EL AL | Atmosphere

Issue 282 | June 2024

Discovering Emek HaMaayanot More than 40 natural springs of clear cool water, fascinating historical and archaeological sites, and the fun and freedom of open-air glamping - discover the joys of Emek Hamaayanot

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Flying on a 737 or 777 aircraft? Switch your mobile device to flight mode, select the EL AL network, and scan the QR code or open your browser and enter: wifi.elal.com to enjoy hundreds of movies, TV shows, music and games on your personal device. Further details on page 42

common ground

the exhibition dissolves the barrier between archaeology and fine arts, as recent museum acquisitions of israeli art are interwoven with ancient artifacts from the collection – most displayed for the first time.

israeli art meets archaeology

participants: ron amir, maya attoun, ilit azoulay, michal baror, hilla ben ari, deganit berest, miriam cabessa, ayelet carmi, chen cohen, gilad efrat, maayan elyakim, assaf evron, hamutal fishman, efrat hakimi, meirav heiman, menashe kadishman, miki kratsman, shai kremer, sigalit landau, netta lieber sheffer, maria saleh mahameed, ruth patir, hillel roman, elham rokni, karen russo, avi sabah, merav salomon, netally schlosser, etty schwartz, orit siman-tov, micha ullman, amon yariv, addam yekutieli ( know hope ) , noa yekutieli

installation view; photo: © the israel museum, jerusalem, by elie posner

In-flight I Issue 282 I JUNE 2024

Publisher

Editor-in-Chief Nava Marton Production Manager Liat Mofaz Milchan Art Director Amram Pikarsky / Studio Liat Rosenzwieg Design

Photo: Ariela Aflalo

Editor’s Letter

Shiri Atzmon Cover Photo and Images ASAP Creative

June is a wonderful time of year to go exploring Israel’s beautiful landscapes, as the weather is lovely during the day and the nights are still a little chilly. It is also the month that ushers in bathing season, making it the ideal time to discover the Emek HaMaayanot region in the Beit She’an Valley where there are over 40 natural springs with clear, cool water, aside impressive historical and archeological sites. New walking and cycling lanes were recently put in place there. It’s a wonderful place to spend the day, or even the night - perhaps in a glamping tent! - and experience even more of the region the following day. Lovely weather also means it’s picnic season. In this magazine you’ll find a selection of five of Israel’s best picnic spots, either by the sea, in a Hod HaSharon eco park, or the Judean Hills – all great places to spread a blanket, open a bottle of wine, and while away an afternoon. Also this month: a taste of Pardes Hanna Karkur’s rich and diverse culinary scene;

an overview of the five main trends presented at this year’s Milan Design Week, and as always, all the month’s cultural highlights, events, and more. Though everyday life inevitably goes on, the events of October 7 and the fight for the release of the hostages held captive in Gaza, are always present in our minds. This month, a photography exhibition presenting the incredible work of Israeli photojournalist Ziv Koren is being held at the Peres Center for Peace in Jaffa. An internationally renowned photographer, Koren was among the first to arrive in the communities of the Gaza border that were attacked on October 7, and to discover the horror that had unfolded there. He went on to take up to a quarter of a million photos since that day, amassing an exceptional body of work which represents a documentational project of unprecedented volume. As we hope for better days, I wish you all a pleasant read and a peaceful flight. Nava Marton

VP of Marketing, Trade and Sales Yaniv Ofir Business Development Manager Alon Fox Senior Sales Manager Liad Elhadad

Head of Inflight Entertainment & Connectivity Tal Kalderon Talkal@elal.co.il

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Mr. Liad Elhadad at TEL: 052-3449838 Liad_e@rge.co.il

Traveler’s Prayer May it be Thy will, Lord of Heaven and Earth, to lead us to peace and safety, to fly us in peace and safety to our desired destination, to find life, joy, and peace. Guard and watch us, we who fly the air pathways, cross the seas, and travel overland routes. Make firm the hands that guide the steering and sustain their spirit, so that they may lead us in peace and safety. For in You alone is our shelter from now unto eternity. The Lord bless thee, keep thee, the Lord make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee, the Lord turns His face unto thee, and gives thee peace. Amen.

Atmosphere Magazine is published monthly by RGE and LDI. Materials in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without permission. The opinions expressed in this magazine reflect those of the writers only, and not EL AL Airlines. The publisher and / or EL AL are not responsible for advertising content.

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In-flight I Issue 282 I JUNE 2024

Contents

41 42 News 44 In-flight Entertainment 46 New Movies 48 Kids - Movies & TV 49 Top 6 50 In-flight Internet Access 51 Meet the Crew 52 Destination Map 55 Fleet

Check-in 8

Travel News June highlights 10 What’s on Our Radar This Month Local events 12 Our Guide 6 tips for third age travelers 14 Flight Essentials for your next trip See the Sights 18 Discover The natural springs and archeological wonders of Emek HaMaayanot 24 Explore 5 great picnic spots

Magazine 26

Lifestyle 30 Food 8 of the best places to eat in Pardes Hanna-Karkur 34 Design Our five favorite new trends in Milan Design Week

October 7 through a photographer’s lens Photojournalist Ziv Koren’s exceptional exhibition 28 Made in Israel The story of De Karina, the artisan chocolate factory from Kibbutz Ein Zivan

