The wonders of the Holy Land go beneath the ground and can be found in magical and magnificent hidden caves with dramatic stalactites. The Stalactite Cave Nature Reserve is located on the western slopes of the Judean Hills, not far from Bet Shemesh. Here you can enjoy the natural beauty both above the ground and in the underground caves. The caves are protected and open to tourists who can visit independently or as part of aprivate tour. There is an observation area where you can look out across the nature reserve and towards the Judea plain across the city of Bet Shemesh. If you look directly down, you can see the quarry where explosions exposed the caves in 1968. An additional observation area is situated at the entrance to the cave and provides an overview of the cavernous grottoes. From the observation area at the cave opening, you can see the stalactites and stalagmites illuminated within the cave. For the best view of the stalactites, you can enter the cave and follow a market visitors route through the cave.The Creation of Stalactites and Stalagmites in Israel's Stalactite CaveThe stalactites (originating on the ceiling of the cave) and stalagmites (originating on the floor of the cave) were created over thousands of years as rainwater permeated through carbon dioxide-rich soil resulting in water containing a high concentration of calcium bicarbonate slowly dripping on the rock causing calcite shapes from the ceiling. The drops that land on the floor of the cave, continually drip on the same spot creating stalagmites, growing upwards.The Most Interesting Stalactites in the Stalactite Nature ReserveOn your walk through the cave, you'll see the landscape of stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by dramatic, colorful lighting sparking the imagination. The lights emphasize the various shapes and natural formations created by thousands of years of slow-dripping subterranean water. Among the most famous stalactite shapes in the cave are the pillar, which resembles a column; the macaroni field; Romeo and Juliette – a stalactite and stalagmite that almost touch at their tips, as if trying to kiss but not quite making it; Snow White and the seven dwarfs; the grandfather and the sculpture garden. Perhaps the best known of the natural formations within the cave are the elephant's ears.

Apollonia National Park (Tel Arsuf) covers a 30m-high calcareous sandstone promontory above the sea just north of Herzliya Pituah; half an hour north of Tel Aviv. The park holds a stunning location with sea views at every turn and long sandy beaches below the high ridge. This national park consists of two adjacent areas – the Apollonia National Park and Sidna Ali National Park both home to ancient ruins from several eras including Roman, Crusader, and Mamelukes.Ancient ApolloniaApollonia was originally settled by Phoenicians in the 6th century BC and named Arsuf after their god, Reshef. When the Greeks arrived they renamed the city Apollonia after their god Apollo who they identified with the Phoenician god Reshef. Under the Romans in the 1st-3rd century AD, Apollonia was further developed and expanded. At the park, you can see an excavated Roman villa that was destroyed by an earthquake in 118 AD. During the Byzantine Era (4th - 7th century AD) the city was renamed Sozousa and reached its peak, covering 280 dunams and gaining prosperity through agriculture and glass production. Excavations revealed 12 furnaces that were most likely used for glass making. At the entrance to the park, you can see a glass furnace from the 6th century AD Byzantine era. In the 7th century, the Muslims took the city and its size and prosperity were reduced.The Crusader Fortress of Arsur at ApolloniaCrusaders claimed the city in 1101; they rebuilt the city and constructed an impressive fortress. We can still see the remains of the Crusaders' 4.5m-deep moat and the eastern city gate. Crusaders built their fortress in 1241 for Balian of Ibelin, Lord of Arsur. The fortress was modeled on British fortresses and probably designed by a European architect. The fortress had an external fortified wall; an interior fortified wall and an inner keep or donjon. In 1261 the Mameluke Sultan Baibars began his campaign to capture Israel and so the fortress and city of Apollonia were handed over for protection to the Hospitaller Knights, a Catholic military order. The Knights Hospitaller defended the fortress but to no avail. The fortress was eventually captured by the Mamelukes in 1265 after a 30-day siege and the fortress was systematically destroyed.Muslim Era Structures in Apollonia National ParkThe Sidna Ali Mosque was constructed in 1481 and named after a Muslim soldier who fell in battle fighting the Crusaders at Apollonia. The picturesque mosque has a 21m-high minaret and alongside the mosque is an ancient cemetery.Visitors to Apollonia National ParkThe breathtaking location of this park on cliffs overlooking the sea offers views up and down Israel's Mediterranean coast. It also offers the chance to see preserved and resorted remains from the various eras set among magnificent surroundings.

The Yotvata Hai-Bar Nature Reserve is a pleasant surprise waiting for you in the Negev Desert. You might drive past Kibbutz Yotvata along the Arava Road on your way to Eilat, and even stop to try their excellent dairy products. But if you venture further, you’ll find this hidden gem - a haven for indigenous desert animals. Hai Bar was established in the 1960s as a public organization under the auspices of the Parks and Nature Reserves Authority. In the 1970s a large area on the Yotvata salt flats was allocated for the reserve, and in the 1980s more land was added to the reserve. Today it is a popular stop along the route between central Israel and Eilat in the south. It can also be visited along with nearby attractions that include the Dead Sea and Masada.Highlights of Yotvata Hai-Bar Nature ReserveThe site covers 3,000-acres (12km²) and is home to endangered species and animals of the Negev that are locally extinct. Many of the animals are mentioned in the Bible and have inhabited the Holy Land for thousands of years. The reserve rescues, breeds, and nurtures these animals. The ultimate goal is to reintroduce them to their natural habitat, in the Negev Desert. Among the animals at Hai Bar are red-necked ostriches, addax, cheetahs, Griffon vultures, Nubian ibex, hyenas, Persian and Arabian leopards, Arabian sand cats, and more. This incredible project works hard to reestablish the wildlife of Negev. They’ve found particular success with the Asian wild ass and Arabian oryx, both brought back from the brink of extinction. Visiting Yotvata Hai-Bar Nature ReserveFind the reserve on the Arava Road between Yotvata Kibbutz to the north, Timna Park to the south, Hashayarot Cliffs to the west, and the Jordanian border to the east. The entrance to the reserve is from the southern end opposite Kibbutz Samar. If you have a car you can follow the driving path that snakes its way through the park. Unfortunately, this route is designated for vehicles only. There is also a predators center and a camping area at the entrance to the park. If you enjoy Hai-Bar Yotvata, why not check out Carmel Hai-Bar Nature Reserve, a similar attraction in the forest-covered mountains near Haifa that nurtures animals from the Carmel Mountain area.

Eilat is Israel's stunning beach resort city on the edge of the Red Sea. Along the shoreline, you have the red mountains as a backdrop and a view of Jordan across the translucent water. Each of Eilat's beaches is unique but none as magnificent as Coral Beach, home to natural coral reefs.The beach is situated about 7km south of Eilat's city center along Taba Road and faces Coral Beach Nature Reserve, one of the most beautiful marine reserves in the world. The reefs lie parallel to the shore stretching for more than 1.2km and reaching depths of 6-12m. There are over 100 types of coral and more than 650 species of sea life in the reef off Coral Beach. These coral reefs are among the northernmost reefs in the world and as such are home to unique invertebrates and fish rarely seen in other reefs.Highlights of Coral Reef Beach, EilatCoral Beach is great for families thanks to the shallow wading pools near the shore. On one side of the reef, there are bridges built out over the water so that visitors can easily observe the reef and divers and snorkelers have easy access without damaging the reef or its inhabitants. There are lookout points over the reef where visitors can enjoy the views of the reef without actually diving.It is possible to rent a diving mask and snorkel at the beach and go swimming along the edges of the reef. Divers can see even more of this underwater wonderland by going closer and deeper into the sea. The beach has all the seafront amenities you might need including toilets, showers, sun loungers, deck chairs, showers, and an adjacent store and restaurant.Coral Beach as a Conservation AreaAlthough this beach offers incredible access to coral reefs it is also vigorously protected to minimize damage by human interference. Visitors have been provided with bridges so that they can view the reef without harming it and signs, markers and barriers to ensure that the reefs are protected even when visitors are swimming nearby. Vulnerable areas of the reef have been cordoned off so that access is limited; for example, the heart of the reef – the Japanese Gardens cannot be directly accessed by swimmers and divers. There are regular awareness talks and guided tours explaining the importance of conservation. Other measures in place to protect the coral reefs include laws, regulations and daily cleaning of the beach. The number of visitors allowed on the beach at any one time is limited and there is a small entrance fee required.

Located just off the main highway between Jerusalem and the Dead Sea, the Good Samaritan museum (‘Khan al-Hatrura’ in Arabic) boasts a number of archaeological artifacts, an ancient church and courtyard, and, most importantly, a wide variety of mosaics from the Byzantine era.The museum is named after the parable told by Jesus concerning a man who was robbed, beaten and left for dead. He was subsequently found and aided by a ‘Good Samaritan’ even though Samaritans and Jews were, by no means, on good terms at that time. The parable, today, for Christians symbolizes friendship, brotherhood, and mercy.In the 6th century, a large monastery was built here, with a cistern in its center. The floor of the prayer house was constructed out of tiny mosaic tiles, most of which were taken from the grounds by pilgrims, who wanted something to remember their journey by. Today, as you enter the building, you will see an enormous ‘Gaza mosaic’ depicting all kinds of animals. This is a reconstruction of the original design, comprised of over 1.6 million tiles!The building in which the museum is housed was, in Ottoman times, an inn for travelers. Today, it is the only mosaic museum of its kind in Israel (and one of only three in the world). Without a doubt, it is a treasure trove for anyone interested in archaeology. The mosaics there have been collected from churches and synagogues around Israel. Many of the mosaics have Hebrew, Greek and Samaritan inscriptions on them, with designs that are typically geometric (as was customary in Byzantine times). Others are adorned with animals and flowers. During the preservation process, many of these mosaics have been cast in natural substances like lime and sand, just as they would have been centuries ago. On display are also pieces from an excavation that took place in the area - including coins, pottery, a dining table, and even a stone coffin. In what was once a cave, there is now a tiny cinema where visitors can watch a short film about the history and customs of the Samaritan community. The museum’s admission fee is reasonable and included in the price is parking and a free audio guide. If visiting in the hot summer months, it is advisable to take sunscreen and a hat since some of the exhibits are outside. Other places of interest in the vicinity are the old Crusader ruins of the Castellum Rouge (‘Red Fortress’), the St. Gerasimos Monastery and the Qumran National Park.Masada is about an hour’s drive from the museum. Want to visit Good Samaritan Museum? Book our Bethlehem & Jericho Private Tour.

Constructed by King Herod the Great in 40 BCE, the Herodion National Park is an impressive archaeological site, containing the remains of both a palace-fortress and a small town. Known as the “Mountain of Franks” and “Jabal al-Fourdis,” the palace was built on the edge of a desert after the adjacent mountain had been partially destroyed by Herod’s army. This meant that his fortress was the highest in the area and therefore a safe place by which to protect the valley and his kingdom. Herod was a master builder and filled the area with beautiful gardens, extravagant living quarters and heavily fortified ramparts. When the Jews rebelled against the Romans in 66 CE, they moved to the palace and built a ritual bath (“mikvah” in Hebrew). After the destruction of Jerusalem’s Second Temple, it became a place of refuge for them. Conquered and destroyed by the Roman Army in 70 CE, today the Herodion remains a sight to behold.Herodion PalaceThe palace itself consisted of four watchtowers, large courtyards, a banqueting area, a Roman theatre, and a large bathhouse. With its cold, warm and hot rooms (some lined with mosaics and frescoes) the bathhouse served as an important part of daily life and its dome remains in reasonable condition today, after 2,000 years of wars and earthquakes. The synagogue at Herodion - which archaeologists believe was built out of a dining area - Herodion is considered to be one of the oldest in the region.Burial Tomb and Underground TunnelsIn 2007, Herod’s mausoleum was discovered on the eastern slope of the Herodium by Professor Ehud Netzer. Inside was a broken sarcophagus, decorated urns, and some impressively wide steps. The find was initially hailed as a revelation although, today, it is questioned as to whether the tomb actually belonged to Herod. Additionally, visitors can walk through the remains of a complex underground system which includes escape tunnels and water tunnels from the time of the Bar Kokhba Revolt. The park is located east of Bethlehem and close to the Tekoa Junction and the standard entrance fee is 29 NIS. The site can also be visited as part of the Jerusalem & Bethlehem private tour.A visit to the Herodion National Park involves a substantial amount of climbing stairs and is not accessible for the disabled. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. The excavations are a work in progress and it is a truly marvelous place to visit if you enjoy history and stunning views.

Qasr al-Yehud (Castle of the Jews) is a baptismal location on the Jordan River. The site is in the Palestinian Authority of the West Bank 15 km from the northern end of the Dead Sea and southeast of Jericho. Qasr Al-Yehud is believed to be the Biblical site where John baptized Jesus; this symbolized his spiritual birth. This stretch of the river is also where Joshua led the Israelites to cross the River Jordan into the Promised Land. The Prophet Elijah is said to have ascended to heaven from this location. The area covers both banks of the Jordan River – on the east bank in the Kingdom of Jordan and on the west bank at Qasr al-Yehud.Visiting Qasr al-YehudQasr al-Yehud was closed to visitors from 1967 to 1994 when the area was a no man’s land. Following the peace agreement between Jordan and Israel the site was reopened in 2011 and restored. It is now accessible to visitors with the addition of handrails and steps leading down into the water. Several churches have been built near Qasr al-Yehud over the years beginning in the Byzantine era but only ruins have survived. Two new outdoor chapels are now used by visiting Christians of all denominations. Special celebrations take place here on January 6th for the Feast of Epiphany by the Western Churches; January 19th for the Theophany by Eastern Orthodox Churches and during the Easter weekend.Two Baptismal Sites of the Jordan RiverYou may have heard of an alternate baptismal site called Yardenit, located in northern Israel near the southern end of the Sea of Galilee. Yardenit is also on the Jordan River and was created as an alternative site for Christian pilgrims who wanted to be baptized in the Jordan but could not reach Qasr al-Yahud due to logistic and security obstacles. Qasr e-Yahud is closer to the geographical location described in the Bible as Jesus’ baptismal site but Yardenit is a good alternative when it is not possible to reach Qasr al-Yahud.You can join a tour to the Jordan River and the Dead Sea area and visitQasr al-Yahud for a unique and holy experience.

Mount Gerizim (Mount of Blessings) is a high mountain in the West Bank near Nablus. On the flat summit of the mountain are the remains of one of the largest cities from the Persian and Hellenistic Periods covering 400 dunams. The remains encompass a temple city where the ancient Samaritans once lived and worshiped.Who Are the Samaritans?The Samaritans are an ethnic group that claims to be the direct descendants of the Children of Israel. They live only in Israel and speak an ancient Arabic language. The Samaritans live according to the Torah and have unique traditions. Originally the Samaritans believed in the sanctity of the Jewish temple on Temple Mount, and they may have even been involved in its construction (Ezra 4:2). But at some point, the Samaritans split from the Jews and built their own holy temple on Mount Gerizim. According to Samaritan tradition, Mount Gerizim is the biblical Mount Moriah, the site of the binding of Isaac and the placing of the Foundation Stone. During the Roman Period, there would have been over a million Samaritans in Israel. In the 5th-century a church was built on Mt. Gerizim and in 529, the Roman Emperor, Justinian I made Samaritanism illegal. A wall was built around the church and Samaritans were denied access to their sacred site. An uprising followed that resulted in the surviving Samaritans being enslaved or exiled. Justinian I had a castle built on the mount to protect the church from any future Samaritan raids. Today there are approximately 800 Samaritans still living in Israel, mostly in close proximity to Mt. Gerizim.What to See at Mt. GerizimAncient City - The ancient Hellenistic city was built around a sacred precinct. Surrounding the ruins are the sturdy outer city walls. You can see the remains of houses, streets, stores, and two market squares. Most of the homes had an inner courtyard with the rooms built looking onto the central open space. At the time, this city would have been home to about 10,000 residents. Sacred Precinct - The center of the city was the Sacred Precinct, an area preserved for worship where a temple stood on a raised platform. During the Persian Period (late 5th-century BC) there was a small platform that was enlarged to cover 100mx200m during the Hellenistic Period (2nd-century BC). Giv’ot Olam-According to Samaritan tradition, this large rock is the Foundation Stone commemorating the blessings given by Moses to Joseph (Deuteronomy 33:15). Altar of Isaac - According to Samaritan tradition, the sacrifice of Isaac took place on this rock known as the Altar of Isaac. Tomb of Sheikh Ghanem - In the north-eastern corner of the excavated site stands a small domed structure. According to Muslim tradition, this is the final resting place of Sheikh Ghanem, one of the soldiers of Sultan Saladin the Magnificent. To this day, the Arab residents of nearby Nablus take oaths at this site. Medieval Jewish tradition held that this was the burial site of Hamor, the father of Shechem. Octagonal Church- See the remains of the 5th-century church built by the Christian Roman rulers.Visiting Mount GerizimMt. Grizim is near the Samaritan village of Kiryat Luza and the Jewish community of Brakha, in Judea and Samaria, also known as the West Bank. To reach it you need to take route 60 from Jerusalem to Tapuah Junction, then continue north to Mahane Horon Junction, before turning west in the direction of Brakha. Just before the entrance to Brakha, turn right and follow the signs to the Mount Gerizim Archaeological National Park. The park is open from Monday to Friday and there is an entrance fee.

The Nahal Me’arot Nature Reserve has recently been named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the reserve is the site of caves and rock dwellings with exposed fossilized reefs which testify to the continual human inhabitation of the settlement from prehistoric times.It is a global rarity to find proof of continual inhabitation in one location by a series of civilizations over an extended period beginning in the Lower Paleolithic era. Burial sites of both Neanderthal and Early Anatomy Modern Humans have been uncovered. This shows the dramatic change in human existence from the hunter-gatherer to the sedentary agricultural lifestyle.Not only the human inhabitation but also the historic geological evidence in this group of 5 caves is remarkable. The fact that the site is so significant for studies in human evolution both biologically and culturally as well as the palaeo-ecological significance has made this site worthy of its new status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Nahal Me’arote is situated on Mount Carmel’s western slope and was the first Israeli site to achieve this distinction since 1989 and follows an intense campaign to gain recognition. This newfound status could increase the annual visitor statistics from the mainly local 50,000 visitors to include more international tourists.

One of Israel’s oldest cities, Beit Shean (also known as Scythopolis and Nysa and, in Hebrew, ‘the House of Tranquility) is located in northern Israel, 27 km south of the Sea of Galilee. Nestled between the Jezreel and Jordan Valley, it is an extremely fertile area and one of the hottest places on earth in which to live.Inhabited for 6,000 yearsSettled 6,000 years ago and continually inhabited since then, today it is one of Israel’s best-preserved archaeological sites. Its remains date back to a number of ancient civilizations, including pre-Egyptian, Israelite, Philistine and Byzantine. Historically, Beit Shean is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible as the place where King Saul and his sons were killed by the Philistines, and their bodies then hung from the city wall. It retained its importance during the reigns of King David and Solomon and was a busy metropolis in Roman times, but after being damaged in 749 AD by an earthquake, it did not recover. Over the years, Crusaders, Mamluks, Ottomans, the British lived there and after the state of Israel was created in 1948, Israelis settled the area. Today, it is home to a spectacular national archeological park. The renovations have been quite extensive and give visitors an excellent indication of what the city once looked like. Inside the park are elevated mounds, which are remains of Canaanite and Egyptian cities, and at the base of the mound are remains of a once-thriving Roman City.Ancient Roman CityThe archaeological remains include public baths (consisting of swimming pools and halls heated by hot running water), a Roman basilica (once used as a courthouse), small stores and craftsmen’s workshops. There is an amphitheater, which could seat 6,000, once used to hold gladiatorial contests and entertain Roman troops and some well-preserved mosaics, including one of Tyche, the Roman goddess of good fortune, holding a horn of plenty.Visitors can view the nymphaeum - an elaborate building containing a fountain - and a large, circular church with a cloister, built around an open court. There are also remains of other churches (one with a red cross on the bathhouse wall, meaning it was probably a baptistry). The central street of the city was called the Palladius (named after the Roman governor) and is lined by colonnades.Beit Shean can be reached by car (via Afula), bus or by taking a guided tour of the area. In the wider vicinity, visitors can visit the Belvoir Fortress (one of the last bastions of the Crusaders) and the Gan HaShlosha, a green and leafy park where visitors can bathe in warm spring.

Travel to northern Israel, to the eastern bank of the Sea of Galilee at the foot of the Golan Heights, and visit Kursi National Park, the site of the largest Byzantine monastery complex and basilica excavated in Israel. Protected within the Kursi National Park is a treasure trove of ancient structures dating back approximately 1,500 years. Tradition holds that Kursi was the site where Jesus performed the Miracle of the Swine and the excavations indicate that a Judeo-Christian community lived here in c. 500 AD. The Jewish Talmud tells of Rabbi Jacob Ben Kurshi who came from a town called Kurshi and it lists Kurshi as one of the towns inhabited by gentiles during Jesus’ lifetime.The Miracle of the SwineDuring his ministry in Galilee, Jesus went from village to village preaching the word of God and it was in Kursi that Jesus performed one of his many miracles. Mark 5:1-20, Matthew 8:28-34, and Luke 8:26-39 tell how Jesus went into the land of Gadarenes, on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee, and was approached by a man who implored Jesus to rid him of the evil spirits that possessed him. Jesus performed an exorcism, driving the evil spirits out of the man and causing them to possess a herd of swine that was grazing nearby. The herd then charged into the sea and drowned.Archaeological Discoveries at KursiRuins of the ancient settlement of Kursi were accidentally found during the construction of the road that circles the Sea of Galilee. The most important findings included the remains of a monastery and church dating back to the Byzantine era of the 5th-6th century. The church’s mosaic floor was beautifully preserved and revealed geometric mosaic designs, depictions of animals, and an inscription indicating that the floor was laid in 585 AD during the reign of Emperor Mauricius. The Christian compound was damaged during the Persian invasion of 614 AD and in 741 AD an earthquake destroyed the structures. 7th century Arabs rulers allowed Christians to renovate the monastery and continue living in Kursi but after the Great Earthquake of 749, the monastery was abandoned for the final time. Excavation to the east of the basilica revealed a small chapel built into a cave. This is now known as the Holy Rock and may have been where Jesus performed the Miracle of the Swine. From the Holy Rock, there are views across the Samakh River Valley and the Sea of Galilee. North of the basilica is the remains of a Byzantine Era bathhouse. In further excavations, a structure was uncovered that may have been a synagogue. It held a shattered slab of marble inscribed in Aramaic; this was the first marble tablet of its kind ever discovered in an ancient synagogue in Israel and confirmed that Jews and Christians shared the Kursi settlement.The Kursi MonasteryThe Byzantine monastery compound was surrounded by a large wall that separated the Christian inhabitants from the surrounding Jewish settlement. The monastery courtyard had houses, farming facilities, homes, public buildings, and a pilgrims’ hostel for Christians who came to see the site of Jesus’s miracle. The basilica had two rows of six columns with marble Corinthian capitals. Archaeologists uncovered a stone chest for relics where the altar would have been; a baptistery room and a burial cave beneath the church containing the remains of 30 males. The most outstanding feature to survive is the mosaic floor. It depicts flora and fauna including fruit trees, vines, geese, cormorants, doves, and cockerels.The remains of the Kursi monastery complex have been tastefully restored so that visitors to Kursi National Park can get a good understanding of the layout and size of this impressive Byzantine monastery and basilica.

