The Jerusalem Blog

Yom Yerushalayim - Jerusalem Day - Is a Miracle

Thu, 17 May 2012 15:01:56 GMT

The Jewish Week reports "Jerusalem Day Needs a Miracle," noting that for many people political pressures and ambivalence have reduced Jerusalem Reunification Day to a footnote of history. If Jerusalem had not been liberated on that fateful day in 1967, what would be? For one, there would be no freedom of religion for Jews and Christians in the Old City. No access for Jews to our holiest of sites – the Western Wall. Hardly any access at all for Christians to their places of worships; no processions along the Via Dolorosa. There would be no thriving Jewish Quarter – the Rova, where schoolchildren play ball, families live their daily lives and thousands of pilgrims flock each year. No breathtaking Hurva Synagogue in which to contemplate God's glory; it would still be bombed-out rubble. There would be no record-breaking numbers of tourists and pilgrims in Jerusalem, as there are today (April 2012 broke all previous records!), coming here to enjoy freedom of religion, freedom of movement, freedom of speech – courtesy of Israel. There would be no Mamilla Mall, with its swanky boutiques and open-air art exhibits. It would still be a no-man's land where anyone foolish enough to wander would be cut down by enemy snipers roaming the ramparts of the Old City, targeting the residents of Jerusalem as they tried to live "normal" lives under constant gunfire – in violation of all "cease-fire" agreements. There would be no calm. Today, Jerusalem is a united city, where everyone, no matter what their faith, has the right to worship as they choose. Her residents enjoy equal rights under the law. They worship – or not – as they choose. They welcome visitors from the world over who come to enjoy the city's history, religious significance, and vibrant cultural scene. Let us never take any of this for granted. Jerusalem is one, united and prosperous only because of the events of 1967. No matter what our politics, Jerusalem Day, Yom Yerushalayim, was a miracle. Whether or not we commemorate the day in ritual ways, let us at least appreciate the miracle – and come to Jerusalem, to truly share in the meaning of Yom Yerushalayim!

Travel to Jerusalem with Introduction to Jerusalem: A Guide to the Holy City

Tue, 15 May 2012 12:37:00 GMT

Travel to Jerusalem is easy with our e-book, Introduction to Jerusalem: A Guide to the Holy City.

Ahava Products: Beauty from the Dead Sea

Tue, 15 May 2012 11:36:24 GMT

Ahava products - Jerusalem's favorite beauty products - delivered right to your home.

Ahava Hand Cream

Tue, 15 May 2012 10:38:51 GMT

Ahava hand cream is one of the most popular Ahava products - with good reason.

Ahava Bath Salt Gift Sets

Mon, 14 May 2012 20:09:21 GMT

Ahava bath salt gift sets make a perfect gift for the woman you want to pamper – especially if that woman is yourself.

The Jerusalem Insider's Travel Guide

Mon, 14 May 2012 14:40:24 GMT

Discover Jerusalem: a pictorial guide to the most unique city on earth. Where to go, what Jerusalem hotels to choose, and what you shouldn't miss when planning your travel to Israel.

Happy Lag Ba'Omer!

Thu, 10 May 2012 09:38:39 GMT

Bonfires, songs and prayers rise skyward Wednesday night, May 9, at the start of Lag Ba'Omer.

Attend the Biblical Hebrew Conference -
From Home

Mon, 07 May 2012 15:49:30 GMT

Attend the first Online Biblical Hebrew conference, direct from Jerusalem, no matter where in the world you might be! The three-hour live event is designed for students of the Bible and Biblical Hebrew students who want to expand their understanding and deepen their knowledge of the sacred text. The panelists will be exploring the Biblical narratives of three siblings: Aaron, Miriam and Moses. If you'd like to gain a much deeper understanding of the Biblical stories and discover the true meaning behind the fascinating Biblical text – sign up now for this unique event. It's the world's largest online Biblical Hebrew summit, and you can attend it from the comfort of your own home. Participate in this live event using your computer and internet connection (no long-distance phone bill or travel expenses!). When: May 24, 2012 There are a limited number of seats available so make sure to register early and enter the class on time! By registering for the event, not only will you be able to participate in all three sessions, but should you miss one, you’ll have access to recordings of the conference. Admission: FREE Reserve Your Place Now:

Hebrew for Kids: Top Three Resources for Hebrew Language Study

Sun, 06 May 2012 15:19:35 GMT

Learning Hebrew for kids requires different resources. Here are the top three Hebrew language study programs just for them.