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Informative Content

SEA ONE PRIVATE CLUB: Your Seafront Home In Israel

Sea One Private Club is a new kind of luxury resort-living experience for discerning residents of over 60, both from Israel and abroad. Sea One provides all the amenities of a world-class seafront resort: fine dining, state-of-the-art gym, gorgeous seafront pools, Yoga and Pilates studios, pampering spa with indoor pool, Jacuzzi, saunas and treatment rooms, lecture halls, art gallery and studio, private cinema, business center and conference rooms, synagogue, and banquet hall. Entertaining has never been so easy: some 20-plus hospitality units are available for friends and family, fine dining restaurants, and grab ‘n-go cafes provide a wide variety of food and beverages, and all the facilities are open for entertaining guests. Banquet halls, private rooms, or the synagogue are perfect for celebrating special events like Bar Mitzvahs or birthdays; and somebody else will do the cleaning up! What’s more, trained staff are on hand to help deal with maintenance, cleaning and the

famous only-in-Israel bureaucracy; let an Israeli ease you into the complications. Culture beats at the heart of the Club: lectures, jazz concerts, and other cultural activities as well as an art gallery and studio, private cinema, and round-the-clock sport classes and cultural events fill each day with joy; all with the sea as backdrop. Step out of your door onto a beachfront promenade of shops, restaurants and cafes, or hit the beach for a relaxing walk or seafront yoga session. The ultra-elegant Sea One Private Club is only a 15-minute drive from Tel Aviv; 20 minutes from Ben-Gurion Airport, and 45 minutes away from Jerusalem, with a train station located 5 minutes away. Sea One Private Club, developed by Oranim Group, an international company with over 45 years of experience in successful seafront projects, is set to be an iconic landmark. Oranim, renowned for meticulous design and quality, is well known for its Royal Beach Hotel &

Residence on the Tel Aviv seafront. Set to open by the end of 2024 with a variety of layouts, all Sea One Private Club units will be exquisitely designed to include a fully equipped kitchen and bathrooms, a safe room and private terrace. Sea One Private Club prices start from 3.9 million NIS plus monthly membership fees starting from 10,000 NIS. Residents may choose to terminate their membership with three months’ notice and the unit price is fully refundable after Consumer Price Index adjustment. Whether you want to live in Israel full-time, or just spend a few months in the country each year, Sea One Private Club is the perfect home for you. Live the dream: wake up by the beach and work or play all day in the sun. Sea One Private Club: the next level in luxury seafront living. For further information or to schedule a tour on site to view model partments: Tel: +972-549656415 or +1(917)7281211 seaone.co.il *5651

In collaboration with

Check-in I Travel News & Updates

June Highlights

Photo: PR

Photo: Ilan Arnon

New and exclusive wellness center in Switzerland |

Disneyland-style hotel set to open in Kiriyat Motzkin | A new Disneyland inspired hotel will soon be erected in what was once Kiriyat Motzkin’s “Chai Park” zoo. The Shatit construction company has won the bid for building the hotel which will spread across 3.5 dunams of land, for NIS 4.5 million. The company plans on investing a further NIS 50 million. The hotel will include 120 rooms with a Disney character in each, and playful holograms for the kids to enjoy, in the lobby and hallways. The bid closed only recently, so it’ll be a good few years before the hotel is inaugurated.

Gan Hashlosha becomes an “ecopark”|

High up in the Alps, not far from Lake Geneva, a new and exclusive wellness center has recently opened its doors. The first of its kind, the ‘Clinic Les Alpes’ is entirely dedicated to restoring and healing both body and soul. Licensed by the Swiss Department of Health, the high end wellness center offers personalized treatment options and a path to recovery that is fully responsive to individual needs. The ‘Clinic Les Alpes’ team includes psychologists, nutritionists, personal trainers, and yoga instructors highly recognized for their expertise as well as for their human qualities of empathy and compassion. The price for a week’s stay is CHF 45,000.

The Israel Nature and Parks Authority has announced that as of July 2024, the Gan Hashlosha national park will become an “ecopark”. The overall aim is to reduce the damage done to nature and improve the visitor experience. Some of the measures to be implemented, include minimizing pesticide spraying and taking action against littering and air pollution, notably by banning barbecues throughout the park area. The park will continue to function as a “quiet park”, i.e., a park where it is prohibited to play music on loudspeakers. The hope is that these measures enhance the visitor experience and allow the park to continue to thrive. The World Travel Awards have revealed this year’s winners for the Middle-East region. This is the 31 st time the organization – defined by the New York Times as the “Oscars of the travel industry” - attributes awards for excellence to each sector of the travel industry. Winners are selected on the basis of reviews given by travel agencies, industry professionals, and the general public of over 160 countries. As expected, there are no Israeli winners in general categories this year, and most awards have gone to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. But what has been attributed, is awards for the best hotels in Israel - and the results are as follows: the award for “leading hotel in Israel” is attributed to Jerusalem’s Waldorf Astoria, the award for “leading boutique hotel in Israel”, to Tel Aviv’s ‘The Norman’, for the eighth time, the award for “best business hotel in Israel” has gone to Tel Aviv’s Carlton Hotel, the award for “best conference hotel in Israel” has gone to the David Intercontinental, and the award for “best hotel suite in Israel” to the Kempinsky Hotel.

