Solidarity Mission to Israel: A Journey of Support and Unity| FEBRUARY 11-16 2024 | MARCH 10-15 2024

In the face of challenges, solidarity becomes a beacon of hope. Now, more than ever, is the time to stand with Israel and show unwavering support. At Puzzle Travels, we believe in the power of unity, and our upcoming Solidarity Mission to Israel is an opportunity to be part of a collective effort.

Credit: Lizi Shanen

As the nation faces complex circumstances, your presence becomes a gesture of resilience and encouragement. By joining this mission, you contribute to the rebuilding and strengthening of communities affected by recent events. Every step taken on this journey embodies a symbol of solidarity, fostering connections that transcend borders.

Additionally, through volunteering initiatives, you have the chance to make a meaningful impact and extend a helping hand to those in need. Your visit to the Kidnapped Families Square becomes a moment of empathy and shared humanity, reinforcing the bonds that unite us all.

Credit: Lizi Shanen

Together, let us be a source of support for Israel, a testament to the enduring spirit of resilience and hope.

 

For the full itinerary please click here, and if you want to arrange a private solidarity mission please contact info@puzzleisrael.com.

Credit: Lizi Shanen

Farm-to-Table Experience in Israel: A Culinary Journey

 

Israel’s culinary scene is renowned for its fresh, vibrant flavors and its commitment to farm-to-table dining. The country’s rich agricultural heritage and diverse culinary traditions have inspired a new generation of chefs and foodies, who are passionate about using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients to create delicious and innovative dishes.

One of the best ways to experience the farm-to-table movement in Israel is by visiting one of the country’s many organic farms and agritourism sites. These farms offer a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of the Israeli countryside, while also sampling some of the freshest and most flavorful produce around.

For example, visitors can tour the fields and greenhouses, where they can pick their own fresh vegetables and herbs, learn about organic farming techniques, and even help prepare a farm-to-table meal using the produce they’ve harvested.  Visitors can explore orchards and vineyards, sample farm award-winning olive oil and wines, and enjoy a homemade farm-to-table meal prepared by the owners.

In addition to these farm experiences, there are also many farm-to-table restaurants and cafes throughout Israel that specialize in using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. Some of the best-known examples include M25 in Tel Aviv, which sources its produce from nearby farms and markets to create a modern, Mediterranean-inspired menu; Uri Buri in Acre, which features fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen; and Magdalena in the Judean Hills, which showcases the region’s rich culinary heritage with dishes made from local ingredients like wild herbs, olives, and cheese.

Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the farm-to-table movement in Israel offers a culinary journey like no other. So why not embark on a farm-to-table adventure of your own, and discover the delicious flavors and rich traditions of Israeli cuisine?

Discover Tel Aviv’s Thriving Art Scene: The Top Galleries to Visit

Tel Aviv is a vibrant city known for its rich culture, artistic expression, and thriving art scene.

The city is home to a plethora of art galleries that showcase the works of both local and international artists. Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or just looking to explore the city’s creative side, Tel Aviv’s art galleries are sure to impress.

Here are Some of our favorite art galleries to explore in Tel Aviv:

Tel Aviv Museum of Art
The Tel Aviv Museum of Art is the city’s premier art institution, showcasing a wide range of contemporary and modern art. The museum’s permanent collection features works by Israeli artists, as well as international artists such as Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, and Marc Chagall. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers.

Noga Gallery of Contemporary Art
Located in the trendy Neve Tzedek neighborhood, the Noga Gallery of Contemporary Art features works by up-and-coming Israeli artists. The gallery focuses on contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, and installation art. The exhibitions change regularly, so visitors can expect to see something new and exciting each time they visit.

Gordon Gallery
The Gordon Gallery, located in the heart of Tel Aviv’s art district, features works by both Israeli and international artists. The gallery’s collection includes a wide range of contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, and photography. The gallery also hosts regular exhibitions and events, making it a great place to discover new artists and artworks.

Sommer Contemporary Art
Sommer Contemporary Art is one of Tel Aviv’s most renowned contemporary art galleries, showcasing works by some of the most exciting contemporary artists from Israel and around the world. The gallery features a wide range of contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, photography, and video art. The exhibitions change regularly, so visitors can always expect to see something new and exciting.

