Really making the most of our final few days in Israel, we left Haifa for Tel Aviv, but not before a drive up to the Northwestern-most point of Israel -- Rosh Hanikra -- right on the Lebanese border. These naturally-carved grottoes were dug out of the limestone and chalkstone by the Mediterranean Sea over millions of years. One might wonder if the water still effects this area today... from personal testimony of one who was smashed with a wall of water, I would say "yes." Debbie lost her pedometer to the sea here as well; and both Wally and Jessica had to dance around in order to avoid the rush of water that came running along the cave floor (like a mini flash-flood). I've been to this spot many times (one of my favorite spots in all of Israel), and only once before had the sea been this active. A truly magnificent stop to get our morning going.
I know we all look a bit chilly in the third picture, but I am happy to say that yesterday was really the chilliest day we've had. Today it was again back in the upper-70's and sunny.
From here we drove only about 20 minutes to the ancient ruins of Akko (also sometimes called "Acre"). A fascinating place on the water's-edge dating back to the time of the Crusader period, and used by the Knights Templar (among others) as part of the Crusades. In addition, this fortress was also used as a prison by the British in the earliest part of the 20th-century. A fascinating piece of history... and an on-going active excavation site. We also had a chance to walk through the Arab bazaar in Akko and enjoy some very interesting and exciting sights, smells, and tastes...
On to the Tishby winery -- a 100 year old family-owned winery making strictly kosher reds, whites, and ports. While not really on the level of "fine wines" the experience of tasting their products was certainly a great deal of fun, and wonderful way to share the afternoon as a group.
And finally, a brief visit to Cesarea and the ancient Roman hippodrome. A great way to end the day, watching the sun setting over the Sea and posing for a fun picture on a metal artist's rendering of a horse and chariot...
A magnificent way to end our day of touring. The group went separate ways for dinner. Six of us walked 20 minutes to Old Jaffa for a wonderful dinner at a restaurant called "Aladin". Here's what was left after picking through a whole Sea Bream fish:
I must say that this one belonged to Ken. However, my plate looked just the same. Happy plate...happy belly!
Nothing left to do but walk back to the hotel and go to sleep...
Laila Tov! (Good night!),
Rabbi Jeffrey Astrachan
No comments:
Post a Comment