Jerusalem | The Waldorf Astoria named best hotel in Israel

Photo: Ilan Arnon

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Check-in I Local events I June 2024 I Nava Marton

What’s On Our Radar This Month

Live show | Enrico Macias and Zehava Ben Across Israel Internationally acclaimed singer Enrico Macias is back in Israel for three live shows, performing his most beloved songs. Accompanying him on stage, for the first time ever, is legendary Israeli singer Zehava Ben. With Macias’ velvety voice and Ben’s unique sensitivity and sound, the audience is in for a truly unforgettable musical experience. Tel Aviv: June 27 th , Haifa: July 7 th , Beer Sheba: July 2 nd , for tickets: leaan.co.il

Photo: Kfir Bolotin

Performing Arts | Kamea Dance Company – South Beer Sheba and Tel Aviv

Beer Sheba-based dance company Kamea will be premiering three new productions created by local choreographers. The premiere is part of the company’s Kamea Hub initiative, a laboratory of creation and champion of Israeli performing arts. Choreographer and director Liran Michaeli created the production entitled “Drek”, dancer, choreographer, musician, and dance teacher Oren Lazovski created the one entitled “Happy End”, and dancers Nitay Halevi and Dolev Moskovich (both Kamea company dancers in the last four years) created the one entitled “Dgigonim”. Beer Sheba: June 3 rd , 18th, and 19 th , Suzanne Dellal Center, Tel Aviv: June 23 rd - 24 th , kameadance.com

Photo: Martin Lafit

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Concert | La Tres Granadas Across Israel

The Ashdod-based Israeli Andalusian Orchestra is premiering a new show that marries the music of flamenco with traditional Andalusian music. Las Tres Granadas is a big production, involving many musicians on stage, and the participation of flamenco dancer Yarden Amir and guitarist Ofer Ronen, who have both been working in Spain these past years, to great success. The soloists are flamenco singers Yael Horowitz and Dima Kablan. Andalusian music, born in the south of Spain at a time when different cultures and communities cultures and people. This series of concerts attempts to rekindle this spirit of peaceful coexistence, with the hope of seeing it be revived in our times as well. Until June 13 th across Israel, andalusit.co.il lived side by side in peace, has always been a bridge between

Photo: Mike Edri

Body & Soul | Yoga Month Tel Aviv

Jazz | The 2024 Queenta - Woman Jazz Festival Jerusalem

Yoga lovers will be delighted to know that throughout the duration of yoga month, at the initiative of “EllaYoga” and the port of Tel Aviv, yoga events will be taking place on the port’s seafront deck. Aside from free, open air yoga classes, sunset vinyasa practice will be held every Tuesday at 7 pm, and every Friday at 8 am. On June 20 th , participants will join together to do 108 sun salutations, and meditate to the sound of Tibetan bowls. Entrance is free, subject to availability. Bring a mat and a bottle of water. Throughout the whole of June, namal.co.il

Jerusalem’s main concert venue and music hub, the Yellow Submarine, is hosting the third edition of the Queenta – Woman Jazz Festival (QWJF) this month. The QWJF is entirely dedicated to female musicians, and for three whole days, audiences and festivalgoers are invited to discover a dazzling line up of shows, (some especially created for the occasion). There’ll be tribute concerts, parties, and jam sessions, as well as the premiere of a new production celebrating the life and work of one-of-a-kind Israeli singer songwriter Corinne Allal. The Yellow Submarine is forever championing artists, musicians, and original creation, and has been home to many fascinating projects over the years. June 4 th – 6 th , The Yellow Submarine, Jerusalem, yellowsubmarine.org.il

Photo: Guy Yehieli

Photo: Ofir Avrahamov

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Check-in I Our Guide

More and more people who have entered the third age are going on vacations and traveling the world – from Greece to Paris, through Japan, India, Australia and Antarctica, age is no longer a factor. Here are 5 tips to help you prepare your next trip so that you’re ready to enjoy everything the world has to offer, even at 80 / By Nava Marton 5 tips for third age travelers

01 Choosing your destination. It’s important to choose a destination that’s adapted to your needs, be it in terms of interest, or in vacation type. Cruises are particularly well suited to third age travelers, due to all the facilities available aboard cruise ships. Vacationing in the countryside remains a favored option by some, though it’s paramount you find out how challenging walking trails are and if they suit your pace and needs. 02 Alone or with a group. Organized tours have their pros and their cons. Their main advantage is that you won’t be on your own and someone will be nearby in case you’re in need of anything. Also, tour organizers know the destination city well and will have prepared a detailed travel plan adapted to your needs. The disadvantage is in fact precisely the same thing, that you won’t be alone and rather dependent on others. Traveling solo might not be the most recommendable way to travel when you’re 80+ years of age, but perhaps if you travel as a couple or with a small group, and your travel plan is adapted to your pace and needs, you can make do without an organized tour. 03 Packing. Opt for light items and reduce baggage weight to a minimum. Make sure your

suitcase is stable and easy to carry and wheel about. Telescopic walking sticks are highly recommended. Pack an extra two days’ worth of any medication you require and keep it with you in your carry-on. Complete any medical tests you require, before your trip, and pack a first-aid kit with you, as well as absorbent products, hygiene products, an extra pair of glasses, compression socks for the flight, etc. 04 Safety. Choose a hotel that’s central and easily accessible. Some hotels offer shuttle services to the city’s main sites and attractions. Check that the room you’re booking is adapted to your needs – for instance that it has not only a bathtub but also a separate shower cubicle. If you’re good at using a smartphone, download apps

for language translation, maps, and currency conversion – it’ll help you navigate your trip with more ease. Let your family know what your travel plan is and whenever you plan on being unreachable by phone. And of course, make sure to get adequate travel insurance. 05 Public transport. In big cities, using public transport is a great way to move around. Many places have Hop on Hop off buses that allow you to visit all the city’s main sites and attractions with minimum effort. Guided tours are also a great way to get to know new places and meet new people and are highly recommendable. Tips courtesy of the staff and residents of the “Ahuzat Zahala” assisted living facility in Tel Aviv