Jerusalem Goes Pink with the Komen Foundation!

Sun, 06 May 2012 08:35:46 GMT

The second Race for the Cure took place in Jerusalem last week. Women and men of all ages, faiths and political persuasions put their differences aside to unite in support of the fight against breast cancer.

Photo by Sharon Marks Altshul

Read more about this inspiring event on Real Jerusalem Streets. Click here for more Jerusalem Events in May.

Tour Jerusalem with Our Best Israeli Tour Guides

Thu, 03 May 2012 14:40:35 GMT

Tour Jerusalem with one of our best Israel tour guides, Moshe Rothchild

Jerusalem Events: The Best Things to Do in May

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 19:06:58 GMT

Jerusalem events for May: the best things to do in Jerusalem take advantage of the fact that this is one of the best times, weatherwise, to visit Israel.

Happy Birthday, Israel!

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 15:54:41 GMT

These days are an emotional ride that runs the gamut from grief to joy. Yom Hazikaron, Memorial Day, ends this evening. We overlook Yad Vashem Museum, next to Mount Herzl, where memorial ceremonies were held last night and today for the soldiers and citizens killed at the hands of our enemies. All day, bereaved families have been heading to the military cemetery on Mt. Herzl to visit the graves of their loved ones killed in action, while protecting the Jewish people and the nation of Israel. It's paradoxical that one the Israeli State's most sorrowful days – one marked by air-raid sirens, moments of silence and grief at the human cost of our survival – segues immediately into the joyous celebration of Israel's Independence Day, Yom Haatzma'ut. The two are inextricably intertwined, and we never forget it. Today we mourn those who gave their lives that we might live in the state of Israel. Tonight and tomorrow, we rejoice that their lives were not lost in vain and that Israel survives and blossoms. Am Israel Chai. Happy 64th Birthday, Israel. May you fulfill your destiny to be a light unto the Nations.

Yom Hazikaron - Memorial Day

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:45:01 GMT

Tonight marks the beginning of Yom Hazikaron, Memorial Day in Israel. Sirens will sound in memory of the fallen at 20:00, at which time memorial ceremonies will begin at most community centers in Jerusalem. The main official memorial ceremony, attended by the mayor and other dignitaries will take place at 9:15 on Wednesday, 25 April, at Safra Square. Admission is free.

Yom HaShoah - Holocaust Remembrance Day

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 21:38:28 GMT

Tonight marks the beginning of Yom HaShoah – Holocaust and Heroism Remembrance Day. It is a somber time across the country as we remember those who perished in the Holocaust. Public places of entertainment are closed by law. The radio plays only sad music and the mood is grave.

Two traditional events occur on this day. At 10:00 a.m. sirens sound around the country marking a two-minute period of silence. In these two minutes, everything stops: traffic comes to a standstill, cars pull over, people stop walking and talking ceases. These are eerie but emotionally powerful two minutes.

At Yad Vashem Museum, Jerusalem's Holocaust Museum, where the Prime Minister and President give speeches, Holocaust survivors light memorial candles. The ceremonies are televised and sometimes streamed live on the Yad Vashem website, where you can also learn more about the Holocaust.

Please consider joining this worthy project today and remember someone who died in the Holocaust:

Passover at the Temple Institute

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 20:36:56 GMT

Witness with your own eyes treasures that have not been seen for 2,000 years! Over 70 reconstructed vessels made from gold, silver and bronze have been

Jerusalem Events: The Best Things to Do in April

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 14:28:17 GMT

Jerusalem events in April are usually highlighted by several major religious holidays that usually occur in this month, and the fact it's spring - expect pomp, ceremony, and lots of outdoor fun.

