The three week Festival brings music, dance, and theater to the masses in a range of top Jerusalem cultural hotspots (such as the Jerusalem Theater, the Henry Crown Concert Hall, and the Mount Scopus Ampitheater). It also always has a mix of top local and celebrated international artists taking part.

Those attending the Israel Festival get to enjoy some truly amazing culture, and there are usually a number of awesome FREE events to catch (including premieres of Israeli pieces and tributes to local talent, street shows and performances, some sublime evening jazz, and kid’s shows).

The 2012 Israel Festival runs from May 24 to June 14.
Refer to the official website for further details.

The Festival is a long-standing cultural event in the Holy Land and eagerly anticipated: the first ever Israel Festival took place back in 1961 in Caesarea, before being adopted by Jerusalem in 1982. Ever since, the majority of Festival events have taken place in the capital.

The festival’s goal is to “promote artistic encounters crossing all political and national boundaries, to encourage collaborations between Israeli artists and their colleagues from abroad, and to introduce the public to emerging forms of art.” We think it does a mighty fine job of doing just that…

Here’s a little bit of what you can expect…as you can see, this festival is one to definitely catch!

Click here to view the embedded video.

Old Jaffa is in fact the name given to the mass of buildings and the old port (one of the oldest ports in the world!) you can see from the Tel Aviv promenade, perhaps one of the most photographed scenes by visitors to Tel Aviv.

Although it might lose out in the tourist battle to central Tel Aviv (we include it as one of the ten essential things to see and do IN Tel Aviv), Old Jaffa is an awesome maze of architectural delights, amazing little galleries and studios, and cute little eateries. And whereas Tel Aviv offers a somewhat surprising European flavor, there’s no mistaking the Middle East atmosphere and vibe in Old Jaffa…

The alleys and galleries of Old Jaffa

Those famous alleys are where you should start any visit to Old Jaffa. They are easy to find, just head upwards from the promenade or port once you hit the main promenade of Old Jaffa. And don’t worry, their relatively recent restoration will charm your camera out of your pocket on endless occasion.

The alleys of Old Jaffa are not just a delight to stroll down: they’re also home to over 50 trendy galleries, studios and  design shops, including the legendary Ilana Goor Museum.

Not only has this world renowned artist filled the museum, which is also her home, with a collection of sculptures, furniture, paintings, jewelry and clothes including her own works to be enjoyed by the public, but Ilana Goor has also restored a magnificent building in the heart of Old Jaffa. Built over 250 years ago to welcome Jewish pilgrims on their arrival at Jaffa port, it has impressive walls of honey colored rock and graceful arches. You can enjoy magnificent sea views from nearly all the windows and it’s a place to enjoy a lovely collection in a peaceful and calming atmosphere.

Other established artists you can find in the alleys include Horace Richter, Frank Meisler, Varda Carmeli, and Ben-Zion David, and there are a number of very interesting new galleries such as the Gallery of Original Ethiopian Art, the Bauhaus Center and the Aharon Farkash Poster Collection Gallery, all great galleries for art lovers.

The restaurants of Old Jaffa

Old Jaffa is a romantic place, particularly at night when buildings and the old port are illuminated and reflect in the waters of the Mediterranean. Its restaurants are a real destination in the evening when the artists close up shop and Tel Aviv residents and tourists drop by, at least those who appreciate good food and a convivial atmosphere.

Leading restaurants (at the time of writing this article) include Kalamata, Casa Nova, Yamit, and leading Israeli chef Nir Zuk’s Napoleon Patisserie, while the amazing Na Laga’at is perhaps the ultimate dining experience in Israel (your senses will work like they’ve never worked before – that’s a promise!).

Perhaps the most authentic Israel dining experience in Tel Aviv can also be found in Old Jaffa – head to Doctor Shakshuka! It’s fun and tasty, a must try, especially if you’re visiting the legendary Jaffa Flea Market (see below).

Views of Tel Aviv…

For a superb view of the whole of Tel Aviv’s coastline, head to the top of the gardens in the middle of Old Jaffa, known as HaPisga Garden, or Peak Garden. The gardens themselves are nice and well-kept, and are well worth the climb to the top. As well as the beautiful coastline vista, you can also see across Jaffa and the iconic clock tower, the Old Jaffa port, out to sea and across the southern neighborhoods of Tel Aviv. Don’t forget your camera!

The Old Jaffa Visitor’s Center

Tales of Jaffa’s amazing history can be heard in the Visitor’s Center at the heart of Kdumim Square in Old Jaffa. Here you can check out the major archeological discoveries found in Jaffa, meet some of the central characters (watch out for Yehuda Agronimos, a Jaffa man from first century CE!) in the tales of Jaffa, and learn the city’s history. Also worth checking out are the audio tours available, which you can rent or buy to guide yourself around the major Jaffa sites.

