Tips for Israel

Tel Aviv is a vibrant city, filled with ex-pats, and has an amazing nightlife. I recommend first going to the historic part of the city, Jaffa. Jaffa has narrow cobblestone streets and is full of art galleries and restaurants, and scenic views of the ocean. I also recommend visiting ‘HaTachana,’ which translates into ‘The Train Station’ on Saturday, when the city is off work and everyone is out. My favorite thing about HaTachana is that every Saturday morning they have public Israeli folk dance that anyone can join.

I’ve been living on the beach for the past year and am still just as in love with it. There’s so much to do on the beach, and there is never a time when locals aren’t playing volleyball or beach tennis.

I recommend going to ‘Under the Tree’ for a cheap but delicious meal, and I really love Vietnamese food at 'Ca Phe Hanoi' for a more expensive meal. Lastly, if you want good cocktails, I recommend Spicehaus or 223.

Jerusalem is considered to be one of the holiest cities in the world for many Jews, Christians, and Muslims. I recommend visiting the holy sites, including the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, and the Al Aqsa Mosque.

Going to the market can be fun (albeit slightly chaotic and crowded, especially on Friday mornings), go to the Mahne Yehuda market-- but be sure to haggle because as a tourist you will be quoted the most expensive price.

Visiting Jerusalem is a very interesting experience since it's the home of many different religions. The other day I was sitting on the bus next to an Israeli soldier and a woman in a hijab, and across from an ultra-Orthodox Jew. 

There are a few important things to note before traveling to Jerusalem- try to avoid traveling on Friday and Saturday since this is a Jewish holiday and public transport, and most stores (including grocery stores) close down.