A one-day visit to Jerusalem is not enough to even scratch the surface of all there is to see and learn about the history and culture of the old city. It’s important to work with a someone that is willing to customize the itinerary for the time allowed and the interests of the group.
Israel With Fun (IsraelWithFun.com) was a perfect Friday it. Tour guides in Israel go through a strict certification process and Daniel Sigalov , the owner of ‘Israel With Fun’ and Ejal Dujovny, the second guide for our group are both certified and did an amazing job as they guided us through our day in Jerusalem.
From a historical perspective, it was like walking back in time. Our starting point was the amazing view from the Mount of Olives and a drive that paused for an excellent traditional lunch at the Borderline restaurant (which was actually on the border line between Jerusalem and Jordan from 1949 through 1967). The menu included chicken and beef kabobs, hummus and a local rice dish that was delicious.
We continued our journey through history in the Old City of Jerusalem. I have learned to appreciate the transmitters and earphones which allowed our guides to talk without shouting and for us to hear what was being said even from a bit of a distance. Also, it was almost impossible to get lost if you kept an eye on Daniel’s distinctive yellow hat.
Our walking tour included a glimpse of the cities four quarters: The Armenian, Muslim with the Dome of The Rock located on the Temple Mount, Christian with the Church of the Holy Sepulture where it is believed Christ was crucified and buried and the Western Wall the closest retaining wall to the former temple on the Temple Mount. We also were able to walk the path of Christ down the Via Dolorosa (Way of Sorrow).
I would have liked more time to explore the myriad of shops with souvenirs, rosaries, prayer shawls and food. We barely touched the tip of the shopping iceberg. Many of the shops, that sell antiquities or nicer jewelry, are certified by the government and monitored which is a plus.
Our day’s journey into history ended at the Wailing Wall, which is a small segment of the Western Wall an ancient limestone retaining wall in the Old City of Jerusalem. Thank you, Daniel and Ejal, for an fascinating and educational visit into the past.