Rothschild Fine Art
Rothschild Fine Art is a contemporary art gallery located in the heart of Tel Aviv’s financial district. The gallery features works by both Israeli and international artists, with a particular focus on modern and contemporary art. The exhibitions change regularly, so visitors can expect to see a wide range of contemporary artworks.

In conclusion, Tel Aviv’s art galleries are a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike. The city’s vibrant art scene offers a diverse range of art styles and mediums, showcasing the works of both local and international artists.

The above-mentioned art galleries are just a few of the many exciting places to explore in Tel Aviv’s thriving art scene.

The Best Luxury Resorts in Israel

There are many luxury hotels in Israel that offer high-end accommodations and amenities to travelers. Some of our top favorite luxury Resorts in the country include:

Six Senses Shaharut-

A luxury resort located in the Negev desert in southern Israel. It is situated in the small village of Shaharut, which is located near the Ramon Crater and the Zin Valley.

The resort features luxurious accommodations and amenities, including a spa, outdoor pool, and several dining options. It is known for its sustainable design and eco-friendly practices, as well as its commitment to preserving the local environment and culture. The resort offers a range of activities and excursions in the surrounding area, including hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.

 

Taken from the Six senses Shaharuts website.

 

Beresheet Hotel-

A luxury resort located in Mitzpe Ramon. It is situated in a unique location on the edge of the Ramon Crater, which is a large natural depression in the Negev desert.

The resort has an outstanding panoramic view of the crater and the surrounding landscape, and it is known for its luxurious accommodations and amenities. The hotel features a spa, outdoor pool, and several dining options, as well as a variety of activities and excursions in the surrounding area.

 

Taken from the Beresheet hotels website.

 

 

Mitzpe Hayamim-

A luxury resort located in Rosh Pina. The resort is known for its unique eco-friendly architecture and design, as well as its focus on sustainability and connection to nature.

The resort is set on a beautiful hilltop location and offers guests a variety of amenities such as an organic farm, spa, and outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Guests can also enjoy delicious meals made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. Mitzpe Hayamim is a unique place for a relaxed and peaceful holiday.

 

Taken from Mitzpe Hayamims website.

 

Pereh-

A luxury botique resort surrounded by gardens and orchards that is located in the Golan heights from which mountain views and breathtaking valleys can be seen. The 27-room property is situated upon the ruins of the 20th-century French Custom House constructed during the Ottoman Empire.

The resort offers a rich menu of activities for its guests: chef restaurant, wine cellar, lounge bar,  spa services, private banquet rooms, wimming pool, orchards and hall for events and conferences.

 

Taken from the Pereh hotels website.

 

Archaeological sites in the land of Israel

Israel has a rich and varied history, and as a result, there are many archaeological & biblical sites throughout the country. These sites represent different periods in the history of Israel and the surrounding region and include ancient cities, fortifications, temples, and other structures. Archaeologists continue to discover new sites and uncover more about the history of Israel through ongoing excavations and research.

There are many important and interesting  biblical archaeological sites in Israel, and it can be difficult to choose which ones to visit.

Some of the most notable and significant sites that are on puzzle’s must see list include:

 

Beit Shearim:

This ancient Jewish town and burial site in the northern side of Israel, was a major center of Jewish life during the Roman and Byzantine periods, and contains a large necropolis with dozens of rock-cut tombs, some of which feature impressive architectural elements and inscriptions. The site is considered one of the most important examples of Jewish funerary art and epigraphy from the Roman period.

 

 

Megiddo:

This ancient city is located in northern Israel and is believed to have been a major city in the ancient world. It is known for its well-preserved ruins, including a water system, gates, and other structures.

Caesarea:

This ancient port city, located on the Mediterranean coast, was once the capital of the Roman province of Judea. It is home to a number of well-preserved ruins, including an amphitheater, aqueduct, and other structures.

 

Beit She’an:

This ancient city, located in northern Israel, was once a major center in the Roman and Byzantine empires. It is known for its well-preserved ruins, including a Roman theater, bathhouse, and other structures.

Tzipori:

This biblical archaeological site in the northern Israel  was an important Jewish city in the Roman period. It was the capital of the Galilee during the reign of King Herod Antipas and was an important center of Jewish culture and learning. The city contains a well-preserved Roman theater, a colonnaded street, and other public buildings.

