Israel is a tiny country packed tight with so much to offer to tourists.
Sitting right on the Mediterranean Sea, Israel has so many picturesque views, a vibrant nightlife in the city of Tel Aviv, and food that will make your tastebuds wanting more.
As a newer country, there is so much history everywhere you visit. Whether it be taking a trip to the desert to experience the Negev, or traveling to Jerusalem to immerse yourself in the variety of cultures, Israel has it all.
Jerusalem is the mixing bowl of cultures
Home to three religions – Christianity, Judaism and Islam – Jerusalem is the place to visit when you want to experience different cultures.
This tiny city features the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rockand numerous churches. It is safe to say that Jerusalem has it all.
Not only is this city religious, but there are so many cultural aspects where you can fully immerse yourself in all the different backgrounds.
Visiting the famous Mahane Yehuda Market, you will be immediately surrounded by the many cultures and backgrounds of all the people in the country.
There are so many different types of foods and art that the market is a must-see on your trip.
Food for every type of taste bud
If you like the classic Middle Eastern falafel, Israel is the perfect destination for you as there are so many stands and restaurants featuring this dish.
In Tel Aviv you can find Dr. Shakshuka, a restaurant that serves the famous tomato and egg dish.
In the spiritual city of Tzfat, you will find a traditional Yeminite dish called Lahuhe, a flatbread with a mix of spices and vegetables sure to leave your taste buds wanting more.
Floating in the Dead Sea
At the lowest point in the world, the Dead Sea makes it is impossible to swim but very easy to float. It is unlike any other experience in the world.
Located right between Israel and Jordan, the Dead Sea has nothing around it but a mountainous view and crystal clear blue water.
While there are some luxurious resorts at the Dead Sea, it is completely free to use the exfoliating mud and take a float in the water.
Picturesque scenery everywhere you look
Whether you are in the bustling city of Tel Aviv or you are in the middle of the Negev Desert, the most amazing aspect of this tiny country is the ability to always have a beautiful view.
One of the most popular attractions in Israel is to take a drive to the Negev and set up camp at one of the many Bedouin sites and wake up at 3 a.m. to hike up Masada, the ancient fortress, and watch the sunrise from hundreds of feet in the air.
Even driving from city to city, there are so many picturesque sites you’ll want to whip out your camera and snap a photo for your memories.
Weather is perfect year-round
The weather in Israel is the perfect mix of not-too-hot and not-too-cold.
In the summer months, expect hot weather but not humid so it is much more bearable than most coastal areas.
And although it will get cold in winter, you can be sure to have days where a light jacket is all that’s needed to keep warm.
Vibrant nightlife
Tel Aviv is home to some of the most popular nightlife spots in the Mediterranean.
Every night you can expect a different social scene, but you can always plan that from morning to night, Tel Aviv is a nonstop party.
You will have the greatest time of your life in this very cultured, vibrant city.
History everywhere you visit
The cities Jerusalem and Jaffa are some of the oldest cities in the world, enriched with history and a story to accompany every building.
Take a visit to Yad Vashem, the Israeli Holocaust museum, to learn about the event that shaped the Jewish faith.
One of the most popular historic sites in Israel is the Western Wall.
Here people from all backgrounds visit the wall to place their prayers or wishes in the cracks of the ancient wall as many tourists and locals do.
Wherever you may be traveling in Israel and whatever kind of traveler you are, this Middle Eastern gem will provide memories of a lifetime.
by Julia Woolf
CougarBuzz 