Today, after spending the morning in Tel Aviv, and visiting Shuk HaCarmel (Carmel Market), we drove to Jerusalem to see the historic Old City, which was the highlight of the trip for me so far. As someone who regularly prays for the reconstruction of this Holy City, it was amazing to be back after four years away. We started our tour at a lookout, with those who had been before leading those who hadn't to a shocking and stunning first view of the walls.
What an amazing few days we have had. We spent Shabbat in the holy city of Jerusalem. Before bringing in Shabbat, we toured the old city and visited the Kotel (Western Wall). It was a moving experience and we all had a chance to connect to our spirituality and our heritage.
I could practically feel the history radiating out of the stones as Ido led us through the streets, some of which were thousands of years old (and some somewhat-recently refurbished).
Overall, Shabbat was a much needed relaxing day for us. We got a chance to connect on a more personal level with one another as well as discuss some very interesting topics. We hope you all had a refreshing Shabbat as well!
Check out some of bus 220 pictures so far!
Before entering the city, we passed through King David's tomb and how the city was built layer upon layer. In what felt like a renactment of Aladdin, we twisted and turned through Jerusalems narrow alleys, finally entering the Old City.
The light air reminded me of the sweet Jerusalem breeze I had felt just a few days prior. Upon our arrival in Jerusalem we returned to the shuk, this time far more crowded, bustling with people busily trying to get everything prepared in time for the sabbath
Bus 683, dressed to impress. gathered outside to get in the spirit of the the night and take the spiffiest of our group photos thus far.
The small alley ways and twisty roads are distinctly Jerusalem. As we explored all the nooks and crannies, we were able to relive where people lived, prayed and shopped over 2000 years ago.
Wow! What an amazing experience it has been so far!