Sunday, January 30, 2011

Tel Aviv- Return to the White City

It was pouring in Jerusalem as I made my way down to the Sherut stand for the final leg of my journey here in Israel. Of course I was the last person to get on the 10-seated bus, meaning I had to squeeze into the back, sopping wet. I was able to forget being wet and uncomfortable though, as I enjoyed reading "The Killer" for the hour or so ride to Tel Aviv.

Unfortunately the gorgeous weather from my excursion here yesterday did not hold up. It was wet, windy, and pretty chilly. I am not going to complain though, this was nothing compared to some of the cold we were experiencing back home. Negative seventeen Fahrenheit, I mean, you can't even think in that kind of cold. After checking into my room I spent some time getting my luggage all organized for the flight tomorrow, all while listening to Josh Brolin on Inside the Actor's Studio (yes, they had that on TV) great show, that.

I didn't really have much planned today either than just rambling about some more, and why not, that is what I do best. It was kind of hard to walk along the promenade today, due to the almost gale-force winds coming off the water. Not too many people there either. I walked a little ways south to this place known as the Carmel Market. It is primarily one long street lined with stalls selling everything from fruits and veggies to little trinkets. After that I wandered into a cool residential neighborhood that had some nice apartment buildings and cafes.

After a brief rest I set out again, this time heading a little ways north. Not really too much in that direction except a nice park and some more neat apartment buildings. As dark neared I headed more towards the center of the city. The locals call this place the city that never sleeps. I guess I can see that. Even though I was out during the early evening, Tel Aviv is a really lively place, and I can imagine it being like this until all hours of the night. There are a number of night clubs, bars, and cafes here. I snagged two pieces of surprisingly good pizza and then stopped into an ice cream shop called The Iceberg (yeah, wasn't cold enough for me not to have ice cream). This particular shop was recommended by my guide book. A little expensive, but pretty damn good. A cute Ukrainian girl works there too, and we chatted for a bit.

I have to say that Tel Aviv might have replaced Istanbul has my favorite city so far. Actually, its a tough call. In terms of history and sights, Istanbul takes the cake, but for what seems like a great place to live, give me Tel Aviv. Great weather (well, I would assume most of the time at least), friendly people, a very relaxed atmosphere, numerous places to eat and drink, cool architecture. Yep, I have really enjoyed what I have seen of Tel Aviv so far.

Today was actually my last full day in country. I have a late flight tomorrow, 11:40 at night, so I have the better part of the day to look around. I will try to get the most out my last bit of time here in this great city.

Ben Gurion International may or may not have free wireless internet. If I have no post tomorrow, then I will be reporting from back at homebase.

Adam Kwiat, CNN, Tel Aviv (ok, I just really wanted to do that. Imagine me standing in front of a camera and saying that in a British or Australian accent. Pretty cool right?).













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