Your flight to Tel Aviv brings you to Israel’s relaxed, seaside capital, founded by Jewish settlers in 1909, just north of the ancient port of Jaffa. With its modern, broad avenues, buzzing nightlife and secular lifestyle, Tel Aviv is a world away from ancient Jerusalem in its culture, (but just an hour away by road) while the Dead Sea is a two-hour drive.
Tel Aviv boasts a wealth of Bauhaus-style skyscrapers and Miami-style condos lining the Mediterranean shore where the smartest hotels cluster. Tel Aviv’s locals are seriously keen on their fashion. Find top designers (Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, DKNY) lining State Square.
Highlights of a visit to Tel Aviv include the Florentin quarter for its great Jewish cuisine, the Yemenite quarter, home to the colourful Carmel Market and the old city of Jaffa. Jaffa is one of the few mixed Arab/Israeli districts and is linked to Tel Aviv by the seafront promenade. Best enjoyed around sunset, the atmospheric old town is full of quirky craft shops, laid back cafés and beautiful Arab architecture.< |