Baram National Park is in the Upper Galilee, northwest of Safed, not far from the Lebanese border. The park encompasses the remains of a large synagogue and smaller synagogue, both once part of a Jewish village that existed here from the Second Temple Period, through the Talmudic Period (200 - 500 BC) and into the Middle Ages. The discovery of this archaeological site supports the fact that the area was inhabited by Jews over 2,500 years ago. Baram covers 28 dunams, and in addition to the remains of the two synagogues, the park is home to a Maronite church, the remains of a Christian village, and an oak tree forest.History of Baram National ParkThe village was inhabited up until the Middle Ages when it was abandoned sometime between the 7th and 13th centuries. According to Jewish tradition, in the 2nd century AD, Rabbi Pinchas ben Yair was buried at Bar’am. By the 13th century an Arab village called Kafr Bir’im, had grown around the two ancient synagogues. Ottoman tax records from 1596 show that the village had a population of 114 Muslim households. The village was damaged by an earthquake in 1837, which also caused the synagogue to collapse. By 1838, records show that a Maronite village was established here, and in years to come it was home to approximately 160 male Maronites and Melkites (both Eastern Christian).The village was attacked by Muslims and Druze during the 1860 Lebanon Civil War. The 1881 Survey of Western Palestine describes the village of 300 - 500 inhabitants as picturesque with quaint stone buildings, olive groves, vineyards, and gardens. The population of Kafr Bir’im fluctuated over the next few decades but it remained a Christian village.In May 1948, the State of Israel was established and in the same year, Israel was attacked by its neighboring states. During the conflict Kafr Bir’im was captured by the Jews and by November 1948 most of the villagers had been expelled, never to return. Instead, Kibbutz Baram was established, to deter infiltration from across the Lebanese border. The Maronite residents still regard the village church as the center of their community and have appealed to be allowed to return to their village.The Ancient Synagogue of BaramThe ancient Jewish village of Bar’am had two synagogues, one in the center of the village and a synagogue on the outskirts which has become known as the Kfar Baram Synagogue. Kfar Baram Synagogue dates back to the 3rd century AD and was most likely damaged by the Galilee Earthquake of 1837. What remains of the synagogue is considered one of the best-preserved ancient synagogues in Israel.The Kfar Baram Synagogue was built of local basalt stone, like most early structures in the region. The windows and entranceways have survived, and the façade is complete up to the second floor. It has a unique six-column portico and the interior was divided into three aisles by rows of columns. The remains include a well-preserved façade, with three doorways facing Jerusalem. The doorways are adorned with beautiful relief carvings. The central entrance is particularly beautiful with a round arch above the opening. Some of the carved friezes feature images of vines and animals including two sculptured stone lions. An inscription in Aramaic was found carved to the right of the main entrance bearing the name of the builder.Other Points of Interest in Bar’am National ParkFlora and Fauna: The park encompasses an impressive forest of large oak trees. In autumn (October-November) the area is covered in wildflowers. A short drive from the ancient synagogue is Mount Admon where slopes are covered with crocuses in the autumn months.Baram Forest: A 4 km-long hike takes you through the forest of Palestinian oak trees, and reaches the Dishon Stream and the Tzivon Stream. The forest covers 1,000 dunams.Hike Trails: You can hike through Baram National Park in the Baram Forest and past the ancient synagogue. The hike is suitable for all levels of fitness, and all seasons.Maronite Church: The village church remains on a wooded hill not far from the synagogue, and is still used for religious ceremonies and festivals.Little Synagogue: Located about 400 meters from the Kfar Baram Synagogue are the remains of a second, smaller synagogue, which once stood in the center of the Jewish village. Almost nothing remains except a lintel which is displayed in the Louvre in Paris. The synagogue may have been named in honor of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai.Tomb of Nachman Chatufa: “The Child’s Prophecy” is a 16th-century book that tells the story of a child, Nachman Chatufa, born in Israel to a righteous couple, and from the day he was born he recited words of the Torah. His father was startled and silenced the boy who did not utter another word until his 12th birthday. After that, he foretold the future, up until the coming of the Messiah, then collapsed and died. The Tomb of Nachman Chatufa at Baram is considered sacred and is visited by women who come here to pray for fertility.Tomb of Prophet Ovadiah: Ovadiah is credited with writing the shortest book of the Jewish Torah, the “Book of Obadiah” which prophesied the divine judgment of Edom.Bar David Museum: On the nearby Kibbutz Baram you can visit the Bar David Museum where art and Judaica from the excavation of the ancient Baram Synagogue are displayed.How to Reach Baram National ParkFind the Baram National Park on Sasa-Baram Road (#899), about 3km east of Hiram Junction. If using Waze, enter “Baram National Park. The park is open Saturday to Thursday from 8 am to 5 pm in summer and until 4 pm in winter. On Fridays and holidays, the park opens from 8 am to 4 pm/3 pm.

The Yehudiya Forest is located above the Sea of Galilee in the central Golan Heights. The forest is protected within the Yehudiya Nature Reserve by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority and covers a landscape of deep ravines, waterfalls, canyons and a magnificent forest of Mount Tabor oak trees. This is one of the largest nature reserves in the Golan and is treasured for its geological diversity. The streams that run through the park are vital to the drainage basin of the Sea of Galilee and the reserve is home to abundant flora and fauna.Yehudiya Forest Flora and FaunaThe forest of Mt. Tabor oak trees covers an area between Katzrin and the Sea of Galilee and hike trails run through the forest and past the highlights of the park. In among the forest trees grow wild oats and barley. You will find the park landscape includes jujube bushes, almond trees reeds, myrtle bushes, willow trees, oleanders, areas of savannah and Christ’s thorn jujube trees.In the winter there is an abundance of wildflowers including anemones and cyclamens. You can also see the Golan iris which is unique to this area. The nature reserve is a protected habitat of deer, foxes, wolves, jackals, wild boars and raptors such as vultures. Herds of wild boar live in the Yehudiya Forest. There are over 170 species of animal in the reserve including about 110 bird species.Basalt HexagonsThe park is home to a unique phenomenon known as basalt hexagons. Thousands of years ago when the Golan Heights were formed cracks split the lava as it coagulated creating tall hexagonal pillars of rock. Over the course of time the elements have further shaped and smoothed the basalt pillars. The basalt hexagons can best be seen at Brechat HaMishushim (Hexagon Pool). You can also see examples of these fascinating rocks along the Zavitan Stream and at the Ayit Waterfall.Yehudiya Nature Reserve WaterwaysThe park has a number of waterways including the Meshushim Stream (the lower part of the Daliyot Stream); the Yehudiya Stream and the Zavitan Stream. In places, the streams are flanked by towering cliffs and form waterfalls and natural pools. The streams in the Yehudiya Nature Reserve flow year-round. The Yehudiya Stream flows along a deep canyon. Falling rocks from the canyon cliffs have caused sections of the canyon to be closed but there is an alternative route upstream leading to the Yehudiya Falls.The parks another major stream is the Zavitan Stream that runs through a deep canyon where the En Nataf Spring drips down the cliffside like a curtain. The Black Gorge is in the Zavitan Stream canyon and consists of a series of waterfalls. Intrepid visitors can cross the waterfalls by rappelling. To venture into the Black Gorge you will need to register in advance with the nature reserve office. See the Ayit Waterfall, one of the highest and most beautiful in the region. You can follow the “Waterfalls Route” along Road 808 to see the park’s waterfalls from lookout points.Archaeological SitesThere are a number of archaeological sites within the reserve including the ruins of a former Syrian village, Yehudiya Village. This ancient village looks down on the Yehudiya Stream from the cliff tops and like other ancient structures in the Golan the village houses were built of basalt rock. Also within Yehudiya Nature Reserve are the remains of several Byzantine synagogues and ancient burial stones (dolmens) from the 3rd millennium BC.Visiting Yehudiya ForestThe most popular activity in the nature reserve is hiking. There are marked paths that give access to the most interesting parts of the park and several “wet hikes” where you can walk in the streams as you follow the route. Some areas of the park are closed for the conservation of the wildlife populations. Visitors can camp within the park at an organized campground situated at the park entrance where the hike trails start.

In the eastern Galilee, overlooking the Sea of Galilee is the Korazim or Chorazin National Park, the site of an excavated ancient Jewish town with roots going back to the Roman Era. The 25-acre park preserves the remains of a Roman/Byzantine settlement built from the region’s black basalt stone. Although the town dates back to the 1st century, almost all the remains are from the 3rd-4th century including the highlight of the park a Byzantine synagogue.Second Temple Period (567 BC - 70 AD) sources mention the good quality wheat farmed by the inhabitants of Korazim. The New Testament names Korazim, together with Bethsaida, and Capernaum as devoutly Jewish towns that Jesus cursed after they rejected his teachings (Matthew 11:20). Visitors that come to explore the archaeological site can also enjoy views of the Sea of Galilee and the beautiful natural surroundings that include Christ-thorn jujube trees and an ancient Mount Tabor oak tree. Over 2,000 Years of History at Korazim National ParkAlthough most of the archaeological ruins you can see today date back 1,500 years, the Korazim settlement existed as early as the 1st century. Perhaps the site of the town was chosen for the elevated location, fertile farming land, and the nearby spring that supplied valuable water. This was the land of Jesus’ ministry where he preached in Galilee towns and performed miracles. In fact, Christ would have preached in Galilee synagogues just like the one at Korazim.The town grew during the Mishnaic and Talmudic periods of the 3rd century and in the 4th century, Korazim was destroyed, perhaps by the 363 AD earthquake. It was rebuilt and remained inhabited until the 8th century before being once again abandoned. From the 13th century, Korazim was sporadically resettled and later Syrian Bedouins established a village known as Karazeh which remained until 1948. Near the park entrance is the Mameluke Period tomb of Sheikh Ramadan. Local Bedouins visit the grave to make offerings, vows and to settle disputes.The Korazim SynagogueThe Korazim synagogue was built and rebuilt between the 3rd and 5th centuries and remained in use until the 8th century. The synagogue was 23m long and 17m wide and like the rest of the settlement, the synagogue was constructed out of the volcanic basalt rock that forms the mountains of the Golan.Carved into the synagogue stones are geometric shapes, zodiac signs, Jewish motifs, and images of flora and fauna. Skilled artistry went into carving the hard basalt rock and decorating it in great detail. The three synagogue entrances were topped by beautifully carved triangular gables. The excavation uncovered a basalt-hewn seat that was probably used by senior members of the congregation when teaching. The stone seat or Moses Seat is inscribed with a dedication to the community donors.The partial remains of the synagogue include the lower walls, an archway, stone lion figures, and 5 of the original 12 columns. Near the synagogue is a Jewish ritual bath where worshipers would have purified themselves by submerging in the bath before entering the synagogue. Also discovered were dwellings, paved courtyards, and an olive press. Today the synagogue is sometimes used for outdoor events, bar mitzvahs, and weddings.

This fascinating tour of Jerusalem’s new city and Bethlehem focuses on Christian sites. Visit Ein Kerem, a village-within-a-city with quaint stone houses, and vibrant gardens. Ein Kerem is best known as the birthplace of John the Baptist. Stop at the Church of John the Baptist which was built where John the Baptist’s parents, Elizabeth and Zachariah had their home. The family also had a summer house on a hill overlooking Ein Kerem where the Church of the Visitation now stands. It was here that Mary visited Elizabeth before John the Baptist’s birth (Luke 1:24). Also, see Mary’s Spring where Mary met Elizabeth as she collected water. Leaving Ein Kerem, the tour takes you to Israel’s most important museum, the Israel Museum for a brief guided tour. Visit the adjacent Shrine of the Book that houses the Dead Sea Scrolls; ancient religious manuscripts dating back to c.408BC. The tour continues to an observation point overlooking the Valley of the Cross in Western Jerusalem. Tradition holds that Christ’s cross was made from a tree that grew in this valley. In the valley stands the 11th century Greek Orthodox Monastery of the Cross. Next, take a drive through the streets of new Jerusalem past iconic locations such as Yad VaShem, Mount Herzl, Kyriat HaMemshela (the government precinct), and picturesque neighborhoods.Leave Jerusalem and drive towards Bethlehem, the town of Christ’s birth. In Bethlehem visit the Nativity Church, built in the 4th century around the Holy Grotto where the nativity took place. Between Jerusalem and Bethlehem see the fields where shepherds watched their flocks on the eve of Christ’s birth. Stop at the Shepherds’ Field Chapel of the Angels. This tent-shaped chapel was designed by Antonio Barluzzi and features beautiful paintings depicting scenes from the night of the nativity.Additional Options in the Area:1. Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum2. Mount Zion:King David’s Tomb and the Room of the Last Supper3. Garden Tomb, site of Jesus’ burial according to Baptist tradition4. Lookout point Armon HaNatziv (Haas Promenade)5. New neighborhoods of Jerusalem6. Mar Saba Monastery (Holy Lavra of Saint Sabbas)7. Herodion National Park

This private tour of Jerusalem’s new city starts with a panoramic view across the city from Armon HaNetziv lookout point (Haas Promenade) in the East Talpiot neighborhood. In the distance, you can see the Judean Hills and Judean Desert to the south. The tour takes you into Jerusalem’s new city, through the most interesting neighborhoods. On route see important landmarks such as the Knesset (Parliament Building) and the Supreme Court building. Drive through the up-market Rehavia neighborhood, and past the Ottoman-era First Station, now a converted shopping and dining complex. See the luxury King David Hotel, and get a glimpse of quaint neighborhoods in Jerusalem’s new city that tourists don’t usually see. Next, visit the Great Synagogue, which can accommodate up to 1,400 worshipers and holds a comprehensive collection of mezuzah cases. The tour continues to Jerusalem’s Me’a She’arim neighborhood where ultra-orthodox residents still live by fundamental religious laws. The next stop is Jerusalem’s Machane Yehuda market where open-air stalls sell fresh produce, baked goods, meat, fish, and household items. The market eateries are known for their delicious cuisine and you can opt to stop here for lunch or a tasting menu. Visit the Israel Museum, the country’s largest cultural institution, and a world leader in art and archaeology. On the museum campus is the Shrine of the Book that holds the Dead Sea Scrolls that date back to c.408BC, and are the oldest copy of the First Testament in existence. The complex has a scale replica of Jerusalem as it would have looked during the Second Temple Period. The final stop on this private tour is the Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum. Here you can see authentic artifacts, video testimonials from Holocaust survivors, historic photographs, and documents all presented in state-of-the-art exhibits.Additional Options in the Area:1. Ammunition Hill2. Bible Lands Museum3. Rockefeller Archaeological Museum4. Tomb of King David on Mount Zion5. Mishkenot Sha’ananim, the first Jewish neighborhood built outside the Old City walls6. Tasting tour of Machane Yehuda Market7. Knesset, the Knesset Menorah, and the Rose Garden8. Supreme Court9. Biblical Zoo10. Nahon Museum of Italian Jewish Art11. Ein Kerem12. Mount Herzl13. Israeli National Military Cemetery

The Mount of Olives was the site of many significant Biblical events and is home to beautiful churches and important landmarks like Bethphage. The Sanctuary of Bethphage is the starting point for the annual Palm Sunday procession that recalls Christ’s entrance into the city. The tour continues to the Russian Ascension Church (may be closed on some days) where according to Russian Orthodox tradition Jesus ascended to heaven.Next, the tour stops at the 4th century Pater Noster Church. Since the 4th-century churches have been constructed at this site where Jesus taught his disciples the Lord’s Prayer. In the church,courtyard are ceramic plaques bearing the Lord’s Prayer in languages from around the globe. The tour continues to the Chapel of the Ascension, which holds a slab of stone with a footprint believed to be where Jesus stepped up to heaven. The Dominus Flevit Church is a beautiful teardrop-shaped sanctuary where you can look out over the city as Jesus did. See the 3,000-year-old Jewish Cemetery on the slopes of the Mount of Olives and tour the Russian Orthodox Mary Magdalene Church (open only on Tuesdays and Thursdays for a short time so it may not be possible to include this stop). This church was built in 1888 and has the distinctive 16th-17th century tent roof style with gilded onion domes. Stop at the Church of All Nations, with its beautiful golden mosaic above the entrance.Continue to Mary’s Tomb, which according to Eastern Christian tradition is the burial site of the Virgin Mary. At the foot of the mount, in the Kidron Valley see the Yad Absalom Tomb alongside tombs from the Second Temple Period that would have been built in Jesus’ lifetime. Ascend the Ophel Promenade alongside archaeological gardens and walk the length of the Temple Mount’s eastern wall. See the sealed Gate of Mercy or Golden Gate which is said to be where the Messiah will enter the city (Ezekiel 44:1-3). The tour ends with a look back at the Mount of Olives from the direction of Temple Mount.

The tour starts with a panoramic view across Jerusalem’s cityscape. Next, take a walk along the Ophel Promenade past the Ophel Archaeological Garden between the Old City Dung Gate and the Gihon Spring. The excavated ruins found at this site trace Jerusalem’s history back 2,500 years. The tour continues to the Mount of Olives, the site of a 3,000-year-old Jewish cemetery. At the foot of the mount is the Kidron Valley and several monumental rock-cut tombs including the tomb of Absalom, the rebellious son of King David. Next, visit the excavated City of David, the site of King David’s palace, and several ancient water tunnels including the 3,000-year-old Hezekiah tunnel. Get a view of the southern wall excavations then continue to the Western Wall. Here you can take a moment to place a prayer note between the wall’s massive stones. Tour the Old City’s four Sephardic synagogues, built between the 16th-18th centuries. These synagogues once formed a complex of Sephardic sanctuaries. While in the Jewish Quarter take a look at the Cardo, an excavated Roman thoroughfare. With prior arrangement, it is possible to visit the Hurva Synagogue, originally constructed in the 18th century and destroyed and rebuilt several times over the years. It retained the name “Ruined Synagogue” or Hurva as a reminder of the building’s history. The last stop on this private tour is at the Tower of David Museum, housed within an Ottoman-era citadel built on the site of a series of fortified structures dating back to the 2nd century BC. The museum covers the history of Jerusalem told through authentic archaeological findings displayed in the citadel chambers and courtyard.Additional Options in the Area:1. Excavations of the Kotel (requires prior arrangement)2. Temple Mount, once the site of the Jewish Temple.3. Davidson Center, excavation of the Southern Wall4. The Herodian Quarter (The Burnt House)5. Rooftop lookout point in the Old City6. A tasting tour of the Old City market: special humus, superior Arabian coffee, and more.7. King David’s Tomb, Mount Zion8. Church of the Holy Sepulcher9. Via Dolorosa

Enter Temple Mount, the massive open plaza that takes up a 6th of the Old City in Jerusalem. Over 2,000-years-ago the Sanhedrin (Jewish council) agreed to let King Herod build the Second Temple which took 46 years to construct and was completed in 20AD. He extended the masonry platform on Temple Mount and made it the most beautiful temple in the ancient world. Jews traveled from far and wide to make three annual traditional pilgrimages to the Temple. Herod gained permission from the Sanhedrin to build the Court of the Gentiles so that gentiles could admire the architectural marvel, without entering the Temple itself. Today, Temple Mount shows no trace of the Grand Temple. See the structures on the mount including the Golden Gate, Scale Arches, the Dome of the Prophet, Dome of the Chain, and the remains of a wall that may date back to the Hasmoneans. Also, see Al-Aqsa Mosque, and, the Dome of the Rock (completed in 692AD) with its famous golden dome. Your guide will tell you about the Koran story of Muhammad’s Night Journey to the Furthest Mosque which has been associated with the Al-Aqsa Mosque despite no mention of Jerusalem in the Koran. Also, learn about Temple Mount’s religious and political significance. Leave Temple Mount in the direction of the Western Wall, a remnant of the Second Temple’s retaining wall, and the most sacred Jewish site in the world. Look down upon the Davidson Center where you can see the excavated Temple Mount's southern and western walls.Transport will be waiting at the Old City Dung Gate to take you to Herodium, another of King Herod’s massive construction projects. The king had a small city, and a palace-fortress built at Herodium; It was the most elaborate structure of its kind in the ancient world with towers, bathhouses, courtyards, columns, fountains, frescoes, cisterns, royal quarters, and a theater. Herod ordered a mausoleum built at Herodium where he could be buried after his passing. When preparing the mausoleum, a massive dirt embankment was added around the palace-fortress creating a conical-shaped hill. The tour takes you to the hill-top site and through the excavated structures. Herod’s burial tomb was uncovered by archaeologist Ehud Netzer, who searched for Herod’s tomb for thirty years before finding it just two years before he died after a fall at the site of the tomb.Additional Options in the Area:1. The Western Wall excavations. Due to restrictions, a visit must be arranged at least 21 days ahead of time or entry is on a first-come basis depending on available space each day.2. The Davidson Center and the Southern Wall excavation.3. The Herodian Quarters.4. Tower of David at Jaffa Gate.

Start the tour with a drive to Masada, an incredible rock outcrop that rises out of the Judean Desert and looms over the Dead Sea. Tour the archaeological remains of Herod’s palace-fortress built on Masada’s plateau summit. Masada was Herod’s first great fortress, constructed in c.30BC. The king chose this location for its natural defensive advantages and, as an escape from the city. Tour the site including storerooms, guardhouses, and traditional Roman bathhouses with beautiful frescos. See the fortified double wall, Herod’s northern palace, and the western palace that was intended for guests. Following Herod’s death, Masada became a Roman garrison and the scene of a dramatic standoff between Jewish zealots and Roman troops in the Great Revolt of 63AD-70AD. See where the Jewish zealots turned Herod’s stables into a synagogue and where Roman soldiers broke through the fortified walls to end the standoff. Also, see the remains of a Byzantine-era church and learn about the ingenious water system that supplied fresh water to the remote fortress. Leaving Masada, the tour takes you past the site of the Good Samaritan Inn, where Jesus set his famous parable. Approaching the Wadi Qelt gorge, you will have a view of the 1,500-year-old Saint George’s Monastery built into the dramatic Wadi Qelt cliffs. Continue to the archaeological remains of Herod’s palace at the entrance to Wadi Qelt near Jericho. Herod built his magnificent winter palace on the remains of earlier Hasmonean palaces. The elaborate complex was built in three stages with the largest section constructed on both sides of Wadi Qelt connected by a bridge across the valley. Tour the excavated site that reveals the luxurious lifestyle of Herod the Great with its swimming pools, ornamental gardens, reception rooms, courtyards, royal living quarters, and bathhouses.Additional Options in the Area:1. Visit Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered.2. Ein Gedi Nature Reserve and a walk along the banks of David Stream or Arugot Stream.3. Take a swim in the Dead Sea.4. Visit Mount Sodom and the Flour Cave.5. Take an exhilarating desert jeep safari.6. Watch the Sound and Light Show at Masada.7. Full day at Masada, with an in-depth tour of the site including the southern section. You can include a hike to Masada; a walk up the Snake Path to the plateau summit or the longer, challenging hike trail that connected the Roman siege camps plus a visit to the cisterns on the northwestern cliff of Masada.

This private tour starts in the afternoon with a drive south, through the Judean Desert to Masada, a steep mountaintop plateau overlooking the Dead Sea. Take the cable car to Masada’s flat summit where King Herod built his massive palace-fortress in 30BC. Spend the rest of the day, touring the UNESCO-listed archaeological remains on Masada. Herod chose this remote site for its steep 450m-high (1476ft) cliffs that acted as a natural defense against attacks. He added fortified walls to make the palace even more impenetrable. In the event of a revolt, Herod planned to retreat here with his court. The palace-fortress was designed to ensure that he would be able to live on Masada for as long as necessary. See the large storerooms that would have held supplies and the vast cisterns carved into the rock to store water for drinking and irrigation so that there would be a permanent food supply. Herod’s engineers devised a system of channels and aqueducts to gather water that flowed from the Judean Mountains. See Herod’s northern palace, built on two levels over the edge of the northern cliff. Also see the western guest palace, the magnificence Roman bathhouse with mosaic floors and frescos, and the remains of a Byzantine-era church. Tour the synagogue built many years after Herod’s death, by Jewish zealots during the Great Revolt of 63AD-70AD. The rebels remained on Masada, holding out as long as they could against Roman legions that gathered at the foot of the mount. Eventually, after a long siege, the Romans broke through Masada’s fortified embankment only to find that the rebels had chosen suicide rather than be caught and surrender their freedom. This dramatic event turned Masada into a symbol of Jewish determination to be free in their land. As the sun sets, take a short walk down Masada’s Roman battery footpath to see the Masada Light and Sound Show. The show uses light projected on the ancient cliffs, pyrotechnics, and sound effects to tell the story of the Jewish rebels of Masada. This awe-inspiring show ends at 21:00 and you should arrive back in Tel Aviv by about 23:00.