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Check-in I Checklist

Flight Essentials for your next trip

Hardcase Roncato Light suitcase made of 100% polypropylene with 4 single swivel wheels, TSA lock, and a 10-year warranty, NIS 999, available at Lametayel stores and online via lametayel.co.il

Eagle Creek packing cubes, NIS 220-59, available at Lametayel stores and online via lametayel.co.il

Carson X-Scope pocket microscope for kids, 7 functions, NIS 95, available at select outdoor gear stores and online via the importer’s website: t-and-i.co.il

Slides, Teva Naot, NIS 429, available at all Teva Naot stores and online via tevanaot.co.il

Kids’ sandals, Gali, NIS 199.90, available at all Gali stores and online via gali.co.il

Comme Il Faut summer collection, shirt: NIS 850, pants: NIS 990, hat: NIS 890, available at all Comme Il Faut stores and online via comme-il-faut.com

Sunglasses, Armani, NIS 1,409, available at select opticians and eyewear stores

Tie-dye swimsuit, Intima, NIS 399.90, available at all Intima stores and online via intima-il.co.il

Moroccanoil hair care travel kit, NIS 145, available at select hairdressers, authorized stores, and online via moroccanoil.com

Photos: PR, Amit Shemesh, Tal Terry

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The Rashi Foundation advances social mobility and equal opportunity in Israel’s geographic and social periphery, focusing on education, employment and welfare among children, youth and young adults. Marking 40 years of activity in Israel, the foundation targets communities in the south and north, and since October 2023, has expanded its activities for their recovery and growth. The Rashi Foundation: 40 Years of Strengthening the Resilience of Israeli Society

A Leading Social Organization Starting as a modest philanthropic fund, Rashi has evolved over 40 years of activity into one of Israel’s leading social organizations, working in collaboration with dozens of partners. Many of its initiatives have been scaled up into national public services. The School Lunch Program, for example, began as a small pilot to provide a nutritious meal to kindergarten and

French-Jewish philanthropist Gustave Leven has made an indelible impact on Israeli society since the founding of the State. He was a successful businessman who came from a family with a deeply ingrained tradition of social involvement. One of the highlights of his business career was building the mineral water company Perrier, which he transformed from a small plant

into a major global brand. Aiming to strengthen the newly founded State, Leven made generous donations to various projects in Israel – in the fields of education, higher education, health and welfare. However, he was modest and didn’t want to put his name on any of the projects he invested in, including the Foundation he established in 1984 – the Rashi Foundation.

Informative Content

children and youth whose lives were brutally disrupted. As part of this effort, the foundation established social-educational centers in the main evacuation sites – the Dead Sea, Eilat, Tiberias and so on. In partnership with local municipalities, Rashi created safe spaces for children and youth who experienced trauma, encouraging them to participate in activities that answer their needs. At the same time, additional learning centers established by the foundation help high school students to close the gaps in their studies caused by the war, in preparation for their matriculation exams. In the coming years, the Rashi Foundation will continue to be a catalyst for change and enable Israel’s periphery to rebuild and thrive. The main focus is on reinforcing personal and community resilience through experiential education for children and youth and expansion of employment opportunities for young adults. Facing these challenges and those to come, Rashi will continue working in collaboration with the government, municipalities, philanthropic and business sectors to advance equal opportunities and social resilience in Israel’s periphery. www.rashi.org.il/en

Gustave Leven, founder of the Rashi Foundation: creating opportunities for Israel’s children to realize their full potential, regardless of where they are born.

school children, and became a State funded program reaching hundreds of thousands of children. The Foundation also works to advance formal and informal education and to promote excellence, initiating major projects such as the Darca Network of High Schools, the Science Park in Be’er Sheva, the National Cyber Education Program Magshimim, the STEM Ecosystem program and the Pedagogic Network for Elementary Schools. Other initiatives target young adults with gap year and vocational training programs, families living in poverty, and more. In all its ventures, Rashi aims to increase its impact through cross sector partnerships with government ministries, local municipalities, the business community and other philanthropies in Israel and abroad. Always with you Over the years, the Rashi Foundation was called again and again to respond to emergency situations. It assisted

the residents of the north after the Second Lebanon War in 2006, and the populations that were affected by the COVID crisis of 2020. Following the terrorist attack in October 2023, Rashi undertook to help the war-torn communities in the south and north and the people who were forced to leave their homes, especially

The Rashi Foundation: advancing formal and informal education and promoting excellence

See the Sights I Eat, Travel, Enjoy

At barely an hour and a half away from Tel Aviv, between Afula and Beit She’an, there are magical turquoise water springs, waterslides, and walking paths to enjoy and explore with family and friends. Here’s our little guide to one of Israel’s most beautiful regions / By Ariela Aflalo Emek HaMaayanot: its natural springs and archeological wonders

