"Israel" Israel by jadedmuse

Israel Travel Guide: 10,082 reviews and 22,936 photos

Ah yes, yet another conundrum... - Israel

The Conundrum...

"Everything in Israel is about itself and something else. A sidewalk is a sidewalk, and a road where Jesus walked. A wall is a wall, and the place where Joshua fought the battle of Jericho. A hole is a hole, and a bomb disposal device. When you live in a country with so much history, nothing ever seems innocent or accidental. Nothing is ever just itself."

For a quick video "tour" of Israel (including some West Bank pix) through my eyes, click below:

--> Israel & West Bank <--

Negev Desert

Even before its current existence, it seems people have always wanted to define Israel by its borders and perimeters. I refuse to mirror that within the confines of this space. I simply cannot - there is so much more to Israel than anything I could possibly say here. For once I am at a loss for words and choose instead to share Thomas Friedman's wry observation about Israel being about itself and something else. Those who live in Israel will understand what he means, and those who plan to visit this amazing place will quickly come to appreciate what he says.

Jerusalem

Although I've included a few tips here, the majority of my recommendations fall under specific locations within Israel, all of which can be found under my Jadedmuse's Travel Pages . Between the last few months of pregnancy and the birth of Gabrielle, it's taken me some time to get myself organized. Then again, I hope these pages will continue to be a work in progress because to intend them to be so means that I will visit Israel again and again...

...Shalom....

Pros and Cons

Pros:Great weather, delicious food, ancient history everywhere, different regions offering different vibes, wonderful Israeli hospitality, SAFE to be a visitor here
Cons:Gets a bad wrap by the media which takes life in Israel out of context and scares off potential visitors
In a nutshell:Before you judge it, come see for yourself....

Last visit to Israel: Dec 2004
Intro Updated May 29, 2008
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Reviews (25)

Walking the Bible - A Journey.... - Israel

Walking the Bible - A Journey.... Favorites (14)

Walking the Bible - A Journey By Land Through the Five Books of Moses - that's the full name of the book. Thoughtfully... more travel advice

The Iron Wall: Israel and the Arab World - Israel

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Noted for its controversy, this book was authored by revisionist historian Avi Shlaim. Shlaim's goal was to "offer a... more travel advice

Friends In Deed: Inside the U.S.-Israel Alliance - Israel

Friends In Deed: Inside the U.S.-Israel... Favorites (14)

This book would probably only be of interest to Americans (and maybe Israelis), since it explores the history of the... more travel advice

The Other Israel - Voices of Refusal and Dissent - Israel

The Other Israel - Voices of Refusal and... Favorites (14)

For those of you who want to know if all Israelis think alike, this book is for you. With a forward by the respected... more travel advice

Local Customs (5)
See All Holiday food is delicious!
Transportation (3)
See All Rental Car
Hotels (1)
Israel's Alternative to Hotels

Travelogues (1)

Written Jan 7, 2005

8 photos

Beware of Camels Crossing...

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Comments (34)

coceng May 29, 2008 at 12:04 AM Report Abuse

I'd love to come to Israel one day...I learn more from your tips ! Thanks.
flyingscot4 Feb 7, 2007 at 9:07 PM Report Abuse

Sensational stuff! "Insight into Israel" should be the title of YOUR book. If I ever get there I want to take you along for your sensitivity. Funny, it's in all that you write. My only complaint is that you know what all those big words mean. Smile
FruitLover Aug 25, 2006 at 7:23 AM Report Abuse

Very insightful, analytical and sensitive page about my homeland, Michele. Studied one or two things from outsider's perspective. Halleluya !!
alza Jul 31, 2006 at 6:39 PM Report Abuse

fantastic! lots of variety on your page. Reading "This Year in Jerusalem" by Mordecai Richler. He's good and he's funny :) Been wanting to go forever!
NYTim Jul 18, 2006 at 2:19 PM Report Abuse

I have used El Dan on my last two visits. It was a non hassled experience..
XtravelloverX Mar 7, 2006 at 4:12 PM Report Abuse

SO right about the bad rap. We never once felt unsafe in Jerusalem though our friends/fam. were terrified. It's a gorgeous country rich in history and a definite must-see. :^)
pepples46 Dec 21, 2005 at 10:34 PM Report Abuse

infatuated ..comes to my mind. I know how that comes about ^..^ I thoroughly enjoyed my trip around your page. never had the opportunity to do it for real. tks for the many good inside stories and of course Friedman.
gilabrand Sep 25, 2005 at 10:21 PM Report Abuse

No, I haven't read these books but I do read Tom Friedman's opinion pieces in the International Herald Tribune and think he is the BEST.
ophiro Aug 13, 2005 at 9:21 AM Report Abuse

it is great you liked our country - next time come to visit me ;-)
goingsolo Jun 25, 2005 at 10:38 AM Report Abuse

Very insightful and well balanced tips. Looks like you experienced the beauty of the country and its people. I've been twice and can't wait to go back. Incredible country with incredible people.