This exhilarating private tour starts when you are picked up and transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to Ein Gedi Nature Reserve. Ein Gedi is an oasis in the Judean Desert, on the shore of the Dead Sea. The reserve is famed for its streams and lush vegetation that offer a respite from the harsh desert heat. The oasis attracts animals including the ibex that walk along the narrow cliff ledges that flank the streams. The tour of Ein Gedi is on-foot and lasts about 3 hours following the route of Arugot Stream. Along the way, there is a chance to stop and swim in the natural pools formed by waterfalls gushing through openings in the surrounding rocks. After the hike, stop at the adjacent Ein Gedi Kibbutz to see an excavated 1,500-year-old synagogue. The main feature of the synagogue remains is a beautiful floor mosaic of geometric shapes. One of the inscriptions on the mosaic alludes to a mysterious secret the community had. The incredible mosaic was discovered by accident in 1965 when the kibbutz was installing water pipes. Among the findings was an ancient scroll of Leviticus. The synagogue is proof that Jewish communities were living in the Judean Desert at the time. The last stop on this private tour is the kibbutz Botanical Garden. Here local plant species and others brought from around the world can be seen side-by-side. There are exotic plants, endangered plant species, baobab trees, olive trees, pomegranate trees, and fig trees. The gardens include a cactus section, a statue garden, and a palm garden. There are several observation points where you can look out over the gardens and along the Dead Sea shore to Mount Sodom.Additional Options in the Area:1. Hike David Stream2. Visit Masada3. Tour Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered4. Swim in the Dead Sea

Start the day with a drive through the Judean Hills, an area known for its Biblical cities, and thousands of caves. We reach the Stalactite Cave Nature Reserve that is home to Israel’s largest stalactite cave, also known as Avshalom Cave or Soreq Cave. Walk into the cave to see stunning stalactites hanging from the ceiling and stalagmites rising from the cave floor. The Stalactite Cave has been lit to highlight the different rock formations in the cavernous space.The tour continues to Beit Guvrin. On route, we see the remains of a Roman road that once stretched from Gaza to Jerusalem. We drive through Elah Valley, known for its many archaeological sites and fields of wildflowers in the spring. We reach Beit Guvrin National Park that encompasses an archaeological mound identified as the Biblical city of Maresha. See the impressive remains of the Maresha caves including columbarium caves, underground cisterns, and cavernous bell caves. Take a look at the remains of a Roman amphitheater before we continue to our next stop. Tel Azekah is an archaeological mound identified as the site of a Biblical settlement, named in Joshua 15:35. The settlement would have been encircled by a defensive wall, with a fortress, and water cisterns. From the Tel Azekah observation point, we can look out over Elah Valley, and see where David is believed to have fought Goliath (Samuel I 17). The last stop on this private tour is at a winery in Israel’s Lowlands between the Judean Hills and the coastal plain. End the day in this idyllic setting surrounded by vineyards and rolling green hills, before being returned to your hotel.Additional Options in the Area:1. Park Canada2. Beit Jamal Monastery (Monastery of the Silent)3. Abu Ghosh4. Mitzpe Massua Lookout Point Park Britannia5. Walking wildflower trail in the area, January to April

This Tel Aviv food tour is a must for every foodie, history lover, and culture buff alike! You’ll discover the city’s most famous outdoor market where the sounds, aromas, and colors will wake all of your senses.You'll start in the pedestrian streets of Nahalat Binyamin, the famous bohemian neighborhood, all filled with captivating Bauhaus architecture. You'll enjoy the sights and move on to the main attraction: Established in 1920, Carmel Market is the largest in the city - Fresh produce is piled high, meat is cut to order, spices are sold out of large sacks and fishmongers sell the catch of the day. The market has become a foodie destination, with many artisan food stalls and small eateries; Israeli cooking was Influenced by Marocan, Egyptian, Lebanese, Yemenite, Ethiopian, and even Persian Kitchens - and you’ll feel this variety in every bite.Our guide will take you to the best stalls and spots, for hours of mouth-watering fun: You’ll try the famous local shawarma, with succulent layers of marinated meat expertly grilled to perfection; You’ll fall in love with the pastries, the artisan Cheeze, and the best Falafel you’ve ever tasted; and be surprised by the creamy hummus, silky smooth tahini and vibrant, tangy pickled vegetables.After a taste of sweet desserts served just in the right portions, you’ll have a chance to try Israeli liquor as well - from original local Beers to the delightful sting of Arak.The mixture of food on sale in Carmel Market is a testament to the diverse ethnic groups that have settled in Israel and brought with them traditional foods - and your tour guide will introduce you to them all, and show you their place in the special market culture. Your tour will go pastKerem HaTeimanim, another colorful neighborhood, with plenty of photo-ops and wonderful little restaurants favored by locals for over 100 years.

This Graffiti Tour of Tel Aviv begins when you meet your local guide and set off to explore Nachalat Binyamin. The neighborhood has a car-free section that includes the main Nachalat Binyamin pedestrian street, as well as a network of lanes and alleyways. The leafy neighborhood is known for its variety of historic houses built around the 1920s-30s including Bauhaus buildings.The architecture is stunning, with wrought-iron balusters, elegant balconies, and art deco elements. Most of the buildings are painted in pleasant pastel tones. Your guide will fill you in on the history of Nachalat Binyamin, how it became a Taylor's paradise with its countless fabric shops and tell you a bit about the buildings you see. The tour continues through the streets of Nachalat Binyamin, past sidewalk cafes, trendy fashion stores, and restaurants. Your tour guide will show you the neighborhood's unique graffiti street art.Plastered across walls, that would otherwise be blank, are magnificent creations by Israel’s top street artists - Dede, Nitzan Mintz, and others. Many of the creators are women and couples with interesting personal stories. you'll Learn about the artists and their different styles, influences, and struggles. Your guide will tell you about the role street art plays in Tel Aviv’s urban culture and explain the significance of some of the satirical images. Nachalat Binyamin is unique in encouraging graffiti artists to use the neighborhood’s walls to express themselves.Through their murals, street artists express their views on society, politics, and human existence. Some will make you laugh while others are thought-provoking. With its high concentration of graffiti, Nachalat Benyamin is the best place to get to know the street art scene in Tel Aviv.

This Jaffa tour takes you on an enchanting journey through the heart of the city, where history and modern life intersect in surprising ways. You’ll start at the iconic Clock Square, which encapsulates the rich tapestry of Jaffa's history, from its Ottoman and Turkish roots to its vibrant contemporary culture. As we wander through the colorful streets and take lots of great pics, we'll delve into the intriguing past of this square and learn just how significant it was over time for several cultures - and still is. Then we’ll reach the captivating alleyways of Jaffa's harbor and discover the historical impact of the port, and how it helped in shaping the city's heritage and maritime history. Our next stop will be Giv'at Kedem Hill, where we'll visit the entrance of Saint Peter’s Church, a Franciscan Catholic church tied to the journeys of Jesus. Visitors like exploring beautiful architectural features and immersing themselves in religious and cultural history. You’ll see the beautiful Zodiac signs Fountain, and the renowned Jaffa Orange Tree hanging in mid-air, and continue through Raamses Gate to the Garden of Pinnacle. This serene oasis atop the hill offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. We'll take a short stroll to this peaceful haven, where you can revel in the tranquility and stunning vistas. Next, we'll cross the Bridge of Wishes and listen to the fascinating story of Jaffa's renowned clock tower, a symbol of unexpected success and aspiration. After hours of interesting stories and countless photo-ops, you’ll reach the Jaffa Flea Market - the authentic, beating heart of the city. This cultural kaleidoscope of eclectic stalls offers unique treasures and will be a colorful, perfect ending to this awesome Jaffa walking tour!

Your tour guide will meet you at Ashdod cruise port and your day trip will begin with a drive south in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. We take the winding road down through the mountains of the Judean Desert. You will be traveling below sea level to the lowest point on Earth. Along the way, we drive parallel to the Dead Sea towards Masada.At Masada, you’ll take a cable car to the plateau summit of this massive rock outcrop that stands 1,424ft (434 meters) high. Take a guided tour of the remnants of King Herod’s palace-fortress. Learn about the elaborate complex and see the well-preserved archaeological remains including mosaics, storerooms, palaces, and a bathhouse. Also visit the Masada Museum at the foot of the mount, where there are over 500 artifacts found at Masada. And learn about Masada’s history from an audiovisual presentation.Leaving Masada we drive to Ein Bokek beach at the Dead Sea. You will either have a lunch break at Masada or at the beach. Then spend the remaining part of the afternoon at your leisure, relaxing on the beach and floating in the Dead Sea. Get revitalized by the rich minerals and salts of the Dead Sea water, or purchase some of the Dead Sea mud as a natural skin treatment. After a day packed with adventure, history, and fun, we take the route via Arad back to Ashdod Port and your cruise ship.

This Bethlehem and Jerusalem tour from Ashdod port starts when you are met by your tour guide at the cruise port. You’ll be driven to Jerusalem in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. The first stop is on Mount Scopus to take in the view across Jerusalem’s rooftops and domes. The tour continues past the Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations on the Mount of Olives. We drive past Kidron Valley, the site of ancient Jewish tombs, and see the Ophel Promenade that runs parallel to the Old City wall. We enter the Old City through one of the gateways in the 16th-century walls. Here there are views of the Western Wall excavations where more of the ancient city is being uncovered. On a walking tour of the Old City’s top sites, we stop at the Western Wall, a section of the Second Jewish Temple that stood on Temple Mount until 70 AD. We continue to the Byzantine Cardo, once Jerusalem’s main thoroughfare lined with columns. We follow the Via Dolorosa, where Jesus walked towards Calvary, and arrive at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. This 4th-century basilica holds multiple chapels and altars shared by several Christian denominations. The church was built around the site of Christ’s tomb, and Golgotha (Calvary) where Christ was crucified. While in the Old City, we visit several traditional Middle Eastern markets and stop for a lunch break. Next, we'll drive away from the Old City Bethlehem. Arriving at Manger Square, the tour will continue to the Nativity Church. This magnificent church was built around the Holy Grotto, believed to have been the site of Christ’s birth. From Bethlehem, we return to your cruise ship in Ashdod port.

Tel Aviv’s not known as the Non-Stop City for nothing! Achingly hip and endlessly cool, there’s no shortage of bars to visit, whether you’re looking for something sophisticated and sedate or boisterous and bizarre. Without a doubt, this is clearly the best city in Israel to go out for the night inFruit Mojitos. Photo by Kobby Mendez on UnsplashAnd who doesn’t like a cocktail once in a while? Whether you’re supping at creation before heading off to dinner at one of many fine Tel Aviv restaurants, on a hot date night or with friends and ready to lose track of time, there’s nothing better than a cocktail bar to enjoy yourself. With literally hundreds of bars scattered across the city, we’ve saved you the trouble of asking around, scouring websites or taking your chances. These, in our opinion, are the seven best cocktail bars in Tel Aviv - ranging from classic to whimsical. Get your glad rags on, wait for the sun to go down and head to one of them…fast!1. Spicehaus Bar, Tel AvivThere’s some serious mixology going on at this ‘Cocktail Lab’ of a bar, where you’ll sometimes see staff in the white coats of chemists and drinks are often served in measuring flasks and beakers. Whether it’s a pina colada creation or something hip and funky, like an ‘Istanbul’, you won’t be disappointed.Spicehaus also takes a ‘sharing is caring’ approach with creations meant for more than one, in a unique environment (go to the bathroom and listen to Edgar Allen Poe’s ‘The Raven’ poem being read to you). They’ll fix you classics as well as modern creations. Happy hour is 18.00-20.30 and they also have a large outside area which is perfect for people-watching on Dizengoff…as well as getting into the ‘apothecary’ mood. Our tip: Drink: Anything served in a test tube! Eat: Ricotta toasted cheese sandwich with truffle oil and maple syrup. Address: Spicehaus, Dizengoff Street 117, 03 518-5904.Spicehouse, the first Sharing Cocktail Bar, Tel Aviv. Photo via SSpicehaus.tv2. Bellboy Bar, Tel AvivThe entire philosophy behind Bellboy is that everyone deserves a little fun in life. And fun you will have if you come here because everything is (as they say” rather ‘out of the ordinary).Whether it’s the ‘Tooth Fairy’ (mate-infused pisco, syrup, mint and soda), ‘Breakwater’ (dried-fruit rum, rooibos fruit blend, mandarine Napoleon, tamarind and foam) or ‘Monkey Business (dark rum, sour rum, Vermouth and Benedictine), you’ll be swept off your feet…off to a place that’s beautiful, as the owners boast. Our tip: Drink:Try the ‘Holy Water - Mastiha, Eucalyptus, lime, Sauvignon Blanc and myrrh! Eat:The duck pate, which is actually moulded into the shape of a rubber duck! Adress: Bellboy, Berdyczewski St 14, 03 728-9213.Bartender at theBellboy Bar, Tel Aviv.Photo viabellboy.bar3. The Imperial Bar, Tel AvivRun by veteran cocktail bar staff, the Imperial’s aim (as it boasts) is to create a ‘temple to the lost art of the cocktail.’ And this they do - which is why they won award after award for their creations. Choose carefully in this upscale bar, whilst you listen to swing jazz and luxuriate in the old-world ambience.Customers adore the ‘East of Eden’ (Bombay Sapphire gin, Fino sherry, fresh apple juice and bay leaf-white pepper cordial), the ‘Silver Buddha Punch’ (Banana and pineapple-infused Agricole rums, Amaro Montenegro and silver needles tea cordial) and their famous ‘Prelude to a Kiss’ (Pere Magloire apple brandy, pisco Capel, fresh lime and peach jam). Our tip: Drink: The Dollar Shake (a show-stopping strawberry milkshake creation). Eat:Portobello mushrooms in creme fraiche for the veggies or fish tacos for the pescatarians!Address: The Imperial Craft Bar, Hayarkon Street 66, 073 264-9464.Food and drink at Imperial Craft Cocktail Bar, Tel Aviv. Photo via CraftCocktailBar4. The Library Bar at the Norman Hotel, Tel AvivThe decor and ambience at the Norman hotel simply ooze style and no less should be expected at their famed Library Bar. With its Art Deco design and intimate sofa seatings, it attracts a very high-end clientele and is often quite busy. With quiet music playing in the background, and attentive professional staff, this is the perfect place to try one of their creations - and if it’s not on the menu, their bar staff will certainly make it for you. Customers love their Whisky Sour and gin-infused creations and although the prices aren't cheap, you do get complimentary snacks with your drink. Perfect for a romantic date night or a serious conversation! Our tip: Drink:It’s got to be the espresso martini. Eat:Courgette fritters for the veggies and any of their seafood dishes otherwise.Address: The Library Bar, Norman Hotel, 23-25 Nachmani Street, 03 543-5555.The Library Bar, Norman Hotel, Tel Aviv, Israel.Photo via The Library Bar5. Double Standard Bar, Tel AvivSituated in the Old North neighbourhood (a stone’s throw from the Tel Aviv Port (Namal), this laid-back bar has both indoor and outdoor seating, and the patio area is perfect for breezy spring and summer evenings. They have both classic cocktails (such as the Old-Fashioned and a mean Negroni) and more amusing creations served very creatively (in themed glasses). Gin-infused and creamy coffee creations are popular. What’s even better (and a clever idea they dreamed up during the Covid pandemic) is that they sell bottled cocktail mixes, which you can take home and drink at your leisure (great for impressing dates or spoiling yourself on a night in). Happy hour is 18.00 - 20.00 and works on a 1+1 basis.Double Standard has a lively vibe and friendly service (which often includes a free shot!) Enjoy! Our tip: Drink: Their Bloody Mary is served in a hospital-like IV bag, which is always good for a laugh…Eat Bruschetta pizza for the veggies and a mini-burger for the carnivores.Address: Double Standard, Dizengoff Street 247, 03 966-8948.Double Standard Bar, Tel Aviv.Photo via Double Standard6. Concierge Bar, Tel AvivWalking into Concierge, as some worldly Israelis will tell you, is a bit like walking into a bar in Paris. With smooth jazz music in the background and a stylish design, you can pretend you’re in Europe for the night (save for the more dressed-down approach). The cocktails all have crazy, funky names like ‘Smelly Cat’ (think Phoebe in ‘Friends’), ‘Back to Black’ (paying homage to Amy) and ‘Brain Freeze’ and the flavours really are innovative.Their service is also efficient and professional. Happy hour is Sunday - Thursday from 17.00 - 20.00, when bar prices drop 50% and kitchen fare is 25% less. Our tip: Drink:Try the ‘Pink Floyd’ - made of Espolon Tequila Reposado, Aperol, pink guava, banana and grapefruit, and banana, it’s bound to leave you grinning from ear to ear. Eat:Polenta fries for the veggies and beef gnocchi served with beets and cashew nuts for the carnivores.Address: Concierge, Dizengoff Street 95, 03 522-3340.Bartenders in Concierge Bar, Tel Aviv. Photo viaConcierge_tlv7. Potion Bar, Tel Aviv If you’re a whisky aficionado, then this has to be the place for you. Not only has this joint got a magical atmosphere (it’s spread over three floors), but as well as the drinks there’s a pool table (free to use) on the upper floor and a table tennis table in the basement! Potion, as well as the 170 whiskies on its menu, serves all kinds of original cocktails, as well as homemade mead. For those of you that aren’t in the loop, mead is a kind of honey wine, and Potion’s creation is mighty fine. All drinks are served creatively, as ‘potions’ (customers rave about the purple one) and there’s plenty of old-style music - 80’s rock included. Our tip: Drink:Either one of their whisky creations or a Moscow Mule. Eat:Anything - it’s all delicious ‘pub grub’.Address: Potion, Allenby Street 16, 050-770-0590.If you are interested in Tel Aviv Tours, don't hesitate to contact us.Whiskey in a snifter glass.Photo via Potion Bar

There are many things to love about Israel - months of endless sunshine, a beautiful Mediterranean coastline that boasts pristine beaches and clear waters, endless nature reserves and national parks, art galleries and museums, Crusader fortresses, boutique vineyards, and plenty of opportunities for adrenalin lovers, in the form of kayaking, jet-skiing, surfing, and rappelling.The farm of Netiv HaAsara, Israel. Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplashOf course, Israel is also one of the world’s top destinations for pilgrims. Home to a diverse population that includes Jews, Muslims, Christians, and Druze, there’s no shortage of places of worship to visit. Jerusalem’s Old City is, in itself, a place you could spend days, if not weeks, exploring.Packed full of historical sites including the Western Wall (the last remaining wall of the Second Temple, which was destroyed in 70 AD), the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (built where Christ was crucified, buried, and resurrected), and the Dome of the Rock (which Muslims believe Mohammed flew over, en route to Mecca) each step you take is a journey back in time.A Land of HistoryAnd for history lovers, Israel is an incredible holiday destination. Whether you’re curious about the Israelites, Roman, Crusader, Mamluk, or Ottoman period in this country’s history, you won’t run out of things to see. What we’re looking at today is just a tiny part of this history, but something extraordinary in its own right - the story of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, which is told in the Bible in the form of the extraordinary story of Jacob (son of Isaac, and grandson of the patriarch Abraham).Whilst the time period of this story is ancient - circa 1200 BCE - the impact of it cannot be underestimated because, today, Orthodox Jews still consider themselves to be descendants of these tribes. There are also many other communities across the world, including Christian Assyrians, Afghans, Mormons, Ethiopians, and American Indians who also claim to be descendants of ‘lost tribes’ too. Yes, it’s really quite a story!Mount Arbel, Israel. Photo byDave HerringonUnsplash.The Hebrew Bible and the 12 Tribes of IsraelAccording to the Old Testament (or Hebrew Bible, as some Jews call it), the twelve tribes of Israel were the descendants of Jacob, one of the three great patriarchs of the Jewish religion. Jacob who (as we said above) was the grandson of Abraham (‘the father of the faith’ ) bore twelve sons, through his two wives, Leah and Rachel, and his concubines, Bilhah and Zilpah. It would be these sons who - collectively - formed the tribes.What were the names of the 12 tribes of Israel?The names of the men who formed the twelve tribes of Israel were (in order of age): Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asher, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph, and Benjamin. Unfortunately, Jacob was known to show favoritism - the most beloved of his sons was - without a doubt - Joseph, and this favoritism would set the scene for the extraordinary family saga that is told in the first book of the Bible, Genesis.The Jordan Valley, seen from the top of Mount Sartaba. Photo by Eddie & Carolina Stigson on UnsplashThe 12 Tribes of Israel in the BibleJealous and consumed with rage at the favorable treatment meted out by their father to his second youngest son, things came to a head when Jacob gave Joseph a resplendent coat of many colors. His ten elder brothers could bear it no longer so sold Joseph into slavery, returning home to tell their father that he had been killed by a wild animal. In the meantime, Joseph was taken to Egypt and, after a cruel twist of fate, imprisoned, where there he languished until he became known for his ability to interpret dreams. Summoned by the Pharaoh and able to explain Egypt’s current prosperity (and, furthermore, predict seven upcoming years of famine) he was appointed to a high place in court. From beloved son to slave to prisoner to viceroy, Joseph had survived. Even more astonishing, when his brothers appeared in Egypt, years later, searching (like all of those around them) for grain in the midst of a famine, Joseph chose not to take revenge but to forgive them. Joseph stayed at court (at this time, the Israelites were not in slavery).In Genesis, it is said that when he was about to die he asked those around him to promise him that after God took them out of Egypt, they would take his bones with them and bury them in the Promised Land. Many centuries later, his wish came true when his remains were buried in Shechem (also known as Nablus). It really is one of the most unforgettable stories in the Hebrew Bible. No wonder Andrew Lloyd Webber made a musical out of the story!Mini model of ancient Jerusalem. Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplashAn Israeli family tree - partitioning out the landAfter the Israelites fled Egypt, were saved by God, who parted the Red Sea, then wandered in the wilderness for decades, they finally arrived in the Promised Land. Each of the twelve tribes (descendants of Joseph) was assigned a section of land by Joshua, who had assumed a leadership role after the death of Moses. The tribe of Judah settled in the area south of Jerusalem and, with time, became the most important and powerful of all the tribes. From Judah would come the great King Solomon and then King David. Moreover, it was also prophesied that the Messiah would come from this tribe. The tribe of Levi also produced some notable descendants, including Moses, his brother Aaron, Miriam, Samuel, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Ezra, and Malachi. As well as the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, some modern Jews are classed as Levites, to indicate their connection with the religious functionaries who, at one time, were High Priests in ancient Israel. Here’s a map of the twelve tribes of Israel to give you an idea of which parts of the land they all inhabited.The Dead Sea aerial view, Israel. Photo bySergey MazhugaonUnsplashThe 12 Tribes of Israel in Jewish and Christian TheologyAs stated above, according to Jewish theology, the Messiah - when he comes - will be descended from the Davidic line and David came from the Tribe of Judah. For Christians, there is no less importance attached to this particular tribe - Jesus was descended from the tribe of Judah and, indeed, is often referred to as ‘the Lion of Judah’.According to the Christian Bible, where the twelve tribes of Israel are referred to in both the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, Jesus anticipated that when the Kingdom of God was established, his disciples would “sit on thrones, judging the twelves tribes of Israel.” The imagery of the 12 Tribes - The Chagall Windows of JerusalemIf you are in Ein Kerem, a green and leafy part of Jerusalem (which was home to John the Baptist), and curious about art, then it’s worth making a detour to the hospital there, named Hadassah. In the facility’s Abbell synagogue there’s something quite astonishing - and that is twelve stained-glass windows.View of the Western Wall, Jerusalem. Photo byIlanit OhanaonUnsplashDesigned by the acclaimed artist Marc Chagall these windows depict what some consider to be ‘heraldic symbols’ for each of the twelve tribes. According to Jewish Kabbalists (Kabbalah is an esoteric school of Jewish thought, which evolved in Safed in northern Israel, in the 16th century), the prayers of the Israelites will reach the gates of heaven (also 12 in number) according to the original tribe of each worshipper. So, if you hold fast to this mystical theory, Chagall’s stained-glass windows represent these twelve gates and when individuals pray in this synagogue in Jerusalem, this will give them direct access to heaven.After you’ve seen the windows, you can stroll around Ein Kerem itself. Meaning ‘Spring of Vineyard’ in Hebrew, it’s a tranquil oasis, nestled in a valley, which is incredibly beautiful. Visit the Franciscan church of John the Baptist (built on the site where it is thought he was born) and Mary’s Spring, and if you’ve got the energy continue onto Bethlehem, which is just 12 km away (about a 25 minutes drive).Family of religious Jews dressed in black walks through the Old City of Jerusalem. Photo byMaayan NemanovonUnsplashANU Museum of the Jewish People in Tel AvivTelling the original and ongoing story of the Jewish People, this fantastic museum in Tel Aviv gives visitors access to interactive exhibits, displays of rare artifacts, and cutting-edge history-telling. Established to connect Jewish people with their roots and reinforce not just personal but also collective memory, ANU Museum of the Jewish People presents a 4,000 old story - the story of the Jewish people, told through their faith, culture, deeds, theology, and humanity.Recounting the incredible story of the Jewish people back to ancient times, here you can find out much about the Tribes of Israel. ANU is also an excellent museum to learn more about Jewish migration, centers of Jewish life that sprung up around the world (London, Paris, New York, Buenos Aires), the history of Jewish literature, art, and culture, the rebirth of the Jewish people after the Shoah (Holocaust) and the establishment of the State of Israel.A camel in the Negev Desert. Photo byCole KeisteronUnsplashDid the 12 Tribes actually exist? From where did they even originate?The modern scholarship really has no one opinion about the origin - or even the existence of the Twelve Tribes. Many different schools of thought exist, all purporting different theories. That they were a group of independent, nomadic desert tribes, united for political or military reasons? Were they a confederation of Israelites that existed between the period of the Judges and Monarchy? Or were they simply groups of people named after different locations in the Land of Israel? As to their origins, many historians even argue that there is no conclusive proof that any of these tribes, were actually the sons of Jacob and Leah.For sure, It is hard to answer the above questions and no doubt controversy will continue as to how they came to be. And yet, as a concept the ‘twelve tribes of Israel’ is very much alive in Jewish and Israeli identity. Religious Jews feel connected to them through the Hebrew Bible. And although secular Jews may not believe in God, many still feel connected to the tribal idea, since it is heavily bound up in Jewish history, folklore, art, literature, politics, and geography.A Jewish boy visiting the Western Wall in Jerusalem, Israel.Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplash

