Along with other travel bloggers, we have begun a collaboration to create an article about our favorite place.
The Traveling Rabbi writes about Jerusalem
Halva for sale at Machaneh Yehudah Maerket in Jerusalem
History, Culture and a Melting Pot of Religions
Jerusalem is one of my favorite cities in the world to visit. It fascinates me to no end and every time I am there I discover something new. It is the melting pot of many religions and is revered as a holly city by possibly half the worlds population. But it’s not just about religion, Jerusalem is fascinating from an Archeological perspective, military history, and anyone interested in ancient civilizations. Jerusalem at the same time is a fusion of the old world charm and modern technology.
Fascinating history
Walk underground for 533 meters trough Hezkiah’s Tunnel which are over 1000 years old. If you are Christian, retrace the steps of Jesus and visit the many chapels and churches. Witness thousands of Jews praying at the Western Wall, the remains of a 2000 year old Temple. Visit the Burnt house and see what people lived in during the Roman period. Marvel at the collection in the Israel museum with enough history to boggle anyone’s mind.
Places of Worship
All of the Abrahamic religions are represented here. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Along with this there are the extremes from the secular, to the mildly religious, though the full on fanatics. Stroll through the ancient streets of Jerusalem and you will see Muslims dressed in white robs, Armenian monks in black, and ultra orthodox Jews in gold striped coats. From the western wall, to the Dome on the rock, to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher Jerusalem has no shortage of fascinating religious sites revered by a few billion people in the world.
Food Galore
There is pizza, doughnuts, ice cream and all the same foods you will find anywhere in the world. But when I’m in Jerusalem I prefer to eat like a local, and that means falafel and shawarma. There are dozens of places around the city but my favorite is King George Falafel on King George street. Go there any time and there is a line of people waiting. It is one of the cheapest places to eat yet remains one of the tastiest. Get a falafel or laffa filled with what you want, then sit outside and watch the people go bye as you enjoy your meal.
Ancient Markets
Get a feel of what it was like to shop hundreds if not thousands of years ago. Machane Yehuda Jerusalem’s most famous outdoor market where you will find fresh produce, spices, halva, olives and dairy products. The Old City Souk, is the most famous with tourist where you can find tacky souvenirs but also useful bits and pieces. The markets are also a great place to stop for a snack of Baklava and some sugary mint tea or a strong cup of coffee.
Kendra Thornton writes about Las Vegas
Food, Fun and Far Out Rides
I have visited the city of Las Vegas several times with my family. Each time brings something new that I didn’t discover the previous time I was there. On my last few excursion I have found attractions that I can visit with my family as well as by myself. Some of the activities are outdoors, but many of them are inside for an added convenience.
Wine Tasting
One of my favorite things to do in Las Vegas is to sample wine. I found a fun spot with my husband last year that I continue to visit. Perhaps the best place is the Michael Mina restaurant. While there, I learned about the wine making process and got to mix some drinks of my own. The class on wine making and bartending takes about two hours, but it is worth the time.
Science
While Las Vegas is known for a city of adult fun, there are some new museums that my children enjoy. They can learn about science and some history. The Neon Museum is a favorite because it looks like it is in a junkyard. Another favorite is the Discovery Museum. There are several hands on exhibits for children of all ages.
Sand and Sun
The Pink Jeep Tour is by far one of the best experiences. A jeep picks you up right outside your hotel room. While on the tour, I traveled across some of the deserts in Las Vegas. The ride was a bit bumpy, but it was one of the best ways I have seen the city and surrounding areas. The last time I went I took advantage of the trip that lasted an entire day and was set in the Grand Canyon.
Are You Hungry
I am a fan of the show Man vs. Food. When I saw a competition where I could try to eat for a free meal, I had to try. Several of the hotels have competitions like this. Avoid the ones with steak because the portions are large. However, if you can finish your meal, then you get it free. Your picture is also posted on a wall of fame.
There are places to avoid, but overall, the city is full of fun. It is a place where you can take the family and with so many hotels along the strip, you will be sure to find the right one for you and your family. Sites like Gogobot make it easy to read user reviews. Pay attention to shows that are scheduled so that you can make the most out of your trip by seeing as many attractions as possible.
Are you a passionate travel blogger? If so please send me an article similar to the above posted so I may share it with others: Rabbiben@travelingrabbi.com
