Israel for Beginners

We visited this tiny unassuming restaurant based on an off the cuff remark by a friend who had heard about it. When we entered, our expectations were very low. By the time, we left, this quickly became one of our favorite restaurants. The most difficult part was deciding what to order from the endless choices of fish, pastas, pizzas, calzones, breads and desserts. Everything is fresh and homemade (including the pasta which we watched being made as ordered). Everyone in our party from age 8 and upwards absolutely loved their food (no small task in our family of very critical eaters) - enough said! Al Dente - 50 Ussishkin Street, Jerusalem - 02-625-1479 - RESERVATIONS A MUST!

After much fanfare, the Tel Aviv Museum of Art recently opened its new wing. There has been much criticism that the building as a piece of art overshadows, rather than enhances, the displayed artworks. I agree with this sentiment but not because I think the architecture of the building should have been toned down. Rather, it is unfortunate that an art museum, located in a city that prides itself on being on par with other international metroplises, lacks an impressive art collection (and stellar temporary exhibits are few and far between). In the absence of a great art collection, the very modern and chic wing is artwork worth visiting! Tel Aviv Museum of Art - 27 Shaul Hamelech Blvd., Tel Aviv - www.tamuseum.com

Jerusalem Scavenger Hunts currently offers scavenger hunts in the the Old City and the Nachlaot section of Jerusalem. The activity runs approximately 1 and 1/2 to 2 hours and is meant to be an interactive and educational activity. I loved the historical tidbits as we moved from one designated spot to the next and it is a great way to get to know these two charming and interesting parts of Jerusalem. It is not really ideal for younger children who may lack the patience or ability to assimilate all the information. And, you do need to know your children - my friends' kids loved this activity; to be honest, mine, not as much. But it is a great activity - certainly for college age and older who are looking to do something fun and educational! Jerusalem Scavenger Hunts - http://www.jerusalemscavengerhunts.com/ -

Derech Burma is known for the pivotal role this road played in 1948 to get food supplies to the Jews in Jerusalem. The trail runs approximately 15K. Al Derech Burma, located at the beginning of the trail, will rent bikes, helmets and baby seats for two to three hours. It is a great family activity that is not too difficult for most bikers. Be aware that the equipment is quite rudimentary and not in the greatest shape. However, this is perfect for those who are just visiting Israel or who do not want to bother bringing their bikes with them. Al Derech Burma - http://www.alderechburma.com/ - 074-703-0029 - off of Highway 38 (take Shaaar Hagay exit off of Highway 1)

A couple of summers ago, there a professional sandcastle exhibit on the Haifa beach (behind ropes of course). Besides the fact that it was free, the exhibit was open during the day and each sand castle was well placed for maximum viewing. I imagine that in the interest of making money, this past summer the sandcastle exhibit was moved to the Eretz Israel Museum; the theme was children's fairy tales, and, again the sandcastles were constructed by experts from around the world. This time around, a fee was charged for entry. The fee may be a legitimate way to cover costs. But, unfortunately, the viewing space was much smaller and crowded. Even more upsetting was that the exhibit was only open during the night. Each sandcastle was lit up but much was lost by the absence of natural sunlight. Not sure I would run back next time. Tales in Sand - Eretz Israel Museum

The best thing I can say about Baribas is that it is the only restaurant that is kosher at the Tel Aviv Port (there is Bandolina but that is more of a cafe appropriate for lunch). The dairy restaurant is billed as offering healthy alternatives. It is the perfect place if you are dining out with vegetarians or vegans (and has many gluten-free options as well). Unfortunately, no one at our table found the food or dining experience to be anything but mediocre. And, unlike Bandolina, there is no ocean view. Bariba - 3 Hataruch Street, Tel Aviv Port - 602-5026

I would not make a special trip to see the Caesarea Experience and Time Tower, but if you are visiting the Caesarea port, both are worthwhile and seem to get little traffic (one ticket allows entry to both places). The Caesarea Experience is a 30 minute movie that takes you through the history of Caesarea. While waiting for the movie, you can interact with 3D holgraph figures who shaped the history of Caesarea. After the film, make your way to the Time Tower where an even shorter film will use computerized animation to explain the history of the architecture of the port. Children will probably prefer the Caesarea Experience and Time Tower but both will provide an educational experience to a beautiful place. Caesarea Experience and Time Travel - tickets can be purchased when paying for entry to the park. Reservations can be made by calling *6550, extension 3 or at http://www.caesarea.com/