Shabbat, put simply, is the centrepiece of Jewish life, wherever you live around the globe. It is a day of rest, occuring every week between Friday evening and Saturday evening, and although it is not technically a Jewish festival, it has great importance, because it is considered to be a holy time for religious Jews. For non-religious Jews, shabbat may not be celebrated as strictly, but it is still commonly observed and, for many, a lot of preparations are made to welcome it, especially when it comes to preparing meals.Challah bread for Shabbat.Photo byEvgeni TcherkasskionUnsplashWhat is Shabbat?Actually, some Jewish sages have even argued that the observance of the Jewish sabbath is the most important thing a Jew can do - more important than fasting on Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) even. Shabbat literally means, ‘he rested’ in Hebrew and many rabbis have argued that without this ‘enforced’ period of rest each week, no creativity would be possible. And however seriously you take religion, the fact is there is a great purpose to a day of rest - it really makes sure that we don’t burn out.Why is Shabbat such an important day in Jewish law?Shabbat is incredibly important in Judaism because it commemorates God’s creation of the universe, as described in the Torah (the first five books of the Hebrew Bible), one of the most sacred Jewish texts). In the second of these, Exodus, we learn that Shabbat is a reminder of the day God rested, after six days of hard work. “Six days you shall work but on the seventh day you shall rest.” For this reason, Shabbat is considered a day of holiness and peace, hence the term ‘Shabbat shalom’ (‘a peaceful sabbath’) that Jews say to each other, in the lead-up to it. Shabbat also commemorates the events of the Exodus, when Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, freeing them from slavery under the cruel Pharoah. Indeed, Shabbat is referred to in holy books as a ‘Queen’ whose presence graces every home on this day. Friday night services include psalms and the haunting melody of ‘Lecha Dodi’ (‘Come my Beloved’) in which Shabbat is referred to as a bride.Shabbat, therefore, is really a chance to stand back from the chaos of daily life and give pause before welcoming this ‘Queen’. And this is why many Jews make such an effort in their preparations for the day - wearing fine clothing, eating special foods, and ensuring that their homes are sparkling clean. After all, who would welcome royalty any other way? According to the Torah, the sabbath is a delight and if Jews observe it diligently, they will surely be afforded a place in the world to come. Entry of a synagogue in Jerusalem.Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplashWhen does Shabbat begin and end, both in Israel and around the world?The Jewish calendar is not solar, but solar-lunar, which means that all religious holidays/festivals in Israel and around the world begin at sunset. This is also the case with Shabbat, which begins at sunset on Friday evening and lasts until Saturday evening when three stars in the sky are visible. In terms of the exact time Shabbat begins, religious Jews tend to consult a calendar, according to where they are in the world, which gives the precise time of beginning and end (by the minute).Are there special rituals to welcome and say goodbye to Shabbat?Yes - and the most important is Shabbat candle lighting. Traditionally, it is the woman of the house who does this, around 18-22 minutes before Shabbat officially begins, as a way of ushering in this holy day. After the candles are lit, she will close her eyes, and recite a special prayer. Once this has been done, Shabbat has officially begun and no work can be carried out until its conclusion. (For more about what constitutes work, see below). After a short Friday night service, there will be blessings before dinner begins, made over two loaves of bread and a goblet of wine. The following evening, just before Shabbat ends, many Jews observe the ritual of ‘havdalah’. This means ‘separation’ in the Hebrew language, and is a way of distinguishing the holiness of this day from the rest of the week. Using wine (or grape juice), spices (often kept in a box), and a braided candle, the ritual concludes with the singing of ‘Eliyahu haNavi’ (‘Elijah the Prophet’), who Jews believe will usher in the age of redemption. Finally, everyone wishes each other ‘Shavua tov’ which means “May you have a good week to come.” Take a look at this fun video entitled ‘How to Havdalah’ to get a better idea of what goes on! Family of religious Jews dressed in black walks through the Old City of Jerusalem.Photo byMaayan NemanovonUnsplashWhat is a typical ‘Friday night’ Shabbat meal?Whilst there’s not one ‘typical’ food that’s served on Shabbat (because Jews from around the world have different culinary traditions) there are a few ‘tried and tested’ dishes that you might see on a Friday night table. You’ll always see challah (which is a braided semi-sweet bread) and sweet (‘kiddush’) wine, over which blessings are made. In the homes of Ashkenazi Jews (who originated from Eastern European), you’ll often be served delicacies such as chopped liver, gefilte fish, kugel, chicken soup, and cholent (a slow-cooked stew). In Sephardic homes (Jews who came from North Africa/Asia/Spain) you might be served stuffed vegetables, vine leaves, couscous, kibbeh (croquettes filled with lamb or minced beef), and baked cod and tahini cookies for dessert. Because of Jewish dietary laws, if you are served meat at a meal then there will be no dairy on the table…If you are invited to dinner, therefore, it’s good to check ahead to see if your hosts keep kosher (and if they are serving a meat meal, not to bring a dessert made from cream or butter…!) You can also play it safe by bringing flowers or a bottle of wine (most wines served in stores in Israel are kosher but you can always ask beforehand…)Freshly baked challah bread. Photo courtesy of www.freepik.comHow do Jews celebrate Shabbat in Israel?This is a good question and very much depends on how religious the family is. Although Israel is a ‘Jewish state’ and Jews are the majority of its population, not all Jews believe in God. However, it’s fair to say that it’s very traditional to attend a family dinner on Friday night. In a religious home, there will be singing and prayers; in a non-religious home, the kids may eat with their parents and then go out to a cafe or bar for the night! One thing that is for sure, however, is that from Friday night to Saturday night, it’s a time to relax. Religious Jews will attend prayer services at a synagogue on Shabbat morning, eat a lunchtime meal, and then a ‘seudah shlishit’ (third meal). Non-religious Jews may go hiking, meet friends for coffee, go to the beach, or simply chill out with Netflix. To each his own - since Shabbat is a day of relaxation and this means many things. Furthermore, if you spend a Shabbat in Jerusalem and then a second in Tel Aviv, you’ll really notice the difference. The majority of Jews in the capital observe Shabbat, and the majority of those in the ‘Non-Stop City’ don’t. That’s why, in Jerusalem, you’re more likely to see empty roads and families on their way to synagogue in the morning. And in Tel Aviv, you’re more likely to see people in coffee shops and restaurants, meeting friends for brunch, or heading off to swim, sunbathe or even join the folk dancing that goes on every Saturday morning on the promenade.Silver plated Shabbat candle holders. Image byRi ButovfromPixabayAccording to religious law, what activities are forbidden on Shabbat?This is another good question and the ‘list’ or forbidden activities is many. Essentially, there are 39 categories of things that are not permitted, including carrying, cutting, burning, writing, tearing, planting, harvesting, building, and weaving. There are certainly different interpretations of these laws, depending on how religious the Jewish person is, but - for sure - an observant Jew will not use a telephone, travel in a vehicle, watch television, or shop on this day. So is it forbidden to use electricity on Shabbat? To drive a car? To use money?According to the ‘halacha’ (religious Jewish law), all of the above are forbidden. This is why observant Jews will not carry a wallet on the way to synagogue on Shabbat, and always walk to and from prayers. In a religious Jewish home, timers will be set in advance, for lights to be turned on and off (so that there is no need to do so manually). Large water urns are heated beforehand, so tea and coffee can be made, and hot plates are de rigueur, in order to ensure food is not served up cold!The Western Wall in Jerusalem with an Israeli flag in the foreground. Photo byBenjamin RascoeonUnsplashAre there any exceptions to the list of things that are forbidden on Shabbat?Yes, - according to Jewish law (Halachah) it is not just allowed but considered mandatory to ‘break the rules’ on Shabbat if it is for the purposes of saving a life. Without a doubt, it is necessary to call a doctor or drive someone to receive medical attention, if they are taken ill on Shabbat. And, of course, many Orthodox Jews in Israel work as doctors and nurses in hospitals. Of course, whilst they are still giving care to patients, they will still refrain from things such as using their mobile phone (unless necessary) or switching on a light (they may ask someone who is not observant to do this for them).Another extremely interesting (and pertinent) example of violating Shabbat to save a life is of rabbis in Ukraine, recently, who spent Shabbat on the telephone in their offices. Throughout their holy day, they were busy organizing transport that would allow people in their city as quickly as possible (because of the military fighting in the vicinity).Shabbat candles.Image by @al-exfrom FreeImagesWhat kind of activities are encouraged on Shabbat?Shabbat, says the Hebrew Bible, is a time for relaxation, to put aside work and daily worries. It is a time to be with family and friends, to catch up with the week’s events, to read, eat, sleep, and basically wind down. Observant Jews will often take a walk in the afternoon or go and meet friends at their houses nearby. Jews who are traditional (but do not obey all restrictions) may drive to a nature park for a hike or picnic. In Israel, secular Jews flock to the beach for much of the year. The whole point of Shabbat, essentially, is to ‘switch off’ from the world and recharge your batteries, doing whatever you enjoy most.Are there buses and trains running in Israel on Shabbat?Although less than half of Israel’s Jewish population observe Shabbat to the letter of the law, since the establishment of the state there have been arguments about its nature, and if public transport should be allowed on this ‘day of rest.’ In most of the country, it’s not possible to use public transport (particularly in Jerusalem, where not only will there be no buses or light railway, but you may even struggle to find a taxi driving in the main city during the day - this is where phone apps come in handy! A Jewish boy praying by the Wailing Wall, Jerusalem. Photo byJonny GiosonUnsplashSo if you are planning on making a trip over the Friday-Saturday period and you don’t have your own car, you will have to plan accordingly. However, in recent years, in cities like Tel Aviv, which are much more liberal, new initiatives have come into force, organized by the local municipality. Beginning every Friday evening - around 6 pm - and continuing until Saturday evening - six different bus lines are operational. They run out to different suburbs from the center, all passing through major roads in Tel Aviv, and - even better - they are free of charge.Unlike regular bus services, they are a little less frequent (every 20-30 minutes) but it’s a pretty effective system, for instance, if you are in north Tel Aviv and don’t want to walk all the way to Jaffa on Saturday morning (which would take 50-60 minutes) you can simply hop on a bus on Dizengoff Streetandbe dropped off either at the Jaffa Port or the Clock Tower, close to the Jaffa Flea Market area. The same is true if you’re staying in the suburbs of Ramat Gan and Herzliya - there are buses that will bring you straight into the center of Tel Aviv.Are there any organized tours that run on Shabbat?Absolutely. Whilst there are tours dedicated specifically to Jewish themes (and some of them are built around Shabbat in Israel) you can always find day trips around Israel and tour packages where exploration will continue on Saturdays. Many of our Jerusalem tours (especially walking tours in the Old City) take place every day, not to mention excursions to Bethlehem, the Dead Sea, Masada, and the Judean desert (where Bein Harim offers jeep tours for the adventurous).Havdalah set with kiddush cup, spice cup, and candle holder. Image by @tovflafromFreeImagesCan I attend a Shabbat service, whilst in Israel?Again, yes. In fact, many synagogues will be happy to invite you along, whether you are Jewish or not. Of course, it might be advisable to call ahead first, just to check on formalities, but it’s quite likely that if you talk to someone in the congregation, you will also, afterward, be invited to a Shabbat meal (Israelis are extremely friendly and hospitable people!) There are many places to attend Kabbalah Shabbat Friday night prayer services, not just in the big cities but also in small communities. Many of the synagogues have websites where you can find email addresses and if you call up, most people have a decent command of English. Also, remember to dress appropriately according to how observant of Jewish law the community is - if it is an orthodox synagogue, a woman might be comfortable wearing a dress instead of pants. Enjoy your Shabbat in Israel and if you’d like more information about our Private Jewish Tours or Jewish tour packages around the Holy Land, don’t hesitate to contact us.Religious Jew with tefillin on his forehead prays in the Old City of Jerusalem.Photo byMaayan NemanovonUnsplash

If you ask people around the globe which city they best associate with Israel, chances are they’re going to answer ‘Jerusalem’. And for good reason. Jerusalem is an extraordinary and quite unique city, not just in Israeli terms, or even Middle Eastern terms, but for millions of people across the globe.Picture of the Jerusalem Light Rail on Jaffa Street, Israel.Photo byLaura SiegalonUnsplashJerusalem - A Unique CityHome to three of the world’s most holy religions - Christianity, Judaism, and Islam - it’s a place just oozing history. All around there are reminders of the past - from the Crusaders, Persians, and Byzantines to the Muslims, Ottomans, and British Mandate. Thousands of years of history - just waiting to be discovered.And the other good news is that because Israel is so small, covering ground between cities is incredibly easy and makes day trips a piece of cake. If you’re coming from Tel Aviv, for instance, it’s 38 minutes by train and 40-60 by car. Even journeying from further north - say, Haifa - is relatively stress-free when you look at the number of trains Israeli Railways puts on each day.Cathedral bells, Mount of Olives, Jerusalem. Photo byChristian BurrionUnsplashThe Must-Visit CityAlthough Tel Aviv is definitely the nightlife, foodie, and beach capital of Israel, Jerusalem can hold it on in many other ways. It has world-class museums, art galleries, music venues, and places of worship. And, of course, the Old City, which is a must-visit attraction in Jerusalem. There is, however, one small practical matter, to be addressed - what’s the best way to get around? Good question. Well, the answer is simple - the Light Railway. The fact is that bringing your car into Jerusalem is a huge headache - parking is scarce and costly, and you’re likely to get stuck in traffic jams too. Buses are frequent and definitely an option, but they are also subject to the terrible traffic that builds up at certain times of the day (particularly in the city center). Nor is Jerusalem a city for biking in the way Tel Aviv is - it’s way too hilly! Electric scooters have caught on either (we’ve no idea why) and because the city is quite spread out, walking from, say, the Damascus Gate to Ein Kerem is a very long journey!Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem, Israel. Photo byStacey FrancoonUnsplashUrban Transport for a 21st century JerusalemSo - yes - that leaves just one option…the light railway. And to tell you the truth, there are few people (either Israelis or visitors) that don’t love it. It’s convenient, fast, reasonably priced, runs long hours, and comes every few minutes. A combination of train and metro features, it’s taken the capital by storm - so much so that a similar system is now being built in Tel Aviv.It wasn’t long back that Yerushalmis (the name for the locals) would complain bitterly at having to make car journeys within the city - it could be very miserable, and however long you thought it would take, it always took longer. Not that building it was a piece of cake either - the disruption, noise, and pollution caused many headaches. But all good things come to pass - and the Light Railway was one of them. Today it’s ‘the’ way to travel in Jerusalem - cheap, efficient, and clean, all you need to do is hop on with your ticket and be whizzed away to whatever place you’re visiting - the Old City, Mahane Yehuda Market, Yad Vashem or the downtown shopping area.Today, we’re going to delve a bit deeper into the history of the light railway and its practicalities today - where it runs, what it costs, when it operates…so that by the time you arrive in the capital, you’ll be in the know and ready to start exploring. Let’s begin.Shop in the Old City of Jerusalem.Photo byChristian BurrionUnsplashHistory of the Railway in JerusalemDiscussion about building a light railway in Jerusalem went on for decades before a plan was actually enacted! Indeed, Theodor Herzl, who was the first real visionary of the establishment of a state for Jews, even imagined the project. The Ottomans looked into the idea, as did the British, but it took more than fifty years after Israel was created for work to begin on the project.Construction began in 2002 and lasted for eight years, in which time there was notable disruption to the roads, particularly Jaffa Street, which runs through the city center. Establishing a light railway also entailed the building of a bridge (see below) as well as quite a few other renovation projects. Not only was it hoped that the project would ease conjunction, as trams glided smoothly around the city, but it also envisaged the Jerusalem Central Bus Station and railway station next door being easily accessible to the line. View of the Western Wall and of Temple Mount. Photo credit:©Dmitry MishinThe Chords Bridge, JerusalemThe Chords Bridge (which also goes by the name of the Bridge of Strings) was built in order to accommodate the Light Railway’s red line; today, it is one of Jerusalem’s most notable landmarks. Easily observed from many parts of the city, it’s the first thing you see when approaching the capital by road since it is located at the entrance to the city.Designed by renowned Spanish architect and engineer Santiago Calatrava, the Bridge of Chords is a cantilever bridge, consisting of 66 steel cables. Designed not just for transport purposes (easing the enormous road congestion the city was grappling with) it was also envisaged, by Calatrava, as a way to enhance the ‘skyline’ and to encourage discussion about modern design.Indeed it has. Today, it’s a structure you either love or hate. Calatrava designed it to resemble the Biblical King David’s harp, with the cables as the instrument's strings, although if you look at it from afar, it could also be regarded as a ship’s sail or a tent in the desert! Its striking design, for sure, has made it a major tourist attraction. And on a practical note, the Spaniard kept pedestrians in mind every step of the way - next to the bridge, across which the Light Railway runs, is a glass-sided pedestrian walkway, allowing you to cross easily from one side to the other, particularly convenient if you’re heading towards the Central Bus Station.Light rail captured in the Chords Bridge, Jerusalem. Photo byShraga KopsteinonUnsplashRoute and lines of Jerusalem Light RailAt the moment, there is only one route currently running through the city - the red line. Nevertheless, other lines are envisaged (blue and green) and construction plans are in the works, in an attempt to connect the entire city to the network. Furthermore, a project to extend the red line out to Haaddash hospital has already begun.The current line is almost 14 km long and has 23 stops along the route. It begins at Mount Herzl (where the famous Israel Defense Forces Cemeteryis located) and runs to Pisgat Zeev, running all of the way through the city center (on the Jaffa Road).From one end to another, it stops close by many places of interest for tourists, including Yad Vashem (Israel’s Memorial to the Holocaust), the Central Bus Station (where buses and trains to all parts of the country leave from), the Mahane Yehuda Market, downtown Jerusalem, the Old City (both at the Jaffa Gate and Damascus Gate) and close to the Hebrew University.Byzantine Cardo in the Old City of Jerusalem.Photo credit:©Dmitry MishinHow Much Does it Cost and How Do I Buy a Ticket?The cost of a ride on the light railway is 5.90 NIS, whether you travel just a couple of stops or the entire route. Your ticket is valid for 90 minutes from the time you but, unlike the buses in Jerusalem, it is not transferable. There are three ways you can buy a ticket - through the machines, next to the tracks, via a green Rav Kav card, or through an app on your smartphone.Machines - at every tram stop you will see machines and this is where you can buy a paper ticket. Instructions are in Hebrew, Arabic, and English and you can pay either with cash or a credit card. Please note that the screens are not a touchscreen - this means that to operate them you have to press the buttons at the side! Machines accept both coins and notes (usually!) Rav Kav Card - purchasing one of these little green cards when arriving in Israel is really a smart idea. The Rav Kav card is both magnetic and electronic and can be purchased at many places, including all bus and train stations around Israel. Once you have one (either with your name on it, if you're staying in Israel for a while and can provide the appropriate documentation) or an anonymous card, you can load it up with money whenever you choose. Aerial view of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem. Photo byRobert ByeonUnsplashYou can buy in denominations of 30 NIS, 50 NIS, or higher amounts and it’s also possible to buy a monthly ticket, whereby you can make unlimited rides. Just ensure that your card is loaded up before you board the light railway because, once you are on the tram, you cannot purchase credit.Smartphone - since 2021, it’s been possible to pay for a ticket using your phone and this has become an incredibly popular option (especially for younger people, who live and die by this instrument!). The advantage of the Moovit app is that you don’t have to commit in advance to what kind of ticket you’d like (single, day pass, week pass, or month pass).You simply put in your credit card details beforehand and the app will calculate what you are due (so, for instance, if you take 5 rides in a day, the app will place a ‘cap’ on how much you pay).Simply upload the app to your smartphone then sign up, and put in your card details. This will let you launch the app when you board the tram.Your phone’s camera will be notified and you can hold it up to the QR sticker close to the door or the tram (or bus, if you are using a bus). Once you have scanned it, you will receive validation (and often hear a beep and see a green light). It is your responsibility to scan your phone and, by law, the driver or ticket inspector can ask to see proof that you have paid.Сloseup of ceramic pomegranates in the Jerusalem market. Photo byNixx StudioonUnsplashLight Railway PracticalitiesThe Jerusalem Light Railway runs every few minutes, which means that you won’t have to boil or freeze, whilst waiting on a platform for the next tram to show up. As stated above, you must buy a ticket before boarding and validate it once you board. Ticket inspectors patrol the line’s route on a regular basis and if you are stopped and do not have a valid ticket you will be fined on the spot.Don’t risk jumping on if you’re in a hurry - just buy your ticket and wait a few minutes - it could save you a hefty fine! Many Israelis are not skilled at waiting patiently, so don’t be surprised, when you are trying to alight, that crowds will attempt to board whilst you’re still trying to step down. Stand your ground!What Hours Does the Light Railway Operate?The Light Railway operates from early in the morning until late at night, in Jerusalem. The first trains set off at 5.45 am and the last at midnight. These times are valid for Sunday to Thursday. Between Friday afternoon (1-2 hours before sundown) and Saturday evening (an hour after sundown), the light railway does not operate.This is because it is Shabbat and no public transport operates in Israel on the Jewish Sabbath(that is the light railway, Egged public buses, and the rail service). The same is true for religious holidays (which, like Shabbat, begin at dusk and run until the following day at dusk). Make sure you check the timetable online, beforehand, if you are unsure, otherwise you will end up having to hail a cab (which could end up rather costly). Garden of Gethsemane, Jerusalem, Israel. Photo byStacey FrancoonUnsplashPicking Up the Light Railway on Arrival in JerusalemIf you're coming by bus or rail from another part of the country then you’re in luck - the tracks are a stone’s throw from both the central bus station and the Yitzchak Navon Train Station (which are next door to each other). When you alight, you will see escalators that will either take you up or down to the ground floor. The complex also has stores, a pharmacy and coffee shops, a bakery, and fast food stands), as well as a number of spots at which you can pick up a Rav Kav card. Simply walk outside the main entrance and head to Jaffa Road - which is adjacent to and actually in sight of the station. It’s really just a 1-2 minute walk. The result is a seamless transport experience.In conclusion, the Jerusalem Light Railway has revolutionized travel in the capital, not to mention making it easier for visitors arriving in the city to connect quickly and without fuss to trams that can whisk them around the city in no time at all. Our view? Leave your car at home and take advantage of 21st-century public transport. And enjoy Jerusalem! Of course, if you wish to travel hassle-free, it's better to join one of the organized Jerusalem day tours or book Jerusalem tour packages.Views of the light rail at Yekutiel Adam station in Jerusalem, Israel.Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplash

