It is possible to read the version of my adventures here.
However, if you are after more than wanderlust, and plan to see Israel in the future, here’s everything you want to know about shopping, remaining and interacting in town Levantine-style.
Where to stay:
Jerusalem:
The Herbert Samuel
So far as hotels go, the Herbert Samuel is a superb place for a first-timer to Jerusalem, particularly if you’ve got a hectic schedule (and ours was packaged). Ithas all the amenities conducive to kicking back after a long evening of sight-seeing and’s stylish and fundamental. 
Its bijou pool is streamlined but attractively designed and accompanied by a steam and sauna room. At peak hours it had been relatively quiet and ideal for unwinding. In the suites, bathrooms are lovely; the rain shower is an exciting signature.
The highlight of my stay here has been breakfast. I don’t eat breakfast (a terrible habit, I know) but our media liaison Jason actually drove home the message that your adventure of Israeli cuisine is incomplete without viewing breakfast. So I did. And, at the Herbert Samuel, its exceptional coffee is complemented by tahini plentiful labneh and smoked fish, but also the views from the floor cafe are incredible. Beware the smoke herring. I’m told it is a delicacy, but it is definitely an acquired (read: really sour) taste!
Tel Aviv
65 Hotel Rothschild
When we stayed there A newbie on the hospitality scene, this boutique hotel was open for just two weeks. This meant it was still ironing out a few issues but, more the most part, we were oblivious to any issues. What I loved about the hotel was its quirky décor. Its neighborhood spaces downstairs and on the roof terrace are colourful and comfy while rooms are stylish, spacious and well-equipped.
Among the nicest features of this resort is that the complementary “happy hour” it transports each evening in the lobby. Here, guests may enjoy some delicious canapes with wine or soft drinks and also get to know other people. You can take drinks up to the roof terrace and enjoy views of the cityscape. It is a touch if you’re staying here and I would recommend using it.
Treasure Hunting
Jerusalem
If you are following some local togs, head to the Mahane Yehuda market in Jerusalem. The coated side of the marketplace plays host stalls offering spices, wines, halva and exotic fruits. 
However, the open-air street parallel to the covered side is where you’ll find souvenirs and clothes railings. A number of the stalls provide a variety of loose-fitting tops and skirts in patterns and intriguing prints. Look carefully and you will find a offering cheap reversible skirts. They’re unique make great gifts and layouts.
Then visit the Mamilla Mall if you’re looking for something a little more upmarket. It’s all your high street favourites but also a few luxury labels like Rolex.
Tel Aviv:
Tel Aviv is a city that is commercial, so there are tons of shopping malls such as the Ramat Aviv Mall and the Azrieli Centre. However, the principal market which everyone heads to is the Market. It is also possible to find lots of intriguing nik naks, although it is a typical neighborhood market selling food stuffs and family products. Having said that, it’s very much a locals’ market, so be ready to haggle to get the best deals! 
Dining
Jerusalem
Adom Restaurant, from the First Station, is one of the numerous pubs and restaurants you’ll discover in this railway station. Offering typical Levantine cuisine, there are lots of seating areas that are different to choose from, including outdoor seating and bigger, more intimate booths. It is a nice place to finish an evening after enjoying live entertainment in the open air performance area of the very first Station or browsing the marketplace stalls outside. Adom is a fantastic option for families, as there are lots of children’s activities available. 
Joy restaurant is one of the dining places in Jerusalem. Offering European cuisine, in addition to the Kosher cuisine that is normal, it’s a great setting for a quiet dinner date. The presentation is excellent, especially given the sharing nature of Jewish meal occasions. 
Make certain it’s Machneyuda, if you go anywhere for dessert. Probably the most hipster restaurant in Jerusalem, a team of chefs delivers with a little bit of theatre everything. Be warned, however: there is a higher risk of getting splattered in chocolate and whipped cream!
Tel Aviv
If you’re looking for an alternative to Tel Avivian cuisine the Blue Rooster restaurant at the G Tower of Tel Aviv is a great spot. The restaurant is a true gem that is hidden, not least because its romantic interiors and steel G Tower complicated and rustic surrounds are an unexpected transition in the glass. Serving a selection of fare, the restaurant features a warm, homely feel, while the variety of porcelain chickens give a quirky touch to it.
Drinking
Jerusalem
Mamilla Hotel is one of the highlights of this luxury neighbourhood and arguably the most trendy spot from town. You’re spoilt for choice here, with its dark, sixties-style “Mirror Bar”, the vaulted underground winery or the hotel’s notorious rooftop bar. This is one of my favorite spots and its panoramic views of the city are best enjoyed with a glass of chilled champagne.
HaShcena is a lively pub that sits from Machneyuda. It plays with music that is comfortable mainstream and offers a choice of beverages. It is a fantastic place to begin if you are planning on heading on to….
Mahane Yehuda night market. By day, Mahane Yehuda is your souk. It’s an unrecognisable party spot buzzing to bars that are pop up with everything from Shisha bars. Take some time to see the amazing transformation of the market.
Tel Aviv
Rothschild Boulevard, one of the connecting streets of town, becomes a heart for pop up cocktail and coffee bars in the evenings. Together with the generally warm weather of Israel, it is a relaxing way. Take a long stroll down the middle and pick a spot.
Top tips for a terrific excursion:
- Israel is an amazing destination, but still a high security one. Always carry your passport and also be ready to show evidence of your bookings and bookings both when entering and leaving the country. Plan in additional time for your ‘exit interview’ after leaving the country too, as this can take a while.
- Wear a hat! It sounds obvious, but it’s a popular state that used to be a desert (and most of it still is). So be prepared for the weather and make you use sun block. That said, it can get chilly in the evenings therefore do package a couple of layers that are light.
- Weekends in Israel are Friday and Saturday and the Majority of the community has spiritual observances during this time. This usually means that restaurants and most shops shut by early afternoon on Friday and don’t reopen until sundown on Saturday. Be sure you purchase any essentials about these hours and reserve meals at non-kosher venues in advance as restaurants and kosher pubs won’t be available.
- As many Orthodox Jews avoid using energy during the Sabbath, do not hesitate to find items like lifts and other electronic equipment in auto-mode. If you are in a building, you may end up stopping on every floor.
- Do not be alarmed if you see people in uniform walking around with guns! It is a place, even though Israel has a high police and army presence and firearms are a frequent sight. They’re there for your security and lots of the staff on duty are actually quite friendly.
Picture From:seeninthecity.co.uk
