EL AL | Atmosphere

Tel Aviv and Jaffa’s light rail red line was inaugurated last August, bringing the two sister cities closer together and opening new opportunities to discover parts of town that weren’t as easy to reach until now. In the early 20 th century, Jerusalem boulevard was a major cultural hub. Its legendary Alhambra art déco movie theatre and café, still around today, were once central nightlife venues, graced by famous politicians, ambassadors, army generals, actors, and it-girls. With the launch of the new light rail, the old haunts of times past have been cleaned up and refurbished, inviting visitors to discover historical buildings, art galleries, and museums. All along the boulevard there are great restaurants, cafés, street food eateries and bars, and soon, new boutique hotels will open here as well, ensuring this exhilarating part of town becomes a major nightlife and tourism hub once again. The red line starts at Elifelet station, right by HaMesila Park, and continues down through Jerusalem boulevard that connects Tel Aviv to Bat Yam. There are six stations along it in total. Currently, the most interesting segment is the one between Eilat street and Yehuda HaYamit street, bursting as it is with galleries, restaurants and cafés. It’s also a stone’s throw from Jaffa’s Clock Tower, port, Old City, and flea market, as well as the beautiful Noga neighborhood, the American Colony, and it’s not too far away from the beach. In addition to all of this, the Tel Aviv-Jaffa municipality organizes events and food tours along the boulevard every Friday. Here’s an overview of all the fun there is to be had here - from Shalma station to Blumfield to Erlich. Shalma Station Gesher Theatre square - the square in front of Gesher Theatre has become one of the most exciting nightlife spots in the city, with its beautiful ancient fountain and the adjacent wine bar “Cantina San Remo”. The square leads onto the Noga neighborhood where concept stores, art studios, cafés and restaurants abound. (Jerusalem blvd. 9)

The Fun Art Gallery I Photo: Alex Donin

Walking and cycling lanes I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

The Jaffa pond I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

Noga neighborhood I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

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ATMOSPHERE OCTOBER 2023