Oh the Places You’ll See [Sponsored]

Whether traveling to Israel is part of your regular vacation agenda or you have yet to visit, here is your must-see guide to visiting one of the most culturally rich countries in the world!

IMOT_Jerusalem_OldCity2Jerusalem has held its seat as the state capital since its initial appointment 3,000 years ago by King David. The city is the largest in Israel, and home to almost one million inhabitants. At the heart lies the Old City, a square mile, walled-in space encompassing the top holy sites of the three monotheistic faiths. The Temple Mount is the site where both the first and Second Temples were constructed and its biblical importance has established Jerusalem as a holy city for Christian, Muslims, and Jews. Here lies, the iconic Dome of the Rock the site where Abraham is believed to have prepared for the sacrifice of Isaac. The remaining western wall of the Temple Mount has become the focus of Jewish pilgrimage for close to 2,000 years. Titled ‘The Wailing Wall’, or the Kotel, visitors seeking a unique spiritual experience are greeted by the entrancing, mournful prayers of religious pilgrims.

IMOT_Jerusalem_BuildingsForty-five minutes north west of Jerusalem is the urban metropolis and coastal city of Tel Aviv-Jaffa. Tel Aviv itself consists of only 450,000 inhabitants but the greater metropolitan area is home to more than 4 million Israelis. Tel Aviv is the nation’s hub for all things relating to business, entertainment, technology and the arts. Despite the city’s commitment to advancement, inhabitants remain dedicated to preserving its century-old neighborhoods and 1930’s Bauhaus building – creating a divers architectural landscape.

A 14-mile-long promenade lined with beach chairs, umbrellas, lifeguard towers, cafes, pubs, and restaurants makes Tel Aviv a bustling city and beach resort at the same time. IMOT_Tel_Aviv (2)This 24-hour city is notorious for serving up some of the world’s best restaurants, open-air cafes and hottest night-life scenes. The non-stop energy pulses through its thriving art, dance, music, theatre, and opera scenes and its iconic style can be found throughout craft markets, chic boutiques and the city’s architecture.

IMOT_Eilat (2)The sunny port-city of Eilat lies on the Red Sea and connects the country to India, eastern Asia and Africa. Once a shanty frontier town, Eilat has developed into one of Israel’s major resort destinations whose beaches calm waters attract tourists from over 100 countries each year. Resorts line the beach accessible promenade and lagoon, along with a giant shopping mall, restaurants, and a variety of attractions for travelers of all ages. Visitors can bear witness to one of the world’s most magnificent coral reefs at the Eilat Underwater Observatory and swim side-by-side with playful dolphins in its turquoise waters.

Visitors cannot leave without visiting one of the most unique natural phenomena on the planet. A crevice in the earth’s crust and part of the Great Rift Valley, the waters of the Jordan River flow into a lozenge-shaped lake making it the lowest point on earth. With no outlet, the rays of the blazing sun evaporate the water leaving behind high concentration of minerals. IMOT_Dead_SeaThe dense mineral make-up and salt makes it impossible to sink and allows bathers to float effortlessly on the water’s surface. This remarkable natural treasure results in rich mud baths and a rejuvenating experience unlike any other.

The fun doesn’t stop there, for more incredible destinations, check out Israel Ministry of Tourism, Your Journey Starts Here.

[Ed note: From time to time, TC Jewfolk publishes sponsored content such as this that aligns with Jewfolk Media’s own mission and goals. Hey, we gotta keep the lights on!]