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Love Letter to Israel
From the cities to the desert, a destination that delivers.
From left: A view of the Sea Mosque in Jaffa’s Old City, and Holtz (left) and companions during a Six Senses Shaharut experience.
ICHAEL HOLTZ, AN NYC-BASED
MVirtuoso agency founder and CEO, has visited Israel 14 times. He returned from his first post-pandemic trip to the country with insight about new hotels and even more enthusiasm for the destination.
WHY GO NOW There’s never been a better time to visit Israel. With restrictions loosened, entry is simple, although precautions are certainly still in place – keep in mind that Israel was the first country in the world to fully vaccinate a majority of its citizens against Covid-19. Pandemic gains aside, Israel has always been a hub of history and culture. That, combined with incredible cuisine, makes it a destination that anyone should have on their list. CITY STAYS At The David Kempinski in Tel Aviv, The David Penthouse Suite is one of the best in the entire country, spanning three floors with its own private pool, dry sauna, private gym, and two bedrooms. In Jerusalem, David Citadel Hotel and Mamilla Hotel – part of The Set Collection – take fantastic care of guests.
FULL PLATE Tel Aviv is all about the food scene. We dined at Pop & Pope and HaSalon. If you’re familiar with the lively atmosphere at HaSalon’s New York and Miami outposts, you can expect a similarly jubilant vibe in Israel. Other favorites in the city include Cantina, Montefiore, Pastel, and Turkiz.
Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, take a food tour. A handful of fantastic companies specialize in these, which often begin at the Carmel Market, weaving through its spice stacks and fresh produce stalls. After sampling your way through, you’ll gather the day’s best on offer before returning to a local’s home kitchen by foot. Your guide will walk you through a menu based on Israeli cuisine’s diverse ethnic influences.
DESERT BREAK The Negev was a true highlight and the perfect addition to any Israeli itinerary. Six Senses Shaharut has raised the bar for resorts in the country, with thoughtfully designed accommodations, many of which have a private pool. Don’t miss the amphitheater created from the terrain’s natural contours.
The activities – including an e-mountainbike tour through the rock formations on the Israel National Trail – and knowledgeable guides allow guests to really connect to this powerful place. One of my favorite moments was watching the sun setting over the desert after a full day of activities – a display of light and color that’s truly out of this world.
TIME IT RIGHT Work with your travel advisor to arrange on-the-ground logistics in the Negev (one option: a camel trek along the path of an original caravan journey on the Incense Route). Based on driving distances (it’s three and a half hours from the Ben Gurion Airport), I’d recommend doing this portion either at the front or back end of your itinerary. And plan to stay for at least three nights.
From top: The David Kempinski’s Penthouse and a selection of spices at the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv.
