Hands-down Israel has been one of the most interesting place I have ever visited geographically, historically and religiously. Israel, a Middle Eastern country on the Mediterranean Sea, is regarded by Jews, Christians and Muslims as the biblical Holy Land. Its most sacred sites are in Jerusalem. Within its Old City, the Temple Mount complex includes the Dome of the Rock shrine, the historic Western Wall, Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Israel's financial hub, Tel Aviv, is known for its Bauhaus architecture and beaches
Transportation
Both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are very walkable cities and if you are tired you can always just grab a taxi. Uber is also available but only to hail a taxi. You will notice that you are paying vastly different price then the locals. I personally think they are charging at least a 30% premium just because they know you are a tourist.
The other best way to get around town is the electric scooters but I never once rode it so I have no idea how it works.
Accommodation
Backstage Hotel by the Atlas Group is the first hotel I stayed at in Tel Aviv. It is a hotel renovated from a Bauhaus building and has a wonderful bar which they brew their alcohol. The room was spacious but honestly you get what you pay for in Tel Aviv. The location is a bit further away from the beaches but it is right at the heart of where all the cool and hip shops and restaurants are.
The second hotel I stayed at was the Renoma Hotel/Apartment right by the beach. It was a bit more expensive then what I needed but I didn't have much option because of a last minute change of plan. The room was way too big for one person but I had a partial sea view balcony which is nice. They provide you with a breakfast bento every morning and it is perfect to have it on the beach.
I would strongly recommend you to stay away from the Lighthouse Hotel as it was dusty and dirty and I was really disappointed when I walked into the lobby.
Restaurants
Being one of the most metropolitan cities in the Middle East, this place is not short of restaurants that covers both ends of the spectrum. Google Maps recommendations are certainly helpful to avoid tourist traps and for previewing the dishes. Reservations are recommended.
Café CUCU
Our first meal in Tel Aviv. Trendy, French-inspired establishment featuring brunch, dinner & cocktails, plus a terrace.
Falafel Gabay All about hummus. One of the highest rating in the neighbourhood.
La Shuk
Mediterranean fare served in a bustling eatery & bar featuring an open kitchen & outdoor seating.
http://www.la-shuk.co.il/
Saluf & Sons
Enjoy a true culinary journey at Saluf and Sons! The tastes, smells and sounds transport you very far from the centre of Tel-Aviv. Delicious and pampering homemade yemenite and kosher food awaits you, as if your Grandma had just prepared a whole meal for you. Different stews, soups, Yemenite dishes, fresh chickpeas, mazets and more will comfort and fulfil you in the best of ways. Who knew the middle east was so good with their breads!!!!
Anita
The best ice cream in Israel with multiple outlets across the city.
Goocha Dizengoff
Airy Seafood Restaurant at the main shopping district of Dizengoff offering seasonally dishes and weekly promotions. Great to rest and people watch between shopping.
Bar 51
This is the bar situated right in my hotel offering stylish small plates. Busy every night that I stayed there so decided to give it a try. Bustling with cool young energy it is a place to chill over a drink and chill over some well executed dishes.
Jopea
Jopea is the ancient Greek name for Jaffa. We draw inspiration from the port that for centuries has brought tastes and ideas from all around the world to the holy land. Therefore, we composed an eclectic, one-of-a-kind menu with a special Israeli twist, Jaffa style. This is one of the cutest finds I have in Tel Aviv.
Attractions
Tel Aviv is a relatively relaxed and small city so it is really up to you on how many days you want to walk around and chill at the beach. They have a strong beach and workout culture here.
Dizengoff Street
This is the main shopping area with the most interesting shops and restaurants for young professionals. It is great to walk around to really feel the day to day energy of the city. Meanwhile towards the top of town you will see some great examples of Bauhaus Architectures.
Jaffa (Old Town)
Jaffa is old trade port of of the region. To this day it is technically still a different city to Tel Aviv. The city is full of old markets and historic findings, including the Old Clock Tower and the Ilana Goor Museum.
Carmel Market & Nachalat Binyamin
These are the main market street areas in Tel Aviv. Whilst Carmel Market is for the day to day business, Nachalat Binyamin offers crafty items for the homes and also great place for souvenirs.
Levinski x Nahalat Binyamin Street
Shabbat being the holiday in Israel, many establishments are closed on Saturday. However as Tel Aviv is pretty international and cosmopolitan, there are a few pockets in the city which are still very vibrant. I came across this area during shabbat and it felt like it had a good energy.
Traditional Shabbat Dinner
I was fortunately enough to have my friend's local family to invite me over for a traditional shabbat dinner. It was an amazing evening to learn about the culture and part of the tradition for one night.
Beaches
Tel Aviv is full of beaches with the finest sand I have experienced. Most of the beaches comes with some sort of sports facilities and it is just a great place to hang out.
Nightlife / LGBT
Tel Aviv is a party city and people stay out late. They are big of special nights so check out whats happening during your stay. Here are some permanent bars you can visit.
Shpagat
One of the more established gay bars in the city. Great for people watching but not so much for socialising.
The Prince
This is a great little roof top bar which has a great young vibe in a rusty settling right on the middle of Nahalat Binyamin Street. Great for a night cap on the way home. Their toilet is also right by the entrance so it great if you have an 'emergency'.
Bellboy
Eclectic modern plates are served alongside imaginative cocktails at this quirky, vintage-style bar.
Comments