We experienced an eye opening discussion with security analyst Avi Melamid. He talked to us and answered questions about Israel’s past and most recent security issues. Definitely an eye opening discussion and the view was great too.
The road to Jerusalem was full of anticipation. All of the trip has been wonderful, but the thought of finally experiencing Jerusalem was surreal. You knew we were approaching Jerusalem as the terrain began to change drastically. Ricki Rosen passed out a blessing for us to recite as we were approaching the city.
Upon arriving to Jerusalem we met with Ruth Yudkowitz, local chef and Machane Yehuda expert. Machane Yehuda is a local market where you see a mass variety of foods to buy fresh. IT WAS CROWDED! The fast approach of Rosh Hashanah had brought a lot of people to Jerusalem to shop. We were all given grocery lists and some money and told to buy what we need for Shabbat dinner. It was a great experience to feel the rush of getting ready for Shabbat. Ruth took us back to her home to prepare Shabbat dinner, Israeli style!
The Wall is such a personal experience for each person. Our guide Dovev and Mindee knew that. They knew it was our first time to see it. The rush to get there on Shabbat was an experience in itself. Then Dovev and Mindee had us close our eyes, walk up some stair, grab a railing and look over. The sight and sound of the prayers were amazing. Going to The Wall on Shabbat was experience none of us will forget.
We then walked back to Ruth’s to eat the Shabbat Dinner we helped prepare. As you can see, she made everything beautiful for us. Shabbat in Jerusalem was definitely a highlight of the trip. The empty streets, closed shops and people walking the city for just enjoyment was truly peaceful.