From North to Center

Shalom from Tel Aviv! It is day six in Israel and in such a short time we have already seen so many amazing places. On Monday, we went on a challenging hike in the Golan Heights. While many of us were often watching our step as we navigated our way through the rocky terrain, we were sure not to miss the beautiful views. For four hours we trekked through the Gilabon trail with occasional breaks in rocky caves and rock filled waters. The hot Israeli sun beat down on us the entire way, but we were able to cool off in a beautiful pool at the bottom of a waterfall. Many of us immediately took a plunge in the frigid cold water and, although the water was surely colder than what we are used to in Lake Michigan, we could not pass up the change to swim under the waterfall. After a refreshing dip in the cool water, we finished our hike going uphill for about 15 minutes. We made it make to the bus with a surprise treat of watermelon which proved to be a satisfying snack after such a strenuous hike. Later that day we continued to see the sites in the Golan Heights and discussed the political issues that surround this beautiful part of the country. After a long day we arrived at the kibbutz ready to eat dinner and relax! The rooms at the kibbutz were not the type of lodgings many of us are normally used to staying in, but it just added to the new experiences of Israel., In my room, we even had a confrontation with a lizard! Tuesday morning came all too fast after such a long day the day before, but we all boarded the bus excited to continue exploring the Jewish state. We started our day in Tzfat, an ancient city where Jewish mysticism and kabbalah began. The city was beautiful with stone building, narrow streets, and blue accents. We visited a synagogue and listened to authentic Israeli music played by locals of Tzfat. Before we left we did a little shopping which proved to be successful for many of us! The shops offered many opportunities to buy jewelry, paintings, and religious objects. After spending a few too many shekls in Tzfat we continued our day by traveling two hours to Tel Aviv. Once there we were greeted by the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea. After checking in to our hotel, many of us went to experience our first dip in the Mediterranean. The water was clear and blue and felt refreshing after a long day. Tel Aviv was more than just a beautiful, but fun as well! After dinner we were able to experience Israeli nightlife and enjoyed each others company at a local bar. After a late night in Tel Aviv, we woke up today a little groggy but not willing to let that get in the way of the days activities. This morning we visiting the Israel Independence museum and learned more about the formation of the Jewish state. We are currently in route to the biblical gardens which is designed to look how Israel once looked long ago. I am looking forward to seeing the vegetation and learning more about the land before it was developed. Later today we will be traveling to the Negev desert where we will need a good night sleep before climbing the Messada tomorrow and swimming in the Dead Sea. It is hard to believe the trip is more than half way over! I hope all is well back in the states and that we do not come back cold weather after having experienced the hot Israeli sun!