Our decision to go to Israel was actually pretty random. Mike had been there years ago and liked it, we wanted the kids to get some exposure to history and religion and the plane tickets were priced right. So, we decided we would head there for about twelve days. Whenever I asked people what we should do while there, they generally responded with a version of the same answer. "There is so much to do, you can't go wrong" or "oh, there are so many choices, you are going to love it". That was great and all but we needed some specifics.
With time, and with the help of a fantastic concierge, our itinerary was quickly outlined. Israel does an amazing job showing off its country. There is such pride and it is amazing how all the places make learning incredibly interesting and engaging. Some examples include “A Time Elevator” that walks visitors through a journey of the 3,000 years of Jerusalem’s history and feels more like a ride at Disneyland than history lesson, a stroll through the Hula Nature Reserve, an important resting and “refueling” place for migrating birds on their annual trip from Europe to Africa and back that starts with an engaging 3D movie, the Palmach “Museum” where guests walk from room to room as they are virtually recruited to join this army that was the "silver platter" that handed Israel to its people. The list of places to see and experience goes on and on. (Side note: This is one country where, in order to really appreciate it, you need to pay the extra money to get a guide. We did that several times (including the Dead Sea/Massada and Jerusalem’s Old City) and the kids managed to stay engaged for several 7-9 hour long tours.) Clearly, not an easy task.
We quickly realized that we could not do all we wanted to in just two weeks. Since we are so fortunate as to have the luxury of time, we ultimately ended up staying in Israel for a month and could have easily stayed longer. I can now say, “wherever you decide to go in Israel, you really can't go wrong". However, we do have our favorite spots and many of those are in the posts to follow.
Visiting a cheese farm...
Liz and Mike . . . and Nate, Gavin , and Brock! It looks like you all are having the most incredible experiences of your life. Terry and I love reading all of your blogs. Thanks for posting them; we're living and loving each experience with you. Love to you all. You look great . . . healthy and happy! xoxo Liz
Posted by: Liz McAteer | 02/18/2011 at 07:14 AM
WOW! Looks incredibly beautiful and the cheese farm visit sounds yummy :)
I visited Israel several times and the north is, in my opinion, the most beautiful part.
Posted by: hostels in jerusalem | 01/05/2012 at 02:28 AM