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The Emek HaMaayanot region, nestled in the heart of the valley of Beit She’an, is in constant renewal - its walking trails, butterfly garden, distillery, glamping grounds, and exciting food scene make it an absolute must-see. It has more than 40 natural springs, including Gan HaShlosha, Ein Shokek, Ein Yizrael, and many more. Considered to be one of Israel’s most beautiful regions, it’s also full of fascinating historical and archeological sites, making it the ideal destination for a daytrip or a weekend away. HaMaayanot Park Green expanses and cool clear waters Located beside the kibbutzim of Nir David, Mesilot, and Reshafim, HaMaayanot Park sprawls across 2,000 acres of land, rich with streams, green expanses, and natural springs. The springs are all fit for bathing and picnics can be enjoyed on the lawns and seating areas. Cars are not allowed, though bikes are, as well as electric vehicles available to rent at the park entrance. The park is open all day, and you can hop from Gan HaShlosha to Nahal Hakibbutzim, to Ein Shokek, and Ein Muda, as well as go for a visit of Tel Atik, where there’s an ancient watch tower from which the views are spectacular. Gan HaShlosha is also known as the ‘Sakhne’ which means ‘warm’ in Arabic, in reference to the warm temperature of the water (28°C year round). It’s a truly gorgeous spot. Not for nothing did Time magazine choose it as one of the twenty most beautiful sites in the world. At the center of the park lies an impressive cascade with lawns and gardens sprawling around it. The park also includes an archeological museum,

Gan HaShlosha

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See the Sights I Eat, Travel, Enjoy

Photos: Ariela Aflalo

Ein Muda

Ein Shokek spring

The reenactment site of an ancient settlement in Beit She'an

The ancient bridge above Nahal Harod

Beit She’an national park Archeological remains and an impressive audiovisual show Known as Scythopolis during the Hellenistic period, Beit She’an has a beautiful national park with a fascinating archeological site to explore. It includes the remains of an ancient Roman thoroughfare, stone arches, pillars, a bath house, and a theatre, as well as those of a Byzantine basilica. If you feel like a challenge, you can walk up Tel Beit She’an, a hill with visible remains of 20 settlements from different historical eras dating back over 7,000 years with a picturesque 360° view of the area, and evidence of sophisticated plumbing and water

picnic corners, play areas, and more. (Since April, barbecues are forbidden). In Ein Shokek spring there’s a hidden cascade behind an ancient Ottoman flour mill and it’s absolute bliss to stand under the water and let its powerful flow massage your back and shoulders. There’s also a lovely picnic corner beside the spring, and a ‘wet’ walking trail that visitors can walk through to reach the ‘flour mill’ spring pool. The bridges walking trail Ancient bridges and flour mills A moderately challenging route, this trail is great for hiking, running, and walking. It connects two

ancient bridges that stand above Nahal Harod and divides into two main segments. You can complete either just one of them or both, at the pace of your choice, and admire the beautiful landscapes, fascinating archeological remains, ancient flour mill remains, impressive stone arches, and more, while doing so. There are benches and seating areas all along the way. The full length of the trail is 2.7 km. The first segment starts at the Nahal Harod parking lot in Beit She’an and ends at the basalt bridge where a water cascade spills into the canyon. parks.org.il

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Where to sleep The Nir David glamping campground

This campground comprises twenty glamping tents styled like African-style lodges. Each has its own wooden balcony and they’re all surrounded by lawns and greenery. Each tent is about 30sqm, sleeps up to five people, is equipped with AC, a double bed, a bunk bed, a sofa bed, towels, bed linen, lighting, a table and chairs, a seating corner, and more. Toilets and showers are communal, and each guest receives a key with which to access them. At the center of the glamping ground there’s a big seating area with tables and benches, perfect for holding workshops and having meals. The kitchen is right next to it, fully equipped with a personal fridge for each tent, an electric kettle, a microwave, cooker, coffee machine, and workstation for preparing food. Everything is clean and easy to use. Those who wish to, can order breakfast. There’s a BBQ station behind the tents and a spot to prepare campfires and potjiekos, where evenings can be whiled away roasting potatoes and marshmallows. Many attractions are located nearby, including Gan HaShalosha (a 5 minutes’ walk away) and the Gan Garoo zoo. New: couples’ retreats for foodies (no kids), which include a night of glamping, guided hikes, olive oil tastings, a visit to the Zoara distillery, fruit, veg, and herb picking with Chef Roman Giler, a potjiekos meal, and more. nirtours.co.il

Beit She’an national park

The Nir David "Layla" glamping campground

Gan Garoo zoological park

works reflective of the abundance of natural water in the vicinity. The views are even more thrilling to behold in the evening, when the “She’an Nights” audiovisual show is projected onto the ancient remains against the backdrop of the starry night sky. parks.org.il Gan Garoo zoological park Butterflies and kangaroos Koalas, cassowaries, emus, flying foxes, lorikeets, bats, parrots, peacocks, and friendly kangaroos are the merry inhabitants of the Garoo zoological park in kibbutz Nir David. The animals are free to roam as they please, but they’re used to

people and are easily approachable. You can feed them and take pictures with them as long as you’re gentle and respectful. Visitors can tour the zoo on their own or with a guide who’ll show you how to feed the kangaroos. A new flower garden was planted in the winter by some of the displaced citizens from the communities of the Gaza border region, with the hope to attract a wide range of butterflies. @gan_garoo_zoo Zoara distillery Spirits and Medjool dates At the Jordan Spirits Zoara distillery, Medjool dates are used to make alcoholic beverages. The alcohol

