Update from Israel #Bus259

Hello friends and family!

We have had an AMAZING first half to our Birthright experience. After a wonderful and relaxing shabbat in the kibbutz, we spent some time exploring the beautiful natural landscape of the north, with some hikes and outlooks. On Monday we made our way down to the seaside city of Haifa, where we spent the morning at an Israeli elementary school getting to learn with the kids and play a few games. After that we picked up our soldiers! Everyone had a great time getting to know each other and learning how similar we are to our new Israeli friends. We made our way that night to the lively city of Tel Aviv for a night out and made some lifelong memories together. Tuesday we had perfect weather and a perfect tour around the dynamic Tel Aviv, which included Independence Hall, a graffiti tour, and some free time at the famous Carmel market. After a long and tiring day we made our way into the Negev desert in preparation for an unforgettable sunrise hike on Masada Wednesday morning! In the desert we also enjoyed a beautiful hike in Ein Gedi, where we took some pictures by the waterfall. For lunch we went down to the Dead Sea for some good food and a dip in the lowest point on earth. We all had a great time slathering up in the mineral rich Dead Sea mud and floating in the salty water! Our final stop of the day was the Bedouin tent camp deep in the desert where we were treated to an amazing Bedouin dinner. We ended the night with some s’mores and good times around the bonfire. We woke up bright and early today to catch a ride on the camels. Afterwards we took a quick stop at Ben Gurion’s tomb to learn about the Israeli forefathers and the importance of the Negev desert. Now we are on our way for an agricultural activity to learn all about Israel’s amazing farming history and community. And then we are on our way to the historic city of Jerusalem!

Sincerely,
Bus 259