As opening times vary throughout the year, it might be an idea to call ahead: 03-6037686 or 03-6037000.

The port of Old Jaffa

The Old Jaffa that beckons tourists today has its roots in the old port, and when you visit today you will find a harbor busy with working fishing boats operating the same way as they have for hundreds of years.

Thanks to the newer ports in Ashdod and Haifa, your scenery of pretty colored boats and views out to sea and of Tel Aviv-Yafo aren’t obscured by massive container ships, liners and ferries. If you’re up for it, you could also go for a boat trip along the Tel Aviv coast, there are always a number of cheap options available in the port, just look around.

You can enjoy the renovated waterfront with its collection of interesting little shops and eateries by day and the beautiful ambiance created at night when the port buildings are illuminated. As well as those restaurants mentioned above, there are a couple of very decent fish restaurants, notably Misedet Hadayagim (The Fishermen’s Restaurant), at the very end of Jaffa port where the fried calamari is described as sublime.

Grab a bargain in Jaffa Flea Market

There are very few tourists that don’t enjoy picking up a souvenir or two and buying something that evokes local flavor is all part of the fun. For some vacation retail therapy with a difference, head towards Yefet Street when coming from the alleyways or port. You’ve only got to walk a short difference from the Clock Tower and you’ll find yourself amongst a myriad of bargains, antiques and secondhand treasures. Read our full guide to Jaffa Flea Market here.

Even if you don’t like shopping you can enjoy the atmosphere, the smells and the chatter of the merchants. What’s on sale? Just about anything that someone is looking for; just make sure you hone up on your bargaining skills before you set out.

Once you’ve done your haggling take a breather in a selection of cafes and coffee shops, a charming and welcome relief for visitors.

And once you’re done in Old Jaffa, the enticing and charming neighborhood of Neve Tzedek is a short taxi ride away…

We hope you have a memorable visit to Old Jaffa!

The magnificent views from Mount Bental – a must-see in the Golan Heights!

Only about 40 minutes from Tiberias, this is an amazing place to visit if you are curious about the Arab-Israeli conflict and military battles, or just want to take in a stunning view!

Mount Bental, like much of this area in the north of the Golan Heights, is strewn with its signature grey ballast stone, part of the remains of long extinct volcanoes. Mount Bental is actually one of two craters of an extinct volcano and stands an impressive 1,171 meters above sea level, offering some of the most spectacular views in the region.

Atop the mount is a now disused Israeli army out-post, complete with old Israeli bunkers. Visitors can descend the steps into the underground living quarters, providing a stark insight into life on the Israeli front lines and a view out onto the Kunetra Valley (meaning Valley of Tears). This valley was the location of the bloodiest tank battle during the Yom Kippur War of 1973 where Israel, vastly outnumbered by Syrian tanks, succeeded against all odds in blocking the Syrian advances.

But aside from the bunkers the main draw for ascending this mountain is the breathtaking views. To the north visitors will be treated to the sights of a snow-capped Mount Hermon (snow-capped in the winter only!) which rises a staggering 3,000 meters above sea level. To the south the view extends out towards the southern Golan and the Syrian approaches to the Heights with Damascus situated a mere 60 miles away.  The outlook also offers a bird’s eye view of many of the Druze villages which sit below and in the distance the crests of the mountain ranges in the Upper Galilee can be seen.

Mount Bental is currently maintained by Kibbutz Merom Golan, which was the first Kibbutz to be established in the area following the 1967 Six Day war. On the route to the peak of the mount be sure to keep an eye out for the wonderful set of sculptures made out of steel by one of the members of Kibbutz Merom Golan.

Thankfully, recent renovations to this amazing site have made it very accessible and a site to definitely add to your list. The path to the top has been repaved whilst the tourist facilities have also been rejuvenated.

Once at the top of the mountain there is also no need to worry about satisfying any hunger pangs as the Kofi Anan cafe (a clever play on words meaning Cloud Coffee, while obviously tipping the hat in the direction of a certain former UN Secretary General) serves a delish range of cakes and coffee whilst also taking the title as the highest cafe in Israel. Also a great place to hide out if you’re there in the winter, as the icy winds can burn your ears!

For those visitors interested to find out more about the mount but who don’t bring their own guide, the Golan Regional Council makes an informative electronic audio guide available. The guide provides interesting information about the area surrounding the bunkers.

Although the area doesn’t receive as much tourism as other locations in Israel due to being a bit too far north and also due to generally poor roads, Mount Bental is easily accessible and is more than worth the journey for its sprawling views which are some of the most rewarding in the country.

A trip to Mount Bental holds the promise of being one of the most interesting and remarkable part of any trip to the Golan Heights and indeed Israel.

Mount Bental = Highly recommended!