Taking a vacation in Israel never disappoints, but there’s a big difference between touring Israel alone or with a partner/friend and bringing the kids. When you’ve got little ones in tow, not only are you going to be constantly looking for activities to keep them busy, but you’re also going to want to find accommodation that’s family-friendly.A little boy swimming in the hotel pool.Photo byAlexandr PodvalnyonUnsplashIsrael - the ultimate family-friendly vacation spotLuckily, Israel is a country that’s not just set up for kids' activities but it has a culture that actively embraces families. Israelis love children and the family is at the heart of everything in this country, so chances are it’s not going to be too difficult for you to find accommodation and family attractions in Israel that are geared towards the little ones.Accommodations for all budgets in IsraelWe won’t deny it - Israel’s not a cheap country to visit, and the fact is that finding somewhere to sleep each night is a huge chunk of your holiday cash. The good news is that, in recent years, hotels have become more aware of the budget-conscious family, and many of them are really making an effort to keep their prices reasonable, as well as offering plenty of activities to keep kids entertained.Of course, if you do want to splash the cash, there’s no shortage of classy joints to book, that will - along with the ‘regular’ features of a pool, cable TV, and free wifi - offer other special services, particularly babysitting and kids clubs, so that you can have a holiday too! Doing a bit of research to find out the best family hotels in Israel can take time, so we thought we’d make it easier for you and give you a few suggestions.Below, we’re setting out plenty of options in all of the major Israeli cities - from budget to mid-level to luxury - because we know one size doesn’t fit all and that price is often important. And before you take the plunge, don’t be afraid to shop around, online or by giving them a call. You never know when you’ll be able to pick up a special deal, which will make your vacation even more pleasant…A boat with three people at Jaffa Port, Israel. Photo byFaruk KaymakonUnsplashFamily-friendly hotels in Jerusalem1.YMCA Three Arches Hotel - This Jerusalem landmark, famous the world over for its bell tower, is a tried and tested favorite when it comes to accommodating families. It’s a fusion of old-world charm and modern conveniences, with lots of friendly staff and a wonderful garden, complete with stone pathways, around which you can stroll.This hotel is considered ‘three-star superior’ with rooms featuring views of the garden and King David Street (named after the biblical king). There is free wifi and cable TV and a fitness center complete with a pool and jacuzzi. Breakfast can be eaten on the outside patio and guests are also welcome to climb the bell tower, for extraordinary views over Eternal City.Address: YMCA, 26 King David Street, Jerusalem. Tel: 02 569-2692.2.Hillel 11 Hotel, Jerusalem -A stone’s throw from King George Street, in the heart of West Jerusalem, this is a good value-for-money option, particularly if you’ve got two more kids, since Hillel 11 offers larger rooms which contain one or two sofa beds, along with a double bed. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby, and both Mahane Yehuda Market and the Old City are within easy walking distance. Some of the rooms have fridges in them (which is a nice touch, since breakfast is not available in the hotel). Convenient and budget-friendly.Address: Hillel 11, 11 Hillel Street, Jerusalem. Tel: 02 540-2225.3.Leonardo Plaza Hotel, Jerusalem- Located on King George Street, close to the Great Synagogue, this is the place to come for some luxury. Leonardo Plaza is a five-star hotel with 270 rooms, all tastefully designed. Facilities include a large pool, a fitness center, a dining room (serving a fabulous Israeli breakfast), and the kosher chef restaurant Primavera for lunch and dinner options. There’s even a library, where you can sit and read to your heart’s content, whilst your offspring are in kids' clubs (board games for the youngsters and games consoles for the teenagers!)Address: King George St. 47, Jerusalem. Tel: 02 629-8666.View of the Western Wall, Jerusalem. Photo byIvan LouisonUnsplash4.Ramat Rachel Resort, Jerusalem- Located near Talpiot and just a fifteen-minute drive from the center of Jerusalem (as well as public buses outside, that run every 20 minutes), the Ramat Rachel resort offers comfortable accommodation in pastoral kibbutz surroundings which are guaranteed to put you in a relaxed holiday mood.The landscaped gardens have shady pine trees, and the kids can enjoy tennis courts, a playground, and a pool (complete with snack bar), whilst adults can sneak off to the spa, for some relaxing treatments. Rooms are spacious with lovely views and the kibbutz restaurant serves an excellent breakfast (full of fresh ingredients) as well as child-friendly buffet lunches and dinner. They also offer a packed lunch service, if you’re going out for the day.Address:Ramat Rachel, Kibbutz Ramat Rachel, Jerusalem. Tel: 02 670-2555.5.St. George Hotel, Jerusalem- This upscale hotel is just a four-minute walk from the Shivtei Israel light railway station and a ten-minute walk from the Old City, which makes it perfect if you want to exploreJerusalem’s holy sitessuch as theChurch of the Holy Sepulchre, theVia Dolorosa,Temple Mount, and theWestern Wall.The staff are very helpful and speak excellent English (and French!) and the family rooms here are comfortable and contemporary. One of the best features of the hotel is its rooftop pool, which offers incredible views of Jerusalem. The upstairs restaurant also has local live music, periodically, which kids may enjoy!Address:St. George Hotel, Amr Ibn Al A’as Street 6, Jerusalem. Tel: 02 627-7232.Family relaxing in the hotel room. Photo byJonathan BorbaonUnsplashFamily-friendly hotels in Tel Aviv1. The Royal Beach Hotel, Tel Aviv - Whilst this is by no means a cheap option, this five-star hotel isn’t just luxurious but goes out of its way to accommodate families, especially with its suites (which range from between 50 to 90 square meters). The hotel has a contemporary and urban feel and prides itself on its service.Not only is the Royal Beach a stone’s throw from the beach, as well as endless other attractions in Tel Aviv but it also has a fantastic pool and a kid’s club that is run by both professional and caring staff. Finally, the breakfast is raved about by everyone who comes to visit - in the vein of ‘it could feed an army.’Address: HaYarkon Street 19, Tel Aviv. Tel: 02 627-7232.2. Arbel Suites Hotel, Tel Aviv - This pleasant and low-key three-star aparthotel sits just behind the famous Dizengoff Street and, just a few minutes walk from Gordon Beach, is very family friendly - actually they are a family business themselves. View of Tel Aviv seaside from Jaffa. Photo byAdam JangonUnsplashEach apartment has free wifi, air conditioning, a fully-equipped kitchen, and both high chairs and baby bathtubs are available upon request. Bikes are free for guests so you can take your kids on a city tour! Some of the suites have both a double bed and two sofa beds, so they really are accommodating. Oh, and the breakfast is terrific! Great value for money.Address: 11 Hulda Street Tel Aviv. Tel: 03 522-5450. 3. The Spot Hostel, Tel Aviv-With a tagline of "offering something for everyone" the Spot Hostel is a lot more comfortable than your average hostel, and with its fantastic location, close to both the Namal Port and Park Hayarkon, and a short bus ride to Jaffa is a great choice for families looking for clean, comfortable accommodation at a price that won’t break the bank.The Spot offers family accommodation (two rooms that interconnect) and their facilities are enviable, including a fully-stocked kitchen, laundry room, screening room (keeping both kids and adults happy), and their famous ‘Lager & Ale’ bar which serves drinks, snacks, and traditional pub grub. Oh, and if there’s a budding musician or comedian in your group, look out for their ‘open mic’ nights.Address:HaTa'arucha Street 3, Tel Aviv. Tel: 03 790-7477.Aerial view of Tel Aviv Old Port. Photo byShai PalonUnsplashFamily-friendly hotels inGalileeThe Lake House Kinneret - If you’re in Nazareth or Galilee and looking for family-friendly accommodation, then this could be a good choice for you. They’ve recently had a complete renovation, so the decor is very new and modern, and their suites can accommodate between 4-5 people - great if you’re a family. A pool and a big breakfast are also part of the deal, plus a spa if you want to pamper yourself.The Lake House Kinneret is directly on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, affording wonderful views and its location is good too - the Hamat Tiberias National Park (with the famous hot springs) is just an 8-minute drive, and if you want to look at religious sites in the area, it’s less than an eight-minute drive to Church of the Primacy of St. Peter or the Tomb of Maimonides.Address: Ha'Marchatzaot Road, Tiberias. Tel: 04 672-8500.Family-friendly hotels in Eilat1.U Coral Beach Club, Eilat - All Inclusive - Even though there are so many things to do in Eilat, if you want a relaxed holiday where you don’t have to plan activities, this all-inclusive hotel is a fantastic choice. Close to the beach and also the Underwater Observatory, there’s everything here you need, if you’re not in the mood to leave the complex!U Coral Beach offers comfortable and spacious ‘junior family’, excellent and varied food options (you can eat as much as you want), an open bar (with alcoholic and soft drinks) as well as nightly entertainment. As for the kids, there’s a separate heated pool for the youngsters, complete with slides, a kids club, table tennis, and a private beach with volleyball, archery, and snorkeling equipment.Address: Almog Beach Marina, Eilat. Tel: 08 635-0000. Eilat, Aquapark.Photo byMichal IcoonUnsplash2. City Apartments, Eilat - These apartments are both clean and well-equipped, offering great value for money in Eilat. The location is excellent (very close to the beach), the management is very helpful and there’s a reasonably-priced supermarket nearby if you want to prepare light meals or breakfast for yourself, rather than eating out every day.The apartments come in different sizes, and all are equipped with bed linen, towels, and the basics in the kitchen. They are also close to the shopping mall and the owners are happy to help with information regarding food and drink (since they do not have a restaurant on the premises).Address:Neviot Street 23, Eilat. Tel: 08 633-8361.Family-friendly hotels in BethlehemGrand Hotel, Bethlehem - If you're visiting Bethlehem, then the Grand Hotel is a good choice, offering family-friendly hospitality as well as a warm welcome and lots of help with getting around town. They have family rooms, all of which have air conditioning and a minibar, free wifi and a refrigerator and there’s a 24-hour front desk and a comfortable lounge.The Grand Hotel also offers a Mexican Mariachi restaurant, the first of its kind in Palestine actually! And if you want to sit and relax with the kids, their cafe serves delicious salads and cakes, made on the premises. The Grand Hotel is a short walk from the Church of the Nativity, the Milk Grotto, and Manger Square.Address: St. Paul VI Street 69, Bethlehem. Tel: 02 274-1440.Magi Bethlehem Scene Christmas ball ornament.Photo byRobert ThiemannonUnsplashFamily-friendly hotels at the Dead SeaThe Daniel Hotel at the Ein Bokek stretch of the Dead Sea is a very comfortable hotel if you’re in the neighborhood, and has plenty of facilities to keep the kids happy. One of the best Dead Sea beaches is three minutes walk away and the pool has both indoor and outdoor pools, as well as a wellness area with a hot tub, sauna, and gym.The family rooms are spacious and clean, with comfy beds, and overlook either the Dead Sea itself or the Edom Mountains. The food (both breakfast and buffet lunches and dinners) is consistently good and the hotel offers nightly performances and shows. The staff really do their best to make you feel welcome. Our tip: Get to the pools early - they are popular and the sun loungers are often taken by 11 am! Incidentally, whilst the Dead Sea is one of those must-see places in Israel, for adults and kids alike, the good news is that there’s not just salty water to float in when you’re in this area - with a car, it’s a quick drive to the ancient fortress of Masada and the beautiful nature reserve of Ein Gedi, where you can hike and splash around in waterfalls.Address: Ein Bokek, Tamar, Dead Sea. Tel: 08 668-9999.The Dead Sea Shore from above. Photo byArtem BelinskyonUnsplash

Well, summer is back with a vengeance and whether you love or hate the hot weather, the fact is that unless you’re going to hide away in the air conditioning, you’ll be looking for things to do in Israel. And in this respect, you won’t be disappointed because, post-Covid, there’s plenty going on in the country, whether you’re looking for music in Israel, art, performances, or just chill-out time.Exhibition "Art of Enchantment", Eretz Israel Museum, Tel Aviv.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinAugust 2022 in Israel promises to be busy - Ben Gurion Airport is seeing thousands of tourists arriving every day, heading for the miles of white sandy beaches, the Old City of Jerusalem, the lush green hills of the north as well as the ever-popular Petra excursion in Jordan. We’ve put together a few ideas for things you can do this summer, whether you’re having a chillout vacation in Tel Aviv, exploring the beauty of the Galilee and Golan, or star gazing whilst camping at the breathtaking crater in Mitzpe Ramon. Enjoy yourself! Events in August 2022 in Tel AvivShlomo Artzi in concert - 5th August, Charles Bronfman Auditorium. Shlomo Artzi is, for sure, up there with some of Israel's greatest singers. He’s been around for a long time now - close to five decades - but still packs out auditoriums and outdoor theater in Caesarea with his timeless songs. This summer he’s performing in Tel Aviv on 5th August at the Charles Bronfman Auditorium, close to Rothschild Boulevard.If you manage to snap up a ticket you’re in for a special time because he never fails to charm audiences with his music and lyrics. And if you can’t pick up a ticket, don’t worry - he’s performing the following week in Kiryat Motzkin, north of Haifa, so you can take a weekend break, see the Maestro and enjoy Mount Carmel too.Converted Roman Theater in Caesarea, Israel. Photo byJoshua SukoffonUnsplashTuesday Blues - every Tuesday at 6 pm, Jaffa Flea Market - There’s no better place to spend a summer’s evening than in Jaffa, the beautiful - and ancient - city which you can walk to easily from the center of Tel Aviv. As well as the promenade, port and Artists Quarter, a tour of the Jaffa flea marketis a must.And every Tuesday night in August, at 6 pm, there are free blues performances in the market area, which is also full of cafes, bars, and small boutiques - a great place to mingle with old friends and new, enjoy a cold beer or a fresh juice and generally kick back.Events in August 2022 inJerusalemPuppet Theatre Festival - throughout August - Back by popular demand comes the Train Theatre who are going to be given a number of wonderful performances at their annual Puppet Theatre Festival in Liberty Bell Park, in Jerusalem, between 18th and 22nd August. This is a great family event and one that both kids and adults can enjoy. Whether you’re at ‘A Dot of Light’ (telling the story of braille), ‘The Hungry Sandwich’ (which incorporates elements of clowning into the performance), or ‘Puppet Jam’ which is a kind of edgy cabaret event, you’re going to come away with a warm, fuzzy feeling.View of the Western Wall and Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem.Photo byAnton MislawskyonUnsplashHutzot Hayotzer Fair - 15th to 27th August - Unlike the coastal plain of Israel, Jerusalem (which is high in the hills) gets a delicious breeze on summer nights, which makes it a delightful place to wander when the sun goes down. So why not head over to one of Jerusalem’s most beloved venues, the Sultan’s Pool, between the 15th and 27th of August and enjoy their annual arts and crafts fair. There, you’ll find all kinds of creations for sale (indeed, Hutzot Hayotzer, translated from Hebrew to English, actually means ‘The Creator Steps Out’). Enjoy nightly musical performances, have a glass of wine, and breathe in some fresh Jerusalem air as you stand at the foot of the two-thousand-year-old city. It really doesn’t get much better than this.Events in August 2022 inHaifaNorthern Wind -Israeli Art from the Museum Collection, Haifa Museum of Art - A northern wind is blowing through the collection of Haifa’s Museum of Art this August, where you can check out a number of works based in Israel’s biggest city in the north of the country, as well as the surrounding areas around the Carmel area.Haifa has a unique identity - as a port city, many immigrants arrived by ship, before and after the creation of the State of Israel. Historically, it’s also a city steeped in activism - it has a long history of supporting workers' rights and is also very mixed, a place where Jews and Arabs live and work side by side.The Baha'i World Centre in Haifa, Israel. Photo byShai PalonUnsplashEvents in August 2022 in GalileeSafed Klezmer Festival - 9th to 11th August 2022 - The Safed Klezmer Festival is back - and it’s a fantastic opportunity to hear young musicians from around the world play this very unique kind of Jewish music, which began in the shtetls of Eastern Europe and was often played at weddings or joyous Jewish holidays such as Purim and Simchat Torah. Klezmer has really made a comeback in the last decade and in the beautiful and mystical town of Safed in the Upper Galilee, between Tuesday 9th and Thursday 11th August over 90 bands will be performing in the narrow streets and alleyways. Head north and discover your inner joyfulness!Events in August 2022 in the Negev DesertMitzpe Ramon Film Festival - 23rd to 26th August. Mitzpe Ramon might be a small town in the Negev, but it’s home to a mighty fine crater Makhtesh Ramon, which affords splendid hiking and rappelling opportunities, as well as nights spent under starry skies. This desert center is also attracting more and more young creative Israelis, who’ve moved there to be part of a small but vibrant community.As a result, their annual film festival is now in its third year and taking place between 23rd and 26th August. Take a trip down to the desert, reconnect with the elements and enjoy some of the screenings on offer…And if you’re looking for something particular, feel free to contact us by email or telephone - here at Bein Harim we’ve been in business for over 30 years and offer organized tours, day trips, and private tours customized to your needs.A sunset over Ein Yorkeam Wadi. The Negev Desert, Israel.Photo byAvi TheretonUnsplash

There’s a saying attributed to Tel Aviv - that it’s the city that never sleeps. Well, this coming Thursday, it really will be true. Back by popular demand (after the pandemic kept us all off the streets) is Laila Lavan - which, translated from the Hebrew, means ‘White Night’.Jaffa Port, Israel. Photo byFaruk KaymakonUnsplashWhat is Laila Lavan?Laila Lavan - White Night - is an event that takes place every year, across Tel Aviv and Jaffa, where the city basically hosts a range of musical and cultural events which are free to the public and continue on into the wee small hours, with a couple of them actually culminating at sunrise the following day.When is Laila Lavan?This year, it’s taking place on Thursday 30th June. Where exactly in the city does Laila Lavan take place?All over. Seriously. Whether you’re in the Old North (close to the Tel Aviv Port), wandering Rothschild Boulevard, hanging out in Neve Tzedek, or bopping around Jaffa, you’ll find an event to join. And, as we said before, it’s all funded by the municipality so it’s not just an amazing night out, but it really won’t break the bank either.Jaffa Clock Tower, Israel. Photo byYaroslav LutskyonUnsplashWhat time doesLaila Lavanactually go on until?Put it this way - if you’re a night owl, you’ll be in your element. Some events begin earlyish by Tel Aviv standards (around 8 pm) but many go on until 2 or 3 am, and things such as sunrise yoga happen (as the name suggests) only when the sun makes its debut, around 5 am the following morning. So whether you want to catch some early events and be in bed long before midnight, or head out after midnight and party until the wee hours, it’s your choice. What kind of events does Laila Lavan play host to?Every year it differs, but you can expect a wide range of events and performances across Tel Aviv. In the past, the city has thrown open the doors of some of its museums, the Opera House puts on outside performances, there are cover bands playing all down Rothschild, jazz and klezmer concerts dotted across the city, as well as street events, food festivals and beach parties in many neighborhoods. Even better, shop and bar owners are giving late licenses, so you can grab a bite after midnight, or a cocktail at 4 am! The stairs lead to Kedumim Square andSt Peter's church in Jaffa. Photo by Jeremy Bezanger on UnsplashWhat’s on at Laila Lavan 2022?To date, we know of quite a few different events taking place (although there are bound to be many more we haven’t even heard of yet). These include:1. Rothschild Boulevard - there won’t just be all kinds of bands, but also street performers, circus acts, and dancers almost always dressed in white. Rothschild Boulevard runs from Allenby Street all the way up to the Habima Theatre and this is always a place where people will flock, on White Night. Just be prepared for it to be absolutely packed!2. Jaffa- Jaffa will be buzzing, with the Jaffa Flea Market (‘Shuk HaPishpehsim) and the many cafes and bars around it open until the wee small hours.3. Bauhaus Buildings - many of the Bauhaus buildings in Tel Aviv will be lit up and it will be possible to take guided tours through them.4. Headphone Party - the traditional dance party (complete with headphones) will take place at Rabin Square. Put them on and prepare to boogie - only you can hear the music, but you’ll be surrounded by fellow dancers (and some bemused on-lookers too).Aerial view of Tel Aviv Port. Photo byShai PalonUnsplash5. Tzuk Beach - usually starting between 1-2 am, take a blanket (and a bottle of wine) and enjoy a concert packed with Israeli singers. What can be better than sitting next to the Mediterranean Sea and listening to fabulous Israeli music?6. Suzanne Dellal Centre - there’s usually a street party in the Neve Tzedek neighborhood, centered in the plaza outside the Suzanne Dellal Center. This is a charming area, full of tiny side streets, beautiful houses, and stylish bars.7. Gordon Beach - you’ll be sure to find dancing at Gordon Beach, one of Tel Aviv's best beaches, which in the past has hosted ‘Bollywood in White’ style events.8. Sunrise Yoga - as well said before, sunrise yoga is a popular activity at Laila Lavan and usually takes place at the Tel Aviv Port (the Namal). A really fantastic way to end your cultural experience.Finally, we’d warn you that on a night like this, the streets are going to be very crowded. Keep a bottle of water with you at all times (it is summer in Israel, after all), and put on some comfy shoes. Buses are often caught up in traffic and bringing your car into the city is a mad idea, so get prepared to tramp the mean streets. Have a great time!People enjoying sunset at Tel Aviv Beach.Photo byDaria DyachenkoonUnsplash

