Travel: Israel — Spirituality, Adventure, and Relaxation.

Travel: Israel — Spirituality, Adventure, and Relaxation.
by Marcela Marenco

First of all, if you want to take care of your spiritual needs, what better place? Jerusalem is home to three main religions, and its buildings are proof of it. The Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Dome of the Rock, and the al-Aqsa mosque, are a few examples that will, without a doubt, solidify the stories that until now are only part of a Holy Book for most people. If you feel these places are too busy for meditation, walk up to the Mount of Olives just outside the old city, where you will find peace by admiring the sacred sites that surround you. Religion and culture and are tightly entwined, so even though you might not be a follower of any particular faith, it is truly amazing to stand on soil that has provided so much history and guidance to the world.
If your trip must involve adventure and relaxation, you can drive to Eilat, passing through the Negev, a marvelous rocky desert filled with canyons and extraordinary views. Eilat, at the beginning of the Sinai Peninsula and on the Gulf of Aqaba, is a resort area where tourists enjoy water sports, hiking, wild jeep tours, and exciting camel treks. If we talk about relaxation, we cannot forget the Dead Sea. The lowest place on earth and the saltiest body of water, it is famous for its healing, rehabilitation, and beauty treatments. One option to enjoy this area is to book a Dead-Sea Spa package, and if you want to add more excitement, a hike at the Qumran, about a mile from the northwestern shore, will be an unforgettable experience. One caveat: follow the safety procedures that might be applicable during your stay. Places I suggest:
The American Colony Hotel in Jerusalem (www.americancolony.com). You will love the location, the history of the place, and the service. Just a tip: Do not tell “friendly” vendors you are staying there since prices will hike in a second!
If you are looking for something more affordable, a new boutique hotel called Harmony, in the heart of Jerusalem, has wonderful reviews on service and location. Tel: 972-2-6219999.
There are very few hotels that have direct access to the Dead Sea, and from them, the Hod Hotel (www.hodhotel.co.il/english/index.html) and the Lot Spa Hotel (www.lothotel.co.il) prove to be, according to the reviews, above the big-chain resorts that are far from the beach and do not provide the expected service for the price.
In Eilat, on the beach, the Rimonim Eilat (www.rimonim.com) offers guests a beautiful view, good service, and recently remodeled accommodations that beat prices of nearby resorts.
If you do not mind being far from the beach, Cactus B&B (www.cactuseilat.com) is a good option that will offer the comfort and relaxation you want.