Summary
The next morning, we rose early for breakfast in the desert and proceeded to our final destination of the trip: Tel Aviv!
Breakfast in the Desert
In Tel Aviv, our first plan revolved around one of my favorite activities – enjoying food! We embarked on a culinary journey through Carmel Market, Tel Aviv’s largest market, which offers a vast array of items, ranging from clothing and accessories to spices.
Initially, we began our day with vibrant smoothie shots, accompanied by a somewhat unusual citrus fruit, reminiscent of a large “giant lemon.” Next, we proceeded to savor my favorite dish of the afternoon: burekas.
Burekas, a traditional Turkish dish, consists of a savory stuffed pastry. When prepared fresh, as we enjoyed at the market, it is undoubtedly one of the best ways to savor this dish and one I will actively seek out in the future.
Continuing our exploration of the market, we indulged in halva, a delightful confection made from crushed sesame seeds presented in various flavors (it can also be made with flour, but our chosen sample featured sesame seeds).
Food Tour at Carmel Market
During our culinary adventure, I must confess that I have never been an enthusiastic fan of hummus. However, Lloyd is quite fond of it and would happily consume it by the bowlful. My indifference stemmed from a lack of exposure to high-quality hummus.
This perception changed dramatically that afternoon. I suspect a combination of hunger and the exceptionally fresh hummus we tasted helped me finally grasp its appeal. The establishment where we enjoyed our meal is renowned for its reputation, which likely contributed to my newfound appreciation of hummus.
Up until that point, my experiences with hummus had been limited to low-quality supermarket varieties stored for extended periods, resulting in a dull flavor in comparison to the fresh option.
In summary, I now genuinely enjoy hummus! 😀
We then transitioned to burika, which is essentially a fried dough containing potatoes and eggs served as a sandwich.
As we continued to navigate the market, it was evident that we had enjoyed a variety of tastes and flavors. Consequently, by the time we paused for a drink, I was thoroughly satiated. It was undoubtedly an excellent manner to enjoy lunch in the city while sampling some of the most exquisite dishes Tel Aviv has to offer.
Exploring Jaffa
Recognizing the impending need for exploration, we set our sights on Jaffa, an older area of the city.
Jaffa has an extensive history, incorporating medieval architecture, ancient ports, and vibrant markets. Its cultural significance is profound, featuring a rich Arab heritage alongside its well-known biblical references.
As we strolled through Jaffa, we discovered numerous street art installations that greatly contributed to the area’s artistic appeal. This aspect of Tel Aviv’s culture was astonishing, allowing for a deeper understanding of the city’s diverse artistic expression.
Following our exploration, we made a visit to the Arab-Jewish Community Center, discovering the efforts made to bridge cultural divides and foster harmony within the community. We learned valuable insights into the ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting coexistence.
In summary, our journey through Tel Aviv revealed an intricate tapestry of cultures and traditions. This experience brought to light the numerous heritages that coalesce in this vibrant city.
As the day came to a close, we capped off our evening with a delightful dinner by the harbor, sampling local dishes and enjoying the picturesque ambiance as the sun set over the city.
Our culinary adventure continued with an assortment of small dishes that truly encapsulated the essence of Israeli cuisine. Following our meal, there was a tempting offer of dessert; we relented and indulged in a variety of sweet pastries typically enjoyed in the region.
To conclude, our time in Tel Aviv was filled with enlightening experiences, showcasing the city’s unique blend of culture, architecture, and culinary delights. The communal spirit shared through the food and culture is a testament to the city’s warmth and vibrancy.
