Israel is a country in the Middle East and Asia along the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea. 75% of the population practice Judaism. Below are the top 5 things to do in Israel.
#1: Hiking in the Negev Desert-
The magical desert looks different every time you look into it and is well known for its natural and unique beauty. The sunset and sunrise are stunning. I cannot even put how I felt into words or capture how magical the view truly is. I will post a photo; however, it is not as good as the real thing. The view is 1,000 times more beautiful and a million times more powerful in real life. I bet you have never seen a more stunning night sky. The best things to do in the desert are to hike En Avedat, ascend Masada, go camping, and stargaze. En Avedat is a beautiful hiking trail home to waterfalls in the heart of the Negev south of Kibbutz She Boker.
The Dead Sea is located along the border between Israel and Jordan and is also known as the sea of salt, as no fish can survive in the salty water. One can float naturally in the Dead Sea due to the salty water. The Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth!
#3: Stroll along the Old City of Jaffa and swim at the beaches in Tel Aviv!
Tel Aviv is the cultural capital of Israel and is home to beaches and the Old City of Jaffa. The Tayelet runs between the beach and Jaffa, which has plenty of cafes and restaurants.
Beaches: The best beaches are Gordon Beach, Frishman Beach, and Banana Beach.
Old City of Jaffa: Strolling along the Old City of Jaffa is a must-see activity if you are ever in Israel. You will find preserved acropolis remains, stone architecture, a flea market, artisan stores, and an old port. The old-fashioned charm is surreal.
#4: Jerusalem-
Jerusalem is divided into the Old City and the New City. The old city has narrow passageways, tearooms, and historical sites. There are various cultures and religions nearby in Jerusalem. It is one of the world’s most sought-after places. The old city of Jerusalem is home to the Mahane Yehuda market and the Old City Bazaar, selling everything from Middle Eastern spices to clothing. We recommend going to the Temple Mount, the Tower of David’s Museum, the Holocaust Museum, and the Western Wall in Jerusalem.
The Western Wall is a holy site for religious people. For Jews, it is a palace of prayer. Although Jerusalem has been rebuilt 9 times, the wall has stayed intact. The cracks in the walls have notes expressing prayers. It is like a mailbox to God. Locals come to pray on Fridays for Shabbat.
Have you ever been to Israel? Please comment below about your experience.
Ancient Egypt has one of the longest histories of any country in the world. It used to be ruled by pharaohs. Egypt is a Mediterranean country bordered by Israel and the Gaza strip. Below are 25 things to do in Egypt.
Fun Facts:
The population in Egypt is over 100 million people
Egypt has two seasons: Winter and Summer
Egyptian pyramids are tombs
Slaves didn’t build the pyramids in Egypt
The afterlife was very important to ancient Egyptians
Egyptians valued mummification
The Egyptians believed that not everyone could enter the afterlife
Tips to Know Before Traveling to Egypt:
Visa: If you are traveling from the U.S., you need a Visa to visit Egypt. You can apply for one in advance or before boarding. The Visa costs $25.00. The Visa will last you for 30 days.
Outlet: Egypt uses European plugs
Safety: Egypt is a safe country to visit
Money: The currency is the Egyptian Pound
Packing: Pack lightweight clothing
Things to Do: Visit the Pyramids of Giza, Explore Cairo, Egypt Nile Cruise, Abu Simbel, Luxor, West Bank of the Nile, Tomb of Tausert
The best thing to do in Egypt is to visit the great pyramid of Giza because it is the last standing man-made wonder of the ancient world. The pyramids are on the western side of the river Nile. Near the pyramids, you will find the Great Sphinx of Giza. The Great Sphinx of Giza is a sphinx statue with a head of a hum and a lion’s body. It is the largest and oldest sculpture in the world. You can ride a camel at sunset or go horseback riding near the pyramids.
2- Visit the Karnak Temples–
Karnak Temples
The Karnak Temples, north of Luxor, serve as a place of worship for the ancient Thebans of Egypt. Most people see the location as a stunning monument; however, historians understand its true eminence.
3- Abu Simbel Temples–
Abu Simbel Temples
Take a day tour to see the Abu Simbel Temples. These are some of the most unique, ancient structures in the world. The temples were built back in the 13th century BC. Aside from the temples, you will also find twelve statues that represent the pharaoh in his defied form.
