arab marketplace. The structures are sensational, forming within you lasting connections to a bygone era.

A modern-day walk through ancient history

Enter the Old City through any of its large, magnificent gates and you will be instantly transported to an ancient era, complete with authentic smells and traditionally dressed locals. Here, narrow donkey carts, bicycles and specially-sized vehicles dominate the narrow streets and alleyways, giving off a rustic, old-world feel. Vibrant personalities, run the bustling local shops, stands and eateries, each hawking their wares with great energy.

While in the Old City, be sure to walk along the ancient stone walls, encountering breathtakingly beautiful and historically rich views of the surrounding sites, local attractions and enthralling everyday occurrences. Taking a walk along the Old City Walls or visiting the adjacent Tower of David Museum, where history comes alive through sound and light, will only magnify the sheer beauty and significance of the cobblestones you tread upon.

Sensational sites of Ancient Times

No other place offers as many attractions and emotionally inspiring sites in a single square kilometer. A tour of the Old City of Jerusalem is an opportunity to get lost among the magical walkways and connect with the city’s resplendent past, history, culture and spirituality.

The Western Wall
Thousands of years old, the Western Wall is the last remaining relic of the Second Jewish Temple and the most important Jewish prayer site in the world, where millions of visitors from around the world place notes with requests and prayers into its cracks.

Western Wall Tunnels
Located beneath the Western Wall, the tunnels provide a glimpse of the various periods in the history of Jerusalem and are as close as you'll probably get to travelling back in time.

City of David
Discover the story of Jerusalem during the reigns of Kings David, Solomon and Hezekiah in this captivating archeological site, where many treasures have been unearthed. A visit to the site will enable you to take a flashlight and wade through the flowing water of the Siloam Tunnel, which was carved during the reign of King Hezekiah.

The Old City Market
A must-see attraction made up of a series of alleyways, with numerous stalls offering a staggering variety of products of every imaginable kind. This lively bustling market (or shuk) is a perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir (haggling is a must) or try one of the many local delicacies.

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One Day in Eilat https://israel.travel/one-day-in-eilat/ https://israel.travel/one-day-in-eilat/#respond Tue, 22 Jan 2019 12:44:43 +0000 https://israel.travel/?p=3574 Suggestions for an awesome day in the sun Whether you’re staying in one of the city’s 5 star hotels, a hostel or have opted for the cool camping alternative, we recommend to start your day with a delicious breakfast and make your way to the Dolphin Reef. This is one of the most popular attractions […]

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Suggestions for an awesome day in the sun

Whether you’re staying in one of the city’s 5 star hotels, a hostel or have opted for the cool camping alternative, we recommend to start your day with a delicious breakfast and make your way to the Dolphin Reef. This is one of the most popular attractions in Eilat, where you can touch, swim and dive with these beautiful creatures. Watch the dolphins in their natural habitat, visit the underwater photo center, or take part in either scuba diving or snorkeling. Check out also Coral Beach, the natural underwater reserve that extends for 1,200 meters along the coast and gives you the opportunity to go snorkeling with an extraordinary variety of tropical fish in a beautiful coral reef.

Once you’ve dried off, head to the stunning Botanical Gardens within Eilat. You’ll find there more than 1,000 types of trees and plants from all around the world, streams, waterfalls, a rainforest and bird sanctuaries.

To end of your day with something slightly different, head just outside of Eilat to the Red Canyon, where you can track through the riverbed and between the red Nubian sandstone walls that have been sculpted over the centuries by wind and water.

When evening comes, make your way to the buzzing Eilat promenade ,stroll by the shops and market stands which are open until late. You can treat yourself to a meal in any of the dozens of the excellent restaurants and cafés or a drink in any of the lively seaside pubs and bars.