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See the Sights I Eat, Travel, Enjoy

Photos: Ariela Aflalo

Zoara distillery I Photo: Aya Dvorin

Bishulilim by Lili Twizer

Taama Pâtisserie

Bishulilim An authentic culinary experience Lili Twizer is a charming woman full of stories to tell and recipes to share. She invites guests to come and enjoy the Persian, Iraqi, and Moroccan food of her childhood, that she cooks with great passion in her home in Beit She’an. Authentic Persian music plays in the background, as she hosts her special three-course dinners that include various salads and dips, stuffed vine leaves, gondi soup, beetroot kubbeh soup, and more. Make sure you leave some space for the exceptional Beit She’an doughnut. bishulilim.com

Taama Pâtisserie Not just croissants

they produce is sweetly scented, full bodied in flavor and very pleasant to drink. Aromatic herbs are added to the date alcohol, which is then used to make beer, gin, and arak, which can all be purchased on-site or ordered online. Visitors are invited to tour the distillery and take part in a guided tasting session. And in case you were wondering why it’s called Zoara, the answer is it’s named after the Latin name of the ancient city of Tzoar, one of the five cities of the Dead Sea plain mentioned in the Book of Genesis, also known as the ‘city of dates’. jordanspirits.com/zoara-distillery

Helmed by pâtisserie chef Michal Lary, Taama Pâtisserie is a café and pastry shop specializing in French-style baked goods located in the center of Beit She’an, in the house and garden that used to belong to her grandfather. Lary prepares exquisite croissants stuffed with pistachio cream and cornflakes, or crème pâtissière and strawberries, as well as sweet-and-sour lemon bun topped with meringue, cheese burekas, Italian maritozzi, etc. @taama_beitshean ˆ

צילום: יח"צ I תענוג לעיניים ולחך. אומה סושי בר

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Lifestyle I Daytrip

5

great picnic spots

As spring comes to its end and temperatures remain manageable, it’s still time to pack a bottle of wine, some tasty goodies, and find somewhere beautiful to enjoy a relaxing picnic - alone, with friends, or your better half. Here are 5 of Israel’s nicest picnic spots / By Gili Mazza

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03 The Hod HaSharon Eco Park An artificial lake and a birdwatching deck The Hod HaSharon eco park is located near the city’s Neve Ne’eman industrial zone. Here you’ll find: an artificial lake with 3 birdwatching decks, walking and cycling lanes, lawns, outdoor gym equipment, and benches. The park is accessible to all, and from its highest vantage point, you can see Tel Aviv, Herzliya, and even as far as Samaria. The shaded area along the lake is perfect for a picnic. 04 Ma’ale HaHamisha in the Judean Hills Fresh mountain air and spectacular views HaHamisha forest is nestled in the heart of the Judean Hills. It’s highest point reaches 800m and it abounds with beautiful spots to sit down and relax in. Here you’ll find: birdwatching decks, memorials and displays with information about Israel’s War of Independence, and a walking trail throughout the forest.

01 The coastal park

promenade, Tel Aviv

A seafront view Tel Aviv’s coastal park is a 2 kilometers-long promenade along the seafront kurkar ridge between the beaches of Tel Baruch and South Cliff. Here you’ll find: a park with more than 300 trees, shaded observational decks, benches, and walking, running, and cycling lanes. The promenade is fully accessible and is well-lit in the evenings. 02 HaYarkon Park, Tel Aviv Hundreds of cacti and giant rocks HaYarkon Park’s cactus garden sprawls across 6 acres of land. It is home to many varieties of cacti and succulents. Next to the park there’s another park known as the statue park that has giant, impressive Stonehenge-like rocks. Here you’ll find: hundreds of highly Instagrammable varieties of cacti and fascinating huge rocks in the statue park.Entrance is free. Opening hours: Sunday-Saturday: 10:00-17:30

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Photos: Gili Mazza

05 HaBonim Beach Nature Reserve Right by the beach and its beautiful hidden bays The HaBonim beach is part of a spectacular nature reserve in the Carmel region, spanning between moshav HaBonim and moshav Dor and its surroundings. It is often referred to by its previous name, Tantura beach. Here you’ll find: HaBonim beach and its magical coves, bays,

lagune, and little islands that are at walking distance. There are all sorts of fascinating fauna and flora inhabiting the dunes, and exploring the HaBonim “Blue Cave” makes for an unforgettable excursion. In the nearby Tel Dor National Park there are remains of an ancient port and of the ancient Phoenician city of Dor. ˆ Gili Mazza is a journalist and a

photographer who writes her blog “Travel with Gili” (gilimazza.com), @travelgilimazza

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ATMOSPHERE JUNE 2024

Magazine I Exhibition

Remembrance, bravery, and renewal through a photographer’s lens

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Photos: Ziv Koren

Photojournalist Ziv Koren was amongst the first to arrive in the attacked communities of the Gaza border on October 7 to bear witness of the horrors. And he hasn’t stopped doing just that ever since. His work is currently on show in an exceptional exhibition at the Peres Center for Peace in Jaffa / By Nava Marton