Well, actually not so old when compared with some of the ancient treasures in the Holy Land – the port was founded in the mid 1930s, and quickly flourished into the country’s biggest working port. With a shift to container shipping the port fell into dereliction but Tel Aviv has over the last few years transformed this once social outcast of an area into a place buzzing with culture, leisure, shopping and entertainment options. Options so plentiful you’ll never be at a loss for what to do next.

One of the first things that grabs you about Tel Aviv port is the dramatic wave shaped wooden deck that sprawls along the promenade, complete with a huge sandpit for the kids. A promenade of some 14,000 square meters to hold the throngs of crowds that visit; from family outings with the kids or grandparents during the day to party revelers at night, the area thrives with life.

What to see and do in Tel Aviv Port

Port market: The recently opened Indoor Port Market (located at Hangar 12) is a great place to catch some awesome food, including some of Israel’s finest cheeses, wines, and meats. Prices aren’t as cheap as somewhere like Carmel Market, but definitely worth a browse just for the atmosphere. The Market is open from 08:00 to 20:00 every day except Sundays. Also worth catching is the Farmers Market, held every Friday (until 15:00) and located just outside the entrance to the indoor market.

Fridays at the port: Fridays in Tel Aviv are usually buzzing with things to do, and Tel Aviv port is no exception. Check out the markets mentioned above, but also watch out for street performers such as The Human God, an acrobatic entertainer who keeps the masses entertained nearly every Friday (and if he’s not around, there’s always other performers to see). As sunset beckons, you could also join the throngs near the sea who celebrate the coming Sabbath (Shabbat) with song and prayer (not a religious gathering, but if you’re Jewish it might be nice to remind yourself that there is a Shabbat).

Restaurants and cafes: Head to one of the port’s many restaurants to satisfy your hunger. Port dining naturally tends towards upscale eateries such as Mul Yam (voted the fanciest Tel Aviv restaurant of 2011), exactly as you would hope and expect from the place which is one of Tel Aviv’s richest and trendiest areas. What could be more perfect than al fresco dining on sumptuously fresh seafood with the cooling sea breeze blowing through the air? Many of Tel Aviv port’s restaurants also double as excellent cafes, such as Shalvata. We’d suggest taking a look around and stopping at one of the many eateries that take your fancy. But if you are solely hankering for coffee, your needs should be met at one of Israel’s most famous coffee shop chains, Aroma.

Shopping: You won’t be disappointed if you’re in the mood to splash some cash, with many of Israel’s leading clothing chains represented here, including Replay, Castro, Bluebird, and Factory 54, as well as some interesting independent shops located around the port. Be warned: prices aren’t usually on the cheap end of the scale.

Nightlife: As the lights go down on the port area the day time crowds disappear only to be replaced by a different set. Young Tel Avivians and locals alike swarm the port at night in search of the next best party. Tel Aviv port is fast becoming one of the city’s most popular drinking spots and it is easy to see why. Check out Galina Bar at Hangar 19, or the neighboring Uptown dance bar to immerse yourself in the vibrancy of the port’s nightlife. When you are ready for something more lively, make sure TLV, one of Tel Aviv’s most famous clubs is on your itinerary. Alternatively, head down to Hamisbaa (Hangar 13) for some traditional Israeli songs and singalongs, or the adjoining Shablul Jazz for some contemporary Israeli jazz, with concerts every night.

Other things to catch in Tel Aviv port: The Dyada center (www.dyada.co.il), located in the middle of the port boardwalk, where you can let you kids run wild in the play areas as well as enjoy baby swimming classes and pre and post-natal exercise classes, AND Segway tours of the port for an awesome introduction to the sea, the beach, the port and much more besides (www.segwaytlv.co.il). Oh, and of course, the sunsets…

Tel Aviv port is a charming side of the city providing visitors just that little bit more, all in one location. But don’t be disappointed when the port fails to produce any ships as a testament to its past (though there are a number of old fishing boats often anchored). Simply look out across the sea with your latte in hand and watch the sun sparkle on the Mediterranean. This really is how port life should be.

Don’t miss our guide to the must-see Christian sites in the Holy Land!

Gethsemane means oil press (derived from Aramaic) which is the perfect description of this garden, which is resplendent with ancient olive trees. Whilst there is much debate surrounding the actual age of the trees, with some believing that they are an impressive 900 years old, whilst others claim that the tress could well have been young saplings during Jesus’s lifetime, the one fact that is not disputed is the undeniable beauty of the Garden of Gethsemane.

Today the garden, which would have been an olive grove complete with an olive press during Jesus’s time, features lush gardens with the ancient, gnarled trees rising from amidst the wonderfully manicured and tended flower beds.

