Israel Travel: Things You Should See and Do in Central Israel
Israel. It is a land that is encased in spiritual mysticism. History tells how many religious struggles have occurred in Israel that claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of our ancestors. As Israel bore witness to these struggles, it also left us with so-called souvenirs of the biblical and historical structures that constantly remind us of our history.
Because of all the things we hear from the news every day, it may be hard for many people to believe that Israel is known as one of the top vacation destinations the world over. The central region of the country alone has greatly developed to become one of its fast flourishing areas. Tourism is highly evident in Central Israel by the wide array of high-end, mid-range and economical hotels that are standing there today. These hotels are strategically located near the historic, religious and key economic spots in Central Israel.
Without a doubt, Tel Aviv is the most widely known Central Israeli destination by travelers the world over. It is known around the world by its wonderful beaches, the Carmel Market and other public markets, and nocturnal character. It is coined as the “City that Never Sleeps”, which makes it obviously the counterpart of the United States’ New York City. All around, you will find hotels in Tel Aviv that cater to different travel budget ranges. Many of them are even regarded as some of the best Israel hotels.
While Tel Aviv gains in popularity and draws thousands of holidaymakers year after year, certain smaller towns and tourist attractions in Central Israel are overlooked. One of these untold secrets in Israel is Netanya. It houses a beach that stretches for fourteen kilometers, where most of the best Netanya hotels are conveniently situated with views of the awe-striking Mediterranean Sea. Not many people know that Israel is one of the world’s largest exporters of diamonds. Many elite travelers, however, are slowly discovering the diamond trade in Netanya, which greatly adds to its tourism value.
It is best for visitors who are drawn to flowers to visit Netanya between February and March. Dark blue irises are in full bloom in the south of the city during this time of year. It has become a popular tourist stop because of the iris natural preserve that is built there. Tourists can enjoy a relaxing walk on the pathway and immerse themselves in the beauty and fragrance of these flowers. Netanya also has parks and squares in the middle of the city that offer a long list of attractions and activities that every traveler should check out.
Just outside of Netanya is the Poleg Nature Reserve. It is known among the adventurous visitors who are always looking for a trail to conquer. Guided hiking trips are offered through the trail near the Poleg river that meets the vast open sea. Because wild flowers grow alongside the trail, the Poleg Nature Reserve has also become popular among botanists. The eucalyptus trees also attract tourists in the reserve. The trees were planted to help drain the swamps that develop in the plains of Sharon. Today, these trees have spread. They not only serve their purpose, but they add to the beauty of this growing tourist hot spot.
This is just a piece of what Central Israel has to offer. Aside from the historical and biblical sites that the country is known for, other neighboring cities also offer various tourist spots of different taste, color and flavor. While Central Israel has welcomed modernization with open arms, it has never compromised its environment, heritage and rich history.