Day 8

We started with a hike in the surprisingly vegetated Tzin desert along the beautiful Hawarim stream. We all enjoyed the chance to relax and get some great photos amidst the beautiful scenery. Afterwards, we went to an Israeli farm, where we saw how Israelis are able to grow vegetables in the desert (and fulfill Ben Gurion's dream!). After enjoying a delicious lunch at the farm, they showed us around. It was nothing like any farm that we Americans are used to. Most of the vegetables were grown in greenhouses with intricate irrigation systems. We were allowed to eat tons of produce straight off of the vines, including the tastiest tomatoes, strawberries, and peppers we've ever tasted. We finished our visit by making fresh pita on an outdoor grill, and we all had a great time.

We travelled further into the desert to a village of Bedouins. We learned that the Bedouins are a large group of desert-dwelling arab people, who have a significant presence in Israel. The Bedouin's led us on a camelback ride around the desert, which was actually awesome. Back in the village, the Bedouins taught us much about their culture and their tradition of hospitality. We enjoyed Bedouin tea, music, and a feast before spending the night in the Bedouin tents.