The garden has become a significant site of Christian pilgrimage and was notably visited as early as 333 by the Pilgrim of Bordeaux, an anonymous pilgrim who wrote Itinerarium Burdigalense. This writing is considered to be one of the earliest descriptions of the Holy Land by a Christian traveler.

A visit to the Church of All Nations, which is located next to the Garden of Gethsemane and which was built fairly recently when considered against the backdrop of the area’s otherwise long and rich history, provides a brilliantly detailed and amazingly colored picture of the early events of the garden. This 1920s church depicts the garden though ceiling mosaics which include recreations of Jesus praying alone, the betrayal of Jesus, and the cutting of the ear of the high priest’s servant.

According to the traditions of the Eastern Orthodox Church it is believed that the Garden of Gethsemane is the location where the Virgin Mary was buried and assumed into heaven after her dormition on Mount Zion, and forms the location of pilgrimage for this purpose also.

A visit to the Garden of Gethsemane is best combined with a stroll up the Mount of Olives where, once at the top, you will be rewarded with solitude and some amazing views of the Old City.

How do I get to the Garden of Gethsemane?

The best route for getting to the Garden of Gethsemane is to go through the Dung Gate and then turn to the left towards the Mount of Olives. Once through the gate you will see stairs that will take you down towards the Kidron Valley where there is a path that will take you all the way to the Garden of Gethsemane.

The Garden of Gethsemane is free to enter and with perhaps some of the oldest olive trees in the world is one of the most rewarding Christian sites to visit in Jerusalem, offering a unique sense of the long history entrenched in this amazing country. 

This impressive site is positioned on an expansive ridge that rises a staggering 800 meters (2,600 feet) above sea level. Situated on the slopes of Mount Hermon above the Banias Spring, the fortress once offered a strategic location during its heyday (some 800 years ago) and now offers its visitors some of the most panoramic and breathtaking views in the area.

With a long history dating back to around 1229, the fortress was initially built by Al-Aziz Uthman to prevent additional attempts to take Damascus. Subsequently, the fortress has seen much expansion, transforming it from its comparatively simple roots into a much more sophisticated fortress complex. The fortress was also extended from its original size to encompass the whole ridge whilst later development saw the fortress strengthened substantially.

In the 13^th century the fortress fell into disrepair after the Muslim conquest of Akko (don’t miss our guide to Akko…). At that point the fortress lost its strategic value and was subject to many subsequent uses, including serving as a luxury prison for Ottoman nobles and even as pasture and home lands for local shepherds and their flocks. But the most significant hit on the fortress came in the 18^th century when it was devastated by an earthquake.

Today, after much excavation and restoration work, visitors can explore the remains of the whole fortress. The complex includes many secret corridors, a highlight for any visitor, as well as winding staircases, underground water cisterns and those special castle windows which are narrow on the outside and wide inside, known as loopholes. The remains of the Keep are also visible and are surrounded by large towers whilst the oldest part of the castle, a fortress within a fortress complete with its own moat and drawbridge, also remains.

One of the most impressive sights within the fortress is situated near the entrance. Behind the monumental gate sits the giant lintel which is adorned with an impressive sized inscription referencing the Beibars’ 1275 construction of the fortress. Also dating from the Beibar time is a stone carved panther, the Beibar’s Heraldic symbol, which was discovered as recently as 1998.

Beyond the fortress lies one of the most magnificent delights – the stunning views afforded visitors from every aspect. This wonderful lookout offers views of beautifully forested valleys and impressive vistas over the Golan Heights into the deep narrow valley that separates Mount Hermon from the remainder of the Heights. The fortress also looks out over the plains of the Upper Galilee, across to the hills bordering Lebanon.

Be sure to stay and take in one of the magnificent sunsets. When night falls, the fortress is illuminated upon the ridge, and these impressive ruins are highlighted in all their glory.

A guided tour of the fortress is available and lasts around 2 hours. Our recommendation: not for small kids or the agility challenged, as there are a  few winding staircases that are a little more tricky to navigate.

Opening hours: April to September – 8am to 5pm, October to March – 8am to 4pm.

Entrance fee: Adults: 21 shekels, Children: 9 shekels. Senior Citizens and groups get a discount.

How to get there: The easiest way to get to Nimrod Fortress is from Kiryat Shmona. Head out of Kiryat Shmona on road 99 towards Mount Hermon, and continue on 989; you should arrive within 30 minutes.

Housed in a bright and airy complex in a convenient location situated in central Tel Aviv, the museum has a somewhat modern history, dating back to the 1930s. However, once inside the museums tells quite a different story with an eclectic mix of works from contemporary art to pieces by the Old Masters.

Don’t miss these five awesome Tel Aviv art galleries if you’re in the mood for some more art!

The Tel Aviv Museum of Art is home to one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Israeli art in the world. The museum features the work of many Israeli artists who have become present on the international art scene. There are also many interesting and reflective works dealing with the history, culture and conflicts of the country.

