Tel Aviv

September 23, 2011 (Friday)


Our first full day in Israel is also the day that Palestine submitted to the United Nations its formal request for statehood. We heard a report of M. Abbas' formal presentation and speech, as well as Barak Obama's speech. We heard about Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's scathing speech, criticizing the U.S. and Britain. And we heard live B. Netanahu's speech (11:00pm live from the U.N. in NYC).

Our group of twelve: George and Pat, Jeane and Jim, Steve and Bev (all from the Jordan extension); Evelyn, Molly, Larry and Suzi, Edith and Dick.

What we did this day, led by Nurit, our Israeli Guide:

Ilana Goor Museu

Ilana Goor museum entrance

Ilana Goor Museum

Visited the Ilana Goor Gallery (also in her home) in old Jaffa.

Ilana Goor Museum

Walked historical Jaffa:

shuk

We first went to "the Carmel Market, known in Israel as "Shuk Ha'Carmel"... [which] is the city's biggest marketplace, and a fascinating, enjoyable place to visit. It is basically one crowded narrow alley with long line of colorful stalls standing on either side, and where vendors proudly (and loudly) presenting their goods. Here you can find almost anything imaginable for the lowest prices in the city, from different kinds of bread and pastry to delicious olives, dried fruits and exotic spices."  (http://www.inisrael.com/tour/telaviv/markets.htm) A break from the heat: We got caught in a rainstorm in the market with its bounty of fruit, veggies, bread, etc. We left wet but refreshed, and returned to the Art+ hotel to change before heading back to Jaffa for gyros for lunch.

Carmel food market

Interesting stops were also to the house of Simon the Tanner where (Simon) Peter stayed (although the house is not open to the public), to the wishing bridge with its zodiac signs, to the "Statue of Faith" in the Has-Pisga garden on top of an ancient Tel, and to the Monastery of St. Peter.

Monastery of St. Peter

Interior, St. Peter Monastery

Steve @ Wishing Bridge

Statue of Faith

Later, George and Evelyn went for a swim in the Mediterranean Sea, while the others walked the promenade along the sea, rested or explored the city shops near the hotel. Enjoyed happy hour on the hotel's fifth floor balcony.

Mediterranean Sea Promenade

Nurit gathered us in the evening for an informational, introductory meeting now that all twelve of us were together, using a map to talk about Israel's geography and history, and to describe what we would experience during our 12-day adventure. A few minutes before sunset, Nurit concluded our session with the Shabbat Blessing and toast and breaking of challah bread, assisted by Suzi.

We retired early to pack for 7:30am bags out and 9:00am departure for Nazareth, with stops along the way at Haifa, etc.