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Non Stop Markets https://israel.travel/non-stop-markets/ https://israel.travel/non-stop-markets/#respond Sun, 17 Feb 2019 12:44:40 +0000 https://israel.travel/?p=3614 Check Out The 24/7 City’s Must visit Markets A tour of the markets in Tel Aviv, with their unparalleled human tapestry and never-ending variety of delicacies is probably one of the best ways to get to know the true local spirit of Tel Aviv. Here are some of the markets that are definitely a must, […]

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Check Out The 24/7 City’s Must visit Markets

A tour of the markets in Tel Aviv, with their unparalleled human tapestry and never-ending variety of delicacies is probably one of the best ways to get to know the true local spirit of Tel Aviv.

Here are some of the markets that are definitely a must, when visiting the sunny city:

Carmel Market:
The city’s most famous market, renowned for its colorful spirit and food stalls, featuring fresh local delicacies and excellent restaurants serving fresh food straight from the market. You can also find hidden food placed behind the stalls and around the area. They are really worth finding.

The Flea Market:
Located in Jaffa, packed with fantastic authentic antiques from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, a joy to bargain hunters. This market is also home to many fashionable and excellent cafés and restaurants of all varieties of cuisines: from Greek, to Italian, to Arabic.

Nahalat Binyamin Arts & Crafts Market:
Open on Tuesdays and Fridays, this is a ‘fair-like’ artists’ market, rich with creative and original ideas for gifts. It is just the place to pick up that perfect souvenir you won’t find in any store.

Sarona Market
Offering a unique and fabulous culinary adventure, Sarona Market is located in the Trendy Sarona Complex, and is home to a modern and vibrant “food court” which offers a huge assortment of culinary options. Sarona is also extremely family friendly, filled with outdoor activities and fantastic playgrounds.

Tel Aviv Port Market
With more of a Farmers Market feel, this seaside Market is packed with tasty treats and specialty produce which you can enjoy, on the spot of take home as culinary souvenirs.

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NEGEV – ISRAEL’S MAJESTIC DESERT https://israel.travel/negev-israels-majestic-desert-2/ https://israel.travel/negev-israels-majestic-desert-2/#respond Wed, 04 Sep 2019 14:01:48 +0000 https://israel.travel/?p=4750 Where Adventure and Inspiration Await An ideal destination for travelers who love adventure in the great outdoors. The south of Israel is sparsely populated, but packed with fascinating sites and activities. With amazing natural wonders and beauty, the South boasts magnificent views that are guaranteed to take your breath away, from sunrise to sunset. A […]

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Where Adventure and Inspiration Await

An ideal destination for travelers who love adventure in the great outdoors. The south of Israel is sparsely populated, but packed with fascinating sites and activities.

With amazing natural wonders and beauty, the South boasts magnificent views that are guaranteed to take your breath away, from sunrise to sunset. A desert but definitely not deserted, there is so much to see and do here – there are many extraordinary geological marvels, significant historical landmarks and wonderful nature reserves, where you can go hiking, cycling and camel riding, or enjoy adrenaline-charged safari rides in the desert. Simply put, this majestic Southern region is one of the country’s greatest assets and an absolute must on the itinerary.

Sde Boker

A remarkable glance to the history of the State of Israel, Sde Boker is a Kibbutz originally established by pioneers, with the mission to settle the Negev in the early 50’s. Sde Boker is renowned as the home of David Ben Gurion, Israel’s first Prime Minister whose home is now a museum open to the public.

Vidor Center

A truly unique attraction, offering a multi-sensory experience of the exceptional nature of the Arava region. Visitors to the center can discover advanced farming methods, the local flora and fauna, climate challenges, and special qualities of the soil and water of the desert.

Nevatim

A visit to Nevatim, the home to Cochin Jews, is a fascinating experience. Cochin Jews, originally from India, immigrated to Israel after the establishment of the State. Cochin Jews consider themselves as one of the most ancient Jewish communities in the world. The Center for Cochin Heritage at Moshav Nevatim tells the story of this unique community.

MidBurn Festival

Israel’s own version of the famous “Burning Man” festival; where for 6 days, a temporary city is set up in the Negev desert, creating a platform which allows a communal life style, creativity, art and radical self-expression.

