My Israel trail started in the gorgeous port city of Haifa, which is the third largest city in the country and without a doubt, the prettiest. Haifa is a port city nestled among the St Carmel mountain range and is home to a pretty beach with picturesque sunsets. While the state of Israel has a Jewish majority, Haifa is the perfect example of peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance as the city has a mix of Jews and Arabs (both Muslim and Christian). One of the highlights in the city are the Bahai Gardens and shrine. This is of great significance to the Bahai Faith worldwide as it is the resting place of their beloved leader. The gardens are magnificent — at night time, they are lit up and you can spot them sparkling in the night from almost anywhere in the city.
Old Jaffa in Tel Aviv
Haifa is a neighbour to the historic city of Akko (Acre), which is impossible to miss. Strolling through the streets of Akko, the marketplace or even near the walls of the fort or by the sea, the city seems frozen in time with just a few trappings of the present. It is said that from the Templars, the Mamluks, the Romans, the Turks and even the British have all conquered and ruled Akko at some point of time or other. Once a fortified town dating the 11th century, The old city is an architectural delight. You can find remains from the medieval crusades, the Ottoman Empire and, in most parts of the city, ruins can be found below street level making Akko famous for being a city beneath a city.
A bazaar in Jerusalem
While this historic city attracts many a traveller with its archaeological marvels, if you’re a foodie, then a trip to a local seafood restaurant called Uri Buri is a must. Chef Uri, a charming character, with his trademark white Santa Claus-like beard and cheeky smile, is a whiz at cooking up fish items. His specials, which are showcased in the restaurant, have had tourists and locals alike raving about the place for over a decade.
My next destination, as I moved on from Akko, found me driving several metres below sea level through a desert to the lowest point on earth — the Dead Sea. Despite its name, the Dead Sea is anything but depressing. The pristine medley of different hues of aquamarine that looks so inviting, makes you feel like jumping right in. However making a big splash might not be advisable as the salt content in the water is so high (a staggering 33 per cent) that it stings if it hits your eyes and makes it impossible for you to sink. While at first I must admit the idea of just letting go and floating seemed intimidating, it is by far the most wonderful experience to just float without a care in the world knowing you will never sink or topple. The water and mud sediment found on the beach is full of medicinal properties making it incredible helpful for skin ailments and plenty of beauty and cosmetic products are made from it. To come back from here without a few ‘dead sea products’ seemed criminal, and, to be completely honest, they are my best souvenirs from the country.
The best way to round up a trip to Israel is to throw yourself into the heart and soul of the country, which is its capital Tel Aviv. The city takes its food very seriously. While there is plenty of Kosher meals should you want them, the choice is ample. The food markets and restaurants are brimming with people but really it is the energy at night that really makes this trendy city a great destination to let your hair down and enjoy yourself. My trip ended far sooner than I’d have liked. Spending a week in Israel was plenty enough time to whet my appetite and plan a longer visit next time.
The author is a travel, food writer and blogger
