Welcome to our series of interviews with the locals – an attempt to debunk the myth that all Israelis are shepherd beating, gun wielding, war hungry zionists. These Israelis are regular people that you might well meet on your trip here; guys that work in banks, girls that live and play in Tel Aviv, mothers holding down regular jobs and paying off the mortgage, and so on. We’ve asked them a few questions, they’ve given us their honest answers…
Kicking off our series of interviews with the locals is Matty. I’ve known Matty personally for many years and he’s actually one of the more world-wise Israelis I’ve ever met. Thanks to a previous job working for Israel’s national airline El Al, he managed to pretty much see the whole world. As a result, his English is excellent and his humour legendary. Today he’s an investment advisor for one of Israel’s major banks and lives in central Tel Aviv. And ladies, he’s currently unattached. He’s also on Facebook.
So Matty, when you’ve been abroad on one of your many trips, how do people react when they hear you’re Israeli?
Actually, most of them were very cool about it, though curious to meet a real, authentic Israeli guy, live and in the flesh. I think they were expecting something different because of all the news stories they see and read.
And how do you think Israel is seen by the world in general?
I think Israel is seen through the world’s eyes as a strong and witty country.
What do you think visitors to Israel think of Israel?
I think they are pleasantly surprised to find a live, modern and warm country, in contrast to what they see on their TVs back home.
What, in your opinion, is the best thing about Israel?
The people! The food! The weather!!!
What is “Israeli” in your eyes?
It’s a bit of a mix of good and bad: Insolence, honesty, morality and creativity.
What is the must-see attraction you’d recommend to visitors?
It has to be the Old City of Jerusalem. You cannot come to Israel without spending a little bit of time there.
Which pub or restaurant would you recommend to visitors?
I have a favourite pub that I like to take many friends from abroad – the Irish Pub (Molly Blooms) on HaYarkon Street in Tel Aviv. As for a restaurant, I’d heartily recommend the Nanoochka restaurant (Georgian dishes) in Tel Aviv.
Where would you rather be, Israel or …?
Only one choice for me – to live in Israel! (though if you could fix it for me to get relocated for a couple of years to Brazil, I’d appreciate it!). It’s not that I need more sun, I just love Brrrrrrazil!
What typically Israeli food would you recommend to visitors to try when they visit Israel?
It has to be Shawarma.