Spring has bloomed and culture vultures the world over are seeking out their next summer travel spot. With its Middle Eastern spice, stylish art and food scene and glorious stretches of Meditteranean coast, here are just a few reasons to book a ticket to Tel Aviv.
The Food
You cannot walk a bustling Tel Avivian street without coming upon yet another foodie hotspot. The young country is slowly cultivating a lively, rich and nuanced food culture. Israeli food is fresh, spiced and made to share with loved ones. Hummus is not merely a local dip, but a lifestyle, spooned into a bowl, drizzled with olive oil and enjoyed with a freshly-made pita. The city is also a vegan haven. You will not find a menu that doesn’t offer a selection of health and eco-conscious options.
The Beaches
Tel Aviv is a beach city. Each weekend, crowds of tanned, beach-bodied residents head out to the coast to tan, read, listen to music and play the eternally-loved city sport of ‘matkot,’ known commonly by the English tongue as beach bats. The sand is fine, the water has that irresistible Meditteranean warmth and the surrounding buildings give the seaside space a chic, urban edge.
The Art
The Israeli city is known as a hub of creative, artistic and bohemian activity. From improv Jazz nights to art fairs and gallery openings, each day is an opportunity to indulge in the thriving artsy scene. Our recommendations? The iconic Tel Aviv Art Museum, the Sommer Contemporary Art Gallery and Jaffa’s Ilana Goor Museum.
The Architecture
After the war struck Germany in the early 1930s, a host of internationally renowned architects fled to Tel Aviv to escape persecution. As a result, the city is home to the largest number of buildings in the Bauhaus, International Style than any other in the world. Walk the streets and be visually enthralled by the style’s sweeping lines, clean angles, pastel palette and sharp urban form.
The Tech
Amidst the fun and folly of the city, is a host of the world’s most advanced and innovative hi-tech companies. Tel Aviv is known as the Middle East’s answer to Silicon Valley. If you’re looking for an app to invest in, a new creative endeavor to take or on, or a chance to learn more about the tech savvy of the locals, make your trip a balance of business and pleasure.
The People
Israelis may be known as a harsh people but residents of this city possess a unique warmth. Yes, the culture might be a little difficult to palate for European visitors but the brashness of the Israeli tongue is softened by a spectacular openness, generosity and acceptance of traveling tourists. Be kind, be bold, toughen up and make yourself some new friends.
