October 20, 2013

Today was my last day of touring Israel with my dad and Debbie. The three of us were really tired and ready tog et back to Tel Aviv, after a long weekend of seeing the country and touring. On our way back to Tel Aviv, we just stopped in the old city of Safet. It is the highest city in Israel. It used to be one of the oldest and holiest cities in Israel now. Now, it has become a tourist area. Amongst the old synagogues and old Arab "shacks," there are tons of art galleries and jewelry stores and art dealers. It was fun to walk around and look at the art and jewelry. Ika, our tour guide, took us to the roof of one of the art galeries. From up there, you could see beautiful views of the Sea of Galilee (just a little bit) and the mountains and Golan Heights in Israel. It was a very interesting and old and beautiful city. We only stayed there for an hour or two and then headed back to Tel Aviv. Again, on the drive back to Tel Aviv, we drove past army bases, Palestinian areas and you could see the border fences, Arab villages, and Jewish settlements. Once we got back to Tel Aviv, it was time to relax! After saying bye and thanking Ika for the amazing weekend and touring, my dad, Debbie, and I checked into the Hilton hotel,  got ready for the beach and headed down!

This weekend with my dad and Debbie was amazing. I had a great time, seeing the WHOLE country, doing great things, and having a lot of nice family time. I am so lucky to be able to go on a trip like this and see the country basically in full. I also feel so lucky to be able to study abroad here in Israel. I am so happy with my decision!