The famous words that implore you to, “…believe half of what you see and none of what you hear,” could not be more relevant than when applied to Israel.
Open the newspapers, turn on your TV and you would think Israel is in the middle of a perpetual war – perpetual conflict, perhaps; perpetual war, definitely not. In fact, you will be shocked by what you find upon arrival in the Holy Land – a diverse and bustling pluralistic democracy where every vice is catered for and every sense and sensibility capable of being satiated.
Israel is like most modern countries only more extreme. Whereas Europe may have a history dating back hundreds of years, Israel has a history dating back millennia; since most countries are important to one faith, Israel is the focus of many faiths; because in most countries life is lived at a hectic pace, in Israel the pace is totally frenetic. Everything is magnified.
Israel may be a tiny country by world standards, however it is as diverse if not more diverse than most countries. Tel Aviv is the secular and party capital of Israel. Young, vibrant, imbued with an intoxicating energy. Areas of neglect are located minutes away from the luxury apartments in Tel Aviv. Both are located within sight and walking distance of the magnificent waters of the Mediterranean.
Tel Aviv has international class restaurants of almost every type, a coffee-house on every corner, and a vibe that is addictive. Coupled with the fantastic shopping and trend-setting people, Tel Aviv is truly one of the great cosmopolitan cities of the world. Tel Aviv may be young and hip but it also contains the Port of Jaffa, a historic landmark from biblical times.
A short one hour drive from Tel Aviv and you are entrenched in the history of every major religion when you visit Jerusalem. Jerusalem is much more demure than Tel Aviv and so are its inhabitants. Every pore of Jerusalem lives and breathes history. In fact, the contrast is so striking, you may as well be in another country.
Jerusalem also contains fine eateries and designer shopping but it acts as a backdrop to the history. For example, luxury apartments in Israel are generally in proximity to the beach. Jerusalem has no beach, so the luxury apartments are those near the holy sites. Same, same, different.
Israel is the Holy Land defined by diversity. Nothing could be a greater contradiction though than the way Israel is perceived in the press and how it is in reality. Don’t take my word for it, come and see for yourself. But consider yourself warned; even a first-hand experience may not totally convince you.
