EL AL | Atmosphere

Issue 292 | April 2025

Returning to the Galilee With spring now in full swing, head north to rediscover the gorgeous Upper Galilee with its lush green landscapes, wineries, culinary scene, attractions, and pastoral tranquility

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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 46

Israel is our turf From the Galilee to the Arava, from Jerusalem to Tel Aviv, from the coastal plain to the northern valleys - today more than ever, the entire country is MIVNE. With over 2.0 million square meters of commercial real estate for rent, including offices, industry, logistics, commerce, shopping centers and residential properties for sale and rent, student housing, and more. MIVNE is Israel's largest commercial real estate group, specializing in the initiation, acquisition, construction, and management of buildings, with over 3,000 tenant.

In-flight I Issue 292 I April 2025

Publisher

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

Shiri Atzmon Cover Photo Nava Marton Images ASAP Creative

Photo: Inbar Shlomit Rubin

Editor’s Letter

Spring, and with it the Holiday of Passover, have always marked peak tourist season in Israel. This month, we recommend heading north to reconnect with the beauty and spirit of the Galilee, now that its inhabitants are returning home to rebuild their lives and communities. We spent a weekend in the Upper Galilee, and came back with a selection of ideas for what to see and do, which you can find on p.14. Last month, the members of the new “Voice of the People” initiative met together in Israel for the first time. Borne out of the belief that Jewish people around the world were in need of a shared global platform to discuss burning issues, the idea for this new global Jewish council was first developed by President Isaac Herzog at the time he was chairman of the Jewish Agency. In March, he met with

the 150 council members (50 from the USA, 50 from Israel, and 50 from the rest of the world), as they visited the communities of the south of Israel and held their very first council session. (See article on p.38). Also this month: an overview of the main local cultural highlights, a look at a special exhibition marking Holocaust Remembrance Day in Israel, restaurant recommendations of establishments led by Israeli chefs around the world, ideas for Passover gifts made by Israeli designers, and more. As April 2025 begins, we remain painfully aware that the struggle for the release of the hostages in Gaza is not over yet, and we continue to pray for their release. I wish you a Happy Passover, a peaceful flight, and a pleasant read. Nava Marton

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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 292 I April 2025

Contents

43 44 News 46 In-flight Entertainment 48 New Movies 50 Kids - Movies & TV 51 Top 6 52 In-flight Internet Access

53 Meet the Crew 54 Destination Map 57 Fleet

26 The Humans of the Holocaust A unique photography exhibition portraying

optimistic stories of Holocaust survivors

Lifestyle 30 Food 5 new Israeli-led restaurants around the world 34 Design Unique gifts by Israeli designers Business 38 Community The “Voice of the People” platform

Photo: Michael Topyol

Wicked

See the Sights 14 Discover The Galilee’s breathtaking landscapes, fantastic wineries, rich culinary scene, and many attractions

Check-in 6

Travel News April Highlights 8 What’s on Our Radar This Month Local Events 10 Our Guide 6 tips for embracing slow travel 12 Flight Essentials for your next trip

Magazine 24

A Complete Unknown

The Jewish-Christian Interfaith Connection Building bridges between faith communities

The Ring

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In collaboration with

Check-in I Travel News & Updates

April Highlights

Photo: PR

Photo: Simplex

Chalcis Shipyards

Photo: courtesy of

Mano Maritime’s MS Crown Iris has been fully upgraded | Mano Maritime’s luxury cruise ship the MS Crown Iris, is back in the port of Haifa after three months of upgrade works, right in time for the start of the season. Its entire eleven floors - each room, every interior, all the facilities, every part of the ship - have been comprehensively upgraded, so that vacationers are ensured of enjoying the most luxurious cruise experience. The works were carried out in Greece, in one of its leading shipyards, Chalcis Shipyards. Rich with experience in building and upgrading ships, their team of expert workers, engineers, and professionals, highly versed in international standards, conducted the works by implementing the most advanced technologies under the supervision of the company’s ship management department manager.