The Bedouin Experience

The Bedouin hospitality is a truly unrivalled experience, one which is both highly enjoyable and culturally engaging. A group of nomadic tribes indigenous to the area and dating back many hundreds of years, the Bedouins of Israel continue to live in traditional ways, opening their hearts, their homes and their way of life to the public, to share in their customs and their world-renowned hospitality. From camel riding to traditional Bedouin meals and even overnight stays in traditional Bedouin tents - all these are immensely popular attractions with tourists in the region, and an opportunity to discover and connect with a longforgotten way of life.

Credit: Daphna Tal

The Culinary Queens of Yeruham

For a truly memorable local experience, make sure to visit the Culinary Queens of Yeruham – a unique project, in which the wonderful women of Yeroham host tourists from far and wide for an excellent traditional meal in their homes, creating an unforgettable experience of smells, colors and flavors. Get to know the real life of locals through their fascinating stories, while tasting the ethnic delicacies and enjoying their amazing hospitality.

The Old City of Be'er Sheva

Said to have been founded by biblical Abraham, Be'er Sheva is one of the oldest cities in the country, with evidence of a settlement dating back thousands of years. As charming as it is historic, the old city of Be'er Sheva offers a fascinating mosaic of urban spaces, and exploring the Old City will reveal a rare wealth of unique architecture, extensive history and stories as old as time.

Carasso Science Park

New in the Old City of Be’er Sheva, the Carasso Science Park, spread over 4.25 acres, is the largest science park in Israel. Engaging and entertaining for all ages, Carasso Science Park features an interactive museum and a scientific garden with games and hands-on activities. The park also offers ten interactive exhibitions in various fields of science including: Genetics, Communication, Microelectronics, Nuclear Energy and more.

Arad

Arad of the new millennium is a town with young spirit and rich experience. Arad and its surroundings have been blessed with beautiful landscapes, desert tranquility, and many walking trails nestled amongst untouched desert nooks, suitable for any age or style. With lots of attractions and plenty of tourism sites in and around the city, Arad is the perfect starting point and your natural gate to the perfect desert vacation.

Yotvata Hai-Bar

The Yotvata Hai-Bar Nature Reserve is the area’s largest animal breeding and reclamation center for animals before they are reintroduced into the wild. The reserve boasts wonderful attractions that are an absolute delight for animal lovers, including the predators’ center with its live predators and small desert animals, a Nocturnal animal’s observatory in dark room conditions and 12 square kilometers of ground where herds of herbivores roam free.

Extreme Adventures

The south of Israel is a total dream destination for adventure-hungry travelers. Its unique and challenging terrain make for an ideal setting for various extreme sports and activities including abseiling down steep ravens and canyons, dirt biking and off road cycling which are extremely popular in this area as are the 4x4 adventure drives which are all the rage for locals and tourists alike.

Credit: Daphna Tal

Camel rides

A definite throwback, this is still most authentic way to explore the marvelous desert surrounding. Riding on the back of a Camel is an activity found in a number of camel farms across the Negev and one guaranteed to last in your memory.

Credit: Daphna Tal

EVENTS IN THE NEGEV: CALENDAR

Round The Arava Race - The 63-kilometer bike race named after Yoni Friedman offers a breathtaking desert landscape, endless expanses of nature, the power of spirituality, serenity and serenity and a connection to an extraordinary sporting experience. The starting point and end of the race are in Moshav Hatzeva.

Darom Adom is an annual festival held during the Anemone flower's blossoming season in the northern Negev region. The festival offers agricultural tours, farmers' markets, and countryside lodging, as well as sports activities such as marches, race, bike tours through the red fields of the northern Negev and other activities such as artistic performances. The local tourism association "Shikma Besor" is responsible for the festival and its yearly activities.

May

The cherry festival takes place in the Yatir Forest, which is the largest forest in Israel where large orchards of orchards grow, and is a 5-minute drive from Be'er Sheva. The event includes a cherry harvest for the whole family, sweet and sour snacks, baking pita bread, sheep herding, cheese gibbon, local farmers' market, klezmer melodies, climbing wall, omega and many other activities for the whole family.