On the morning of the 7 th of October, when the country was in utter turmoil and the IDF was still fighting off Hamas terrorists on Israeli soil, award-winning photojournalist Ziv Koren grabbed his camera and headed south. He arrived in less than an hour and was amongst the first photographers on the ground; amongst the first to discover the sheer horror and magnitude

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until one of the kidnappers knocked it out her hands. Hila, Emily, and Raya were released and returned to Israel as part of a hostage deal. 02 14.03.24, Tel Aviv. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum escalates its protest. After five months of their loved-ones being in Hamas captivity and receiving news that probably 30 of them are dead, the families cry out that time is running out and that their loved-ones must be released. 03 22.12.23, Shoham. Mia Shem, who was released from Hamas captivity, healing from the complex surgery she underwent on 14.12, is back doing one of her favorite things: cooking. 04 15.10.23, Nir Oz. A bloody handprint on the wall of a safe room – yet another trace of the horror that unfolded here. 05 11.10.23, between Ness Ziona and Rehovot. Sirens going off in the middle of the road: Orit Gotkind and her three children seek shelter on the side of the road at the sound of a red alert siren. Ziv Koren is an internationally acclaimed, award-winning photographer, who has notably covered the 2010 Haiti earthquake, the Indian ocean tsunami in 2004, the war in Ukraine, and the Covid pandemic in Israel. zivkoren.com, @zivkoren1

of the destruction and havoc wreaked; amongst those who would document and record the battles still taking place, and amongst those who have produced some of the most valuable photographic documents in Israeli history. And so began Koren’s project of documenting the disaster and the war it brought on, a project which amounted to over a quarter of a million photos, taken in the communities of the south, along the roads where Nova festivalgoers attempted to flee, IDF bases, in Gaza as battles took place, in cities across Israel, in particular those closest to the border with Gaza, still constantly targeted with rocket attacks. He documented funerals, the fight for the return of the hostages, wounded citizens and soldiers in rehabilitation wards, and every aspect of the war that engulfed the country in the fall and winter of 2023-2024. His outstanding work is currently

on show at the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation in Jaffa. The exhibition presents photographs and digital installations (that some may find triggering). A book with more than 400 photos across 300 pages accompanies the exhibition. It includes texts written by Koren and others, and an English version will be published later this year. Some photos have previously appeared in national and international newspapers. ˆ Prior registration is necessary at peres-center.org; price: NIS 40, including a donation to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum; the book can be purchased in the Hebrew version on-site or online via storyonline.co.il 01 11.10.23, Be’eri. A fluffy toy belonging to Hila Rotem Shoshani (13) on the floor at the entrance to her house. Hila was kidnapped on October 7 from Kibbutz Be’eri with her mother Raya and friend Emily Hand. She refused to be separated from her toy

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Magazine I Made in Israel

De Karina: A tale of love and chocolate

Photos: courtesy of De Karina PR

The story of the “De Karina” artisan chocolate factory is a story of love, chocolate, and patriotism. Because of the war, the owners, a young couple who set up shop in the Golan Heights at the start of the millennium, fear its days may be counted, unless they manage to reverse the situation – and you can help them do just that / By Sharon Ben David

“We’re having a tough time right now, like everyone else in the country”, say Karina and Giora Chaplinsky, the owners of the “De Karina” artisan chocolate factory in the Golan Heights kibbutz of Ein Zivan. “Our visitors’ center is still closed, but the help we’ve received from EL AL is making it possible for us to stay afloat”. Third generation chocolatiers Argentinian-born Giora and Karina are third generation chocolatiers. They left Bueno Aires for Israel in 2002 and fell in love with the Golan Heights. After a few years working in agriculture, the couple decided they would attempt to make their dream come true and establish an artisanal chocolate factory. Success came knocking soon after “De Karina” opened in 2006, and a visitors’

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center was established. People come from across the country to take part in its workshops, drink hot cocoa, and taste the pralines prepared with great skill and passion. The current war has caused the factory many difficulties – the visitors’ center hasn’t reopened, and the fate of the Chaplinskys’ life dream is more than uncertain. “We’re still trying to figure out whether we need to move the factory to somewhere less close to the border, but all of our employees live around here, and these are our people, our family. We have to stick together”. background sounds of war, the factory is operating full-time, albeit at a lesser capacity. The visitors’ center remains closed, but chocolate boxes can be purchased online on the factory website. EL AL has recently given “De Karina” a serious hand, selecting it as its chocolate supplier. Indeed, a selection of “De Karina” pralines are being handed out to Business class passengers on long-haul flights and gifted to other passengers to celebrate a special occasion such as a birthday for instance. EL AL has said that it chose “De Karina” both for the quality of its chocolate, and in the name of supporting an Israeli business. “This is our second collaboration with EL AL”, say Karina and Giora. “We had a good experience first time round, so we were delighted to work with the company again. The pralines we make for EL AL are flavored with nougat and coffee and are stamped with the company’s logo. They’re made of quality dark chocolate, are parve, vegan, and gluten and lactose free - a sweet little bite from the Upper Golan to put a smile on the passengers’ faces”, they say with a smile. “For a relatively small business from the Upper Golan, it’s a huge honor to have been selected by the country’s national airline company. To have our name appear on these chocolate boxes is both an immense source of pride, and a major responsibility”. If you too would like to support an Israeli business, log onto the website of this small family-run chocolate factory in the Golan Heights, and get yourself a box of chocolates – a small investment for a payoff that’s not only incredibly delicious, but also of imperative importance. ˆ de-karina.co.il Supporting Israeli businesses In spite of reduced manpower and the