The Old Masters collection of art ranges between the 16th to 19th century and includes 130 items from paintings to sculptures with 46 pieces on loan. Amongst the museum’s collection is the works of masters such as Van Gogh, Monet, Chagall, Modigliani and Cezanne. There is also an impressive collection of the works by world famous Edvard Munch, with over 150 prints by this Norwegian artist. Other well-known names featured at the museum include Wassily Kandinsky, Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock and Pablo Picasso.

But the Tel Aviv Museum of Art isn’t simply a collection of works on canvas. It exhibits pieces across a range of genres from painting, sculpture, prints and drawings, photography and video to architecture and design with the department of drawings and prints alone having over 25,000 works on paper. Photography lovers in particular will be delighted with Ephraim Moshe Lilien’s unique glass negatives works on display whilst the cutting edge works of James Ensor, Lesser Ury and Alexander Archipenko also feature.

As well as art, the museum hosts regular musical and dance performances, film showings and has an impressive series of lectures on art and philosophy.

The Tel Aviv Museum of Art complex is expansive comprising the museum and gallery spaces, the Helena Rubenstein Pavilion for Contemporary Art, and the new Herta and Paul Amir building, which opens tomorrow (November 2nd). This extension, which was originally conceived in 2002, adds nearly 20,000 square meters of additional space to the museum. Described as a complex array of space with a vertical “light fall” draining the building’s vertical dimensions, the new structure is bound to impress and expected to draw even greater crowds to this popular Tel Aviv tourist attraction (Tel Aviv citizens get in FREE for the first month).

The museum also has an ever changing range of temporary exhibitions and many works that have been gifted to the museum by benefactors or entrusted to the museum for display.

In short, there is plenty to see and experience in this wonderful museum. In fact, no two visits to the Tel Aviv Museum of Art are ever likely to be the same.

With late night opening on Tuesdays and Thursdays (until 22:00) you can even make the museum a perfect and cultural end to a wonderful day of sight-seeing in this vibrant city.

Address: 27 Shaul Hamelech Blvd, Tel Aviv
Telephone: +972 (0)3 6077020
Facebook: www.facebook.com/tamuseum

For more info, see the museum’s official website.

The Garden Tomb is found just outside Jerusalem’s city walls, close to the Damascus Gate, and is considered by some to be the site of the burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Also known as Gordon’s Calvary, the Garden Tomb is what you could call the “rival” to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.

The tomb was discovered in 1867, unlike the evidence to support the Church site which dates back to the 4th Century, and is the site more favored by Protestants. Although the Anglican Church has withdrawn its support for the Garden Tomb being the authentic place of burial and resurrection, its attraction for pilgrims and visitors remains.

The case for authenticity

Before you visit the Garden Tomb you might want to learn a little about its history and why people believe it is the site of the the burial and resurrection of Jesus. One of the keys points to support the authenticity of the Tomb is its location. Hebrews 13:12 states that the burial place is outside the city walls, which indeed the Garden Tomb is, unlike the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, which is within them.

One other point about the authenticity of the Garden Tomb is that archaeologists have put the date of the tomb as being 9th-7th BC, corresponding with the late Old Testament era. There are several references to Jesus’ burial place being a new tomb, including Matthew 27:60 and John 19:41.

Lastly, the burial benches in the Garden Tomb were cut down during the 4th – 6th century Byzantine period. This gives credence to historians who claim that if it had been a site of such significance it wouldn’t have been disfigured in this way. At the time the tomb was being altered, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher was already being revered as the most important Christian shrine.

What to see

Whatever your beliefs and your thoughts on its authenticity, the Garden Tomb is still a magical place to visit; and is usually far easier to get “up close” without fighting the crowds you might encounter at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.

One thing not to miss is the multilingual signs marking the site and a wooden door bearing the words “He is not here – for he is risen” (about 100 yards from the shape of a skull in the cliff-side). Powerful words…

You can see the deep channel claimed to be the groove in which the tomb’s closing stone was rolled, but there is nothing that can substantiate this. There are doors and windows in the face which are generally thought to date from the Byzantine or Crusader times. Once inside you will see features that have also contributed to the debate about the tomb’s supposed occupant. The tomb itself is carved out of the rock while the burial chamber is located on the right, just as described in the Bible. This is one of very few tombs in Jerusalem that have the burial chamber located on the right…

You can also still see where the body benches were cut down by Byzantine Christians and also signs of where the Crusaders of the Middle Ages lowered the rock surface in front of the Garden Tomb in order to convert the site to a stable.

Whether you are making a visit to the Garden Tomb as a pilgrimage or out of fascination, the site is a wonderfully tranquil place for quiet contemplation of perhaps the greatest story ever told.