4- Stroll Along the Waterfront Promenade at Corniche, Alexandria-
In Alexandria, you’ll find a stunning waterfront promenade that offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.
5- Swim at the Salt Pools at Siwa Oasis–
The Siwa Oasis is near the Libyan border and is famous for its Berber culture and massive olive plantations. The desert settlement has a Berber temple and is a fascinating place to visit. Also, don’t forget to swim at the salt pools!
6- Valley of the Kings-
The Valley of the Kings is home to 63 tombs of different rulers, queens, and pharaohs starting from Thutmose 1 with Ramses X1.
7- Avenue of Sphinxes-
The Avenue of Sphinxes is a commercial site in Luxor and is home to one thousand and fifty sphinx statues connected Karnak and the temples of Luxor.
8-Pompey’s Pillar-
This historical site is on the Clark and Lewis National Historic Trail.
– Did you know? The Red Sea coast of Egypt is famous for the town of Hurghada. This is where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters and sandy shores.
10- Go Camel Riding at Sunset in Giza-
Giza is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world and what better way to see it than to hire a camel for a one-to-two-hour adventure? The best time to witness the golden sand and pyramids is at sunset.
11- Sail on an Egypt Nile River Cruise-
Sailing over the beautiful Nile is a super relaxing thing to do. The cruise provides amazing views of how both the city of Luxor and Aswan sparkle at night.
12- Hike to the Top of Mt. Sinai-
Mt. Sinai is famous for being the location where Moses received the ten commandments from God. The hike is easy, and the rugged hills make for an incredible experience.
13- Cairo Tower-
The best view of Cairo is from the Cairo Tower. Cairo Tower is the tallest free-standing structure in North Africa. It is known for its revolving restaurant and observation deck at the top of the tower.
14- Fjord Bay and Saladin Citadel in Taba-
The Fjord Bay is one of the best spots to go snorkeling because of the unforgettable scenery and coral reefs. You can also go for a swim or go fishing.
15- Rock Formation on the Sinai Peninsula-
This colorful canyon is one of the most exciting things to do in Egypt.
Museums:
16- Take a Guided Tour through Egyptian Museums-
The best museum to visit is entitled the Egyptian Museum in Cairo because there are actual mummies to witness and 165,000 other artifacts.
17- Egypt Papyrus Museum-
Learn more about Egyptian history and culture by visiting the Egypt Papyrus Museum. Here you will find thousands of ancient Egypt artifacts.
18- Visit the Royal Jewelry Museum in Alexandria–
This museum will give you a glimpse of the Egyptians’ valuable treasures. The Royal Jewelry Museum is the largest museum in Egypt, where you will find everything from golden watches to clocks.
19- Visit Tamr Hena Museum–
The Tamr Hena Museum was influenced by the Egyptian, Greek, and Roman Empires over the years. The museum is rich in culture and history and is among some of the best things to do in Alexandria, Egypt.
20- Explore Luxor Temple and Museum-
Luxor Temple and Museum
The Luxor Temple has a beautiful view during the day and night because it lights up. The impressive temple is well-preserved with a large number of structures and carvings.
21- Mummification Museum-
If you want to know more about the mummification process, then a visit to this museum is for you.
22- Karnak Open Air Museum-
If you wish to know about how people lived in the bygone years, then a trip to this open-air archaeological museum features hidden or buried structures inside the huge towers.
Shopping:
23- Buy Souvenirs at Khan El-Khalili Bazaar-
Find eye-catching souvenirs and home decor items along the narrow cobblestone streets of Khan El-Khalili Bazaar.
24- Shop for Leather and Perfumes at the Islamic Cairo-
In Central Cairo, you will find the oldest shopping center in the entire world, where you can buy jewelry, leather bags, perfumes, and even Egyptian spices.
Gardens:
25- Visit Al-Andalus Garden–
The Al-Andalus Garden is a beautiful botanical garden on the banks of the river Nile. You’ll find fountains, plants, well-preserved structures, and statues. The statues are of Pharaohs, lions, and the Egyptian poet Ahmed Shawky.
Have you ever been to Egypt? We listed 25 things to do in Egypt. Please comment down below about your experience!