Nahlaot Scavenger Hunt and Art Tour

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:33:18 GMT

As we've said before, Jerusalem Scavenger Hunts are some of the best things to do in Jerusalem, and much to our delight, they are expanding their inspiring, educational (and really fun!) group activity to include more areas of the city. Following the successful Old City scavenger hunt, the Nahlaot hunt and a scavenger hunt on Mount Zion especially geared to Christian pilgrims, comes the new Nahloat Scavenger Hunt and Art Tour. Not only is Nahlaot a fascinating and quirky neighborhood, it is also home to a thriving artists' colony. In this area where old and new intersect in unexpected ways, artists, too, seek to come to terms with the powerful dialectic between ancient traditions and the modern world. On this particular scavenger hunt you will not only explore one of Jerusalem's most picturesque communities, you'll also pop into local art galleries, meet artists in their studios and get to discuss with them their stories and visions. Find out more about Jerusalem Scavenger Hunts here, or read about my own experience on a recent Jerusalem Scavenger Hunt through the Old City's Jewish Quarter.

Jerusalem Museum Guide: The Best Jerusalem Museums

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 17:47:45 GMT

A Jerusalem Museum Guide to navigate the best Jerusalem museums that showcase Israel's treasures ...

The Art of Italian Jews: Jerusalem's Museum of Italian Jewish Art

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 15:49:49 GMT

The Art of Italian Jews: The Nahon Museum of Italian Jewish Art deserves greater notice among Jerusalem museums.

Flowers of Israel

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:25:42 GMT

Flowers of Israel: plants of Israel and Holy Land flora named after Jerusalem

Healing Plants of Israel

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:16:09 GMT

Healing plants of Israel flourish all over Jerusalem. From gardens to cracks in the sidewalk, you'll spot them everywhere.

In the Footsteps of Kings and Prophets: Christian Pilgrims' Scavenger Hunts

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 10:44:19 GMT

Jerusalem Scavenger Hunts rank up there as one of our favorite Jerusalem activities for groups. This month debuts a new scavenger hunt specifically designed for Christian pilgrims. Entitled "In the Footstep of Prophets and Kings", the activity focuses on discovering Mount Zion and the Jewish Quarter from a Christian perspective. You'll explore the historic site of Mt Zion and the Jewish Quarter in light of Biblical prophecies and its prominence in the miraculous rebirth of Israel. Highlights of the scavenger hunt will include Psalms at King David's Tomb and a visit to the Cenacle, the Room of the Last Supper. Find out more about Jerusalem Scavenger Hunts or read about our own experiences when we recently participated in a Jerusalem Scavenger Hunt through the Jewish Quarter of the Old City.

Jerusalem Holy Sites: a Guide to the Many Religious Places in Jerusalem.

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 10:15:39 GMT

Jerusalem Holy Sites: The Western Wall, Golgotha and the Dome of the Rock are the standards, but there are more more sacred places in this one city than almost any other.

Snow in Jerusalem

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 11:24:20 GMT

Heavy snow fell in Jerusalem today, the first real snow in five years. Although it caused schools to close early and much havoc on the roads, the blizzard didn't last long. After a few hours, the snow stopped and bright blue skies did quick work of making the few inches of snow that had accumulated disappear within minutes. But here, recorded for posterity, heavy snow falling in Jerusalem and a cheeky little sabra enjoying the show.

Shabbat Shalom from Yerushalayim. Stay warm and dry - there's more rain headed our way!

Jerusalem Events: The Best Things to Do in Jerusalem

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 05:37:13 GMT

Jerusalem events for the month of March reflect the approach of spring and the sense of renewal in the air. Here are some of the best things to do in Jerusalem then.

Old City App - Tour Jerusalem With Your iPhone

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 16:19:41 GMT

Jerusalem's Old City is going hi-tech. With the municipality's new app, you can take a guided tour of the Old City accompanied simply by your iPhone.

According to the documentation, five of the fifteen Old City tours included in the app are handicapped accessible, which if true, would be an amazing step forward for disabled visitors to Jerusalem. The app is free and is available in your choice of English or Hebrew. Download it here. An Android version is in the works. Do you have an iPhone? Try the app and let us know how you like it and if it's something other visitors to Jerusalem will enjoy!

Introduction to Jerusalem - the 2012 Edition Is Here!

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:55:47 GMT

The 2012 edition of Introduction to Jerusalem: A Guide to the Holy City hit the virtual shelves today.

The revised and up-to-date version of our bestselling e-book guide is now available. Get your copy now and get the most out of your journey to Jerusalem!

The Israeli Supreme Court

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:52:17 GMT

The Israeli Supreme Court is a landmark of modern Jerusalem architecture.

Choose Your Jerusalem Hostel

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:38:07 GMT

A Jerusalem hostel is an attractive choice for the budget traveller - and you have a choice of several very different youth hostels.

