As a travel writer, I am frequently asked, “What is my favorite destination?” After visiting Israel four times, I can proudly respond by saying—Israel. After our first visit in 1993, I couldn’t wait to return. Months after my latest visit in May 2022, I have the same sentiments. While each of our trips have been jam packed with adventures, I always wish we could have squeezed in a bit more.
I am proud to share 12 published stories highlighting various aspects of our 2022 trip. This is the most I have ever written about a destination. The stories were published in a variety of publications and also showcase our Israel My Way itinerary which was guided by Eric Tomer, as well as a few experiences from prior trips arranged by Jacob Firsel.
Accommodations
If your budget includes luxury accommodations, consider reading about the conveniently located Mamilla Hotel in Jerusalem, the tranquil Mitzpe Hayamim in the Galilee, The Norman, a sophisticated boutique hotel, in Tel Aviv, and the spectacular Beresheet Resort in the Negev.
THE COMPASS: Experience Israel While Staying at Four Luxury Hotels
This story story offers an overview of the four hotels.
WANDER WITH WONDER: Relax at the Mitzpe Hayamim While Exploring Israel
In addition to focusing on Mitzpe Hayamim, I share some of the places we visited in Northern Israel.
WANDER WITH WONDER: Unwind at the Beresheet in the Negev Desert in Israel
If you love desert resorts with hiking opportunities and jeep rides, read about what you can experience at the Beresheet.
Places to Experience
During our 12 day adventure, we divided our time between Jerusalem, the Coastal Region, the Galilee, the Golan, Tel Aviv, the area adjacent to the Gaza Strip, and the Negev. While time did not permit coverage of every aspect of our trip, I wrote about most of the memorable events.
WANDER MAGAZINE: Transformative Experiences: Travel Through Israel’s Mystical Landscape
From Jerusalem to Hebron, to Tzfat, to the Golan to the ANU-Museum of the Jewish People to Sderot, to the Negev, I describe how each impacted me.
KUHL BORN IN THE MOUNTAINS BLOG: Trekking Across Israel’s Diverse Terrain
First time visitors to Israel will be amazed by the diverse terrain that they will encounter when they take a comprehensive tour covering multiple regions.
TRAVEL AWAITS: Why it was Important We Visited This One Place in Israel
It wasn’t until my fourth trip that Ira and I included a stop in Hebron on our itinerary. While many avoid this controversial place, read this story to see why I feel it is important to visit.
WANDERING EDUCATOR: History Comes Alive at Israel’s ANU Museum
If you want to learn more about Jewish culture and history, this is the place. If you are a life long learner, make sure you set aside sufficient time to visit this gem in Tel Aviv.
Delicious Foods to Taste
TRAVEL AWAITS: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Unique Cooking Class in Israel
After taking this Druze cooking class in Galilee home, Ira and I have a better appreciation of Middle Eastern cooking and Druze traditions. We can’t wait to participate in another cooking class in a foreign destination.
TRAVEL AWAITS: The Unique Culinary Tour Not to Miss in Jerusalem
If you find yourself in Jerusalem, don’t forget to include a walk through Mechaneh Yehuda Market (The Shuk). To heighten your understanding of Israel’s culinary scene, Ira and I recommend taking one of Roi Damari’s tours.
TRAVEL AWAITS: Why Breakfast is Key When Visiting Israel, And My 4 Favorite Places to Indulge
Most hotels in Israel include amazing breakfast buffets. I share a few of our recent experiences.
TRAVEL WORLD INTERNATIONAL: The Bountiful Culinary Options of Israel
If you are a foodies, you’ll love the amazing food options throughout Israel. This is a sampling of what we experienced.
Recommendation for a Travel Hat
Looking for a Versatile Travel Hat—Try a Wallaroo Seaside Hat
It’s not easy to find a quality travel hat that is packable, washable, and cute. Check out this option that I wore throughout Israel.
BIO
When Sandy isn’t trekking or writing in the Colorado Rockies, she is traveling. She has visited more than 50 countries and lived as an international teacher in Bangalore, India. Sandy’s award-winning book, May This Be the Best Year of Your Life, is a resource for people contemplating an expat lifestyle and living outside their comfort zone. Sandy’s second book, 100 Things to Do in Boulder Before You Die was published in September 2022.
Sandy shares her lifestyle and travel experiences with international and domestic online sites and print media. Her stories have appeared in Travel Awaits, Wander with Wonder, Compass, Arvada Lifestyle, Hemispheres, Destinations Magazine, KUHL’s Born in the Mountain blog, Grand Magazine, Wandering Educators, Golden Living, One Travel, Miles Away, Canadian Jewish News, Getting On Travel, Far and Wide, Colorado Parent, Traveler Confidential, Family Circle- Momster, and others.
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