Being the cradle of humanity the Middle East is considered to be the place of origin of cheese. However, the warm weather did not allow the development of gourmet cheese; and for years the regional cheeses were either very fresh or very salty like the Arab Labane (sour spread cheese made of … Read more
There are some great playgrounds available in Jerusalem allowing kids to run around and have fun. While parents are always advised to keep a eye on their kids; playground culture in Jerusalem tends to be a lot freer and more relaxed than in many other big cities around the world. Around the … Read more
Zefat (also known as Safed, Safad, or Zfat) in the Upper Galilee is Israel’s highest city (at an altitude of 2,790 feet or 850 meters) and probably its coldest. The hilltop city of Zefat embodies great charm and quirkiness. Steeped in Jewish heritage, Safed is the home of venerable ancient synagogues and a thriving … Read more
Who Was the Rashbi – Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai The Rashbi, or Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, was one of the important pupils of Rabbi Akiva and was a legendary figure at the time of the Roman occupation. The Rashbi wrote the Zohar – the main text of the Kabbalah and was an … Read more
Some of the most frequently asked questions by first time visitors are: “How will the Sabbath or Shabbat or Saturday impact my trip to Israel?” “What happens?” “Can I move around?” “What will I be able to do?” This is a short guide to help and to put things in context about … Read more
Emek Ha’Ela Emek Ha’Ela (Ela Valley or Valley of Elah) lies along Route 375 – near its junction with Road 38. By the way, “ela” is a term for the terebinth tree, a tree that is indigenous to the area and grows there in great quantities. It produces turpentine, which is why … Read more
Jerusalem has a wide selection of shopping malls that complement the more unique shopping experiences that befit this ancient-modern city. See our guide to Jerusalem Shopping. Malcha Mall Also known as Malha Mall, it opened in 1993 and it is popular among Jewish and Arab shoppers. It has three floors with approximately … Read more
Jerusalem is undoubtedly one of the world’s most beautiful cities. As you explore both the old and new side of the city, you will come across awesome impressive buildings, greenery, and delightful views. But as with every city, it is hard to get a good vantage point on street level and this … Read more
Emek HaMatzleva or “Valley of the Cross” is a valley located on the west of Jerusalem. is where the wood was (according to tradition) chopped to form the cross. Presumably in Roman times, this was in the “wilds” outside town. A Greek Orthodox monastery marks the spot. Today, however, it is a … Read more
The History of the Cardo The Cardo (or Cardo Maximus or “HaCardo” in Hebrew) was Jerusalem‘s main street 1500 years ago. The Cardo was originally paved in the 2nd century when Hadrian rebuilt Jerusalem as a Roman polis called Aelia Capitolina. The Cardo was extended south to the area of today’s Jewish … Read more
Hof HaBonim Hof HaBonim is without a doubt one of Israel’s best kept secrets. Hof HaBonim is a beautiful beach, with many inlets, interesting rock forms, vegetation and wildlife. There is even a visible shipwreck. There are two short (two kilometers and 4.5 kilometers) family-friendly nature trails. Many people do come to … Read more