Israel for Beginners

  Who would have thought that you could take a boat ride on the Dead Sea?  But one tour operator does exactly this.  In addition to learning about the geology of this special place (including the real reason for its diminishing state), this ride is just plain fun - including standing on salt islands and taking solidified salt rocks home. Dead Sea Boats - Orit 0524333050 OR Jacky 0524398931

 Dvora - Eyal Shani's new restauarant - in the Deborah Brown Hotel is well worth a visit. There are some of the dishes that you will recognize from Malka, and some new ones. The presentation is beautiful and the food is packed with interesting and delicious flavors. Dessert, like most meat places in Israel, ,needs work. Definitely ask for seats at the bar where you can watch the chefs at work (we even did chasers with them!).  A great vibe and a fun experience. Dvorah - Deborah Brown Hotel - 87 Ben Yehuda Tel Aviv - 077-7242019

Tel Aviv's Cooking Studio is a kosher cooking studio that offers both public and private workshops.  My husband I joined a very enjoyable public Italian cooking workshop (we still use some of the chef's tips).  But one of the most memorable experiences I ever had was a  private "knife fight" workshop we did with family friends. Everyone of all ages had a great time. What sets the Cooking Studio apart are the chefs who not only know their stuff but know how to engage the participants.  Not a cheap experience but one that is well worth it! Cooking Studio - 19 Ben Avigdor, Tel Aviv - 03-303-8115