subject: Time To See Israel [print this page] Time To See Israel Time To See Israel
Israel is a county that may not immediately come to mind as being a holiday destination however it is well worth a visit.
Israel's visitors attractions are varied, ranging from the vast sands of the Judean Desert to the saltiest sea in the world - the Dead Sea. Head to ancient biblical places, covered markets and high-rise metropolises. Israel has much to offer.
Some of the top things to see and do there are:
Swim in the dead sea - an intensely salty, mineral-rich body of water, lying at the lowest point on this planet. It's not possible to sink. Expect to see people reading their newspapers whilst lying in the sea! The mineral deposits from the dead sea are reputed to possess health giving properties. Even if you don't think that it's still enjoyable to cover yourself in it...
Jerusalem's Mea She'arim district is home to the country's largest community of strictly observant Orthodox Jews where you will find the East European dress and traditions alive.
Visit some markets. Experience Tel Aviv's interesting Shuk HaCarmel, or Carmel Market, which boasts superb selections of seasonings, flowers, fresh foods and trinkets. In Jerusalem, haggle for everything from real gold jewellery to souvenirs.
Visit the desert and stay with a nomadic tribe under canvas - a special night!
Leap in the world class waters of Eilat - full of coral reefs and perfect underwater exploring. If scuba diving is not for you, you can opt for snorkelling or a sub tour. Eilat's amazing Underwater Observatory gives you the opportunity to have a look at the beautiful creatures without even getting your toes damp!
Dome of the Rock. The stunning dome stands high on Temple Mount and has spiritual significance for both Jews and Muslims.
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, is traditionally thought to be the site where Christ died. It is the heart of the Christian Quarter and is made up of a complex of opulent shrines.
Yad Vashem is a moving memorial to the 6 million Jews murdered during the Holocaust.
Masada is the ruins of the Palace of King Herod constructed on the ridge of Masada. It was the site of a fierce battle where Jews made their final stand fighting the Romans.
The well known stones of the Western Wall in Jerusalem are worn smooth by many years of touching. Prayers are written on paper and pushed between the stones.
The Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem's Old City is the path Christ is reputed to have followed from judgment to crucifixion.
Stay on a Kibbutz. They are found throughout Israel and are based upon individuals working and living collectively.
Israel has over 50 national parks and nature reserves - all of which are truly worth an outing.
Inside the largest city, Tel Aviv you can indulge your urban tastes. It offers museums, opera, theatre, dance and good quality restaurants with fine cuisines from all over the world.
Beaches are in abundance. It is possible to sail, swim, sunbathe or waterski, sometimes in locations only minutes from the city centre.
The Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered by a Bedouin shepherd boy in ancient pottery containers in the 40's. They are hailed as the greatest manuscript discovery of recent times. They consists of around nine hundred papers and incorporate texts from the Hebrew Bible.