Summer’s here in Israel and what do you think of? Beach days, sunning yourself under umbrellas on the shores of Tel Aviv, with regular dips in the Mediterranean. Nature hikes in the Galilee, cooling off in waterfalls and springs along the trails. Fresh breezy evenings in Jerusalem, gazing at views of the Old City from nearby rooftop bars.Green and yellow tennis ball on water.Photo byKevin MuelleronUnsplashOr, for sports fans and adrenaline junkies, something a little more exciting? Yes, it’s that once-every-four-years moment that’s upon us - and we’re not talking about football’s World Cup. Rather, the Maccabiah Games are being played in Israel this July and the perfect opportunity to get a feel for this ‘Jewish Olympics’ that’s taking place in a number of cities across the country.Want to know more?What are the Maccabiah Games?The Maccabiah Games are a leading international sports competition, also fondly referred to as the “Jewish Olympics”. Much like the more well-known Olympics, they take place every four years under the supervision of the Maccabi World Union. In fact, they are easily the biggest regularly-held international event in Israel. As well as being a fabulous sporting occasion, their aim is also to promote the centrality of the State of Israel in the lives of Jewish people from around the world.Water polo player. Photo byCHUTTERSNAPonUnsplashWhere did the name of the Maccabiah Games originate?Good question! ‘Maccabiah’ (or ‘Maccabi’ as its often pronounced and written) was a Zionist youth movement that was set up in 1929, encouraging sports and physical activity amongst the Jewish people. Historically, Judah Maccabee (Yehuda Maccabi) was one of the Jewish ‘guerilla leaders’ who drove the Seleucid Greek occupiers out of Judea in 139 BCE.As a result of the Bar Kochba rebellion, he freed the Jewish freed from slavery and they were then able to celebrate one of the most well-known Jewish festivals - Hanukkah at the Temple in Jerusalem. The son of Mattias, the High Priest of the Hasmonean Family, was a military genius and utterly fearless. In fact, he and his brothers-in-arms were described by the Greek General Bacchides himself as ‘stronger than lions, lighter than eagles and faster than bears.” Today, the ‘Maccabiah’ is run under the banner of the Maccabi World Union (MWU) which runs youth and sports organizations across the world, dedicated to physical excellence and also the furthering of Jewish identity. The MWU has its headquarters in Israel.Chess set. Photo byRandy FathonUnsplashWhen did the Maccabiah Games begin?Quite a while ago in fact - as far back as 1932! The history of how they came to be is pretty interesting in itself - they were the idea of a man named Yosef Yekutieli who, after hearing about the 1912 Olympic games, began fantasizing about the idea of a similar event, but for Jews in Palestine. After spending the next decade putting together this idea, he presented a proposal to the Jewish National Fund in 1928, arguing that the games could be held every four years to commemorate the 1800th anniversary of the Bar Kochba Rebellion (see above). With the blessing of the then British High Commissioner of Palestine, Sir Arthur Wauchope (on the basis that it hosted Arab and British Mandate athletes, as well as Jews) the Macabiada was set for the spring of 1932!Fun fact: this was the age of newspapers, not TV, internet, and social media. So a group of intrepid Jewish promoters set off across Europe, in 1930, to promote the event. They cycled through Greece, Bulgaria, Croatia, Germany, Belgium, and France and then continued onto Great Britain, encouraging Jews to come to ‘Eretz Israel’ for the first Jewish sporting games. Their dreams were realized between March 28th and April 6th, when the first games took place. They were such a success, that it seemed clear they had a future! Relay runner.Photo byBraden CollumonUnsplashHow do the Maccabiah Games operate in Israel?Within the games themselves, there are four different competitions taking place - Juniors, Masters, Open, and Paralympics. If you’re between the ages of 15-18, the Juniors is for you. Masters work according to different age categories (keen to include older participants) and the open category tends to have no age limits and runs according to the international rules of each particular sport. In the Paralympics, a number of events, including wheelchair sports (such as basketball) and swimming, are represented, as well as a para table-tennis competition and half-marathon. Athletes compete as part of a national delegation i.e. Brazil, Australia, France, and as well as the games themselves, participants have a chance to travel around Israel and meet not just its citizens but Jews from all other parts of the diaspora.The aim, essentially, is to combine the fun of competitive sports with an appreciation of the land of Israel - fusing history, culture, and experience! And it’s important to point out that whilst the games are truly competitive, they also promote other very important values - those of intellect, the pursuit of excellence, and fair play.Swimming competition. Photo bySerena Repice LentinionUnsplashWhen are the Maccabiah Games being held this year?This year’s event is being held from 12-26th July, with the opening ceremony being held at Jerusalem’s Teddy Stadium on 14th July 2022. Approximately 10,000 athletes from 80 different countries will be participating in more than 40 different sports competitions.Even more astonishing, entry to watch all of this is free! As well as the ‘obvious’ sports, like swimming, tennis, and squash, also included are gymnastics, chess, ice hockey, bridge, lawn bowls, water polo, and even ten-pin bowling!Host CitiesBecause there will be so many events, and so many attendees, it’s not practical for everything to be held in one city, which is why different parts of Israel, all with good facilities, will be holding events. The three big cities, of course, where you can travel to watch are Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Haifa. For detailed information about what’s going on, it’s a good idea to take a look at the Maccabiah Games website. Of course, once you’re in any one of these places, there are so many other things to do and see, should you have the time or inclination. Here are a few ideas of the many ways to spend several hours (or, indeed, several days!) in Israel’s capital, the 24/7 Party City Tel Aviv or Haifa, perched on the Carmel mountain in the country’s north.Shop in the Old City of Jerusalem. Photo byChristian BurrionUnsplashMaccabiah Games 2022 in JerusalemYou could spend days, weeks, even months in Jerusalem and never stop exploring. The Old City alone is a place packed with thousands of years of history. Walking from quarter to quarter - Christian to Muslim to Armenian to Jewish, you’ll be overwhelmed by sights, smells, and sounds - for there is no city as holy as Jerusalem.Top Jerusalem attractionsinclude the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (the spot where Christians believe Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected), the Western Wall (the last remaining structure of King Herod’s Second Temple, and a focal point for Jews across the world, and Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock, where Muslims believe Mohammed made his famous ‘Night Journey’ en route to Mecca.Outside of the Old City, Jerusalem has many charming neighborhoods including the Germany Colony, Ein Kerem, and Nachlaot, which boasts the lively and bustling Mahane Yehuda Market. The city is also home to the world-famous Israel Museum, which boasts outstanding art, a Sculpture Garden, a model of the Second Temple, and the famous Dead Sea Scrolls, which are housed in a specially-designed building.Dome of the Rock, Temple Mount, Jerusalem. Photo byStacey FrancoonUnsplashMaccabiah Games 2022 inTel AvivIf Jerusalem represents all that is holy, then Tel Aviv surely stands for all that is fun. No, seriously, there’s a reason it’s called the ‘Non-Stop City’. There’s no shortage of things to do and see as well as coffee shops, restaurants, bars and fantastic nightlife in this city, not to mention the ‘playground’ of kilometers of white sandy Tel Aviv beaches.There really is too much to do in Tel Aviv. Stroll the charming Rothschild Boulevard and admire its Bauhaus buildings. Take a food tour in the Carmel Market, then afterwards wander through the Yemenite Quarter, and stare at the tiny old houses. Sunbathe all day, enjoy a cocktail before dinner, dine at one of Tel Aviv’s trendy restaurants then party the night away at a cool club.Spend time exploring Jaffa’s narrow backstreets, Artist’s Quarter, and the famous Jaffa Flea Market. Or simply hire a bike and cycle through the city (it’s full of bike lanes) or along the promenade, affording you spectacular views of the Mediterranean. Unlike Jerusalem, this city is flat, so you won’t end up terribly out of breath!Bahai Gardens, Haifa, Israel. Photo byAmeer BasheeronUnsplashMaccabiah Games 2022 in HaifaHaifa doesn’t have the spirituality of Jerusalem or the fast pace of Tel Aviv, but you’d be unwise to overlook it. Not only is it a ‘real’ Mediterranean city, hilly and overlooking the sea, but there’s also plenty to see within a short car drive or - if you don’t fancy driving - an organized day trip.Within Haifa itself, you can explore the old German Colony (established by the Templars in the 19t Century), enjoy falafel in Wadi Nis Nas (an old Arab neighborhood), and take a tour of the astonishingly beautiful Bahai Gardens, which slope down the hill as far as the eye can see.Outside of Haifa, why not visit Caesarea, the ancient city built by King Herod, the Master Builder, where you can explore aqueducts and Roman theatres, or head north to Acre, a Crusader City with a glorious past, and plenty to enjoy, including excellent fish restaurants.The Western Wall or Wailing Wall, Jerusalem. Photo credit: ShutterstockEast of Haifa it’s an easy journey to Nazareth, holy to Christians as the place where Mary was visited by Angel Gabriel, and then onto the Sea of Galilee. It was here that Jesus did much of his ministering, performing miracles, and recruiting his disciples. You can visit any number of Galilee churches on the shores of the sea as well as the baptismal site at Yardenit. And if you want to venture even a little further, a trip to the Golan Heights is a fine way to spend a couple of days - full of boutique vineyards, nature reserves, and outdoor activities (skiing on Mount Hermon in the winter, kayaking on the Jordan River in the summer).Come and see Israel for yourself - enjoy the Maccabi games and everything else this amazing country has to offer. Feel free to contact us if you’re interested in taking one of our Israel tour packages or day trips around the country - we’re here to offer you a discount coupon (10%discountBH), answer your questions, and help make your trip memorable.Lifeguard station on the Tel Aviv waterfront.Photo byGuy TsroronUnsplash

Vacationing in Israel? Coming to Israel any time soon? Fantastic. The rainy season in Israel is long gone and now the worst of the pandemic seems to have abated, everyone is traveling again. Indeed, it looks like flights are going to be even busier than usual - no doubt because people really want to take a long-deserved vacation after enforced time at home!Palms in Jerusalem. Photo byIlanit OhanaonUnsplashAnd here in the Mediterranean, Israel remains a popular spot for tourists. It’s got everything you need for summer fun - beaches that stretch up and down the coast, full of white sand and clear water, nature reserves where you can hike, national parks such as Masada, where you can look at archaeological remains from thousands of years ago, and Eilat, on the Red Sea, which is ideal for anyone who wants to dive, snorkel, jet ski or drink cocktails and party at night!Beaches, nature, holy sites, and - hot weather!Israel’s also got deserts (which are great for trekking in), an extraordinary crater at Mitzpe Ramon (millions of years old), lush vegetation in the Galilee, and boutique vineyards in the Golan Heights.Not to mention Crusader castles, Herodian theatres, ancient villages, and a multitude of holy religious sites (churches, mosques, and synagogues everywhere you look).But something else Israel has is hot weather. And we aren’t joking. When we say ‘hot’ we mean ‘hot’. And it can get extremely hot here in the summers, which are long and sometimes feel endless. Locals have all kinds of strategies for dealing with the heat (because they’ve grown up with it) but for those visiting, it really can be overwhelming. And combined with humidity on the coastal plains, if you aren’t careful, you can end up wiped out - fast.Lifeguard Post on Tel Aviv beach. Photo by Vladimir Anikeev on UnsplashHow to escape the heat in Israel?Writing this as someone who’s lived in Israel quite a long time now, I’d say (and so would everyone around me) that it’s certainly possible to have a fantastic time in the Holy Land at the height of summer. However, you really do need to prepare yourself, both physically and mentally, especially if you’re coming from a climate that isn’t known for long, dry summers.Today, you’re going to be reading about ideas my colleagues and I have come up with, to keep you from going mad when the mercury soars. We’ve put together a list of tips for you, helping you to keep cool in Israel, whether you’re at the beach, exploring fortresses, hiking in nature reserves, or exploring ancient cities like Jerusalem, Jaffa, and Acre. So get prepared - to stay cool and then to enjoy!Sun protection - it might seem obvious but we had to start with this one. Whether you’re having a day of fun at the beach, kayaking on the Jordan River, or exploring the Old City of Jerusalem, you really have to protect your skin. Essentials (and they really are) to pack for your next trip to Israel (or buy here, if you are traveling light) include:A tourist in Israel wearing a wide-brimmed hat.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinHat - protect your head, with something wide-brimmed if possible. Baseball caps are ok but they won’t give you the same level of protection. Or pick up a ‘tembel hat’ - it’s an Israeli national symbol, used by the first Zionist pioneers. Shaped like a bucket, and meaning ‘foolish’ in modern Hebrew, it fell out of style in the 1980s but is actually making a bit of a comeback!Long-sleeved cotton shirts - these are perfect not just for protecting your arms but, at a pinch, can be used as head protection, if you lose your hat! Cotton (or linen) is what you’re looking for, and, ideally, in white, to deflect the sun. Israeli fashion designers are wonderful, so maybe you should consider a shopping trip?Sunscreen - the higher the number the better. The sun can be a real beast in Israel in July and August and even just 20 minutes outside without protection can leave you red and sore. Slather it on - regularly.Water - few locals leave home in the summer without a bottle of water. Either pick them up at Israeli supermarkets or corner stores or buy a reusable water bottle and fill it as the day continues - there are public drinking fountains all over Israel, in parks, beaches, and museums. Person holding a bottle of water.Photo byBluewater SwedenonUnsplashUmbrella - if you’re at the beach, hire an umbrella or buy one of the very popular ‘tarps’ that you can pitch. You’ll be grateful for the shade.Cover-up swimsuits for kids - Israel’s beaches are a perfect (and quite cheap) day out, but if you’ve got kids in Israel, we’d advise putting them in swimsuits that cover as much of their bodies as possible. They’re easily purchased all over Israel.Icecream - Israelis love ice cream and, in the summer, the lines at the parlous are long! Whether you want something traditional, or ‘out there’ in terms of an odd flavour, you’re bound to find it, whether you’re in the big cities of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem or towns and villages in the Galilee or the Negev Desert.Ben & Jerry’s has been sold in Israel for a long time, and still is, although the political fallout from a decision they made not to sell ice cream in the West Bank has divided locals. They don’t have many parlours but it’s widely available in supermarkets and small stores.Golda - Golda, is arguably Israel's most popular ice cream brand at the moment, with over 30 franchises across the country. With lots of flavours, made by hand and even options for vegans, it’s got to be worth a try! Our tip: try the halva and pistachio.Tel Aviv has a wide array of small ‘boutique’ ice cream stores too, including Anita in Neve Tzedek, Arte onNahalat Binyamin and Otello on the famous Dizengoff Street. All of them also sell sorbets, which are particularly good at cooling you down on a hot day.Tourist approaching a small waterfall in Ein Prat, Israel.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinCold Drinks in IsraelIced Coffee - Israelis love coffee and in the summer, drinking it with ice is the way to go. You can order ‘cafe kar’ which means ‘cold coffee’ (with milk, sugar and ice cubes). Or a ‘Barad’ - meaning ‘hail’ in Hebrew - it’s more like a slushie and is especially popular with kids. Ice pops - words like ‘Artik’ and ‘Kartiv’ are synonymous with summer in Israel and refer to any kind of milk or water-based sweet treats on sticks. The fruit-flavoured ‘Eskimo’ popsicle is not to be missed and the watermelon flavoured one is a delight too! Water - as we said above, carry water with you everywhere! Refill bottles from the tap (water is safe to drink in Israel) or pick up flavoured and fizzy brands at cafes and corner stores. Public Water Fountains in IsraelDrinking water is what’s going to save you on a hot summer’s day in Israel. And if you don’t want to spend a fortune in the ‘makolet’ (local grocery stores) then keep your eyes peeled for the endless water fountains you’ll see in public places all across the country. Iced coffee in a cup. Photo by Valeriia Miller on UnsplashWater ParksWhat better way to spend a day of fun than at one of Israel’s water parks? Meymadion - if you’re in Tel Aviv and want the kids to burn off some energy but have had your fill of the beach (!) try this water park. The largest of its kind in Israel, it stretches over 25 acres and is filled with water slides, from the ‘simple’ water tube channel to the ‘Slalom’ ‘Meteor’ and ‘Cannon’ slides. They have six pools, which means kids of all ages have a lot of choice and there’s a huge picnic area and lots of shady spots where you can admire the surrounding Ganei Yehoshua park. And, of course, there are plenty of inflatables in the water, for floating around and chilling out.Aqua Kef - on the shore of the Sea of Galilee (or, as Israelis call it, the ‘Kinneret’) this water park is simply fabulous.Full of floats and slides, you can have a lot of fun climbing up and then falling down back into the water and as long as your children are aged 6 plus, they are allowed in! The ‘Family Park’ offers all kinds of facilities, including jumping towers, bridges, climbing walls, ladders and trampolines. They also have ‘Olympic’ and ‘Extreme’ areas for the more adventurous.Water park slides. Photo by Alaa Albahrani on UnsplashNational Parks in IsraelIsrael has an extraordinary number of nature reserves, which are incredible places to have a day out. Many are also filled with streams and waterfalls, which offer sharp relief from blistering heat, especially if you’ve been trekking for a few hours.Popular national parks include Banias (in northern Israel) where you can hike ‘the Hanging Trail’ and walk across a boardwalk before arriving at the waterfall, which comes from the Hermon mountain. (If you’re a keen photographer, go up to the observation deck). Ein Gedi is also another firm favourite for hiking. Located close to Masada and the Dead Sea (about an hour’s drive from Jerusalem). This nature reserve is nothing less than a lush oasis in the middle of the desert in Israel, complete with hiking paths, spring-fed streams and waterfalls. For some of the top water hikes in Israel, take a look at our website and blog.Day Tours in IsraelBooking a day trip in Israel, or any kind of organised tour around the country, is a very good idea for anyone that doesn’t want to drive, doesn’t want to travel solo in Israel or is interested in learning more about Israel’s history and culture. Israeli guides are fantastic - many you’ll meet haven’t just had excellent training but also years of experience with groups, and they also bring their personal knowledge to the job and are always happy to answer unusual questions!Waterfall in Banias National Park, Israel. Image © ShutterstockMuseums in IsraelFinally, an incredibly good way to stay out of the heat is to visit a museum. Israel’s full of them (we aren’t joking) and not only are museums in Israel air-conditioned (sometimes so heavily that you’ll need a sweater!) but plenty have cafes and restaurants in Israel where you can eat, making sure you have a few hours - ideally at the height of the day - out of the sun. As we said, you’ll be spoilt for choice but some of the ones we can’t help but recommend include:1. Israel Museum - located in Jerusalem, close to the Knesset (the country’s Parliament) is truly a world-class museum and a must-visit for anyone who wants to know more about the country. Established in 1965, the Israel Museum been significantly expanded in the last decade and is home to around half a million objects, as well as a sculpture garden, and replicas of synagogues from Italy and India. Don't miss a fantastic model of the Second Temple and, of course, the Dead Sea Scrolls, which are housed in their own specially-designed building named ‘The Shrine of the Book.’ Moreover, the Israel Museum has a beautiful gift shop and two restaurants - one serving meat dishes and the other milk (in accordance with the Jewish dietary laws).The Israel Museum Of Science Technology & Space, Haifa, Israel.Photo byKelly TelleronUnsplash2. Eretz Israel Museum - situated in Tel Aviv, this treasure of a museum, has all kinds of ancient relics, eight permanent exhibitions and sites such as Mosaic Square (full of beautiful mosaic floors). Eretz Israel also has a planetarium (perfect for kids), and a cafeteria.3. Madatech Israel National Museum of Science, Technology and Space - if you’re in Haifa, and want to learn more about science, this is a great place to visit and, if you have kids, it’s particularly good because it’s very hands-on, and chock-a-block full of interactive exhibitions (crash simulators, solar power and acoustics and waves displays will leave them enthralled). There’s also a cafeteria and a special play area for kids.If you want to take a day tour or organised trip around Israel with Bein Harim, feel free tocontact us- we’re at the end of the phone and email constantly - and the good news is that all of our buses are air-conditioned, so you won’t swelter on the way to your destination!Children on a tour in one of Israeli national parks.Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin

It’s June and summer is upon us in earnest. Moreover, after two long years of Corona, visitors are back in Israel in earnest and none more so than those who’ve turned up this week for the famous Gay Pride parade, culminating this Friday.Love is Love Gay Pride poster in Tel Aviv, Israel. Photo byYoav HornungonUnsplashTel Aviv Pride - Taking to the Streets to Celebrate!Since its humble beginnings, around 25 years ago (when, in 1997, fewer than a thousand people turned up for a ‘Love Parade’, Tel Aviv Pride is now one of the city’s biggest events in the year and one of the most popular Prides throughout the world. So much so that many tourists arrive here not just for the parade but for all kinds of gay-friendly events that take place in Israel before and after - it’s not just one day of celebration but several - this year between 8th and 12th June 2022.Same-Sex Couple Rights in IsraelIsrael has a great record when it comes to supporting sexual equality - for sure it’s got the most progressive culture and legislation in the Middle East. It’s also fair to say that Tel Aviv is probably one of the most gay-friendly cities in the world - when you come and visit, don’t be surprised to see two men pushing a buggy - the LGBTQ community here can adopt kids and fertility treatment is widely-available (and not costly, indeed often free).As well as enjoying rights as parents, same-sex couples in Israel also have the same medical, pension and inheritance rights as heterosexual couples. And since 1993, discrimination in the military has been formally outlawed, which means you can be ‘out’ and serve in the army, navy and air force.Rainbow flag lighting over Tel Aviv city hall building for Tel Aviv Pride.Photo credit: © ShutterstockTel Aviv - the Ultimate Gay-Friendly CitySo there really is a lot to celebrate in Tel Aviv, which is a very liberal city. The mayor, Ron Huldai, emphasised this back in 2017 at the Parade, stating that the city “will continue to be a lighthouse city - spreading the values of freedom, tolerance and democracy to the world.”And if you come to Tel Aviv for Pride, not only will you be spoilt for choice in terms of Tel Aviv restaurants, bars and gay-friendly hotels, but you’ll also get a chance to see City Hall (in Rabin Square) lit up in rainbow colours to celebrate, not to mention Pride rainbow flags on every street corner. Where and When is Tel AvivPride2022?The Pride Parade this 2022 isn’t in its usual spot - in the past, it always began in Gan Meir (the home an LGBTQ community centre). This year, it begins at the Sportech Centre on Rokach Boulevard 22. It will wind its way all throughYarkon Park towards Joshua’s Garden. There are going to be more floats than ever this year too, which - if the participants have anything to do with it - are bound to be creative, colourful and festive! After the parade itself, an enormous afterparty is planned, which will probably involve dancing and music going on late into the night. “The Love Stage” party and concert has famed Australian DJ Iggy Azalea in charge of the music, as well as plenty of Israeli singers including Harel Skaat, Anna Zach and Shahar Saul.Gay Pride Tel Aviv, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinSpending a Few Days in Tel Aviv?Still, coming to Israel for Pride isn’t just about the parade…there are endless things to do in the ‘Non-Stop City’ - from exploring Bauhaus architecture to rummaging in theJaffa Flea market, cycling Rothschild Boulevard or soaking up rays on one of the city’s beautiful beaches.Tel Aviv has all kinds of charming neighbourhoods to wander in too, including the vibrant Kerem HaTeimanim (the Yemenite Quarter) which sits next door to the Carmel Market, the city’s biggest and most lively market, selling everything you can imagine from fruits and vegetables to household goods, flowers and clothing. It’s also home to all kinds of street stalls selling world foods, the famed ‘Beer Bazaar’, hummus joints (hummus is a food locals just can’t get enough of) and coffee shops. On Friday afternoons, a few hours before Shabbat comes in, the ‘Shuk ha Carmel’ is bustling like you can’t imagine, and a great place to grab a drink and engage in some people-watching.LGBT Rights Poster.Photo bySharon McCutcheononUnsplashFrom Day to NightBy night, Tel Aviv is home to some incredible restaurants - the variety of foods is astonishing, from Israeli street food (think falafel, sabich and shawarma) to high-end Chef restaurants, where plates aren’t cheap but the experience you’ll have will wow you. Whether it’s sushi, tapas or contemporary Israeli cuisine (courtesy of famous chef Haim Cohen who runs the restaurant ‘Yaffo-Tel’) you’re bound to leave bowled over.And if you’re less of a foodie than a party animal, don’t fear because, with cocktails bars like Bell Boy, the Imperial Bar, Spicehaus and Concierge, you’re going to see a side of mixology you never knew existed. Finish it off with a trip to a club - The Block, Breakfast Bar or Sputnik - and that’s a night well spent! Day Trips outside Tel AvivFinally, although Tel Aviv is an incredible city, there’s so much more to Israel than just its largest city. The other good news is that Israel is a small country which has excellent and well-connected public transport links. Or you can book a private transfer from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem if you prefer comfort.Whether you want to take a train, hop on an Egged bus or rent a car in Israel, you can be in another part of the country in no time at all.Indeed, travelling from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem became even simpler in the last couple of years, thanks to the opening of a fast train which links the Non-Stop City with the Holy City in just 40 minutes.Folks preparing for sunset on Tel Aviv beach during Pride festivities 2018. Photo byGuy TsroronUnsplashNon-Stop to Holy GroundOnce in Jerusalem itself, you can hop on the light railway and be at the gates of the Old City in less than 15 minutes. Walking through the four quarters of this historic place is something that should not be missed. For Christians, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the spot at which Christ is assumed to have been crucified and then rose from the dead. For Jews, a trip to the Western Wall (the last remaining wall of Herod’s Second Temple) is incredibly moving. And for Muslims, the Dome of the Rock and Temple Mount are the place at which it is believed Mohammed flew over on his night journey to Mecca. There’s also plenty to do and see in the more modern part of Jerusalem - take a trip to Mahane Yehuda Market, the city’s lively market, visit the world-famous Israel Museum or take a tour of Yad Vashem, the country’s monument to Holocaust survivors. Jerusalem may not be ‘non-stop’ in the way Tel Aviv is, but it has an atmosphere few fail to experience and wonder at.We like you too, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel. Photo byYoav HornungonUnsplashDay Trips to the Dead Sea and MasadaOf course, if you’re travelling independently but don’t want the hassle of renting a car, would like to learn more with the service of a guide or are just looking for some company, then taking an organised day trip in Israel is a great way to see more of the country.The Dead Sea and Masada, which are high points of any tourist’s visit, are easily reached within a day (especially if you set off from Jerusalem) and combining floating in salty water at the earth’s lowest point, with exploring an ancient Herodian fortress, makes for a fine day out. (Our tip: if you want a first-hand account of the day trip to Masada and the Dead Sea we offer, take a look at our blog post written by Sarah Mann, talking about travelling with a group there).Trips to Northern Israel and Jordan from Tel AvivNorthern Israel is also very beautiful at this time of the year - whether you’re at the Sea of Galilee (full of historic churches), in Acre (an ancient Crusader city) or further afield, in the lofty Golan Heights - you’ll be amazed at how beautiful and tranquil this part of the country is.And finally, for the more intrepid adventurer, we also run trips to Jordan - for 3 days or more - giving you the chance to explore the ancient Nabatean city of Petra, carved out of rocks that turn colour throughout the day. Jordan and Israel have friendly relations and it’s an easy journey from Eilat to Petra(not available at the moment), in an air-conditioned bus, with a guide who’ll deal with all the Jordan visa formalities at the Jordan-Israel border crossing.So whether you’re staying in Tel Aviv for Pride or want to see a bit more of our country than the non-stop city, enjoy yourself. And if you need any more information on any of the trips and tours we offer, don’t hesitate to contact us.Now go and celebrate!Rush hour in Tel Aviv is a sight to behold.Photo byShai PalonUnsplash

