RECAP: Israel

If you missed a post or are planning your own Israel itinerary, here are links to everything I’ve written about my time in this country. Click away to read more!

Eilat Underwater

After all the scuba diving I’ve done, I didn’t expect Israel to rate at the top of my list. But the Red Sea offers a impressive variety and color of species.

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Exploring Carmel Market

Art, spices, olives, fruit… there’s an abundance of color and energy at this hectic market in Tel Aviv.

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Brunch in Jaffa Port

Jaffa is a highlight of Tel Aviv — it’s a charming seaside port with restaurants, shops, and cool alleyways. Plus we try meze for the first time, and it leaves me too stuffed for a proper meal!

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A Riot of Color in Tel Aviv

The vibrancy of Tel Aviv’s energy is matched only by its color. Check out these bold beach shots and other unexpected moments of artwork that pop up throughout the city.

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Israel Day Trip: Caesarea, Haifa, Acre

We visit three cities north of Tel Aviv in an epic day trip: a historic port town, a bustling metropolis, and a walled city.

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Israel Day Trip: Galilee, Golan Heights, Nazareth

It’s another jam-packed day in Israel as we travel to the Sea of Galilee, glimpse Syria from Golan Heights, and visit the church where Mary was told she would birth Jesus.

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Exploring Masada & Ein Gedi

We spend the morning visiting Masada, the desert fortress / palace built for Herod the Great, and then hike through a lush oasis at Ein Gedi nature reserve.

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Floating in the Dead Sea

It’s the quintessential Dead Sea experience: we spend an afternoon floating on our backs and playing with mud on the shores of this historically and biblically significant body of salt water.

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The Old City of Jerusalem

From the Dome of the Rock to the Wailing Wall, we visit the most important sites of Jerusalem during our day-long tour of the Old City.

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Jerusalem by Night: The First Night of Hanukkah

The Old City transforms in evening light, offering a glimpse of would’ve been like to walk these alleyways centuries ago. Plus we’re here on the first night of Hanukkah!

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Luxury Travel in Israel

I usually stay in budget-conscious hostels and eat cheap street food, but our time in Israel is different — check out the fanciest hotel I’ve ever stayed in and our outstanding meals.

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Hebron: A Divided City

Hebron is split into two sectors, one controlled by Israel and the other by Palestine. I took a fascinating day tour to explore this historically contentious area.

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Tour of Palestine

Our day tour of Palestine continues with a visit to Bethlehem, followed by stops at a refugee camp, the separation wall, Banksy graffiti, and a glass blowing shop.

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Expense Report: Israel

While my Israel budget is a little skewed because I traveled with family and enjoyed a more luxurious level of accommodation, I hope it’s helpful to anyone curious about the finances of visiting this part of the world.

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