Tel Aviv

By bartur_yael

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nothing like fresh watermelon with feta cheese, a local snack.

Israel sounds like something that pops up on CNN between riots in Iran and swine flu updates. But it is a well known fact that no one has ever been to the city of Tel Aviv and not had the time of their lives. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

From the warm gorgeous beaches (with the gorgeous half naked locals) through the fresh Mediterranean cuisine to the vibrant night clubs that never ever close, Tel Aviv has truly earned its status as the city that never sleeps. Its easy to get around, by foot, bike or public transportation just make sure to bring your sunglasses and a camera.

Sample Itinerary
Wake up at the seaside David Intercontinental hotel and start out with a traditional Israeli breakfast which includes the best fruits and veggies you’ve ever encountered a wide array of cheeses, jams and freshly baked bread.

Stroll down to the Carmel market (about a 3 minute walk) as the local vendors are shouting in 3 languages selling everything from Jewelry, Dead Sea products, olives and nuts. It will make your mouth water. Then make your way to the adjacent Nahlat Benyamin, which on Tuesdays and Fridays hosts the cities most talented artists, designers and street performers. If you are still in the mood for shopping, explore nearby Shenkin Street, a hopping young “soho” style district filled with local designer brands as well as your regular Western clothing stores. This area is also known for its Bauhaus architecture.

Tired? Grab a cab to the swanky Mul Yam, a seaside restaurant that offers great seafood (extremely un-kosher) and a priceless view. Top your lunch off with a glass of Arak, an Anis based popular liquor, and freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. Do your self a favor and have only one. I repeat : ONLY ONE. Trust me on this.

From there grab another cab to Neve Tzedek, a historic neighborhood known for its beautiful little houses, galleries and homemade gelato. From there you can walk back to the hotel, shower and maybe take a nap because you are in for a long night.

Walk out to the nearby Nana Bar where you can enjoy a fusion of western food with a Middle Eastern twists and some kick ass cocktails, for lack of a better description. Grab a seat at the bar and you’ll be in for some great people watching, but don’t expect anyone to show up before 10:00 pm. While you are full and buzzing, head over to the Sublet bar, a new night spot on a roof top across the street from – you guessed it- the beach.

By now it should be about dawn, your buzz is wearing off, but you’ve made some new friends. Do you really think youre done? Dude, I’m effed up and starving. One last stop. Join the locals at the all night Hajahnun shel Ima (mom’s Jahnun) on Allenby street. The tiny and always busy (especially when people start stumbling out of the clubs) eatery serves delicious Yemenite food that is bound to help you sleep well for 8-16 hours.

Walk it off back to the hotel. As always, you are only a 10 minute walk away.

Tips
Everyone speaks English, even the cab drivers (sometimes they pretend they don’t). Speaking of cabs, always ask for the meter to run and it is not customary to tip. Tipping waiters and bartenders however is expected.
The local currency is shekel (about 0.25 USD), the local weather is hot and the dress code is always casual.

See you there!
holylandbeauty@hotmail.com


Tel Aviv is accessible from most places in Europe by a 4-5 hour flight. It is accessible direct from New York in 11 hours, and LA in 15 hours.

References:
http://www.tel-aviv.gov.il/English/Tourism/Sites/Index.htm
http://www.inisrael.com/tour/telaviv
For the LGBT community http://www.ipride-tlv.org/




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