My Beautiful Israel

I can’t help it. I love this place.

In the tunnels below Jerusalem

It’s such a tiny little country, Israel. Only as big as New Jersey and at its narrowest point, only 7 miles wide. There are some driveways in Texas that are longer than that!!

Yet, in this compact landscape is a world like no other.

Travel to Israel is nourishing for the mind, body and soul. I am amazed, each and every time, how I find something new to learn and see. In Jerusalem, there is a maze of tunnels beneath the Old City that is actually the town of ancient Jerusalem, 3000 years ago. It is the market place, the town square, that existed during the reign of King Solomon. Walking on those ancient stones, touching the pillars, made the connection across the eternal and spiritual timeline.

The Caves of Rosh HaNikra

At the most northern border with Lebanon is an underwater wonder. Time and the Mediterranean Sea have carved a city of caverns in the coastal city of Rosh HaNikrah. The cable car takes you down to the water’s edge where you can walk along the promenade into the caves, called grottoes. Be prepared for the most spectacular array of colors.

But it was the line of buoys in the Med that caught my attention. This is the international border between Israel and Lebanon, so unremarkable yet so important. It was north of this line from which kaytusha rockets were fired at the citizens in northern Israel. It never even occurred to me that this was a danger zone. I never felt safer!

Friends at restaurant Penelope in Eilat

And let’s talk about food! Israeli cuisine and the country’s crop of world renowned chefs has made it into a culinary delight. It’s not just falafel anymore (although, I do love my falafel!). The fine dining in the most casual atmosphere is the perfect way to end a marvelvous day of touring, learning and renewal. A seaside restaurant on the edge of the Red Sea in the resort city of Eilat, good food, good wine and good friends.

Israel is for all of us. You must go. It will stay with you forever.

~ by From Israel To You Jewelry on October 1, 2009.