Starbucks in Israel

Israeli’s like their coffee strong. The ubiquitous drink of choice is Turkish coffee, a muddy black pungent liquid that requires patience or will result in a mouthful of coffee grounds. If you are not a fan of this deeply rooted Middle Eastern tradition than you can order an Americano or grab some Nescafe. The Americano may not be filtered the filtered coffee some are used to, but it’s a nice pick me up on your way to work. If it’s summer time, and you are looking for a cooler way to relax in a café, than an ice-café is the way to go. Not to be confused with a “coffee with ice” an ice-café is a slushy blend that resembles a Starbucks frappuccino. Whatever your tastes and no matter what time of year, Israel will have the coffee you’re looking for…at least as long as you’re not looking for Starbucks.

Hatachana

Ever been to Tel Aviv’s old train station? What was once an important commercial hub has revitalized itself and now hosts annual exhibitions, shows, and gallery openings. With spectacular food and interesting venues, this is a place to be on summer nights. Their website says “This was the first railway line between Little Asia and Egypt and the first means of transportation to replace the camel as the mode of transport for heavy loads taken over long distances.” Having closed it’s gates over 50 years ago, this is still a thriving entry point for those looking to explore all Tel Aviv has to offer.

http://www.hatachana.co.il/home

Winter Weather

Winter in Israel means rain, lots of rain. This year is no exception. Generally Israel’s warm, arid climate makes its southern regions immune to snow days. There have been the occasional patches of snow in Jerusalem, but today Tel Aviv is experiencing a liquid “Snow day”. Students and employees across central Israel are working from home today after cancellations and delays were announced following record rains. The Kinneret (Sea of Galilee), Israel’s largest body of fresh water, will soon reach levels high enough to allow water to flow into the Jordan River, and eventually into the Dead Sea. For those of you who have plans to come to Israel in the near future, fear not. Israel’s rain comes in bursts, allowing you time to pop into a local coffee shop for your favorite hot beverage and be on your way. If you’re looking to learn more about the Kinneret or water conservation in Israel, click this link http://ow.ly/gCZ24

For more, check out my posts on http://www.absolutelyisrael.com/blog