Yep, it’s that time of year again - the rains are long behind us, the skies are clear and blue and the days are stretching endlessly ahead of us. It may only be May in Israel now but we know summer’s on the way - in fact, it’s positively round the corner. Everywhere you look, you’ll see flowers blooming - poppies in the Galilee, jacaranda in Tel Avivand roses in Jerusalem.El-Mona Gardens, Gulis, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinIs it hot in Israel in summer?Take a trip to the big city markets in Israel - such as Shuk HaCarmel or Mahane Yehuda - and everywhere you look you’ll see strawberries, watermelon, apricots, and nectarines. In Tel Aviv and all along the coast, you can even take an evening stroll in nothing more than a light shirt (in Jerusalem - which is high in the hills - you’ll need a sweater but there will still be a delicious breeze).Casual Israeli fashion comes into its own - no one dresses formally in Israel so expect to see lots of women in colorful sundresses and men in t-shirts and shorts (with the obligatory sandals, to finish off the outfit). But by June and July, it will be hot. And we mean hot! Summer in Israel is always fun.What is summer in Israel?With the average summer temperature in Israel (hitting 30 degrees in Jerusalem or more and the humidity of Tel Aviv making for a sweaty experience), you might want to factor in afternoon naps, so you’re fresh as a daisy for long lazy evenings out. Of course, if you’re a beach bunny, Israel is the perfect place to be between mid-June and late September - and for the cost of a sun lounger and umbrella, you can wile away your days next to the Mediterranean.But when you’ve had your fill of the beach? Well, that’s why we’re here - to point you in the direction of other ways to enjoy your Israel vacation - by hiking in a nature reserve, checking out a new museum exhibition, taking a food tour, exploring some wineries, trying out some of the endless water sports on offer or simply sitting in a sidewalk cafe, watching the people go by. Not to mention the special events and festivals in Israel that always pop up here in the summer. Without further ado, let’s have a look at ways to spend your summer vacation in Israel. Enjoy!Akhziv National Park, Israel.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinCultural Events and Festivals in Israel in summerFestival of Light - Running throughout June of this year, Jerusalem’s Festival of Light promises to bring the Old City to life, by illuminating the city walls and cobbled streets with all kinds of light installations. Whether you know this extraordinary part of the world well or it's your first time in Israel, there, you will surely be captivated as you make your way along the different tracks (all marked in varying colors), in and around the Old City. The festival is a fantastic way to see Jerusalem by night, and also boasts guided Jerusalem tours, shows, and performances from guest artists.Jerusalem Wine FestivalThe annual Jerusalem Wine Festival will take place at theIsrael Museum in mid-August and, like every year, is bound to be a great social event. Showcasing (and celebrating) some of Israel’s best wines, as well as a few international offerings as well, go along not just for the wine and cheese but also to enjoy the musical offerings and the ambiance of the beautiful outdoor Sculpture Garden, where it is hosted.Laila Lavan (White Night) in Tel AvivTel Aviv literally stays open all night at this festival (which, in Hebrew, means ‘White Night’) and the city comes to life, with endless musical performances, dancing, galleries open until the wee hours and sunrise yoga at the beach. It’s all free and it’s incredible fun - just take a long afternoon nap so you can fit in as much as possible. This year’s date is expected to be between the end of June and the beginning of July - watch this space. Most probably, July 1, 2022.People clinking wine glasses. Photo byKelsey KnightonUnsplashThe Pixies in ConcertIf you’re a fan of American Alternative Rock, then you’re in luck because of the iconic band. The Pixies in Israel, are performing in Tel Aviv on Monday 22nd July at the Expo Centre. With their infectious melodies and reputation for screeching vocals and searing guitar chords, this is a concert you really don't want to miss. The Upper Galilee Voice of Music FestivalIf you love chamber music, then head north for the Upper Galilee Voice of Music Festival, held inKfar Blum in Upper Galilee, running from 28th June to 2nd July. In scenic surroundings, enjoying performances by artists both from Israel and around the globe. And in addition to the main event, there will also be a children’s festival, with unique workshops for the youngsters. National Parks in IsraelIsrael has an extraordinary number of national parks and nature reserves, all full of fantastic hiking treks, amazing flora, and fauna, and surrounded by streams and waterfalls that never cease to delight their visitors. Some of the ones we’d recommend most highly include:Akhziv National Park - this gorgeous area has sea turtles, rock pools, lagoons, steep sandstone cliffs, and an ancient fishing village. There’s also a lovely bathing beach, picnic facilities, and a nice camping area if you want to spend a few days out in nature. The Rosh HaNikra National Park includes the famous underwater caves, with a cable car ride for fun! Tourists at Nesher National Park, Israel. Photo credit: © Dan PorgesGan HaShlosha - close to the Jordan Valley, near Beit Shean, is this well-known nature reserve, boasting all kinds of bathing pools whose waters come from springs in the nearby Amal River. The water is a comfortable 28 degrees all year round and is a wonderful place to come and soak. Surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery, it’s arguably one of Israel’s most beautiful spots. The park also has a tower and stockade, and an archaeology museum, and isn’t far from Mount Gilboa, if you want to do some serious hiking!Ein Gedi - on the eastern edge of the Judean desert is this marvelous nature reserve, and it’s perfect to explore, either alone or combined with a trip to Masada and the Dead Sea. Here, water flows year-round and you can trek through baths, natural pools, waterfalls, and canyons. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the fabled leopard that supposedly lives in this oasis. Ein Gedi is full of lush vegetation, all kinds of flora and fauna, and an easy drive from Jerusalem.Caesarea - this national park is home to magnificent Herodian ruins, including impressive Roman aqueducts, bathhouses (complete with mosaic floors), an ancient harbor, and the remains of both a hippodrome and theater (where summer concerts are often held at night). Nearby are lovely beaches, where you can picnic and swim. Caesarea is an easy day trip from Tel Aviv, and can also be combined with a visit to Haifa.Banias - flowing down from Mount Hermon, the crystal clear waters of Banias make it a top pick for nature reserve lovers. Although you can’t swim in the waters, walking along the suspended circular walkway and seeing the amazing waterfalls up close, make it a great day out. There are two entrances to Banias, both with their own ticket booths, and a range of trails, depending on how much of a challenge you want. Gan Hashlosha (Sahne) National Park, Israel. Photo credit: © Manu Grinspan. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityCamping in IsraelIf you’re traveling to Israel on a budget, then a fun and affordable way of doing it is by camping. All over the country, you’ll find well-equipped and reasonably priced camping grounds, so whether you want to hike in the Negev, explore a fortress in the Golan Heights or wake to the sounds of the Mediterranean waves, somewhere between Tel Aviv and Haifa, there’s a site that’s right for you.In our opinion, camping around the Sea of Galilee is really one of the most beautiful ways to spend a few days. The area is lush and green, but it’s also full of attractions - churches and synagogues, the famous Yardenitbaptismal site, and a huge water park, which is the perfect activity for kids.Water Sports in IsraelIf you’re not into sedentary holidays, then partaking in some of Israel’s many water sports is the perfect way to enjoy yourself. There’s kayaking on the Jordan River, after which - if you’ve still got energy - you can take a jeep tour along the border with Syria. If you’re down in Eilat, and you’re licensed, then you can’t take a dive along its coral reef (or, if you prefer, just hire a snorkel and fins). There are also jet skis for hire, all around this Red Sea resort, not to mention the opportunity to take an organized trip to Petra since Eilat is slap bang on the border with Jordan.Snorkeling at the Red Sea. Photo byArtem KniazonUnsplashDay Tours in IsraelDay tours are a great way to see Israel and their advantages are many - you have the services of a professional guide (so you will learn a lot), transport is taken care of (so you don’t need to rent a car and cope with the sometimes chaotic roads) and you’ll fit a lot into one day (ok, they start early, but that means you really do get to see a great deal). Spots like Masada and the Dead Sea and the Galilee and Golan Heights aren’t that accessible by public transport, so being driven there on a comfy air-conditioned bus really makes sense. Taking an organized day trip in Israel is also a great idea if you’re a solo traveler and want to meet other travelers. At Bein Harim, we offer a wide variety of group and private tours, as well as Israel tour packagesand if you’re interested in booking one, don’t hesitate to contact us or check out Bein Harim's Instagram page for photos of our many destinations.Сaesarea Port, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockBeaches in IsraelThe fact remains that beaches in Israel are still one of the biggest draws of this country. Stretching endlessly along the coast, whether you’re up in the north, close to Acre, slap bang in the center in Tel Aviv, or down in the south, nearer to Ashdod, you’re always going to be able to find a beach that suits you down to the ground.Israeli beaches are almost always free and are usually good for amenities - cafes and restaurants, showers, changing rooms, toilets, and play areas close by for kids. You’ll also see plenty of workout stations, where you can tone up your abs or get a cardio session for free. And that’s before you’ve even dipped a toe in the water. When spending a day at the beach, you’ll also see the locals in their element, playing matkot (a quintessential Israeli game, which involves two bats and a ball, and lots of yelling!) and volleyball (the locals are friendly, so feel free to ask to join in). The Mediterranean in Israel is gorgeous in the summer and at the height of July and August, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re in a warm bath when you jump in the waters. And if you’re not a fan of water, just rent a chair and parasol, put on your sunglasses (and plenty of lotion), and kick back with a book or your headphones. Carmel Beach, Haifa, Israel. Photo byYousef EspaniolyonUnsplashMuseums in IsraelFinally, for days when the mercury is sizzling inside the thermometer, you can always take refuge in one of Israel’s museums or art galleries. There are so many, including the world-famous Israel Museum, in Jerusalem, where you can see a replica model of the Second Temple, sculptures in the outside garden, and the famous Dead Sea Scrolls, which are housed in their own specially-designed building. There are also underground Western Wall Tunnels to explore, close to the Western Wall, the Tower of David, and, of course, the narrow alleyways of the Old City, and its four historic quarters.Tel Aviv comes into its own too with the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, the Yitzhak Rabin Center (telling the story of the late Prime Minister and his relationship with the State of Israel), and the Museum of the History of Tel Aviv, exploring the fascinating backstory to this city which was born as late as 1910 but is now as modern as modern can be. There are also museums worth exploring in the north of the country, including MadaTech in Haifa, which is ideal if you want your kids to learn about science in an interactive and engaging way.If you are in Israel for the summer, go ahead and book some guided tours with a decent tour operator.The Israel Museum Of Science Technology & Space, Haifa, Israel.Photo byKelly TelleronUnsplash

As spring turns to summer each year, Israel comes into its own, which is why June can be a great month to visit the country. The weather is already very warm but not as roasting hot as it often is at the height of summer. And while the rains are long gone, evening strolls are utter perfection - in Israel you can eat outside, take long walks along beaches and seafronts at night (grabbing a drink at the endless cafes and bars on the sands) or just sit around and people watch.Beach at Rishon LeZion, Israel. Photo byAviv Ben OronUnsplashIn a Mediterranean Mood?And if you’re less in the mood for a city break, in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem or Haifa, there are ample opportunities to explore the country - it’s not yet high season which means the roads won’t be too jammed and you can still get off the beaten track and head to nature reserves and waterfalls, which will be a lot more crowded the following month. Yes, we can say without hesitation that June is an ideal month for a trip to Israel.June in Israel - a Holiday with a Bit of EverythingThe fact is that Israel has a bit of everything, which means you can ‘pick and mix’ on a break here. In Jerusalem, arguably the world’s most holy city, you can spend days exploring religious and historical sites, wandering the tiny backstreets of the Old City, before heading to dinner at the famous Mahane Yehuda Market.In Tel Aviv, you can take a Bauhaus tour, learning more about the extraordinary architecture of the ‘White City’ as you walk the boulevards. Or hire a bike and cycle all the way from Tel Aviv Port (Namal) in the north to the Jaffa Port in the city’s south, taking in a tour of Jaffa Flea Market, visiting the Artist’s Quarter, and then grabbing some local food - hummus or fish - whilst you watch the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.In June of this year, there are plenty of cultural events and festivals, as well as musical performances, in the big cities - a huge draw for culture vultures.Hiking by the Dead Sea. Photo byJonathan GamburgonUnsplashAnd for the Adrenaline Junkies?In the Negev, although hiking is not recommended in the hottest hours of the day, you can bask in the silence, enjoy the tranquillity of early morning sunrises, or explore the Ein Avdat canyon, Timna Valley Park, or the breathtaking crater at Mitzpe Ramon later in the day. And in the north of the country, there are all kinds of adventures for adrenaline junkies - from 4x4 jeep tours in the Golan Heights, discovering Crusader castles and fortresses, and kayaking trips on the Jordan River - perfect for those who don’t like to sit still.So if you’re looking to take a break and want a holiday destination that gives you a bit of everything, look no further. Whether you want to sun yourself on a beach, cool off periodically in the Mediterranean, explore archaeological sites in Jerusalem, hike in the Golan, or learn more about wine from some of the many boutique vineyards in the Galilee, you won’t be disappointed.And, as we said before, the weather is perfect - it will be warm, but not too hot, with cool breezes as day turns to night. Without further ado, let’s take a look at what’s going on in Israel this June 2022…all over the country!Vineyards in the Golan. Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplashEvents in Israel in June 2022. The Jewish Festival of ShavuotShavuot is a Jewish festival that commemorates one of the most important events in Jewish history - when God gave Moses the Torah on Mount Sinai. But it’s also a harvest festival, marking the wheat festival in the land of Israel, according to the Hebrew Bible.Shavuot is a holiday that everyone in Israel loves to celebrate - there are events going on all over the country. The main traditions are to eat dairy foods (think cheese, blintzes, and hummy cheesecakes) and, for Orthodox Jews, to attend synagogue where you sit up all night at a learning group (‘Tikkun Leila’).Shavuot is especially popular on kibbutzim and moshavim in Israel (agricultural settlements) where the ‘first fruits’ of the harvest are gathered. Locals love visiting these places and tourists will enjoy the activities, traditional Israeli folk dancing, and tractor rides for the younger members of the group!Shavuot this year is from 4th-5th June (since the Jewish calendar is solar-lunar in nature, all holy days begin in the evening). And, just to bear in mind, there is no public transport at this period, so if you want to get out of the city, you will have to rent a car in Israel.Cheesecake, traditional Shavuot food. Photo by Sebastian Coman Photography on UnsplashEvents in Jerusalem in June 2022Design Week - Held at the Hansen House, this year between 23rd and 30th June, the Jerusalem Design Weekis now in its eleventh year. Considered to be the country’s leading public design event, it’s expecting over 40,000 visitors and 40 events, showcasing the work of both Israeli and international designers. Each year, there is a central theme, looking at unique aspects of Jerusalem and Israel, incorporating the idea that the unusual cultural landscape in the country lends itself well to the idea of exploring important global issues. This year, the subject is time! The week promises all kinds of shows and events, as well as musical performances and ‘pop up’ food and drink offerings. An event to inspire!Hanan Ben Ari Concert in Jerusalem, June 2022On 22nd and 23rd June this year, the Israeli singer and songwriter Hanan Ben Ari will be performing at two concerts in Israel, both at the Sultan’s Pool in Jerusalem. And Ben Ari is an unusual guy - because he is from an orthodox background (he studied in a religious seminary, married young, and had six kids!) but performs in front of co-ed crowds and even writes songs for female songwriters!Moreover, his own music transcends stereotypes - it’s a fusion of rock, soul hip hop, and religious pop and his lyrics deal with a wide range of subjects, including literature, religion, pop culture, and social commentary. Hanan Ben Ari preaches tolerance and empathy and is making a real name for himself, so why not grab yourself a ticket and see for yourself what all the fuss is about?Shop in the Old City of Jerusalem, Israel.Photo byChristian BurrionUnsplash‘Divine Food’ exhibition at the Israel Museum, JeruselemJune is your last chance to catch the ‘Divine Food’ exhibition that’s been running at the world-famous Israel Museum for a while now. Showcasing unique pieces from the Olmec, Maya, and Aztec civilizations from Central America, all highlighting the way maize, cacao, and agave became food staples, you can also see an astonishing reconstruction of a Mayan Temple. It’s a great way to learn how these crops were cultivated, and something extra about the Gods of that era. Included in the price of the ticket is entry to the entire museum, giving you the chance to explore the Second Temple model, enjoy some beautiful fine art, wander in Sculpture Garden, and - of course - marvel at the Dead Sea Scrolls, housed in their own bespoke building. Events in Tel Aviv in June 2022Gay Pride Week - Pride week in Tel Aviv is, arguably, one of the highlights of the month, taking place every year in early to mid-June. After a long-drawn-out pandemic, with crowds forbidden or kept low, Pride is back - and it’s going to be big! Tel Aviv is unofficially known as the gay capital of the Middle East and the Pride parade here is one that people from all over the world flock to.Throughout the week, which runs 5th to the 10th of June, there will be events all over the city, culminating on Friday morning, when tens of thousands of people will take to the streets, waving flags, dancing, singing, and cheering on the guys and gals on the many floats. The parade begins at the LGBTQ center in Gan Meir and is very family-friendly - kids aren’t just welcome but loved! And, of course, expect a few after parties!Gay Pride in Tel Aviv, 2018.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinTLV International Student Film Festival (12-18 June 2022)Tel Aviv International Student Film Festivalis one of the largest festivals in the world for student films and is attended by many from around the globe. Each year, in June, hundreds of lecturers, students, and well-known persons in the cinema industry descend on Tel Aviv for a chance to see new films and meet up-and-coming producers. Run since 1986 by film students from the University of Tel Aviv, this Israeli project includes premiere screenings, workshops, films, special events, and conferences taking place each day, all at the Cinematheque, just a three-minute walk from the Sarona Complex, historically settled by the German Templars and today a popular area to eat and drink. Tel Aviv Vegan Festival (7-9 June 2022)Tel Aviv’s unofficially known as the vegan capital of the world, due to its ever-growing number of vegan restaurants serving only plant-based produce. So for anyone that follows a vegan diet, taking a holiday here is really very easy - whether you’re looking for traditional Israeli street food, light bites, or high-end cuisine, you’ll find it in this city.The annual Vegan Festival in Tel Aviv this year takes place between Tuesday 7th and Thursday 9th June, at the Sarona Complex in the heart of the city. It’s a veritable paradise for vegans and foodies alike - last year, there were over 100 stalls from restaurants and stores across Israel and, now Covid has waned, over 50,000 people are expected to attend this free event. So whether you fancy some non-dairy ice cream, a yummy poke bowl, or just the opportunity to learn more, put this date in your diary!Bread toasts with avocado, banana, tomato.Photo byElla OlssononUnsplashMovement Archery and Zen Acrobatics (23-25 June 2022)From 23rd to 25th June this year, in Tel Aviv, Tom Weksler and Roser Tutusaus will be holding a Movement Archery workshop. Having established ‘Wonderground’ in 2019, the partners focus on creations that deal with movement, dance, and other art forms.At this workshop, you can learn about posture, balance, imagination, and space. The two of them have taught all across the world and between them have years of experience in art and dance forms, working with companies such as Inbal Pinto & Avshalom Pollak and Guy Nader & Maria Campos.Laila Lavan, aka ‘White Night’ (1 July 2022)Technically it's not June, but we can't help mentioning ‘White Night’, one of the biggest nights of the year in Tel Aviv, with the city coming to life as the sun sets, and events continuing on through the night until the sun rises again. Yes, things really do go on through the night - but then what would you expect from Tel Aviv which is aptly named the Non-Stop City?Many stores and restaurants that would normally close at 10 pm will be open much later. All over the city,Tel Aviv museumswill be free to the public, as well as musical events - think jazz, opera, klezmer, rock, and plenty of cover bands, who’ll perform up and down the famousRothschild Boulevard.In keeping with past events, there will also be activities for kids, dancing at the beach, street artists performing in the Jaffa Flea Market vicinity, and yoga at the Namal port, as the sun rises. The fact that all these events won’t cost you a penny means you’ve no reason not to pick a few that take your fancy (and make sure you’ve had a long afternoon nap before you head out into the 24/7 atmosphere…) If you are interested in Jerusalem tours or Tel Aviv excursions, feel free to contact us.Lifeguard station on the Tel Aviv waterfront. PhotobyGuy TsroronUnsplash

