Whether you're Jewish or not, everyone should at least consider going to Israel at some point in their lives. Small yet teeming with life (and often misunderstood), the Holy Land is the perfect place to vacation, reconnect with your religion or learn more about the Middle East—alone or with family.
1. Historical Religious Sites
The Western Wall in Jerusalem is arguably the world’s holiest site for the Jewish people, since it is the last remaining wall supporting the Temple Mount. The site is frequented daily by thousands of people who scribble messages and prayers on scraps of paper. They then shove them into tiny crevices in the actual wall in hopes that God will read and grant their wishes.
Jerusalem is also home to the Garden Tomb, which is where Jesus is believed to have been placed after he died on the cross. As a result, this ancient city is also a vital one for Christians wishing to reconnect with their faith.
The Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem is the third holiest site in Islam, located on the same site as the Dome of the Rock. The Dome of the Rock is holy to Muslims because it was built over a sacred stone, which is where Muslims believe the Prophet Muhammad left Earth to go to heaven in the 7th Century.
2. Beaches
Of Trip Advisor’s “Top 10 Beaches in the Middle East—2016”, three are located in Israel. The water is warm and calm, and the white sand is invitingly warm. Coastal cities like Tel-Aviv and Haifa are sure to satisfy the surfer, diver or swimmer in you.
3. Nightlife
With warm weather year-round, gorgeous beaches, and a laid-back, hedonistic vibe, it’s no surprise that Tel-Aviv is consistently ranked as the “party capital” of the Middle East. If you’re 18 or older, you could start out watching the sunset on shore, drinking a cold beer as your toes push through the sand. Once it gets dark, move on to one of the many bars or pubs the city has to offer. Then, if you’re still itching for something to do, you could visit one the city's clubs (which usually only get going around two in the morning)!
4. LGBT Rights
Israel is one of the most LGBT-friendly countries in the world—not just in the Middle East. Same-sex sexual activity was legalized in 1988. Discrimination based on sexual orientation was prohibited shortly after, in 1992. Albeit same-sex marriage has not yet been implemented in the Israel, the country recognizes same-sex marriages performed elsewhere. Furthermore, homosexuals are openly permitted to serve in the military.
5. Food
Israeli food can best be described as a constantly-evolving mixture of Arab and Jewish, Eastern European and North African, religious and secular. Whether you keep Kosher or not, you’re bound to find something you love. Although Falafel is slightly more popular, I prefer to eat Shawarma, which is a dish similar to the gyro. Usually, lamb, chicken or turkey is placed on a vertical spit and may be grilled for as long as a day. Shavings are cut off the block of meat for serving, and the remainder of the block of meat is kept heated on the rotating spit. Shawarma is usually served in a pita with toppings like tahini, hummus, red cabbage and pickles.
6. The Dead Sea
Israel is home to the Dead Sea, which is the lowest place on Earth. The water there is so heavily concentrated with salt (which is denser than regular water) that you float due to the differences in density. Although you must be careful not to splash the water into your eyes, floating in the Dead Sea is a relaxing experience that is also good for your skin. Many people also lather themselves with the mud from the shore, which is known to have excellent healing properties.
7. Desert Fun
The Negev desert in southern Israel is the perfect meeting of a beautiful, tranquil landscape and action-packed outdoor activities. In this wild and remote landscape, you can hop onto an ATV—or even on the back of a horse or camel—to enjoy the spectacular views. Any of these activities (and surprisingly, the third) are likely to satisfy the thrill-seeker in you.
8. Safety
Above all, Israel is safe. There is a misconception that Israel is this war-torn country that should best be avoided. I won’t claim that it is unfounded because we often hear about terror attacks from the media. Nevertheless, whenever someone asks me what Israel is like in terms of safety, I relate it to America—if you feel safe here, you would honestly feel safe there.
Israelis are generally a friendly and fun-loving people who hate violence and take great pleasure in introducing their beloved nation to foreigners. Go visit—you might be surprised!