The Garden Tomb is open to visitors Monday through Saturday between 8:30 – 12:00 and 2:00 – 5:30pm. English tours are available but must be booked in advance. Visitors are serviced with good facilities which include toilets, drinking water, benches and a well stocked gift shop. There is also wheelchair access to the garden.

For a glimpse of the Garden, take a peek at this great video…

Click here to view the embedded video.

In its past many of the city’s most inspirational alternative music and theater and dance groups emerged from Shenkin Street, primarily during the 1980s. Today things are a bit more mainstream but it remains a popular location with its many cafes and funky little stores keeping this area alive.

What NOT to miss if you’re in a shopping mood

There is plenty to do on Shenkin Street. As the location of many of Israel’s coolest designers the area is a shopping paradise with a broad range of wares from clothes to gifts to choose from. For designer clothes you can’t go wrong with Ronen Chen (49 Shenkin Street) and Naama Bezalel and Banot – Luli Liam (40 Shenkin Street). If you are after some interesting jewelry pieces, designer Michal Negrin (37 Shenkin Street) will be able to assist. There are a plethora of shoe shops to browse, but Daniella Lehavi (35 Shenkin Street) is famed for her shoes and leather bags. Music lovers should certainly check out trendy music shop Krembo (18 Shenkin Street).

Other popular shops on the street include Luchy (13 Shenkin Street), a cute shop which offers simple items at a very affordable price, great for those on a budget. Elite is another option offering great items in a pleasant setting. If second-hand bargains are a favorite, head to Shtaim (Two) (38 Shenkin Street). Dig around in this renowned second hand store and you may be delightfully surprised with what you find. You could also take a trip to Asia by stepping through the door of The Third Eye. Located on 7 Shenkin Street you can browse and purchase clothes that have been imported from India, Thailand and other Asian countries, giving you the chance to find something just a little unique. One last shop to recommend is Uri Kling who is located near the Rothschild Street end. He has some amazing jewelry and small furniture pieces to browse.**

The street also has a tiny park situated half way down, which is a nice place to stop and people watch. But if you are seeking refreshments during your shopping break, there is no better place than Café Tamar. This Tel Aviv landmark at 57 Shenkin Street has been serving coffee to an eclectic mix of customers ranging from Israel’s top politicians, journalists and artists alike for over 40 years. Another healthy option is to grab a juice at one of the colorful juice stands in the street.

If you are looking for more sustenance than coffee and pastries or juice, we’d recommend you visit Orna and Ella (one of our ten awesome Tel Aviv restaurants). A firm favorite and by far the best restaurant in the area, this is the nicest spot to grab a bite to eat.

Given the popularity of this area, you should avoid visiting on Fridays when things generally get very crowded. If crowds and buzz are your thing, there is no better time than a Friday to put yourself in the midst of Shenkin Street’s bustling sidewalks while grabbing some shopping and then jostling for a lunchtime spot. If you’d rather have the street a little more to yourself, try any other day.

Shenkin Street, a Tel Aviv street well worth a stroll down. And here’s a great little clip to give you a taste of life on the Street…

Click here to view the embedded video.

** Note that by the time you visit, some of these stores may no longer be alive and kicking, as many stores come and go…

Contained within a picturesque pedestrianized walkway in the heart of Tel Aviv, Nahalat Binyamin is home to craft stands selling a wide variety of items from jewelry and painted ceramics to toys, paintings, framed photographs and judaica pieces.

Through the efforts of its artists, old and new, the market continually reinvents itself so that the arts and crafts are perpetually fresh and innovative. All of the products are sold by the artists in person so not only do you get to provide the creator’s with support first hand, you could be exchanging small talk with Israel’s next top artist.

Everything at the market is handmade, guaranteeing a unique piece rather than yet another mass produced slice of tourist tat. Nahalat Binyamin really is the perfect place to treat you or your friends and family back home to a unique gift.

Beyond the stalls, Nahalat Binyamin is set amongst some very interesting architecture and enticing cafes. Regular street performances including fortune tellers, actors and musicians make for an extra special experience.  Even if you are just browsing, the atmosphere is wonderfully entertaining, particularly on a Friday afternoon when the promise of the weekend is palpable.

Make sure you plan your visit if you want to see the market. Although it is open year round it is only held on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10am to 5pm (later in summer). But for those of you that visit outside of market days, you won’t be disappointed. Revel in the relative serenity of Nahalat Binyamin, something that can feel a rarity in the otherwise vibrant city of Tel Aviv. The mix of old school textile shops and cute, trendy restaurants make this area an everyday attraction, especially if you combine it with a visit to the must-see Carmel market (open every day except for Shabbat) in the street parallel to Nahalat Binyamin.