Springtime in Israel, particularly the month of May, is an absolutely fantastic time to visit the country. The rainy season has long passed, the sunshine is plentiful but it’s not terribly hot yet, in the way it can be in the high summer. With endless opportunities to enjoy the beach, explore the country and eat dinner outdoors on cool, breezy evenings, some would say it’s the perfect month to plan your perfect vacation in Israel.Sunset in the south of Israel. Photo byShai PalonUnsplashVisit Israel in the Spring!It’s also the ideal season for swimming in the Mediterranean Sea (the water is very pleasant), hiking inGalilee or Golan Heights, where flowers are blooming, visiting some boutique vineyards, or spending a few days in Jerusalem. If you’re there, why not wander the narrow alleyways of Nachlaot before grabbing a bite in theMahane Yehuda Market? There are also endless special events in Israel taking place - concerts, exhibitions, festivals, and one-off performances. If you’re down in the party city of Eilat, after a day of jet skiing, hanging out at the Dolphin Reef, or exploring nearby Timna Park, enjoy a cocktail by the Red Sea in Eilat, with breathtaking scenery in the form of desert mountains behind you.Here are a few of our recommendations for things to do in Israel in May - there’s something for everyone, trust us, so take a look at the list and get packing.Gray Dolphin in Eilat, Israel. Photo bySilviu GeorgescuonUnsplashJerusalem events in May 2022Jerusalem is the world’s most holy city for three major religions and a place packed full of historical sites, archaeological digs, and cultural treasures. And there is plenty going on there in May 2022.Jerusalem International Book ForumRunning from 15th to 18th May in the charming neighborhood of Mishkenot Shaananim, a stone’s throw from the Old City, Jerusalem International Book Forum is a week of professional and intellectual gatherings, with people from all different backgrounds across the world showing up in the capital. The forum offers workshops, panel talks, interviews, and social gatherings, looking at subjects such as podcasts, audiobooks, literature for young adults, and how to publish in a post-Covid world. With almost every event held in English, it’s the perfect event for anyone who loves books.Where: YMCA (26 King David Street) and Mishkenot Shaananim Conference Centre Flag of Israel at the Wailing Wall, Jerusalem. Photo byIvan LouisonUnsplashInternational Museum DayInternational Museum Day falls this year on the 19th of May and those participating in Israel (specifically in Jerusalem) and offering free entrance include the Bible Lands Museum, Bloomfield Science Museum, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the world-famous Israel Museum.Established with the intention of exposing the public to the cultural wealth of museums, it’s a great way to raise awareness of the place of the museum in our society, and not just for adults but for children too. The Israel Museum, in particular, is bursting with treasures, including the Model of the Second Temple, the beautiful Sculpture Garden, replicas of ancient synagogues, and the famous Dead Sea Scrolls, housed in a dedicated building.There are also free guided tours that take you through the four wings - Archaeology, Fine Arts, Jewish art and life, and the Youth Wing for Art Education, as well as a chance to see current exhibitions on masks, food, and castles! Fun fact: Did you know that there are more museums, per capita, in Israel than anywhere else in the world?Where: In museums across Israel (check website for details)The Shrine of the Book, Israel Museum, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockJerusalem Day, all across the City of Jerusalem (28th-29th May 2022)Jerusalem Day(‘Yom Yerushalyim’ in Hebrew) begins on the evening of 28th May and ends the following evening. Commemorating the reunification of the city, after the Six-Day War in 1967, today the capital takes center stage. There’s plenty in store for anyone visiting Jerusalem, including Jerusalem tours, tastings, live music, workshops, and an enormous parade (complete with floats, featuring veterans, local Yerushalmis, and Christian supporters of Israel).It’s a wonderful thing to see, with stages set up in city parks, old-time singers belting out the classics (including Naomi Shemer’s ‘Jerusalem of Gold’) and the kids will love it too since there’s plenty of face-painting on offer! And if you want to learn more about the history of Jerusalem, from the time of King David, head down to the Jaffa Gate - the parade always goes past the walls.Where: Across central Jerusalem and outside the walls of the Old City, at the Jaffa GateEntry of a synagogue in Jerusalem. Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplash“Which Came First? The Story or the Egg?” Exhibition at the Israel Museum, JerusalemRunning at the world-famous Israel Museum in Jerusalem, this exhibition focuses on prize-winning children’s books illustrator Hilla Havkin. Now she’s painting stories - on ostrich eggs! - and more than 20 of them are on display in this exhibition, each one focusing on a different story - including giraffes, bats, balloons, and kites. As the eggs rotate, surprises abound. What a wonderful exhibition!Where: The Israel Museum, Ruppin Boulevard 11, JerusalemSovev Cycling Event, Jerusalem (Friday 13th May 2022)If you love cycling, love Jerusalem, or love both, then Sovev is for you! This May, to celebrate spring, the city’s largest cycling event takes place, with routes that will take you through pastoral scenes, urban landscapes, and astonishing historical sites. There are three routes - 10km, 40km, and 50kms - and thousands of participants will join. Make sure to register early!Where: The gathering point for everyone is at the First Station in the German Colony.A palm tree in Jaffa, Israel. Photo byReiseuhuonUnsplashTel Aviv events in May 2022After a day at thebeach in Tel Aviv, stroll on itspromenade,learn about Bauhaus architecture in the White City or rent a bicycle and cycle toJaffa. You can also join one of the Tel Aviv special events listed below.DocAviv, Tel Aviv (26th May - 5th June 2022)Beginning on 26th May and running for 10 days, Docaviv in Tel Aviv will be showcasing a range of documentaries, many being their world premieres. Whether you’re interested in history, art, language, family, or politics, there’s going to be something there to intrigue you. This year’s opening film is ‘The Devil Speaks; Eichman’s Lost Confession’ which shows reels of footage of the infamous Nazi, talking to a journalist in Argentina, before his celebrated capture by the Mossad.Where: Cinematheque, 5 Ha’arba’a Street, Tel AvivEat Tel Aviv - A Tel Aviv Food Festival(8th May 2022)The ultimate festival for foodies, Eat Tel Aviv brings together many of Israel’s top chefs in one place, all attempting to woo visitors with their creations. For several days, down at Charles Clore Park, close to the Neve Tzedek neighborhood, you can enjoy live music, fantastic food trucks, and innovative dishes. Some of the top restaurants in Tel Aviv participate here, including Manta Ray (seafood), Vicky Cristina (tapas), and Dixie (burgers) as well as plenty of celebrity chefs. Tastings and street food. What’s not to like?Where: Charles Clore Park, Tel AvivJaffa port area. Photo byShai PalonUnsplashRooftop Yoga at City Hall, Tel AvivEvery Thursday beginning at 6 pm, at City Hall, next to Rabin Square, yoga lovers gather together, to enjoy an hour or two of free yoga classes and sessions on the roof of the municipality. Apart from the fact that there are great views over the city, it’s a good way to meet new friends.Where: Tel Aviv City Hall, Rabin Square, 66 Ibn Gvirol StreetWhite City Bauhaus Tours, Tel AvivEvery Friday at 10 am, beginning at the Bauhaus Center on trendy Dizengoff Street, a classic Bauhaus Tour takes place, beginning with an introductory movie and a map. You’ll then set off with your guide, and also armed with stereo headsets, connected to their microphone.You’ll be taken around the oldest boulevards and streets in the city - including Rothschild, Ahad Ha’am, and Nahmani - and learn about the history of the White City’s most prominent buildings in this style, built in the 1930s and ’40s by German Jews, who arrived in Tel Aviv just before World War II. The cost is 80 NIS (25 USD).Deep Purple Concert, Tel Aviv (Sunday 22nd May 2022)Founded in 1968, Deep Purple is truly a pioneer of the heavy metal scene (they also won a Guinness Record award for being the world’s loudest band). Next month, they will be performing at the Menorah Mivtachim Arena in Tel Aviv, to the delight of their many fans in Israel. So get ready for a night out, with a bunch of hard rock lovers.Where: Menora Mivtachim Arena, Tel AvivBlack horse carriage in Tel Aviv, Israel. Photo byAvi TheretonUnsplashEvents in Northern Israel in May 2022Whether you’re hiking in Galilee, tasting wines and cheeses on the farms of the Jezreel Valley, or kayaking down theJordan River, the Holy Land is waiting for you!Shivat Roim Dairy, northern IsraelBefore Shavuot arrives (in early June), why not head north to Shirat Roim (‘Shepherds Song’) up in the Galilee. It’s a boutique dairy, making fantastic sheep and goat cheeses, all without preservatives! It’s so good, it’s won prizes in Europe for its fabulous products. At their dairy on Kibbutz Lotem (near Karmiel), you can see the entire process (the making and the ripening), attend a workshop, and taste some samples. The ‘House of Cheese’ which is next door is open to the public on weekends and holidays. Yum! Where: Shirat Roim Dairy, Kibbutz Lotan, Western GalileeKayaking on the Jordan RiverThis is a really good activity for May because the weather is fantastic - not too hot and not too cold. It’s also a great experience for adults and kids - and the Jordan River is perfect for kayaking. Slide over small cascades, as your guide directs you through thick vegetation. Enjoy the fabulous views - the river banks are green and peaceful and if you’re lucky, you might even see a turtle!Where:the Jordan RiverView of the Golan Heights from Mount Bental.Photo credit: © ShutterstockYom Ha’Atzmaut (aka Israel Independence Day)Taking place this year on 4th-5th May, this is one of the most joyful days of the year, with celebrations that kick off at dusk and last through the night, followed by more celebrations the following day, in the form of a traditional Israeli ‘mangal’ (barbeque) at the beach, or in your friend’s back garden.All towns and cities in Israel have festivities, which include fireworks and concerts. In Jerusalem, there is the traditional torch-lighting ceremony atMount Herzl, attended by dignitaries, and in Tel Aviv, there’s a huge gathering atRabin Square(the square named after the late Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin) with dancing and music.The following day, if you’re not a fan of barbeque, you can enjoy free entrance to certain museums, includingYad La Shiryonin Latrun (Israel’s official memorial for fallen soldiers) and theHall of IndependenceonRothschild Boulevard, where David Ben Gurion read out the famous Declaration of Independence in May of 1948.Where: Events all across the countryFireworks at the end of the 70th Independence day ceremony on Mt. Herzl. Photo byLavi PerchikonUnsplashJeep Tours, Golan HeightsThere are plenty of jeep tours you can take in Israel, but one we’d highly recommend is run by the company ‘No Other Land’ up in the Golan Heights, based on Kibbutz Merom Golan. It’s not just a great chance to explore northern Israel but really to see how locals, especially on kibbutzim, live in this part of the country.Guided by Ilan Shurman, who not only served in the IDF as a paratrooper but also holds a degree in Israel and Middle East Studies, he’ll give you plenty of history and geopolitics, with trips out to Qunietra (today a ghost town) and a stop outside one of the Israeli bunkers close to the border with Syria. This is a perfect family attraction and teenagers in particular, tend to love it!Where: Kibbutz Merom Golan,No Other Land Jeep Tours.International Yoga Festival in Israel, May 2022Israelis love yoga (seriously!) and this year, between 12th-14th May 2022 an enormous festival is taking place in the north of the country. Featuring teachers, lecturers, musicians, and workshops, people will gather together to learn and practice their skills for a long weekend, in the most pastoral of environments.A woman doing advanced yoga pose. Photo byARA CHOonUnsplashThe ‘yoga village’ at which it will take place is atGan HaShlosha National Park, one of Israel’s most beautiful nature reserves, which is located close to Mount Gilboa. The surrounding streams and astonishing waterfalls lend themselves to an atmosphere of happiness and tranquillity…and the festival is even promising a special ‘water compound’ with special sessions.The International Yoga Festival, along with all of the usual the ‘yogie’ activities, will feature music shows, a kid’s compound (complete with fun activities and shallow swimming areas), food stands (many of which are promoting vegan food), and a great artist’s fair, where you can purchase jewelry, clothing, and art.Wine Tours in the Carmel MountainsIsrael’s full of fabulouswineriesand what better thing to do than to take a tour of one, whilst enjoying the astonishing scenery? The Carmel Winery was founded by Baron Edmond de Rothschild in 1892, with the aim of helping farmers earn a long-term living, rather than relying on more simple crops.The Centre For Wine CultureinZichron Yaakovprovides guided tours and this includes a wine shop, restaurant, two specialist-tasting rooms, a small cinema, and a barrel room in an underground cellar. And Zichron itself is a lovely little town, so take a stroll afterwards on its midrachov (main pedestrianized street) or even head off toHaifa, which is just 30 minutes away.Where: Carmel Wintery, 2 Derek Ha Yekev, Zichron YaakovInterested in special events in Israel, private orday tours in Israel?Feel free to contact us!Flam Winery, Eshtaol, Israel. Photo by Eli Levit on Unsplash

Every year, milions of people come on trips to Israel. Their reasons are varied - pristine beaches on Mediterranean coastlines, endless sunny days with beautiful blue skies, museums and art galleries, hiking trails, boutique vineyards and a foodie scene that’s taken the world by storm.Dome of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem. Photo byAdam KringonUnsplashIsrael - Land of the BibleBut, for many visitors, the most important reason to visit is to take a biblical tour of the Holy Land - to see the many beautiful and extraordinary sights connected with the history of the country. Israel is a melting pot, and home to people of many faiths - Jews, Christians, Muslims…and for each, there are places that are incredibly important.Walk in the Footsteps of JesusFor Christians, a tour of biblical Israel is often the trip of a lifetime, giving them a chance, literally, to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and visit many of the places mentioned in their holy book. Whether it’s Bethlehem, where Jesus was born, Nazareth, where he spent his early years, Galilee, where he ministered and recruited his twelve disciples, or Jerusalem, where he was arrested, crucified, buried and then resurrected, taking a biblical tour in Israel will not disappoint.Even better, for anyone curious about archaeology, the land of Israel is literally bursting at the seams with fascinating sites, dating back hundreds, if not thousands of years. Places of worship, fortresses and ancient cities that were built in different eras (Roman and Herodian, Byzantine, Crusader, Arab, Mamluk and Ottoman) are easily accessible and can really bring history to life before your very eyes.The Church of the Transfiguration, Mount Tabor, Israel. Photo byJoshua LanzarinionUnsplashThe History of Christians in IsraelThe history of Christian communities in the Holy Land dates back to the life and times of Jesus. After his death, the Apostolic church - particularly around Jerusalem - remained Judeo-Christian but after 130 CE, when Emperor Hadrian established Jerusalem as the Roman city of Aelia Capitolina, the church changed its composition.Today, when exploring Israel, in particular Jerusalem, it really is possible to see a chain of continuity and survival of the Christian community in the country, despite the war, natural disasters and endless conquests. Many of the churches, convents, shrines and monasteries that pilgrims visit are sites associated with the earliest times of Christianity, back in Herodian and Roman times, and really give the visitor a sense of how Jesus lived.In this article, we’ll be looking at the biblical side of Israel - places of worship dating back thousands of years, their architectural styles, and what their particular traditions were. This will help you understand what different Christian communities exist in Israel today, and how they have not just survived the centuries, but are thriving. We’ll also give you an idea of the ‘must sees’ on your visit, as well as famous archaeological sites in Israel. Direction sign showing the way to the Garden Tomb, Jerusalem. Photo byJonny GiosonUnsplashHow Many Christians Live in Israel today?In 2022, Israel’s population stood at just under 9.5 million people. The majority of these are Jews, with a sizeable Muslim community, and then smaller communities, including Christians and Druze. Today, Christians account for about 2% of the country - about 182,000 people.Approximately 76.7% of Christians in Israel are Arab and Christians make up 7% of Israel’s Arab population. Most of these people live in areas such as Haifa, Nazarethand Jerusalem, so for anyone coming on a biblical tour of Israel, these cities will surely be visited.The Christian community in Israel can be broken down into four basic groups - Orthodox, Catholic (Latin and Uniate), Protestant and Non-Chalcedonian (Monophysite). Apart from the Armenian church, most of these communities use Arabic as their lingua franca and many of them may well be the earliest descendants of Christians born in the Byzantine period.What Places Should I Visit on a Biblical Tour in Israel?Israel is a small country, with very many sites of interest for Christians. However, if you really want to get the most out of your visit, taking an organised day tour or private tour is a good way of seeing a great deal in the shortest time. You’ll also have the services of a professional guide, whose job it is to answer every last question you have. The good news is that it’s easy to take an organised tour of biblical sites in Israel, as well as specific Christian tour packages. They run regularly and in many languages and set off both from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, so all you need to do is find one that suits you. Here are a few of the top holy sites in Israel we’d recommend, with links to specific tours you can take…Pilgrims lighting candles in the church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Photo byPeter AschoffonUnsplashThe Biblical Sites of JerusalemArguably the holiest city in the world, there is no shortage of sites to see in Jerusalem - in fact, you could spend weeks, if not months, exploring the churches and Christian sites of the Old City of Jerusalem. Divided into quarters (Muslim, Christian, Jewish and Armenian), the Christian quarter is the second-largest and most marvellous place to explore, wandering through its narrow alleyways. The Christian quarter of the Old City is most easily entered through the Jaffa Gate and is a huge draw for most visitors, with a wealth of attractions which include: The Church of the Holy Sepulchre - the most sacred site in the world for Christians, it is filled with magnificent artwork, shrines and altars and can hold up to 8,000 people. The original structure was built by the mother of Constantine the Great, on what she considered to be the hill of Golgotha and the tomb in which he was subsequently placed.Inside, pilgrims can walk up a small staircase to the Place of the Crucifixion, and also see the Stone of the Unction, where tradition holds that Jesus’ body was prepared for burial here. All year round, pilgrims flock here, and in the week between Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday the Christian quarter of the Old City takes on a more serious (and subsequently joyful) tone. Jerusalem Biblical garden, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinFun fact: as you explore the church, pay attention to its stone walls, in which you will see inscribed thousands of tiny crosses. These were made by the Crusaders, who took shelter here after making their holy pilgrimage from Europe. Via Dolorosa - in Latin meaning ‘the Path of Sorrow’ in Latin is the traditional path Jesus took en route to his crucifixion, stopping at points along the way which are now known as ‘Stations of the Cross.’ Established in the 18th century, it runs through the Old City, beginning close to the Lions' Gate and ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It is a place of contemplation and prayer, and comes alive particularly on Good Friday, at the annual procession. Temple Mount - this walled compound within the Old City, houses the famous ‘Dome of the Rock’. Whilst the debate usually focuses on Jews versus Muslims, it certainly has religious significance for Christians too, since it was here that Jesus came, studied, learned and argued with the leaders of the Temple at that time (an act which, it is argued, led to his eventual arrest and killing).Temple Mount, Jerusalem, Israel. Photo by Jorge Fernández Salas on UnsplashMount of Olives, JerusalemEast of the Old City, Mount of Olives is the place where Christians believe Jesus ascended into heaven. It is a very special place for believers and home to many interesting sights, including the Church of All Nations - also known as the Basilica of the Agony, and built on the ruins of a 4th-century basilica and a 12th century Crusader chapel. The beautiful interior is built on Corinthian columns and a mosaic, portraying Jesus as a mediator between God and man.Dominus Flevit - this Roman Catholic church offers splendid views of the Temple Mount and is the spot at which Jesus stood and foresaw the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans, before weeping (the church’s name actually means ‘the Lord Wept’). Designed in the shape of a teardrop (representing Jesus’ tears) its impressive western window (which looks out on the Old City) makes for marvellous photographic opportunities.Garden of Gethsemane - at the foot of the Mount of Olives, this is the spot at which Jesus prayed and was later arrested, the night before his crucifixion. Church of the Pater Noster - meaning ‘Our Father’ in Latin, the importance of this church is bound up with Jesus’ teaching of the Lord’s Prayer here, to his disciples. Indeed, throughout the cloister and church, you can see beautiful ceramic plaques on which this prayer is translated into no fewer than 140 languages. Mount of Olives, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Biblical Sites of BethlehemChurch of the Nativity - one of the oldest working churches in the world today, was first built by Emperor Constantine in 4 CE over the grotto where, according to Christian tradition, Mary gave birth to Jesus. Walking down two flights of stairs, a fourteen-point silver star marks the exact spot where the Son of God came into the world.Today, custody of the Nativity Church is shared by three denominations - Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox and Armenian and - of course, it is a focal point of any tour, Each year, on Christmas Eve, there are celebrations in Bethlehem as well as a public mass, attended by thousands, which is held in Manger Square.Shepherds' Fields- situated in Beit Sahour, about 1km east of Bethlehem, this is the spot where - according to Catholic tradition - angels announced the birth of Christ. Nearby is the Shepherd’s Field Chapel (adorned, inside, with beautiful frescoes depicting the nativity scene) and also the Greek Orthodox chapel of Dar El Rawat.Mar Saba Monastery - dating back to the 5th century, this Greek Orthodox monastery overlooks the Kidron Valley and, to this day, maintains many of its traditions (including forbidden entrance to women, past the main entrance). Its thick walls and small windows are reminiscent of a fortress, and its remote location, around 15 km from Bethlehem, and down a steep road, means it is difficult to reach independently, thus best seen as part of a private tour.The interior of Nativity Church, Bethlehem.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinThe Biblical Sites of Jericho, the Dead Sea and MasadaIn biblical times, it was the city of Jericho where Joshua fought his famous battle and, in the words of the song, ‘the walls came tumbling down.” Here also lies the Mount of Temptation which is where Jesus was tempted by the devil. Not too far away lies the ancient fortress of Masada, one of Israel’s top attractions and full of astonishing Herodian excavations. Built as a palace for the King, it stands atop a mountain, overlooking the wilderness of the Judean desert and really takes one’s breath away. From there, it’s an easy journey - by car - to the Dead Sea, where you can float in the salty waters and slather yourself in black mud (which is excellent for the skin!). Because public transport is rather limited in these areas, by far and away the most convenient way to see these places is with a Masada group tour or a private tour. The Biblical Sites ofNazarethChurch of the Annunciation - this is where the Angel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary and announced to her that she would conceive and bear Jesus, the Son of God. It was founded around the same time as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Church of the Nativity and has a splendid basilica, designed by Italian architect, Giovanni Muzio. Outside the courtyard is decorated with beautiful mosaics, donated by communities from across the globe. Church of St. Joseph - close to the Basilica, this Franciscan Roman-Catholic church was built over the remains of much older churches. According to tradition, it stands above what was once the carpentry workshop of Joseph, the husband of Mary.Donkey in Nazareth, Israel. Photo byJonny GiosonUnsplashThe Biblical Sites of GalileeAny highlight of an Israeli biblical tour has got to be a trip to the Galilee, in northern Israel. This is where Jesus spent much of his time ministering and performing miracles - turning water into wine, raising the dead, walking on water and transforming two fishes and five loaves of bread into sufficient food to feed a crowd of 500 people.Church of the Beatitudes-- this is the spot at which Jesus gave his famous ‘Sermon on the Mount‘. Built on the site of a 4th century Byzantine church, its octagonal design represents the eight beatitudes (‘blessings’) and, inside, seven virtues - charity, faithy, hope, justice, prudence, temperance and fortitude) are symbolised on the mosaic floor. Yardenit - located at the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee, on the banks of the River Jordan, this is where Christian pilgrims from around the globe come to be baptised, replicating the baptism that Jesus undertook by John the Baptist, thousands of years earlier. Capernaum, a biblical village in Galilee, Israel. Photo byJoshua LanzarinionUnsplashChurch of Multiplication - located in Tabgha, a church and monastery were built here in the 5th century to commemorate the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand. Parts of the exquisite mosaic floors (which are rare in Byzantine churches) were unearthed in archaeological excavations, and depict the flora and fauna of Galilee.Megiddo - In the New Testament, Megiddo is referred to as Armageddon and, according to prophecy, it is the spot where a great battle will take place at the ‘end of days’ i.e. before the Second Coming of Jesus. Today it is a splendid national park, full of archaeological finds including an 80- metre long aqueduct that supplied this ancient Canaanite city with spring water. An excellent way to see it is on a private tour of Megiddo and Nazareth.If you are interested in biblical sites in Israel, feel free to join one of our Day Christian Tours or a Christian Israel Package.Mount Precipice, Nazareth, Israel.Photo byShalev CohenonUnsplash