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Top Things To Do
Dead Sea mud therapy
The mud at Dead Sea spa resorts is renowned for its health-giving properties. Go there to slather yourself in it. It's impossible to sink in this ‘sea', which is in fact an inland lake with intensely salty, mineral-rich water, lying at the lowest point on earth. Markets Fling yourself into Tel Aviv's fascinating Shuk HaCarmel, or Carmel Market, brimming with spices, fresh produce, cut flowers and trinkets galore. In Jerusalem, haggle for anything from bargain souvenirs to real gold jewellery at open-fronted Arab stores along the Street of the Chain, the main market street in the Old City. Side turnings lead into even more exotic market streets. Desert tour A trip into the Negev desert is a must-do. There are tours by jeep, on foot or on horseback from the desert town of Mitzpe Ramon and from the Red Sea resort of Eilat. Coral reefs The waters off Eilat are rich in coral and perfect for some underwater sightseeing. Scuba or snorkel on underwater trails, take a submarine tour, or just marvel at the scene through the windows of the Eilat's amazing Underwater Observatory. Orchestral shows Go to a performance by the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra, or the New Israel Opera, or one of several other great orchestras in Tel Aviv which draw audiences from all over the world. Via Dolorosa The Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem's Old City traces the traditional path Jesus walked from judgment to crucifixion. The nine 'stations' along the route lead to five more in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Kibbutzim These intriguing quasi-socialist communities can be found all over Israel. Many have good facilities for tourists so you can become acquainted with kibbutz life by staying in one. National parks and reserves Israel has over 50 national parks and nature reserves, such as Hurshat Tal, Gamla Reserve and Ahziv National Park (www.parks.org.il). As well as a wealth of flora and fauna, many are home to historic sites. Beaches There are plenty of sandy, well-equipped beach resorts where you can sail, surf, swim or waterski or just sunbathe either at Eilat on the Red Sea, along the Mediterranean or even in Tel Aviv minutes from the city centre. Hezekiah's Tunnel The spooky Hezekiah's Tunnel (www.cityofdavid.org), a 500m (1,649ft) underground passage, looks like the perfect set for an Indiana Jones film. The tunnel serves to bring spring water to the Pool of Siloam, mentioned in the Bible as the place where Jesus healed a blind man. You'll need shorts, sandals and a strong flashlight. |
