Property of the Week Sept 14, 2012 (The King David)

Shalom!

This week, since Rosh Hashana (Jewish New Year) is right around the corner, I have decided to take us to the Holy Land of Israel! 2 summers ago, I went to Israel for the first time on Birthright. Needless to say, it was one of the best experiences I've ever had. Not only did I learn so much about Jewish history, I also met amazing people who I still travel with to this day.

Israel in a Nutshell...

Israel is the size of New Jersey. We travelled pretty much the whole country in 10 days. You fly in and out of Tel-Aviv, and everything is a short bus ride away. You can do anything from a nice beach to a Kibbutz to a Bedouin Tent in the middle of the desert. It's a small country, but there is tons of things to do. Most people worry about their safety. I felt safe the whole time I was there. Although, personally, I recommend a private or guided tour so you do not have to worry about safety. Frosch has an Israel office and they keep us up to date on what is happening over there. We would never send a client to somewhere that is not safe.

Taglit-Birthright

What is Birthright? Well everyone knows what it is in NY, but here in Texas, I have to always explain it. For those of you who are unfamiliar, it is a non-profit program that aims to ensure the continuity of the Jewish people by strengthening Jewish identity, Jewish communities, and solidarity with Israel via an educational trip to Israel for young adults around the world. AKA an all expenses paid trip to Israel (including flight)! While it sounds serious and not fun...trust me, it's loads of fun. There are some somber moments, but overall, the trip is an amazing experience that we are very lucky to be able to go on. So far, since 2001, over 300,000 young adults have been given this great opportunity to go to Israel.

Where to stay??

There are so many places in Israel to visit. If you're a first timer, Jerusalem and Tel-Aviv are a must. If you can get in Eilat, even better! I would love to tell you about all of Israel and where to stay, but for times sake I must pick one. And I am chosing, the Capital of Israel, Jerusalem at The King David Hotel!

The King David, A Leading Hotel of the World amd a Dan Hotel which is Israel's leading hotel chain, is right in the center of the city. It is located directly accross the "old city" on an elevated site that has one of the most stunning views. Built in the 1920's, it has spectacular gardens, a tennis court, adults' and childrens' swimming pools, and a spa. 

This 6 storey landmark has a total of 233 guest rooms and suites. With the entry level starting at 290 sqft, you get to choose whether you would like a view of the New or Old City. They even have family rooms that are desinged for 2 adults and 2 children, which is pretty hard to find almost anywhere nowadays. The Royal Suite has panoramic views looking over the Old City walls. All suites (including four duplexes) have private terraces.

The vibe of The King David is serrene, with landscaped gardens and pine trees surrounding the city's largest pool.



On top of Masada during Sunrise



When Hunger Strikes...

The King David has 2 dining venues and 2 bars with food/snacks. The King's Garden Restaurant is one of the city's best spots for Israeli cuisine. Like any 5 star hotel, the food is wonderful. But in my opinion, I'm one for the local eateries. The must have food while over there is hummus. My friend, Kobi, who was on the trip with us and has plenty of family over in Israel, brought us to some great places. We went to this shack down a side street, had no idea where I was, and had great hummus. I did not like hummus until I went to this place. Now I am tainted forever.



Around the Area..



Western Wall



The King David is so perfectly situated in the middle of the city that you can walk anywhere, including to the Western Wall. The Old City is really something else. The architecture is unlike anything you have seen before. Everything is, well...old. Just remember, if you are going to visit the Western Wall, dress appropriately. AKA, cover your knees and shoulders. Yad Vashem should be on your list as well. It is the Holocaust museum in the outskirts of Jerusalem. Walking distance is a memorial for all the soldiers who fortfeited their lives during war (picture seen below).



Dead Sea



Other Excursions

Go to the Dead Sea! If you decide not to stay by the dead sea, you can do a day trip from Jerusalem. It is a salt lake bordering Jordan to the east and Israel and West Bank to the west. It is also the Earth's lowest elevation on land. In some parts, you can dig up mud from the bottom, which is a natural exfoliant. What is absolutely stunning, is seeing the Salt Deposits through out the sea. The water is crystal blue, and the salt immediately floats you above water. As the salt content is very high, it is not recomended you stay in for an extended period of time.



I could honestly go on and on about Israel and the places to see. It is such an incredible place and I would not hesitate to go back. The country offers so much history and you learn a lot when you are there. It always baffles my mind how much this country has gone though, and is still going through today.

On a lighter note, staying at The King David you will feel safe as well as close to the sites. It is a beautiful property that I can recommend to almost everyone. It's good for families and couples. I will be sure to stay there when I take my next trip to Israel.

Feel free to comment or email me at the address below if you need anything.

L'Shana Tova!

-Mar
golf@frosch.com

Memorial by Yad Vashem