Why You Need to Visit Israel at Least Once in Your Life

No country this small packs in as much history, culture, and geographic diversity as this one. It has a booming food and wine scene, vibrant nightlife. and incredible beaches. But the number one reason to visit is hard to put into words. It is a sacred place emanating a spiritual energy like no other. Once there, it is easy to understand why this land in particular gave birth to three major religions. These immersive activities, which you will not find on ordinary tour itineraries, will allow you to experience the land and its people in the most unique ways.

The Squadron Experience

The Squadron is the only center of its kind in the world for advanced F-16 and F-35 flight simulation. Inspired by the Israeli air force, The Squadron was created to let everyone be a pilot for one day, learn Israeli air force moves and experience the insightful experience of flying a fighter jet from former Israeli Army pilots. The simulators in The Squadron are the most advanced of their type in the world and bring you as close to a real-life experience of the real thing as possible. It includes interactions with the ground control and other wingmen, collecting real time data which will enable a full understanding of what happens, and will give you a complete and full debriefing of the flight. The Squadron is a great adrenaline-rush activity to augment your tour to Israel. It is exciting and fun, and not only among flight buffs. The activity includes: wearing flight suits; a short review about the challenges in the Middle East; a briefing for the flight; a flight in the F16 simulator; and a professional debriefing of the flight.

Genesis Land and Abraham’s Tent

Genesis Land is situated in the heart of the Judean desert, on the way to the Dead Sea, in the land where the Patriarchs lived. A magical place, it enables visitors to experience life as it was in biblical times. Visitors to Genesis Land are greeted by Eliezer, Abraham’s manservant, and by a train of camels which lead you down to Abraham’s tent, where you will experience his legendary hospitality. Fresh Pita making and Shepherding are among the different workshops offered, as well as meals and other activities. The hospitality is fantastic. Either sit on the ground or in a chair. “Abraham” tells you about the area and makes you feel at home. There are no words to describe the food. Enjoy vegetables, wonderful hummus, fresh pita bread, date honey chicken (out of this world), meatballs and rice, dried fruit. You never run out of anything, staff continually brings food to your table. Everybody is nice, friendly and nobody leaves hungry. Stop by the gift store and bring home date honey and email for their recipe they will send back immediately. The scenery is one of the most beautiful in the area. There are two benches that face out over the hilly terrain and looking at God’s handiwork is amazing. At Genesis Land, the stories of the Bible come to life in the very landscape in which they took place.

Yvel Jewelry Design Center and School

Yvel is an international luxury jewelry brand that features a variety of expensive and unique natural resources in its designs. The center’s main exhibition hall includes collector’s jewelry and expensive pearls alongside jewelry pieces for gifts and special designs for the Israeli public. The brand has won international design awards for its outstanding designs and creations. Yvel Design Center invites visitors to participate in a guided tour around the company’s factory. During the tour, visitors will learn about the process of making jewelry. Visitors will also get a chance to appreciate the latest designs and see where the magic happens. In addition, participants will visit Megemeria School of Jewelry & Art for members of the Ethiopian community in Israel. The school was established as a social-business venture and it promotes values of Zionism, social action, and giving back to the community.

The Ramparts Walk

The Ramparts Walk in the Old City of Jerusalem is a gem hidden from locals and tourists alike. Hard to find, the Ramparts Walk is one of the most rewarding activities in terms of history, beauty and a greater sense of the Old City as a whole. Not only to you get to peek in places you’d never see otherwise – like the cloistered Armenian compound – but you also get a stunning view of the areas outside the walls. You get a unique look, especially in the Muslim Quarter, at how people live inside the city. From the top of the wall, you can see the 1948 border with Jordan.

Jerusalem Festival of Light

This unique festival takes place every June and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from Israel and abroad who stroll the picturesque lanes of Jerusalem’s Old City taking in its enchanted ambiance while its walls and cobblestone streets are illuminated with an amazing variety of modern light art installations created by local and international artists. The juxtaposition of the historic Old City with innovative and captivating artwork is a sight to behold.

May you have happy travels!