Masada:

This ancient fortification, located on a rock plateau overlooking the Dead Sea, was the site of a famous siege during the Jewish Revolt against the Romans in the 1st century CE. It is known for its well-preserved ruins, including a palace, synagogue, and other structures.

All pictures are taken from Israel nature and parks authority’s website

 

These are just a few of the many interesting and important archaeological sites in Israel, There are many others to explore and discover all around Israel.

“Brothers in Yoga”- Healing starts within

Meet Neta Ganga Margalith, Co-founder and CEO of “Brothers in Yoga”:
A non-profit that supports Israeli veterans suffering from PTSD, through Yoga and Meditation.

The first question she asks is – “what does peace mean to you?”
Peace is such a big word when we think of society but what if we think about moments of
peace, of silence, in our day-to-day experience?

The biggest wish for a veteran suffering from combat shock is to have that kind of moment, to
be in peace, even for a moment. Today there are about 50,000 veterans with PTSD. This
phenomenon touches every home, family and community in Israel, it is shaping our society.
“As a veteran, a Yoga teacher & practitioner I can share that Yoga saved me, in so many
aspects, before, during and after my military service.
When you go through life-changing experiences (which we all do), the body carries the
memory, along with the mind. If it’s a painful memory or even extremely stressful – our body keeps carrying that, physically too.

Today, we understand that psychotherapy or other mental-therapy is limited in the ability
to heal trauma or PTSD. There is nothing wrong in going to those therapies, but in many
cases it is just not enough.

Yoga is a way of life, it is a way of exercising, breathing, relaxing, thinking, eating and
being. Yoga gives me many tools that support a healthy daily routine.
It allows me to listen back to my inner-voice, to listen to my body and its needs, to
practice compassion and love towards myself and others, to heal my wounds and to find
moments of peace. After 6 years of running away from Israel, from the trauma, I came
back, not only to heal myself, but to help so many others, through the gift that helps me –
the gift of Yoga.

Along with Oren Gavriely and 7 more founders we established “Brothers in Yoga” 1 year
ago, in order to help all Israeli veterans who are looking for a healing path.
Now, beginning of 2023, after over 9,000 hours of practice and 30 graduates, we are
motivated to expand our activity and be in service for as many veterans as we can”
BIY’s vision is to take veterans through a targeted & sensitive practice of Yoga in order to
help them overcome their trauma and successfully reconnect them back to Israeli society.

Our mission is to strengthen Israeli society by providing resilience, healing & peace to those
who make personal sacrifices to provide that for all of us – our soldiers and first responders.

Our target is to create a sustainable system that will take thousands of veterans through this
program and will bring improvement to each and every one of them in their daily life.
Program includes: 2 weekend retreats in an Ashram, 16 weekly practices via Zoom.
We are now fundraising for the upcoming year of giving back to 100 more veterans!
We ask you to become an ambassador and join the Friends of BIY!
Help us help them, we don’t leave anyone behind.

With gratitude fo all the support we receive, from the depths of our hearts we thank you,
for joining this amazing family.
Come and practice Yoga with us!

Here is a Link to the crowdfunding campaign

Campaign video : https://youtube.com/watch?v=SWU5bdg1Y74&si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE

YouTube channel: “Brothers in Yoga”

Contact info: contact@brothersin.yoga // Neta Ganga +972-52-397-0287

Top 7 Venues to celebrate your Bar/Bat Mitzvah Ceremony in Israel

Israel is the spiritual homeland of the Jewish people and has a rich history and cultural significance. Many people find that celebrating their Bar/Bat mitzvah in Israel allows them to deepen their connection to their heritage and the Jewish community.

There are many beautiful and meaningful locations in Israel where a Bar/Bat mitzvah ceremony can be held, below you can see puzzle’s top recommendations.

Jerusalem: 

1. Davidson Center- located south of the Western Wall. The place exhibits archaeological discoveries from about 2,000 years ago and an impressive section of the southern part of the Wall that surrounded the Second Jewish Temple. The ceremony at the Center will take place at the ancient Herodian street, right beneath the remains of the famous Robinson Arch, through which people used to enter the Temple compound. 

2. Ezrat Israel section the first location at the Western wall that allows men and women to pray side by side.  Have your special family ceremony at an ancient place, that is a unique part of the Jewish heritage in the land of Israel and is located next to the archaeological garden. 

