A beautiful country the size of New Jersey, I consider Israel my second home and a country everyone should visit. This country offers so much to see and do, full of life, history, and delicious food. Israel is rich in activities, and each city holds a unique treasure. I have been going to Israel since I was 4 months old and each time is different from the last. There is so much in Israel to fit into one post, so I will be putting my top 4 places I’ve gone to.
- Tel Aviv
As crazy as this might sound, Tel Aviv was never a “must-see” place for me growing up. I had been there a few times, but mainly stayed in Hertzliya. This year, finally being legal, I was able to experience Tel Aviv in a brand new light.
Restaurants:
Yaffo Tel Aviv- This Mediterranean restaurant has the most delicious meals located in the old city of Jaffa. Hint– the lamb chops are to die for.
Meatos- This restaurant offeres everything from street food to grilled meats, and let me tell you, it’s life changing. A beautiful restaurant that offers outdoor and indoor seating, I would recommend one dish but everything was incredible.
La Mer Beach- If youre looking for a restaurant right on the water, this is it. Seating is offered right at the restaurant or on the beach, where you can dip in the water and then eat your meal.
Nightlife:
Drama Bar- Both a dance club and bar, this trendy place is perfect for whatever mood youre in. An outdoor bar is perfect for the Israel heat and there is a dance club at the top floor. Small plates are also offered and they serve some mean drinks.
Duplex- For all lovers of the 90’s, this club offers a great mix of 90’s, hip hop, and mainstream music for everyone to enjoy. With three floors of music, youre bound to have a fun night out.
Miscellaneous:
The Carmel Market (Shook HaCarmel)- An outdoor marketplace with loads of clothing, gifts, and incredible food to offer, this place is a staple everytime I go to Israel. Make sure to get some delicious Pomegranate juice!
- Hertzliya
This is the city I truly consider my second home. An affluent city close to Tel Aviv, it offers an array of restaurants, bars, and beaches to choose from.
Restaurants:
Flora- Another restaurant right on the beach that offers couches and lounge chairs to eat, relax, and bake in the sun. Their live entertainment and good selection of music with great food makes for a fun experience.
Benedict- This place might have had the best breakfast ever. Everything from bagels to pancakes to of course, eggs benedict can be found here.
Japanika- A delicious asian restaurant with sushi, pad thai, and the best bao buns I’ve ever had.
Nightlife:
Yam Bar- A cool, outdoor relaxed bar on the beach to enjoy some drinks with friends and watch the sunset or take in the Acadia Beach.
Rumor 22- An always packed bar with fun themed music nights, with good food and drinks.
- Jerusalem
One of the oldest cities in the world, Jerusalem is considered a very holy city for different religions. A beautiful place rich in history and life, in the past few years has grown into a vibrant place to vacation in.
Things to see:
The Western Wall
Tower of David
Dome of the Rock
Mount of Olives
Mount Zion
As for food and nightlife, the one place you need is the Mahane Yehuda Market. In the heart of Jerusalem, there are so many small restaurants and street food vendors to choose from. At night, the market turns into a lively party where all the bars play music and the whole crowd dances with eachother.
- Dead Sea
This is the place for healing. Famous for its salt lake that is known for healing all types of skin ailments and helps relieve all types of pain, especially from the joints. People with arthritis and those recovering from surgery find relief here. Be careful not to get any of the water near your eyes, as the high levels of magnesium and salt can burn. You can’t swim, but you can float without any work!
During the summer, the water gets very hot so try and go as early as possible before it does. There are many hotels to stay in right on the water with great spas and food.
Travel With Jordanna 
Leave a Reply