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ATMOSPHERE JUNE 2024

Lifestyle I Food

The last ten years have seen the food scene in the lovely town of Pardes Hanna-Karkur, flourish and boom. Foodies from everywhere in Israel flock over to check out its exciting restaurants, artisan bakeries and breweries. Here’s a selection of 8 of the most inventive and delicious / By Tali Eshhar Gottlieb 8 of the best places to eat in Pardes Hanna-Karkur

The Thai Underground Eight years ago, chef and owner of the ‘Thai Underground’ restaurant Yoav Zidon, opened a pad thai and banana roti food stall, next door to his restaurant. It was an instant hit, prompting the decision to convert it into a bona fide restaurant, located next to the old Pardes Hanna school of agriculture, where a beautiful garden, in which Zidon grows herbs and vegetables, meets you as you arrive. The menu is rich, with a wide variety of salads, first courses, curries, noodle dishes, soups, and desserts. Open every day except Fridays and Saturdays. thai_underground

Photo: Danya Weiner

Kamado Kitchen Helmed by Chef Tamaki Sasazaki, known to everyone as Sasan, and his partner Maya Spenser, this Japanese restaurant is located in the vibrant Hurvot Haomanim area and specializes in ramen. Kamado Kitchen is vegetarian, and currently offers three different kinds of ramen: vegan (based on mushroom broth), fish (based on fish broth), and Himalayan (based on Himalayan salt broth). Aside from the ramen, the menu includes gyoza dumplings, egg and spring rolls, tofu schnitzel, and desserts. kamadokitchen.co.il

Photo: Nina Ziv

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The Shevet Brewery Neighborhood beer garden

Shevet Brewery is a High-Tech based distillery-brewery that uses cutting edge machinery to produce its beer and spirits. Five flagship beers have been developed to date, each one distinct from the other, and spanning from lager, tradition ales, and specialty limited edition beers. The brewery’s spacious beer garden is open in the evenings and offers all kinds of draft beers, aside a variety of food stalls, such as one selling excellent Neapolitan pizza (Meow Pizza). The beer garden is open all day on Fridays, and pop-up clothes sales are often organized here as well. shevet-beer.co.il

Photo: Rafi Koren

Photo: Aviv Ayalon

Blooms Fresh Coffee Specialty coffee roastery

The Leaven Pâtisserie French boulangerie and café This charming French café is brimful of mouthwatering baked goods, such as croissants with a variety of fillings, tartelettes of every kind, and pâtisserie classics with a twist. The bread section is replete with heavenly loaves of sourdough bread, focaccias with various toppings, and much more. leaven_patisserie

Assaf Hania spent years living in Melbourne, the specialty coffee capital of the world. Specialty coffee is a term used for the highest grade of coffee available, typically relating to the entire supply chain. Upon his return to Israel, Hania chose Pardes Hanna to launch his coffee cart, Blooms Fresh Coffee. Nowadays, it is

parked in the Hayadit quarter, where cafés, boutiques, and art studios abound. The café’s flagship drink is Hania’s cold brew, which he prepares himself, at home. You’ll find all the usual coffee drinks here, as well as matcha tea, shakes, and a variety of delicious baked goods. blooms_specialty_coffee

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Lifestyle I Food

Chocolala Artisan chocolates

This beautiful little chocolate shop is helmed by William Ramet and his wife Laetitia, who left their home country of France to make Aliyah. Together they make chocolates and pralines, all handmade, with a myriad different flavors and fillings, such as pistachio, raspberry, tiramisu, nougat, mango, passionfruit, marzipan, etc. Vegan non-dairy chocolates are available as well. chocolala.israel

Photo: PR

Guy’s Burger Truck Chef Guy Ben Asher’s burgers are of the ‘smash’ variety – a burger made by smashing the ground beef onto the grill with a spatula. Smashing the burger results in a sear on the outside of the meat, which locks in all of the juices and flavor. The burgers at ‘Guy’s Burger Truck’ are served in delicious brioche buns, aside top-tier homemade fries. Ever since it opened, Ben Asher’s food truck has been an absolute favorite. Well worth a visit. @guysburgertruck

Photo: Shani Halevi

Roberta Vinci An Italian-inspired restaurant with a menu that marries classic Italian dishes with Arab-Galilean cuisine. Nestled in the center of a luscious garden, it exudes coziness and pastoral charm, and it’s a great spot for family gatherings, romantic dinners, or casual weeknight meals. Aside from the fantastic pizza and pasta, the menu also includes dishes such as gnocchi with warm yoghurt, za’atar and charred lettuce, and risotto - which changes according to what vegetable is in season. robertavinci.co.il

Photo: Sapir Shoval

Good to know: the pace in Pardes Hanna-Karkur is mellower than in other places, and its relaxed atmosphere translates into most establishments having flexible opening hours, and to many staying closed on Sundays, sometimes even on Mondays. Only a handful of restaurants are open on Saturdays, so always make sure to check ahead of time if the place you plan to go to is open. Tali Eshhar Gottlieb lives in Pardes Hanna-Karkur where she leads culinary tours that explore the town’s food, the people that make it, and the human stories around it. taliesgo

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