29/8/09
Today I am in Tel Aviv. A super crowded city, even residents here have to drive around the block a few times before finding a parking space near their own home! I don't know if I thoroughly explained how Shabbat is in this country but it is important to know that most things shut down. If you need a bathroom and you're nowhere near home, don't count on anywhere to be open except a gas station. I love Shabbat here because everyone is almost forced to take a break. Even if you want to conquer your whole 'to do list' if it involves the world outside of your home, it is not easily achievable. Of course, a lot of bars and movie theaters in the big cities stay open, but for the most part there are less cars on the road and less lights on in the shops and restaurants. Surrounding Shabbat is a special atmosphere, people prepare themselves for relaxing with all sorts of entertainment. Faimilies head to the beaches, there is live music everywhere and people dance in the allyways and streets. All the while delicious Shabbat meals are waiting, simmering, on the stove. Then there is Saturday afternoon when the city begins to come alive again. People come out of their homes to see one another, food begins to be cooked and the smells in the air become more concentrated as the sun sets in the distance. Stores are opened, lights are turned on, and the army radio can be heard in each boutique by passer-bys. Suddenly there is life, the city has a pulse again! By night time the entire community is refreshed and energetic and all things stay open a little later than usual. Next weekend I will be spending Shabbat in the holy city of Jerusalem but before I go there...
Here in Tel Aviv
Then off to the Dead Sea to hike mount Masada
Then off to live in Jerusalem for 5 days
Back to Tel Aviv for the BIG ISRAELI WEDDING
Then up North...Hopefully more hiking and exploring some smaller cities.
That is the game plan so far...I will try my best to post and share.
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