Sorry for the late update but this is literally the first opportunity I’ve had to sit down and update the blog. Lucky for you, that means a longer post with more fun pictures for you to view!

ATTENTION: Want to ask us more about one of our activities? Hear more about a specific program? Have general questions about the awesomeness that is Israel? Comment on a post and I will be happy to respond!

But before we get into our action packed day, let’s revisit this amazing mosaic mural from yesterday commemorating the history of Tel Aviv.

We went to see an absorption center for Ethiopian Jews moving to Israel. It was great to see the support they had to help them during this difficult transition. Afterwards, we stopped for some tasty turkey shwarma. As you can see below, these things were so big that I’m pretty sure we each got an entire bird to ourselves.

Now on our way to Yokneam Megiddo (St. Louis’s sister city in Israel). Here is a new house under construction. Very cool architecture throughout the whole city.

Next we were treated to a dance performance by the local troupe. These girls are all aged between 10-13 and it was so cool seeing not only their authentic Ethiopian dances, but also how much fun they had performing for us.

We then got up and joined the girls as they taught us a few moves. See Heidi, Howie an Amy get down!

Like a chameleon, I blended right in with my lime green shirt. I am now an expert in both Ethiopian dance and making a fool of myself :)

All together for a group picture now. Peace signs!

Next was a visit to the home of Avishay Kaspi. What makes him special? He makes his own wine and liquors. What else do you need!?!? The pomegranate wine was my personal favorite. Several of us also tried the Gat (sp?) which is illegal in the states because it apparently makes you think you are an exceptionally good blogger ;) I drank several of those.

Finally we went on a patrol with the local Kibbutz security. We were looking for people trying to steal cows. They have a super high-tec thermal camera that can zoom into a single cow several miles away. Last year, 27 cows were stolen, worth more than $100,000! Don’t mind the alien in the back. After all, it IS called the Rubin Israel “Experience”.

I’ll close with a ridiculosly cool picture of Tel Aviv from the top of Melody Hotel last night. Kudos to Julia for taking the picture. Love it!

Some news and notes before I let you go.

The food here is amazing! Very fresh and tasting. I’ve been surprised with how much cheese is used. Hint: A LOT

I accidentally wore my shirt inside out for half the day.

We’ve moved on to Kibbutz Dalia. We’ll be here the next 2 nights.

Here is a link to Melody Hotel. I LOVE this hotel. In addition to the great decor and wonderful hot water pressure, the service was nothing short of fantastic. From chocolate and juice when we checked in, to a huge free breakfast, free cocktail hour with snacks and drinks included, and an attentive and nice staff, this might be the best hotel I’ve ever stayed in. Check out more great pics of the hotel here: https://www.atlas.co.il/

The sunflower seeds here are fantastic.

At one point I saw a wall and asked what it was. It was a wall.

We got to speak with kids in the Career Israel program. They spend anywhere from 5 months to a year in Israel with amazing internships. If you know a recent high school or college graduate looking for a great internship, tell them about this program. Great stuff going on there. https://www.careerisrael.com/

Until next time!

Author: Sam March