Amran Pillars and sunset in the desert

Eilat is very much a popular holiday resort in Israel. Parts of it remind me of some of those popular Spanish resorts. However, Eilat is not a cheap package holiday destination. Yes, the beach side bars are lively and the body-beautiful take their sunbathing and preening seriously but there is an abundance of high end restaurants and shops. We've dined like kings on this holiday!

Eilat is a great base for exploring the surrounding deserts and mountains. The views across to Jordan are wonderful.

I was feeling much better after my recent bout of 'travellers' belly' and decided to join a jeep tour of the Eilat Mountains.

Our guide was good fun and clearly had a passion for nature. We drove through the nature reserve and spotted flamingos, gazelle and the desert dragon - a desert lizard. I was glad that we didn't see any snakes as I have an unhealthy fear of these reptiles!

We took a short hike to the Amran Pillars which I was surprised to discover that they were natural formations caused by wind erosion! A truly magnificent sight!

We carried on our tour through the desert and passed hikers, hitchhikers, a family pitching their tent and a random man laying on an air bed!

Watching the sunset in the desert was such a beautiful experience. As we sat in silence watching the sun set I couldn't help but think how fortunate I am that I can have such fantastic holidays.

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Biblical theme park adventure

I'll spare you the details but we've had to alter our plans somewhat due to a surprise bout of 'travellers' belly!'

So, the Timna Park desert hike to see Solomon's towers was replaced with a visit to Kings City Biblical Theme Park! The latter having an abundance of modern toilet facilities!

Ok, Kings City is aimed at kids but so what?! We're on holiday and we love a tourist attraction! Edited highlights of The Old Testament in the Bible Cave... Illusions and mind bending puzzles in the Caves of Illusion... King Solomon's Waterfall ride! It was great fun!

I'm hoping a rest and a few more rehydration sachets will sort me out for the rest of the holiday!

Pray for a speedy recovery!
Matt the Elder

Shabbat shalom

It's Friday sunset which means it must be Shabbat in Eilat.

Our hotel lobby is full of friends and families on their way to celebrate Shabbat. I suspect the restaurants will do a roaring trade this evening! Shabbat isn't so strictly observed here in Eilat compared to, say, Jerusalem. In fact, I noticed a number of signs in cafes saying "Open on Shabbat." Plus the bus service runs on Saturday and all the major tourist sites are also open! Great news - Underwater Marine Park here we come!

However, imagine our delight when we returned to our hotel and found Shabbat cake in our room. What a lovely surprise. It will go rather nicely with our kosher wine this evening!

Shabbat shalom,
Matt the Elder

Goodbye Tel Aviv... Hello Eilat

We said a cheery goodbye to a very hot (32 degrees) Tel Aviv but not before a little jaunt to Ersatz Israel museum. Lots of artefacts from Israel's past and all telling the history of life in The Promised Land!

Anyway, I'm using the fee Wi-Fi at Ben Gurion airport while I wait for my flight to sunny Eilat!

Until next time!
Matt the Elder