So many people say to me, "You are so brave to travel by yourself". I wonder sometimes if they are just being polite and truly they want to replace the word "brave" with "stupid". Mostly I just shrug and don't really care either way. However, traveling from Egypt to Israel via the Taba border crossing was probably more adventurous rather than wise. Of course everything went smooth and was completely safe but I did wonder about my choice in transportation when I read that the Taba border was last bombed only 3 years ago. None the less, I ventured out and took a bus ride rather than an expensive plane ride. My route followed the roads of Sinai through miles of beautiful views of sand dunes, crystal clear waters of the Red Sea, and hill sides of Jordon and Saudi Arabia. Worth every penny I saved by not taking a plane.
Once I arrived at the border crossing I was searched for about 3 hours-not necessarily "physically" searched but my bag and passport were given the full interrogation and I was asked about 50 questions regarding my plans in Israel. Certainly understandable on Israeli terms however I just was a bit concerned because I missed the last bus that would take me to Tel Aviv- 5 hours away. But my luck was changing dramatically and within minutes I found a kind tour bus that had an extra seat. The bus was reserved for 6 Colombian tourists but I was welcomed for only 15 bucks. It was a great ride that was spent laughing, practicing my Spanish speaking skills and getting great traveling tips from the driver. When I finally arrived it was late but the air was sticky warm and I could feel that Tel Aviv was just coming to life! I sat myself down on a bench and within a minute I was in a traveler's conversation with 2 locals- Amittai and Tami. They offered me a local beer and companionship for the walk to my hostel (yes, it is legal to drink on the streets in Israel!). After a quick check-in to my less than appealing room, I set off with my new friends to the local watering holes and a late night stroll along the Mediterranean Sea. The night ended that morning but sleep is overrated right??
The next day I was again spoiled with a personal tour of the city. My new friend, Amittai, spent the entire day giving me the inside edition to the culture and historical sites of the city. The local beach front was covered with cyclists, runners and walkers and the streets lined with funky boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Sound familiar Belmont Shorians? The main difference being the truly authentic Mediterranean food and men- both delicious! The day came to an end but not a moment too soon-my exhaustion had begun to settle and a restful night was desperately needed.
The next 2 days were spent wandering the streets with my camera. Rosh Hashanah was closing in and the holiday spirit was in the air. I enjoyed strolling the streets and local markets; watching the people purchasing fresh meats, vegetable, fruits and flowers for their families. I admit I was feeling a bit melancholy-feeling like a true outsider without friends and family to share the holiday. I actually contemplated returning home early. I was certainly having a wonderful time but was thinking that Hawaii might be calling me to set up a new home. But that feeling was short lived as I received two wonderful invitations that very day. The first being from my friend Boaz who was leaving for China the next day-we met up for dinner. Great to see him and nice to have an enjoyable conversation with a friend. Truly needed to pick up my spirits!The next surprise came from Amittai who invited me to join him and some friends for a camping trip to the Dead Sea. Without hesitation I accepted and was off for a completely unexpected journey! Stay tuned, the adventures are just beginning.
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