TL-45-96 Update 5

If you have been following #bus96, then you are aware we have had such an incredible time together. Many calling each other family and feeling close connections – and it’s just coming up to day-7 since we have known each other.

Monday we said goodbye to the Israelis. Hugs, tears, and exchanging of information. We are thankful for their time to join us for the past 4 days. After they left, we went on a Geopolitical border tour on the bus (well it was walking, driving, walking, driving)- many, I think, wanted to snooze on the bus after a long evening of our leisure night (bars, karaoke, dancing, and even a gay club). But, we walked and learned about The West Bank and the situation. Tons to continue to learn, but we are thankful to have a PhD. to guide us and share his wisdom and knowledge – this being his livelihood. A lot to take in, but gratitude we were able to learn.

This was followed by the Ella Valley Winery- tasted 6 different wines and got to purchase to bring back to for family and friends (if you don’t get some as a gift- ask your loved one!).

After the winery, we got lunch – it was nice to get food in our systems at a nice location in the city. After lunch, we visited women from the Bedouin culture to talk about life and customs. She was considered a boss lady and the participants really enjoyed her! This was followed by driving to the desert to sleep overnight in the Bedouin tent. We had a traditional Bedouin dinner (thankful for vegan and vegetarian options). The night concluded with meditation under the stars followed by a bonfire where folks laughed, sang, played guitar, danced, and played camp games. Fun times had by all!

Tuesday was an early morning! We woke up at 4am to have coffee & cake before hiking Masada (ancient mountain). We saw the sunrise and learned about the history. After that, we got to care for camels (not ride them, but let, brush, and appreciate them). Finally, we had breakfast- gosh we were hungry! This was followed by the Dead Sea (floating above the water, how cool!).  Then we had another delicious and nutritious lunch and drove to Tel Aviv. Had dinner out in the town and got to get a taste of the city. Tomorrow, we will explore Tel Aviv in more depth and get to get a taste of what life is like there. Stay tuned for our final 3 days!

With appreciation,
#Bus96, Deb & Hal (humbled North American staff)