January 14, 2009 18 Tevet 5769

Over the past two days we have done an extensive amount of touring. Yesterday, after posting to all of you, we spent a mystical day in Safed. This town is known for its ancient ties to Kabbalah (Jewish mysticism). We started our tour with a conversation about what it means to be Jewish and the implications of that in our world today. Learning about Safed's strategic location, we expereinced first hand the importance of being atop a mountian for security to anceint people. We stopped for lunch at the sun splashed outdoor cafes and munched falafel, schwarma and pizza. In the afternoon our group was divided into two. One group spent the time learning about Kabbalah, visiting the Arie Mikvah and seeing the ancient cemetery. The other, went to a circus performed by Arabs and Jews together. The evening was spent relaxing at a local night spot.

Today we left the north and headed to the coastal city of Tel Aviv. Often called the New York of Israel, it is a bustling, modern city. We toured the downtown area, ate lunch at one of the best burger restaurants in the country and went to Independence Hall. Today was the start of our mifgash (meeting) and we welcomed eight Israeli soldiers onto our bus. Over the next few days the soldiers and American students will interact with one another and learn more about the differences and similarities in their lives.

Tomorrow marks the start of our Jerusalem adventure!