TL-46-643 Update 1

Our first 24 hours:
Although it felt like 48 hours our first day was as memorable as we could have hoped. The trip started off at the airport with plenty of time to get to know each other, and it was immediately apparent that this would be a fantastic group. The flight was a breeze, though a few unfortunate participants were unable to get even one wink of sleep. Once we landed and breathed in that exceptional Israel air, got caffeine in our system and sim cards in our phones we were off to Caesarea. There, Moran, our unparalleled guide, transported us with her words and props back to Roman times. People were especially taken by an ancient site of sacrifice which was used exclusively on the Summer solstice, June 21st, the precise day and time we were there, though luckily we all left unscathed.

Our next stop was Zichron Ya’akov for lunch and self-exploration. Most of the group migrated to the Falafel and Shawarma joints, but a lucky few got their first taste of the locally grown produce, apples, and cherries, and peaches, OH MY! After we’d had our fill (only a smidge behind schedule) we continued to the first of our accommodations, Poriya with its unparalleled view of lake Kinneret there we ate dinner – a scrumptious spread, and learned everyones favourite ice cream during an icebreakers roundtable.
The next morning, shortly after the sunrise (but still within that initial 24 hour period!) about a dozen early risers plus our “Chevreman” bus driver spent 45 minutes unbunching our sore muscles with a group yoga routine. This was easily the highlight of my day and truly made a difference when it came to dragging our tired bodies across more of Israel’s beautiful sights.4