Experience the magic of Ramadan nights in Rahat - when the night becomes a day and the streets are bustling with life. Join an unforgettable tour at the most special time of the year, giving a unique glimpse into Bedouin culture in Rahat. Meet the authentic dishes, absorb the fragrances of spices and roasted coffee, discover the secrets of Rahat from local guides and enjoy street performances, Debka music and more.
The Cinema South Festival, initiated by the School of Sound and Screen Arts at Sapir Academic College, started in 2002 with an emphasis on student films. Within a few years, however, became the festival an international film festival that provides a central stage for Israeli cinema, international quality and radical cinema. The festival takes place every year in June for five full days in various locations throughout the northern and western Negev. This is a festival that opens its doors to anyone, free of charge. The South Cinema Festival is produced from a unique cultural agenda relevant to the place where it was created.

The International Fringe Festival Beer Sheva is a multi-disciplinary festival that crosses audiences and ages and constitutes a quality stage for the best Israeli and international artists from the fields of theater, dance, music, street art and the plastic arts. The festival is considered one of the major fringe events in Israel and the largest and leading cultural festivals in the south of the country. The festival was recently received by the EFFE (European Festivals Association) and is gaining a reputation as a prestigious event.

Negev Of Stars - Like every summer, the Earth passes through the shrapnel left behind by the comet SWIFT-TATTLE. These fragments penetrate our atmosphere and create a spectacular view of "shooting stars". During this time in the Negev celebratethe people the amazing experience of the Perseid Meters, a number of astronomical events - a joint observation of the meteor shower, observation points with elaborate telescopes, lectures and many other activities.

The Tamar Festival is a combination of the ideal Israeli soundtrack and the spectacular vista of Masada and the Dead Sea region. The extraordinary experience takes place with concerts over 4 days at various locations and at different times over 24 hours, when the audience ventures out to the country's most extraordinary sites and landscapes.
Desert Magic Festival - The first Bedouin festival: A variety of experiential activities for the whole family that provide an authentic glimpse into the ancient Bedouin tradition.

The Arava Film Festival is a unique event that has been going on for several years every November in the heart of the Arush Nature Reserve, adjacent to Tzukim. The films at the festival are screened in the evening and in the night, under the stars in the open air. They are the first line of international production that has been screened at world film festivals in the last year. Among the films of the festival are films for children and teenagers, as well as short films produced and filmed during the past year in the Arava. The films are screened on a giant screen and the audience can relax on a spacious and surprisingly comfortable platform, which was built especially for this purpose in the valley between the mountain cliffs of the eastern Negev.

Ben-Gurion's march has been taking place for more than 20 years, at the initiative of the Ramat Negev Regional Council, following the daily sporting march of the first Prime Minister, David Ben-Gurion, during his stay in Kibbutz Sde-Boker. The march takes place on three tracks – a short track for families (7 km), a medium pathway (15 km) and a long one (22 km).
Docaviv Negev - Docaviv, the Tel Aviv International Documentary Film Festival, is the largest film festival in the city of Tel Aviv, and the only festival in Israel dedicated in its entirety to documentary films. In order to expose as wide an audience as possible to documentary work, the NPO also organizes a regional festivals: Docaviv Negev, held in Yeruham, as well as dozens of documentary film screenings at cultural centers located throughout the country. Each year, Docaviv NPO awards Israel’s largest prize for an original Israeli documentary production, and alongside it, prizes for the Best International Film Award, prizes for outstanding student filmmakers, and an additional prize within the Depth of Field framework, for innovative, inspiring documentary films from around the world.

