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Believe it or not, Israel looks a lot like the States. The roads, the buildings, the people. I did not expect Tel Aviv to look like this at all. I’d be lying if I didn’t say I was expecting bombed-like buildings covered in yellow ash and dust with haze lingering in the distance–similar to how the movies portray Afghanistan or Iran. I didn’t know any better… I didn’t do any research ahead of time either.

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As soon as I flew in, my good friend from Eckerd, Mariam, picked me up from the airport. By chance, I arrived on an important weekend, Pride weekend! After our mini reunion (I hadn’t seen her in a year and a half, since graduating in 2017), we hit the road! I couldn’t be happier: seeing an old friend, going to yet another international Pride event, being surrounded by like-minded individuals looking for nothing short of a fun time… Is there a better feeling?

Pride | Tel Aviv

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I have only been to two Pride parades, Amsterdam and Tel Aviv. I have yet to have the chance of attending a parade in the States. Tel Aviv is said to be one of the best and largest in the world. And let me tell you, I enjoyed myself. Everyone had a free spirit. I would have never pegged Israel of all places to be one of the best in the world. Israel!? Everyone came out and showed out!

When I see gatherings like this in light of everything that has happened for the LGBTQ+ community, I get nothing but frazzles (goosebumps). This fills my heart with so much joy that I get a little misty-eyed. It’s such an accomplishment for countries like Israel in the Middle East to be able to publicly celebrate a way of life that has been through hell. And in some cases, it still does, but the Pride still shines through and I’m here. for. it!

Rosh Hanikra

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Dead Sea

An accurate depiction of peace in the Middle East (land pictured behind me is Jordan).

Oh yes, the Dead Sea! Every tourist’s dream! The Dead Sea is one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world. It is about 10 times saltier than the ocean. Not only is it very salty (like you wishing you were there right now), but it is very dense. This mixture turns swimming into floating. Literally. No matter your size, you will have enough buoyancy as soon as your feet leave the bottom of the floor. The sand at the bottom isn’t even sand, it’s salt! The name, the Dead Sea, is attributed to the harsh environment for plants and animals. It is extremely difficult for living organisms to thrive, hence, there are none, which is why it is indeed called the Dead Sea.

Partaking in the use of mud on the shoreline to nourish your body serves its self care purpose (I didn’t get the chance to do the mud bath this time). Apparently, this destination also has real benefits on your health such as: joint/general pain relief, reduces inflammation, treats acne, etc. Think of it as a relaxing spa day to exfoliate, moisturize and take care of your mind, body, and spirit as you float all of your worries away.

Note: Due to the insane salinity of the Dead Sea, you must never put your face in the water or fully submerge yourself. I was told that if you do, there are guards watching in towers who can and more than likely will ban you immediately from the beach.
*Also don’t shave anything before arriving to the Dead Sea. I shaved my legs and armpits because ooo the beach, yaaas, but no don’t! It burns SO MUCH! It took a minute for the burning feeling to subside.

The realism of this experience was amazing. Of course, I heard of floating at the Dead Sea, but I cannot truly believe something unless I see it for myself. I had so much fun. This was definitely one of the coolest things I experienced in 2018.

My friends Mariam, Yarden and I did a day trip to the Dead Sea, but there are plenty of hotel resorts located along the Dead Sea should you want to make a weekend of it.

Jerusalem

Jerusalem is what I thought all of Israel looked like–monotone colors of sand and history. It is indeed a beautiful city through its historical manner. To be honest, I felt the most uncomfortable in Jerusalem because it is deep-rooted in its religion. I enjoy exploring churches, basilicas, etc. in general, however, Jerusalem felt very different. I am not religious nor do I practice anything in particular, so for the first time, I felt out of place. You know the saying, “if someone were to walk into a church, they would catch on fire?” This is how I felt. I felt as though I breached a violation and would at any minute get in trouble for it. I was cognizant of presenting myself as conservative as possible to keep from standing out.

Western Wall

Before exploring a bit of the city, Mariam took me to the Western Wall. There were plenty of people at the base of the wall praying and a sea of (obviously dressed) tourists behind those praying. Mar told me that once you walk toward the wall and before leaving the wall, it is disrespectful to turn your back directly to the wall. You must walk backwards to exit the space. There were so many clueless tourists who were unaware of the custom. Even though I am an atheist, I like to believe that I am mindful enough of my surroundings and very considerate when it comes to learning new customs. Moreover, I was extremely lucky to have Mar there to give me the inside scoop.

Additional sights visited: Herzliya, Haifa, and Nahariya.

Recommendations
Nightlife? Atlanta TLV
Iced Coffee? Aroma
Food? Ptitim (Israeli couscous), kunefe (sweet cheese pastry), laffa (tortilla-like bread), hummus, fries, schnitzel… Oh! I ate a lot of schnitzel, it’s delish!

Feel free to enjoy a few (poorly photographed) tasty foods and fun in Israel!