World Travel Guide

City Guide  - Tel Aviv  - Excursions
Excursions

For a Half Day

Bethlehem: Situated three kilometres (0.5 miles) from Jerusalem, the site of the nativity is only one hour from Tel Aviv by bus. The town's key attraction is the Church of the Nativity on Manger Square, located in the centre of the town. Built like a citadel over the cave where it is believed the stable where Jesus was born was located, this is one of the world's oldest working churches. The church is open to visitors daily 0700-1800 and admission is free. Visitors must wear suitable clothing (no shorts or short sleeves). Situated on the north of Manger Square is the Bethlehem Museum, which exhibits traditional Palestinian crafts. Also worth visiting is the sacred shrine of Rachel's Tomb, which is situated at the intersection of Hebron Road and Manger Street. Egged Tlalim Tours offer a half-day tour, departing daily at 0800 from 59 Ben Yehuda Street, Tel Aviv and costing NIS110.

For a Whole Day

Masada:
When planned effectively, the Dead Sea Region can be sampled in just one day, beginning at Masada (Hebrew for 'fortress'). This ruined mountaintop in the desert has become a potent symbol for the state of Israel, as it was the scene of the last heroic Jewish resistance against the Romans. The group of Jewish zealots who had fled to Masada realised that they faced imminent defeat and, rather than surrender, all 967 men, women and children committed suicide. Visitors to Masada can take advantage of the early opening hours (0430) to climb to the summit in time to watch the sunrise over the Dead Sea and Jordanian Heights. The Snake Path is the most accessible path to the top, and can be tackled in a short but steep climb on foot in approximately 50 minutes.

Dead Sea:
Floating in the Dead Sea is an unrivalled experience worth sampling. The Dead Sea is, in reality, a lake some 80km (50 miles) in length and situated at 395m (1300ft) below sea level. The mineral-rich waters have been proven to help in the treatment of skin conditions. Visitors are advised not to splash water into their eyes' as it can be extremely painful. The best places to bathe are at close proximity to showering facilities, so as to be able to wash off the thick residue of salt deposits left behind on the body. The beaches of Ein Bokek, by the main hotel area, and at Hamme Zohar, a little further south, are recommended.

Ein Geidi:
This lush area of freshwater springs, waterfalls and tropical vegetation is one of the country's most attractive oases. The area is spread over four kilometres (2.5 miles) and is served by four bus stops. The Ein Geidi Spa (tel: (07) 659 4760 or 4813; fax: (07) 658 4137; e-mail: ein-gedi@doryanet.co.il; web site: www.doryanet.co.il/ein-gedi/default.html or www.inisrael.com/eingedi/spa.htm) is probably the best place for experiencing the sea's health-giving qualities. The nature reserves, youth hostel and field study centre are to the north of road.

Egged Bus Company
offers a one-day tour covering the whole of the Dead Sea Region, departing daily at 0800 from 59 Ben Yehuda Street, at a cost of NIS272.



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