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For the kids https://israel.travel/for-the-kids/ https://israel.travel/for-the-kids/#respond Wed, 14 Aug 2019 10:08:32 +0000 https://israel.travel/?p=4665 JEEPS! read more BEIT HATFUTSOT – THE MUSEUM OF THE JEWISH PEOPLE read more MINI-ISRAEL read more THE BIBLICAL ZOO read more JORDAN RIVER read more MadaTech read more The Israeli Children’s Museum read more Bloomfield Science Museum read more BIG IDEA CAMP read more

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UNIQUE PURCHASES IN ISRAEL https://israel.travel/unique-purchases-in-israel/ https://israel.travel/unique-purchases-in-israel/#respond Wed, 27 Mar 2019 16:01:05 +0000 https://israel.travel/?p=4015 Shopping in Israel is more than acquiring things; it becomes the best way to think about your loved ones and friends at home, because you’ll be bringing them (and yourself) a bag, bottle, or box symbolizing the wonders you experienced. As you amble through markets, shops and galleries, you’ll see the incredible variety of products […]

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Shopping in Israel is more than acquiring things; it becomes the best way to think about your loved ones and friends at home, because you’ll be bringing them (and yourself) a bag, bottle, or box symbolizing the wonders you experienced. As you amble through markets, shops and galleries, you’ll see the incredible variety of products means you’ll find something for everyone and have fun while you’re doing it.

Beautiful Middle Eastern souvenirs

Some of the most meaningful mementos are waiting for you at Israel’s holy places in Galilee and Jerusalem. Eye-catching blue and white Armenian pottery items adorned with familiar themes from the holy places are popular as keepsakes, and useful as serving dishes. Olive wood and mother-of-pearl,  crafts that are centuries old, now adorn Bibles, boxes, broaches and many other items that will keep your visit fresh in your mind and heart.

Unique Judaica

And what better way to remember Safed, Jerusalem, Jaffa or other Judaica centers than to adorn a Sabbath and holiday table at home with a hand-embroidered Challah- or matzah-cover (lightweight and easy to pack!) or candlesticks, a Kiddush cup or Chanukkah menorah in contemporary or traditional silver, pewter, glass or pottery. Mezuzahs are the perfect housewarming present, and a prayer shawl is a life-long Bar/Bat Mitzvah keepsake.

Dead Sea mineral products

Israel is home to the word’s largest open-air spa – the Dead Sea – and after bathing in its mineral-rich water, your skin and hair feel silky-smooth. And yes, they do bottle it! You can buy a whole range of Dead Sea mineral products, all beautifully packaged, for the perfect present from Israel.

Shopping

You’ll certainly want to browse the factory-outlet racks or boutiques of Israel’s world-famous clothes designers while you’re here. Cute 100% cotton Israeli-made baby clothes are also easy to tuck into your burgeoning suitcase and make a great shower gift. Did you walk your feet off in Israel? Before your trip ends, pick up a pair of walk-on-air sandals or shoes made in Israel, at prices that can’t be beat at home.

Jewelry

Israeli jewelry designers star in fine stores everywhere and when you buy in Israel you’re at the source. Particularly alluring are trendy bangles with their mutli-colored crystals and beads in seemingly endless patterns, as well creations in fine green-blue malachite (Eilat stone), which that everyone will know you’ve been to Israel when you wear.

Israel has long been famous for its cut and polished diamonds, and the experience, knowledge and skill of its diamond experts. And as a diamond-exporting country, purchases in Israel often enjoy a price advantage. You can also tour a diamond cutting and polishing facility to learn all about the industry.

Don 't forget the food

In a country famous for cuisine from the four corners of the earth packaged food products are great to take home. There are spices like the biblical hyssop for your favorite chef, and sweet dates handsomely packaged for passing around at your office or book club, and a variety of herbal teas, honey, prize-winning wines and other products.

And when you and your gifts get to the airport, you’ll love the special incentive of a Value Added Tax rebate in purchases over $100 from participating stores.

