Israel is the Mediterranean country you never dreamed of visiting. The Mediterranean stretches further than the European mainland, reaching the African and Middle-Eastern coasts. Tel Aviv boasts long sandy beaches, over 300 days of sunshine, the oldest port in the world, a thriving nightlife and amazing cuisine! We’re really excited to be heading to Israel this September and here are our top reasons why you also need to visit Tel Aviv this year!
Eurovision
Tel Aviv is the host of the Eurovision Song Contest this year! Whilst I still don’t quite know how us Australians managed to become part of Eurovision, we still get excited to watch it and cheer on our Aussie participant each year! This year Kate Miller-Heidke will be representing Australia and while it is unlikely the Eurovision 2019 odds will go in our favour, we will still be watching and cheering her on! It would be even more amazing to soak up the Eurovision atmosphere in Tel Aviv itself!
Beaches
The city has beautiful, long stretches of sandy beaches facing the Mediterranean Sea. There’s a beach for everyone, with family friendly beaches, nude beaches, beaches for water sports, beaches for parties and beaches with restaurants and bars. There are plenty that offer snorkelling and water sports equipment rental, as well as sun loungers.
Sunshine
You’ll be guaranteed plenty of beach time during your time in Tel Aviv with over 300 days of sunshine a year! It is the perfect destination to visit for hot weather during summer, and moderate temperatures of around 18°C in winter!
Food
The city is a foodie haven! It’s cuisine is as diverse and wonderful as its people! From fresh seafood to brunch by the beach, falafel and hommus for days as well as food markets, and upmarket restaurants you’ll be stuffed the whole time you are in Tel Aviv! A good option is to take a food tour, where you can try the best local foods around the city.
Nightlife
Tel Aviv is known as the party capital of the Middle East and you’ll have no trouble finding somewhere to dance the night away. The clubs and bars don’t get busy until after midnight but stay open until morning!
Location
Tel Aviv is the perfect base for exploring the rest of Israel and further afield. It is only an hour drive from Jerusalem, a little longer to the salty waters of the Dead Sea and a few hours to more hidden treasures throughout the country! It is also possible to cross the border into Jordan and visit Petra, a bucket list destination for many!
Architecture
The White City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site has over 4,000 stunning Bauhaus style buildings. The best way to explore Tel Aviv is on foot and getting lost will see you stumble across beautiful architecture and picturesque streets. In Tel Aviv you can see the wonderful contrast of shiny new buildings with the old, historic buildings that also make up a large area of the city!
History
Whilst Tel Aviv itself is just over a century old, there are thousands of years of history in the region. Jews, Muslims and Christians living side by side and it is an important place to see to begin the understand the complicated history and culture of the Holy Land. To the south of Tel Aviv you will find Jaffa, which is considered to be one of the oldest ports in the world! There are charming narrow streets to explore, boutique shops and restaurants with stunning water views (especially at sunset)!
Cosmopolitan Tel Aviv has something for everyone and whether you are visiting for Eurovision or simply a holiday, we are certain you’ll be pleasantly surprised about what the city has to offer and wishing you’d booked a longer trip!
Who are you cheering for this Eurovision?