Where there are shoppers there will inevitably be restaurants and those in Nahalat Binyamin are second to none. Here are three restaurants and a pub we’d highly recommend:

If you’re looking for upmarket food then Carmela Banachala can’t be beat. This delightful bistro on the edge of the shopping area (46 HaTabor Street) offers great meat and seafood dishes in a wonderfully welcoming ambiance. Situated in a beautifully restored building you will be able to feast your eyes as well as your stomach.

Agadir Bar Burger, with an excellent location in the center of the pedestrian walkway, means you don’t need to go far to access gourmet burgers. There’s nothing even remotely fast food about this joint but for your convenience, it is open late.

For those wanting something a little more local, you can’t beat the Israeli and North African homemade offerings at Hamitbahon (located at Rabbi Akiva 18, on the other side of Carmel market). Feast on Tahini, beans and couscous to your heart’s delight. A blackboard affair, this restaurant conjures up a rustic, authentic feel and the prices are just as attractive.

At the end of a long day of souvenir shopping, reward your efforts with a chilled beer at the Minzar Bar (the Monastery, located at Hilel Zaken and the corner of Gedera (just off the Allenby entrance to the Carmel market). With the perfect mix of locals and visitors, this bar provides a wonderful atmosphere to relax in. The music is interesting and the hours unorthodox. Sit back and enjoy…and check out the clip below for a taste of Nahalat Binyamin in the flesh!

While you’re in the neighborhood, we’d highly recommend a visit to the amazing Neve Tzedek, one of Tel Aviv’s most charming ‘hoods.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Full with age old antiques and second hand treasures (and those items you wouldn’t look twice at!), Jaffa Flea Market – known as Shuk HaPishPeshim in Hebrew – is a magpie’s delight.

Set amidst the 19th century Arab quarters of Jaffa, you will find yourself wandering along narrow streets browsing handmade crafts and retro-chic wares in every conceivable color. The old, dirty streets and scents of trade transport you to an era where you can easily imagine local market sellers pedaling their goods with eastern traders.

There are two main alleyways that make up the core of the market. Not easy to find (see the map to the right – click on it to see in full size), these alleys are packed with mostly clothing traders who have learned to reel in a tourist or two…here you have to be ready to haggle, and haggle hard!

Once out of the alleys, you’ll find yourself yourself in the small side streets, such as Olei Zion and Amiad. Here you can find some great little antiques, as well as some really strange items that you’ll never be able to squeeze into your suitcase…

Also watch out for the Friday morning sub market, which takes place at the southern end of the market. If you thought you spotted some strange items in the regular flea market, then this area might leave you speechless. Expect to see everything and the kitchen sink. And the brush you used this morning to clean the sink.

But the Jaffa Flea Market is not just about finding quirky items to take home. Whereas once it might have revolved around finding the cheapest clothes and antiques, the area now also invites a younger, hipper crowd to inspect its newly added art galleries and trendy restaurants, giving an additional sense of fun to the market’s already lively vibe.

When you’re stood in the thick of the market’s daily trading it is near impossible to imagine there is a culinary side to the place, but the market side streets are the perfect place to settle down for a delicious post bartering meal. And if you are looking to prolong your immersion in market life, there is no better place than Puaa, the market’s resident cafe.

This whimsical cafe is owned by Puaa Ladijensky who started life as a flower seller at the market. After serving tea to local customers, Puaa’s reputation soon grew until she eventually opened Puaa Cafe. A nod and a wink to her former career is evident in the fresh flowers on every table. Another eccentric quirk of Puaa’s is that every item is for sale.  From decadent cups and saucers to antique furniture, vivid trinkets to old lace, you can dine in this sensory wonderland and take home anything that catches your eye. The market truly is encompassed within this café. And of course, all of this is without mention of the taste bud tingling local dishes that are the true draw.

Another two culinary options you might want to consider are the Italkia Ba Pishpishim – Italian cuisine so delectable, you simply must visit (be prepared to wait a while for a table at this ever popular spot) – and Dr Shakshuka – one of our favorite places for a true local vibe with the fresh, piping hot shakshuka to sink your teeth into.

Between bartering for trinkets and other goodies and indulging in a heavenly slice of local cuisine, the Jaffa Flea Market is likely to leave you feeling satisfied in every sense.

The market is open all week from Sunday – Thursday from 10am – 6pm and on Fridays from 10am – 2pm. During the summer months (usually July – August) the market also holds the annual Pishpeshuk, with late-night shopping and street happenings into the wee hours.

Our recommendation: tie a visit to the Jaffa Flea Market with a walk around Old Jaffa, a five minute walk away. Alternatively, once your bartering is done for the day, head to the delightful neighborhood of Neve Tzedek, an oasis of art and architecture a quick taxi ride anyway.