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First Time in Jerusalem https://israel.travel/first-time-in-jerusalem/ https://israel.travel/first-time-in-jerusalem/#respond Thu, 17 Jan 2019 11:16:49 +0000 https://israel.travel/?p=3556 The must list for the first-time visitor Scour the globe it’s hard to match Jerusalem for history, culture, and significance! So rich in sites and activities, it’s difficult to know where to begin. Here are a few suggestions… Jerusalem is the nexus of three of the world’s great faiths. As such, you might want to […]

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The must list for the first-time visitor

Scour the globe it’s hard to match Jerusalem for history, culture, and significance! So rich in sites and activities, it’s difficult to know where to begin. Here are a few suggestions…

Jerusalem is the nexus of three of the world’s great faiths. As such, you might want to consider religious, spiritual, or historical locations that will be meaningful to you.

Almost any itinerary will include Old City. Famous as the home of the Western Wall, and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, you could spend days exploring its four quarters – Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian – and only see but a small part of its many treasures. Make sure to download the free Audio Tours of Jerusalem app, which offers dozens of walking routes, GPS maps, and geo-location alerts as you approach each site.

Just outside the Old City, walk the ancient pathways in the City of David. Later, take in the spectacular vistas of Jerusalem atop the Mount of Olives.

Jerusalem certainly boasts an impressive variety of museums, but two of its most visited are Yad Vashem and the Israel Museum.

For a unique shopping experience, go to the Machane Yehuda market. And while you’re in the neighborhood, think about a day trip to the world-famous sites of Dead Sea and Masada.

Interesting experiences are abound in Jerusalem, but for a first-time visit to the city – theses recommendations guarantee an amazing experience and a memory to last a lifetime.

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NEGEV – LOCATION AND APPROACH https://israel.travel/negev-location-and-approach-2/ https://israel.travel/negev-location-and-approach-2/#respond Wed, 04 Sep 2019 14:00:43 +0000 https://israel.travel/?p=4748 Landing at the airports of Ovda or Eilat with the onward journey to Mitzpe Ramon or Sde Boker: Public means of transportation: Bus 392 from Eilat to Mitzpe Ramon and Be'erSheva, stops at the airport of Ovda on Sunday at 07:13, 08:41, 09:43, 14:12, 15:41, 17:43. Arrival at the central bus station of Mitzpe Ramon […]

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Landing at the airports of Ovda or Eilat with the onward journey to Mitzpe Ramon or Sde Boker:

Public means of transportation:

Bus 392 from Eilat to Mitzpe Ramon and Be'erSheva, stops at the airport of Ovda on Sunday at 07:13, 08:41, 09:43, 14:12, 15:41, 17:43.

Arrival at the central bus station of Mitzpe Ramon after about an hour and a half.

Mondays - Thursdays at 07:13, 07:41, 09:43, 14:12, 15:41, 17:43.

Car rental in Eilat, Mitzpe Ramon and Be'erSheva:

There a multiple option in renting a car in these cities. There is a choice of international and Israeli companies.

Landing at the Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv and onward journey for Negev to Mashabei Sadeh / Sde Boker / Mitzpe Ramon

Public means of transportation:

Bus routes 370/380 from Tel Aviv to Be'erSheva, routes 446/470 from Jerusalem to Be'erSheva.Train from Ben Gurion or Tel Aviv to Be'erSheva.

From Be'erSheva bus routes 60, 64, 65, 660 Departure every morning 6 o'clock onward (approx. every 20 minutes). Arrival in Mashabei Sadeh in 35 minutes / SdeBoker area in 55 minutes / Mitzpe Ramon in 1 hour 20 minutes.

NEGEV ROAD DISTANCES
Tel Aviv Jerusalem Bee'r Sheva Eilat
Old Town Beer Sheva 113 Km 122 Km 232 Km
Tel Arad 134 Km 144 Km 40 Km 229 Km
Ben-Gurion's House in Sde Boker 162 Km 171 Km 49 Km 185 Km
Ramon Crater 210 Km 192 Km 97 Km 141 Km
Hai Bar Wildlife reserve Yotvata 323 Km 288 Km 202 Km 35 Km
Timna Park 330 Km 294 Km 208 Km 30 Km

NEGEV DESERT - DON'T MISS

Ramon Crater

At the heart of Israel’s vast Negev Desert, lies the Ramon Crater, the world’s largest erosion crater,also known as Machtesh Ramon. Encompassing a vast diversity of rocks of fantastic colors and forms, this mesmerizing natural phenomenon measures 40km in length and between 2 and 10km in width, shaped like an longated heart, and forms Israel’s largest national park, the Ramon Nature Reserve. Far from the city lights and crowds, featuring multicolored sandstone, volcanic rock and fossils, the Ramon Crater is often described as Israel’s very own Grand Canyon. The truly stunning views from the 300m edge lookout point of Machtesh Ramon, reminiscent of a Hollywood backdrop offer a powerful experience for tourists from all over the world, all year round.