The Negev Desert is a hidden gem in the southern region of Israel, covering over half of Israel’s total land. More and more tourists from all over the world have discovered this magical destination in recent years. Did you know that the Negev was named one of Lonely Planet’s TOP World Regions to visit!? Below are 6 reasons to visit the Negev Desert!
My Experience:
Background:
My mom is from Tel Aviv, Israel, and moved to America in her early twenties with her sister. She wanted to go home again to Israel, but she met my father and had four beautiful daughters.
Our Trip:
My mother and I visited the stunning spiritual desert in November of 2016. We came back to visit the holy land to see family. We stayed at my Uncle Natan’s. He is happily married to four beautiful girls, built his own home, and owns a pizza shop. It was a magical experience because the desert was peaceful and the people who made it so special.
Reason #1:There are TONS of Hiking Trails in Negev Desert
The Negev consists of countless trails that are marked very well. All hikes are accessible through either a bus or a car. My favorite hike I highly recommend was En Avedat National Park. This beautiful hiking trail contains waterfalls and is in the heart of the Negev south of Kibbutz She Boker.
Reason #2:Extremely Cheap
Since hiking is safe and accessible in the desert, you do not need a tour guide.
Reason #3:The Weather is AMAZING
The weather is perfect for hiking year-round!
Reason #4:Spiritual Experience
There is something about looking into the landscape without any trees or plants covering it. It’s just you. Some people say they can only hear themselves, while others say they hear god. Most people come to see the beautiful views with questions about their problems. However, once they see these breathtaking mountains that have been around for long before we even existed, they soon realize that their challenges are not as big as they seem. They are quite small.
Reason #5:Cultural Experience
Exploring the desert is truly a cultural experience, as the Nabateans and Romans once roamed the land to the Bedouins today. The desert also has interesting historical sites relating to the history of Israel.
#1: Timna National Park has the world’s oldest copper mines.
#2: Kibbutz Sde Boker- House of David Ben Gurion, Israel’s first prime minister
#3: Shivta- Shivta is a preserved ancient Nabatean City across the border in Jordan. This place has never been conquered or destroyed.
Reason #6:Natural Beauty.
The magical desert looks different every time you look into it and is well known for its natural and unique beauty. The sunset and sunrise are stunning. I will post a photo; however, it is not as good as the real thing. The view was 1,000 times more beautiful and a million times more powerful in real life. I bet you have never seen a more stunning night sky.
Reason #7:There ARE more things to do than you think
Ride a Camel-
A camel ride is a great way to savor the scenery and experience the Negev Desert from a different perspective. Book your camel riding experience!
Meet an Alpaca-
The Alpaca farm contains over 400 llamas and alpacas. The farm is near Mitzpeh Ramon. Kids can pet, feed, and even ride the animals.
Biking Trails-
There are countless cycling routes in the Negev! There are routes suitable if you are looking for a real terrain challenge or a more leisurely experience.
Stargazing-
The view of the stars at night is unbelievable, as there are no artificial lights in the area. Every star and constellation shines brightly. Stargazing is a beautiful, relaxing, peaceful, and spiritual experience.
Hike Masada-
The unique fortress is one of Israel’s most visited sites. This ancient rock plateau is famous for housing a fortress built by King Herod the Great. This site is known for the legendary tale of Jewish rebels who committed mass suicide rather than surrender to the Romans. Book a tour to ride a camel, hike Masada, and swim in the dead sea!
Mud Houses-
There are Mediterranean Mud houses built on the Kibbutz tael Israel by our family friends. The friendly homeowners made their homes look comfortable with lovely showers. Did you know you can stay in one of these mud houses and enjoy a FREE breakfast?
Dead Sea-
The Dead Sea is located along the border between Israel and Jordan and is also known as the sea of salt, as no fish can survive in the salty water. One can float naturally in the Dead Sea due to the salty water. FUN FACT: The Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth!
Go Camping-
I highly recommend camping in the desert because it is peaceful. I went camping in the desert on the birthright trip with my sister, Danielle, in 2013. The company has tents set up for sleeping with rugs and mattresses. They have bonfires and the main tent for breakfast and dinner. The place is isolated and relaxing.
If you LOVED this blog post, please let me know in the comment section below. We wrote 6 reasons to visit the Negev Desert! Have you ever been to the Negev Desert?
