Israel: A melting pot

My Israel trail started in the gorgeous port city of Haifa, which is the third largest city in the country and without a doubt, the prettiest. Haifa is a port city nestled among the St Carmel mountain range and is home to a pretty beach with picturesque sunsets. While the state of Israel has a Jewish majority, Haifa is the perfect example of peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance as the city has a mix of Jews and Arabs (both Muslim and Christian).  One of the highlights in the city are the Bahai Gardens and shrine. This is of great significance to the Bahai Faith worldwide as is it the resting place of their beloved leader. The gardens are magnificent — at night time, they are lit up and  you can spot them sparkling in the night from almost anywhere in the city.

Haifa is a neighbour to the historic city of Akko (Acre), which is impossible to miss. Strolling through the streets of Akko, the market place or even near the walls of the fort or by the sea. The city seems frozen in time with just a few trappings of the present. It is said that from the Templars, the Mamluks, the Romans, the Turks and even the British have all conquered and ruled Akko at some point of time or other. Once a fortified town dating the 11th century, the old city is an architectural delight. You can find remains from the medieval crusades, the Ottoman Empire and, in most parts of the city, ruins can be found below street level making Akko famous for being a city beneath a city.

Old Jaffa in Tel Aviv

While this historic city attracts many a traveller with its archaeological marvels, if you’re a foodie, then a trip to a local seafood restaurant called Uri Buri is a must. Chef Uri, a charming character, with his trademark white Santa Claus-like beard and cheeky smile, is a whiz at cooking up fish items. His specials, which are showcased in the restaurant, have had tourists and locals alike raving about the place for over a decade. My next destination, as I moved on from Akko, found me driving several meters below sea level through a desert to the lowest point on earth—the Dead Sea. Despite its name, the Dead Sea anything but depressing. The pristine medley of different hues of aquamarine that looks so inviting, you feel like jumping right in.

However, making a big splash might not be advisable as the salt content in the water is so high (a staggering 33 per cent) that makes it impossible for you to sink. While at first I must admit the idea of just letting go and floating seemed intimidating, it is by far the most wonderful experience to just float without a care in the world knowing that you will never sink or topple. The water and mud sediment found on the beach is full of medicinal properties making it incredible helpful for skin ailments and there are plenty of beauty and cosmetic products that are made from it. To come back from here without a few ‘dead sea products’ seemed criminal, and, to be completely honest, they are my best souvenirs from the country.

A bazaar in Jerusalem

The best way to round up a trip to Israel is to throw yourself into the heart and soul of the country, which is its capital Tel Aviv. The city takes its food very seriously. While there is plenty of Kosher meals should you want them, the choice is ample. The food markets and restaurants are brimming with people but really it is the energy at night that really makes this trendy city a great destination to let your hair down and enjoy yourself. My trip ended far sooner than I’d have liked. Spending a week in Israel was plenty enough time to whet my appetite and plan a longer visit next time.

Did you know - For a country built in the middle of a dessert that barely receives any rain, Israel is incredibly green with plenty of plants all over and has one of the best irrigation systems in the world.

Eat treat - The emphasis in Israel is on fresh produce but visit local food markets like Levingsky Market or Carmel Market in Tel Aviv. Israel produces some great cheese and local wines, which are a delight.

Getting there - You can fly directly via El Al from Mumbai or Delhi to Tel Aviv or fly via Turkish Airlines. All internal travel in Israel is done via road or public bus as it is a very small country and most places are about 1-2 hours away from each other.

Author is a travel, food writer and blogger