Jan '22.
Some practical tips and recommendations if you visit Yerushalayim!
1. For the most incredible eyeshot of Jerusalem, head to the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, situated in the heart of the old city. Entry costs a mere 15 shekels, and if you can brave the 178 stairs, the view from the top of the belltower is utterly breath-taking (photo above). It is a perfect vantage point to get some fresh perspective. Head to the church’s inner courtyard for a tranquil spot to relax, drink coffee, smoke, read some scriptures and catch your breath from the hectic alleys of the city.
2. Accommodation-wise, I recommend staying in my dear friend Ibrahim’s Peace House. This hostel is free to stay at, and runs on donations from visitors. Daily, warm meals are prepared by the generous host. It is situated in East Jerusalem, on the Mount of Olives.
3. If visiting the Christian sites of Jerusalem, chances are you will go to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It is beautiful and incredible in its own way, but be sure to check out the ancient Ethiopian monastery just next door, for a more intimate look into what church life has been like in the Holy City for the past millennia.
4. For a chilled, modern vibe, head West, to the cultural venue and arts centre ‘The First Station’ . There are street food vendors selling delicacies from all over the Earth, as well as almost nightly concerts and entertainment. We particularly enjoyed a guitarist’s covers of Jewish folk music.
5. Trek up the hill to Sheikh Jarrah’s Cloves Restaurant, a hidden culinary gem. A delicious menu of both Western and Middle Eastern cuisine, for reasonable prices you (for once) don’t need to bargain for. The view from the dining table, overlooking the city, are also gorgeous.
This is not an extensive list. Whatever you do, my advice is to talk to people, ask locals for their recommendations, go off the beaten track, find your own Jerusalem. The city’s past is magical and worthy of attention of course, but so is its present. In the meantime, enjoy these recommendations to get you started...
