Two years after our first visit, I have fallen in love with Tel Aviv all over again!
The arrival
When we left Cardiff and arrived at London Heathrow for our El Al flight to Tel Aviv, it was cold and wet. When we arrived at our destination it was 22 degrees! The best time to visit Israel is between October and April. Neither too hot nor too cold. Just perfect sightseeing weather.
We actually flew on my birthday. I was delighted to receive a Happy Birthday Tweet from El Al airlines. I had tweeted them previously to say how excited I was to be flying with them.
If you have flown with El Al before you will know how thorough their check in is. You can expect lots of security questions and, personally speaking, I find this very reassuring. They take passenger safety seriously.
The check in staff at Heathrow were so friendly! The one guy offered us some tourist advice about what to see and do on our travels. So, a wonderful start to the holiday.
The hotel
A very friendly taxi driver took us to our hotel. Base Camp is Herod Hotel, a 1930's inspired hotel which overlooks the beach and promenade. The hotel receptionist was lovely.
Our room is spacious and even has a balcony! However, we arrived late and all we wanted to do was go to bed!
The next day
The first thing I did upon waking up was phone reception. I had no idea what the time was. Neither myself nor The Big Fella (aka the other half) could remember the time difference. It was 0740 local time which meant it was 0540 back home! It seemed far too early to be awake while on holiday! But we were far too excited to go back to bed and both eager to start sightseeing.
Admittedly, we've been to Tel Aviv before. Two years ago we did a pilgrimage tour of Israel. It was one of our favorite holidays. And memories of Tel Aviv have stayed with us.
We have such a fondness for this city. Could it be the laid back atmosphere? Or the energetic nightlife? The gorgeous beaches teaming with water sport activities, sun bathers and people just kicking back and relaxing? Perhaps it the food?
Oh, it is most certainly the food!
The food
Speaking as a vegan who follows a gluten and wheat free diet, I am spoilt for choice! The vegetarian and vegan restaurants here are among the the best I have ever eaten at. Take Mezze, for example. The owner clearly has a passion for good healthy and tasty food. And the staff do all they can to ensure you have a great time.
Exploring Jaffa
We spent the morning walking along the beach side promenade to Jaffa. This historic port is a must-see. With its sea views, cafes and galleries - not too mention St Peter's Church, which houses The Vatican Consulate, this is a pleasant area to spend a few hours.
We decided to splash out on the exciting sounding multi sensory tour of Old Jaffa. Honestly, at 30 NIS, it was holiday money well spent!
The English speaking tour guide with charming. Upon hearing we were from Cardiff, she delighted in telling us of her love of Doctor Who and plans on visiting the Doctor Who Experience!
The tour was indeed multi sensory. Hilarious and well acted videos told the history of Jaffa while the tour guide showed us excavations and exhibits of the old port. The tour guide clearly loved her job; she was entertaining - and hugely knowledgeable about Jaffa past and present - throughout the 45 minute tour.
Not only was it audio and visual, it was also wet and windy! During the story of Jonah the audience was treated to gusts of wind and sea spray much to our surprise! A multi sensory experience indeed!
The delights of Carmel Market
We then headed to the wonderful Carmel Market. I love this place. It's endlessly fascinating and packed with shoppers, bargain hunters and tourists all coming to experience the frenetic atmosphere. It's worth visiting just to hear the traders banter with customers and each other! Much of it in Hebrew, granted, but who needs translation when everyone is having this much fun?!
Once again, it's all about the food! Name a fruit or vegetable and you'll find it here, looking nothing like the uniform produce of Britain's boring supermarkets. It really has inspired me to shop at my local market.
Friday evening - Sabbath
It's Sabbath. The streets may be quiet but the beach and promenade are still busy. Families and friends are enjoying spending time with each other. The beach-side cafes and restaurants are bustling and still people are playing sport or relaxing on the beach.
I'm sat on my hotel balcony, sipping the local wine and writing my blog. It's warm. I feel blessed. And it's only the first day.
Shalom, my friends.
Matt the Elder.