The Israel Museum

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 18:43:31 GMT

The most famous Jerusalem museum, the Israel Museum has something for everyone: Gaze at a Dead Sea scroll or stroll among works by Henry Moore and others in the Billy Rose sculpture garden.

Jerusalem Scavenger Hunt

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:12:42 GMT

Come and hear the stories, meet the people, discover the places and really feel the vibe of the Old City of Jerusalem. Join us on the Old City Scavenger

One-Day Jerusalem Tours

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:50:01 GMT

Our favorite one-day Jerusalem tours to make the most of your time here.

The Best Kids Activities in Jerusalem: Where to Go and What to Do

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 20:21:00 GMT

The best kids activities in Jerusalem are the keys to successful family travel to Israel

Jerusalem Scavenger Hunt A Treasure

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:56:58 GMT

The Jerusalem Scavenger Hunt is a treasure - one of the best things to do in Jerusalem.

Jerusalem Scavenger Hunts

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:44:03 GMT

Jerusalem scavenger hunts are one of the best group activities in Jerusalem.

An evening of Jazz, Folk and Soul with Tofaah

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 19:23:20 GMT

An intimate evening of Jazz, folk and soul with Tofa'ah, Jerusalem's all-woman band. Where: The performance will be held in the Dati Leumi Shul at 22

Jerusalem events for February: the top things to do in Jerusalem

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 16:17:49 GMT

Best Jerusalem events for the month of February: the top things to do in Jerusalem

The American Colony Hotel Jerusalem 's exotic oasis

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:10:48 GMT

The American Colony hotel Jerusalem 's exotic oasis, is a landmark among Jerusalem hotels

Learn to Speak Hebrew: The Best Ways to Study Hebrew

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 12:17:20 GMT

Learn to speak Hebrew - the best ways to study Hebrew, common Hebrew phrases, Hebrew alphabet chart and how to choose the best hebrew language study program for you.

Israeli Food: Much More Than Israeli Salad or Traditional Jewish Food.

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 10:51:26 GMT

Israeli food is much more than just Israeli salad, traditional Jewish foods. Israeli cuisine has come a long way.

Going to Jerusalem or Need To know How to Get Around Town?

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 10:35:56 GMT

Going to Jerusalem? Want to know how to get around town? Visit is our transportation guide ...

Two Jerusalem Hotels Among World’s Best

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:59:39 GMT

Two Jerusalem hotels scored last month when Conde Nast Travel, the luxury travel expert, released its Readers Choice Awards for the top ten luxury hotels in the Middle East. On the list were two Israeli hotels – both of them in Jerusalem. The Inbal Hotel came in at number four, with visitors raving about "the best food in Jerusalem," the understated elegance and superb view of the Old City from the suites. The David Citadel Hotel was commended for its décor, classy atmosphere, service and great location, close to the luxury Mamilla Mall and the Old City. It ranked sixth on the list.

So gone are the days that a spiritual pilgrimage was perforce a physically uncomforable journey. You can have your religious uplift and your materialistic pleasures too! Enjoy Jerusalem in the lap of luxury and comfort at either one of these fine hotels. Get the best deals on Jerusalem hotels right here:

Cheap Tel Aviv Hotels or the Top Ten: Where to Stay in Tel Aviv

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 16:22:31 GMT

Whether you're looking for cheap tel aviv hotels, or the 10 best hotels in Tel Aviv - here's where to stay.

Getting Around Jerusalem by Bus

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:07:46 GMT

Your guide to getting around Jerusalem by bus - the easiest, cheapest way to go.

Jerusalem Travel Information

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 16:10:21 GMT

Useful tips about Jerusalem travel: answers to all your FAQs about travel to Israel and Jerusalem.

Top Jerusalem Events in December

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 10:37:19 GMT

The top Jerusalem events in December: best things to do in Jerusalem

Conversational Hebrew Online: Learn to Speak Hebrew

Sat, 17 Dec 2011 18:38:27 GMT

Learn conversational hebrew online with the best interactive Hebrew language study course.

Jerusalem Light Rail

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 16:32:25 GMT

Jerusalem light rail: the new way of getting around Jerusalem

Israel Holidays - Find the Best Israel Tours for You

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:30:22 GMT

Israel holidays of a lifetime - the best Israel tours and itineraries based on what you want!