Welcome to our continuing 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…
This time it’s the turn of the girl with the very Israeli-sounding name – Sandra. Yes indeed, Sandra, the bubbliest secretary in all of Tel Aviv. I get to meet her a couple of times a week as she works at my wife’s office, and she always wows me with her British accent. I’d willingly recommend her to anyone looking for a secretary or someone to manage their office, but then my wife might just have my guts for garters as she’s a big fan of Sandra.
A resident of Tel Aviv practically all her life (she moved there when she was 3), Sandra is a big fan of The City That Never Sleeps and won’t be swapping Tel Aviv for somewhere else any time soon. Just 22 years old (I thought she was a bit older because she’s so in control in the office) Sandra is a big fan of the beach in Tel Aviv, and also enjoys a good night out in Tel Aviv with plenty of good food and alcohol on hand. Her life motto: To be happy, ALL the time. Sandra is also on Facebook. Nice to meet you and those curly locks of yours Sandra!
So Sandra, have you managed to get abroad often and how have people reacted when they hear you’re Israeli?
Well, I’ve been abroad quite a few times, mainly Turkey (a few times), and also France and Cyprus. Most of the time I’ve only experienced positive reactions and good natured curiosity, with even a few locals getting excited about Israel, especially in Cyprus, where people described Israel as an amazing country, full of fun, warmth and having a great atmosphere. But then again, I also encountered some serious antisemitism on the boat to Cyprus, where one British guy (sorry Ashley!), after deciding to chat with us because my friends and I were laughing and joking and enjoying ourselves, was so disgusted at finding out that we were Israeli that he cursed at us and spat on the floor! So, there are the negative responses, but the curiosity about Israel and the people and how we manage to remain so happy and full of life despite the “troubles” far outweighs any negativity.
How do you think the world sees Israel?
From what I’ve experienced, many people are surprised to see us wearing mini-skirts and skimpy vests, hair hanging freely and having a good time. They expected us to be very religious, wearing long skirts and with our heads covered. I believe they get this impression only via the world media, which doesn’t focus on Israel’s good, “normal” things. I recommend all the world’s media to take a day off and visit Tel Aviv beach.
What do you think visitors to Israel think of Israel?
I don’t believe we leave a bad impression, in fact, quite the opposite. I have family that live in Austria and Turkey and every time they come to visit their excitement is amazing to see! They enjoy themselves so much, with the weather, the beach, the places to visit: a modern, thriving and fun democracy that we as Israelis probably take for granted.
What, in your opinion, is the best thing about Israel?
Ahh, there are a few things, but the best for me, as it’s now here, is the summer! The summer just brings with it a crazy energy and fun vibe that is hard to beat. I just hope I still love it as much when I hit my 30s. I also love the fruits that you can buy easily, and cheaply, in Israel during the summer – watermelon, grapes, peaches, mmmm! Having said all that, the winters here really aren’t that bad. And if you’re missing the sun and want to get away on a budget, you can always visit Eilat in the south, which is really like just hopping abroad on a short flight.
What is “Israeli” in your eyes?
The thing most “Israeli” in my opinion, is the heat. And I’m not talking about the weather, I’m referring to the people, who are incredibly warm and hot-tempered! Not a lot we can do – Israel is a land full of people pulling fast ones, people using their connections to get what they need, but often in a funny way. And you know what, I don’t think it’s so terrible.
What is the must-see attraction you’d recommend to visitors?
Of course, there are the usual tourist attractions such as the Old City of Jerusalem, but I’d highly recommend Jaffa; from the old fishing port, to the new promenade that runs to Tel Aviv, to the flea market – it’s all magical! Friday and Saturday afternoons are best, just before sunset.
Which “off the beaten track” attraction would you recommend to visitors?
I know I’m a Tel Aviv girl, but I’d highly recommend the Machane Yehuda market in Jerusalem. There are just so many interesting, unique little stalls and it’s great fun eating there, and great fun even buying vegetables. There are some great cookies and baked goods there too.
Which pub or restaurant would you recommend to visitors?
My favorite pub is Temptation, on 35 Allenby Street in Tel Aviv, it’s a really great place. Actually a lot of tourists drink there during the summer, and they have a great time. The music is great, the atmosphere great, and the barmen very friendly. As for food, there are some great places to eat, especially in Tel Aviv (I don’t know Jerusalem so well…), and especially the smaller, family joints that you can find in the Carmel market lanes or in the adjoining Kerem HaTemanim neighbourhood. My favourite falafel place is Tadmor, which is on 98 Salameh Street in the south of Tel Aviv – absolutely delish! And if you’re looking to polish your meal off with some ice-cream, the only place to go is Iceberg, on 108 Ben Yehuda Street.
Where would you rather be, Israel or …?
I’m not leaving Tel Aviv and you wonder if I think about leaving Israel – no chance! It’s always nice and refreshing to get out of Israel on holiday, and it’s great seeing new places and meeting new people, but Israel is the only place for me.