 

North:

3. Zippori National Park – the park encompasses the ruins of the ancient Roman and Talmudic-era city of Zippori, located in the rolling hills of Lower Galilee. The synagogue, with its magnificent mosaics, is a great place for an intimate ceremony. 

4. Umm El- Kanatir– “The Mother of Arches,” a beautiful archaeological jewel dated to the 5th-7th century. At this site you will find the remains of an ancient synagogue with a unique story; a great place to relive history and imagine what kinds of rituals took place here thousands of years ago.                      this site was rediscovered during the 1967 war, and with the use of modern technology, it has been brought back to life.

5. Ancient Katzrin- During the Talmudic times (4th-6th centuries) it was a Jewish village in the Golan Heights that contains an impressive ancient synagogue.  it is the best display in Israel that shows how Jews lived during the Talmudic period. A Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration at the Katzrin Talmudic village can be an excellent historical and educational experience.

 

South: 

6. the Ancient Synagogue of Ein Gedi- located in the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve in the Judean Desert. The site has remains of an ancient synagogue dating as far back as the 3rd century AD, its floor exhibiting an intriguing inscription about a secret potion. Some scholars believe it involved the production of Balsam.  It also tells us about the Jewish unity, way of life, and culture in the Judean Desert. 

7. Masada- In the 20th century Masada became a symbol of the Jewish national heroism, and it is now one of Israel’s most popular tourist attractions. . The story of Masada allows the teen coming of age who is celebrating the Bar/Bat Mitzvah to connect physically and emotionally to his/her ancient roots, and the story of the last stand of the Jewish patriots in the face of the Roman army in 73 A.D. In the 20th century. The views from Masada are breathtaking, with a panoramic view of the surrounding desert landscape and the Dead Sea.

We would be glad to help out with choosing a location and other arrangments that will suite your preferences and needs for your own Bar/Bat Mitzvah ceremony.

The Best Local Israel Food Tours

Israel has certainly become a hub for foodies. With such an up and coming culinary scene, Israel food tours have become the big thing in tourism. Learn more about the best local Israel food tours.

Local Israel food tours offer a variety of options – from tasting tours in different markets, to wineries and dairies, to the best chef workshops in the world, and any trip to Israel these days can become a real exciting Israel culinary tour.

What is so Special About Israel’s Culinary Aspects?

The Agriculture

The small country with a large portion of desert is a master in agriculture, so the delicious food that Israelis produce is also generally local.

The Variety of Cultures

Also, because Israel is a true melting pot, the culinary scene is one big fusion of taste, combining food traditions from all over the world. If you are planning to visit Israel and you are a foodie, or just love food, Israel food tours are just perfect for you.

The Best Local Restaurants

Israel’s growing restaurant scene has been written about and reviewed quite a bit lately. That’s probably because the restaurants in Israel are darn good. With locally sourced ingredients, the food is always fresh. Also, many chefs in Israel take inspiration from their childhood memories, so the food is often a fusion of old and new, traditional ethnic foods with a modern twist. The restaurant scenes in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are booming, and there are also quite a few gems in the north and the south that you might not expect. When planning your next trip to Israel or Israel food tour, be sure to make a few restaurant reservations. Check out the top 10 restaurants in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

The Markets

One cannot visit Israel without visiting the amazing food markets in the country. It’s like having a farmer’s market every day of the week, yet even more special on a Friday morning when everyone is getting ready for the Shabbat feast. The colorful markets in Israel are a must for any Israel culinary tour and any trip to Israel in general because the food is amazing and the culture is even more amazing. From the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv to Mahane Yehuda Market in Jerusalem, the produce, sweets, nuts, and spices are unbeatable. Israel food tours in the markets are fun and exciting, and especially tasty!

Wineries and Dairies

Israeli wines and dairy are two specialties that Israel has gained bragging rights in. With award winning wine and dairy from the lush green north to the desert in the south, there are many Israel food tours that include tastings at the most unique and delicious wineries and dairies. Let the wine and cheese speak for themselves when you go on Israel food tours to these places.

The Salad Trail

One of the most unique culinary experiences in Israel is the Salad Trail. The Salad Trail is exactly what it sounds like, a trail that is lined with fresh produce that is grown along the trail. Is is like walking through the produce section of a grocery store, but everything is straight from the ground and nothing is off limits! Take this awesome tour and eat all along the way.