Credit: Daphna Tal

Timna Park

15,000 acres in a horseshoeshaped valley surrounded by steep cliffs, Timna Park is an extraordinarily stunning experience and an absolute treat for hiking enthusiasts. Here you'll witness the marvelous works of nature, as well as the amazing wildlife, plants and trees which make the desert their home, surviving in the harsh arid conditions. With its multitude of attractions, colorful sands and craggy mountains, Timna Park is an incomparable visitor magnet.

Credit: Daphna Tal

Timna Park - An Exhilarating Desert Adventure

Sandboarding in the desert

An iconic desert experience. The plush sweeping sand dunes of the Negev desert allow you to glide down sitting down or standing up at an exhilarating pace. This is a fantastic and very special skill, which once you master (it’s really very easy) you can call yourself a genuine sand surfer – how cool is that?

Negev at night

The sky of the Negev at night is a mesmerizing sight. Simply look up once darkness sets and you will immediately be struck by the splendor of millions of twinkling stars, lighting up the blue-black darkness in a radiance that can only be seen in the dessert.

Sunrise at Masada

Available only to those brave enough to climb atop by foot - watching the Sunrise at Masada is undoubtedly one of the most unforgettable experiences to be had in Israel. The slow rise of the sun as it emerges over the Jordanian Moab Mountains and the Dead Sea, shedding its light on the surrounding desert landscapes, is a truly spectacular sight, one which you will not soon forget.

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Joys of Jaffa https://israel.travel/joys-of-jaffa/ https://israel.travel/joys-of-jaffa/#respond Sun, 17 Feb 2019 12:42:49 +0000 https://israel.travel/?p=3611 Ancient, Artsy and Fabulous Recently named among CNN Travel’s must visit places for 2019, Jaffa is Tel Aviv’s smaller sister, and even though it dates back thousands of years, a visit to Old Jaffa always feels like an exciting discovery. A tour of Jaffa reveals charming winding alleyways interspersed with art galleries, historic buildings, newly […]

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Ancient, Artsy and Fabulous

Recently named among CNN Travel’s must visit places for 2019, Jaffa is Tel Aviv’s smaller sister, and even though it dates back thousands of years, a visit to Old Jaffa always feels like an exciting discovery. A tour of Jaffa reveals charming winding alleyways interspersed with art galleries, historic buildings, newly renovated hotels in extraordinary landmark areas and a multitude of quaint authentic restaurants.

Jaffa Flea Market
Located in Jaffa, the famous flea market is a pure delight for the bargain hunters among you, packed with great authentic antiques. The flea market has been experiencing a recent bloom, and is considered a nightlife hub, featuring trendy bars and cool outdoor eateries, packed with young party people until the (very) late.

Jaffa Port

Considered one of the world’s most ancient ports, the Port of Jaffa served fishermen, sailors, merchants, crusaders, conquerors and immigrants for thousands of years. Today, the port continues to serve as a fishing port, and is also being renovated as an urban attraction that offers cultural and leisure activities, shopping and tourism, while preserving its unique historical and fascinating character.

Around Jaffa 

A stone’s throw away from Jaffa you can find the HaTachana complex, Tel Aviv’s renovated Old Railway is now a now vibrant tourist hub and an attractive site in itself and also lovely Neve Tzaedek  neighborhood, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Jaffa also boasts stunning beaches and fantastic restaurants serving a variety of fantastic local cuisine at affordable prices.

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