The first Jewish neighborhood outside of Jaffa’s walls, today Neve Tzedek, which translated means Oasis of Justice, really lives up to its legend as a peaceful haven and retreat from the hubbub of Tel Aviv. Many locals, as well as tourists, happily spend time wandering the attractive narrow streets, admiring the restored buildings, visiting the attractions and enjoying a bite or two in the cute Neve Tzedek restaurants and cafes.

Certainly a place to stroll around on a lazy afternoon; just make sure to bring your camera!

The history of Neve Tzedek

By the late 1800’s Jaffa (today lying at the southern end of Tel Aviv) was becoming very overcrowded. In 1887 a group of Jewish families went outside the city walls to build new homes, developments to support the community soon followed and Neve Tzedek was born.

As more immigrants made their way to Israel in the early 1900s, with Jaffa already bursting, the development naturally spread beyond the city walls and so in 1909, Tel Aviv was born.

In the following years, the attraction of Neve Tzedek soon fizzled and many of its inhabitants left for the new and modern developing areas of Tel Aviv. The community of Neve Tzedek appeared broken, leaving behind a neglected and decaying slum.

City officials drew up plans to redevelop the neighborhood in the 1960s with high rise apartment blocks, but by this time the old streets were peppered with buildings with preservation orders and residents of Tel Aviv were starting to trickle back, being appreciative of the escape from the hustle and bustle of uptown Tel Aviv.

By the end of the 1980s, gentrified with new life, the beautiful old buildings were turned into something more functional and a rebirth and renewed interest in Neve Tzedek was very much prevalent.

Art and artistry in Neve Tzedek

Neve Tzedek may have been born out of practicality but it is art and artistry that has made it the attraction for visitors today.

The original buildings in the narrow streets were at the forefront of contemporary design and you can see features that fit in the Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) and Bauhaus art movements.

The neighborhood has attracted artists and writers for many years. Notable residents have included Nobel prize winner Shmuel Yosef Agnon, writer Yosef Haim Brenner and artist Nachum Gutman. And yes, despite the strong liberal overtones running through the neighborhood, even the very first Rabbi of Neve Tzedek, who established a Yeshiva in the district, maintained strong connections with many of the writers and artists in Neve Tzedek.

What to see and do in Neve Tzedek

Tourists most often find themselves in Neve Tzedek to escape the hectic pace of central Tel Aviv. Here, the peace and quiet of the narrow streets has the bonus of being a real destination for shopping, eating out and enjoying the craftsmanship and creativity of the neighborhood’s artists.

The streets are not only home to many beautiful individual houses restored to full glory, but you can also spend hours browsing (and buying) boutiques, galleries and various craft shop goodies.

Shabazi Street is Neve Tzedek’s main thoroughfare but make sure you wander down the side lanes to uncover some surprising little shops and buildings.

The Suzanne Dellal Center for Dance and Theater is Israel’s premier dance center and is located in the former Yechiely Girls School, one of the original educational establishments in the very young Neve Tzedek in 1908. Constructed in the Bauhaus style, the main complex of the center sits in an expansive piazza which has received acclaimed architectural recognition. You can also enjoy some very pleasant small gardens and enjoy a snack in Café Suzanna.

A visit to the ceramics studio of Samy D (Shabazi Street 56) is always a pleasurable experience and you can stop in on your way to the Suzanne Dellal Center.

Other notable buildings for your visit include The Rokach House, one of the very early buildings of Neve Tzedek and the Clouche House the very building that today is home to an art gallery. You can take a trip up to the roof to enjoy a cooling sea breeze whilst enjoying the panorama of Tel Aviv.

In the Nachum Gutman Museum on Rokach Street, another fine architectural example of the Bauhaus style, you can see exhibits of the artist and also learn about the history of Neve Tzedek.

One of the highlights of visiting Neve Tzedek is the food experience and you should find time to spend in one of many Neve Tzedek eateries. With pavement cafés, street take-aways, trendy bistros and restaurants with shaded courtyards, the neighborhood eateries are a varied bunch boasting a wide range of cuisines.

One of the most acclaimed of Neve Tzedek restaurants is Tazza D’oro on 6 Ehad Ha’am Street. With its good music and good food and coffee especially imported from Rome, the Tazza D’oro has the perfect ambiance to complement your visit. You can enjoy a fine cup of coffee and a snack or a tasty meal in its pretty yard and all for a decent price that still leaves plenty of money in your wallet to fritter away on the baubles, trinkets and artistic paraphernalia of Neve Tzedek.

Other fine places to stop by for something to eat include NG (6 Ehad Ha’am Street), a great place to stuff yourself full of steak entricote, and Bellini, a fantastic Italian restaurant (6 Yehieli Street).

Just walk around and enjoy yourself: we’re sure you’ll agree with us that Neve Tzedek is one of the most delightful places to visit in Tel Aviv – yes, highly recommended!