The new Jacob Hotel opens in Modi’in | Last month, the Jacob hotel chain

The Nahal Prat Promenade is getting a NIS 1.6 million upgrade | The Binyamin Regional Council has announced the start of upgrade works on the Nahal Prat Promenade, an impressive project spanning 1,500m, at an estimated cost of NIS 1.6 million, jointly carried out by the Binyamin Regional Council, the KKL-JNF, and the Israeli Ministry of Tourism. The promenade, built according to the most cutting-edge engineering technologies, is designed to accommodate both wheelchairs and strollers, making it accessible to all. Works are expected to last five months, after which visitors will be able to enjoy a continuous walking trail from Kfar Adumim to Mitzpe Orit, a breathtaking lookout above the Dead Sea.

opened Modi’in’s very first hotel inside a building complex owned by the Azrieli Group. Located in the heart of the city’s entertainment district, it offers 85 rooms and suites, a luxurious lobby, a large dining room and two well-equipped playgrounds set to open later this year. The Jacob Modi’in Hotel also has five conference rooms, an events hall, a synagogue accommodating up to 150 people, and soon, a restaurant and bar, open to the general public. A spa will also open later this year. Prices currently range from NIS 810 per couple for a standard room during the week, and NIS 895 on the weekend. The hotel also plans to host a Passover holiday dinner.

A new exhibition opens at Ben Gurion Airport A new exhibition called “The Eternity of Israel” opened last February in Ben Gurion Airport’s Terminal 3. The exhibit allows visitors to explore the history of the People of Israel - a story of power, catastrophes, and revival, spanning thousands of years, through archaeological findings and photographs portraying rare moments of archeological discovery. Placed along the airport’s departure hall, the exhibition will be on display until the end of 2025. “This is the first time authentic archeological remains are being showcased aside breathtaking photographs at Ben Gurion Airport. Passengers have already been expressing great interest in the exhibit, as they stop to look at the impressive artifacts on show, that testify to the People of Israel’s illustrious history”, says Udi Bar Oz, Director General of Ben Gurion Airport.

Photo: Emil Aladjem, Israel Antiquities Authority

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Check-in I Local Events I April 2025 I Nava Marton

What’s On Our Radar This Month

Photo: Sarit Uzieli

Music Festival The Nahal Tzipori Spring Festival | The Galilee

At once an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and a celebration of live music, this festival is a joint initiative by the Kishon River Authority, the Yad Hanadiv Foundation, and the Polyphony Education Association. It offers a chance for locals and visitors from all cultures and walks of life, Arabs and Jews, to come together, enjoy the beautiful, rehabilitated Nahal Tzipori river, and listen to great live music by top Arab and Jewish artists, including David Broza, who will be hosting Valerie Hamaty and the Polyphony, Shaanan Streett and Saz in an Arab-Jewish night of hip-hop, Shem-Tov Levi with Nissim Dakwar, Nur Darwish in a tribute concert to Fairuz, and more. Guided hikes will also be available to festivalgoers, as well as an arts and crafts fair. April 16-19, details and tickets at lp4biz.com/tzipori

The play "Everything remains alive" I Photo: Omer Mesinger

Theatre The International Fringe Theatre Festival | Akko

A major platform for bold, independent, and multicultural creation, Akko’s International Fringe Theatre Festival marks its 45 th edition this year with original plays, street performances and activities for the whole family. A significant cultural event, the Akko festival celebrates new and alternative theatrical approaches, offering theatre creators that aren’t part of the Israeli theatre establishment a spotlight and a stage to share and showcase their work. For three whole days, performances will take place from 5:30pm to 11pm, free of charge. And this year, for the first time, a special kosher for Passover food court will offer festivalgoers all sorts of exciting food options. April 14-16, accofestival.co.il

With the kids At the circus with the Beatles | Across Israel On the occasion of the band’s 65 th anniversary, this show takes audiences on a journey through time that combines acrobatics, circus stunts, and a soundtrack made up of the Beatles’ most beloved hits, some played live by renowned Israeli cover band Ummagumma. The show tells the story a boy called John who travels back in time to 1962 London, when an edict forbidding the city’s residents to express feelings of love is issued by the Queen. Inspired by the spirit of the Beatles, John insists on bringing love back. On his journey, he meets surprising characters and witnesses historical events that force him to face great challenges. A multisensorial experience with balloons and soap bubbles that brings the magic of the 60s back to life. Throughout April, tickets at shovreykupot.co.il

Photo: Konstantin Cherepakhin

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Photo: Natasha Shakhnes

Dance “Threads & Feathers” Tel Aviv

Photo: courtesy of the Design Museum Holon

Dancer and choreographer Rina Schenfeld has created over 120 dance works over a period of more than 45 years. She has invented and developed a unique dance language that uses objects and materials to highlight and emphasize the human body. With “Threads & Feathers”, she revisits her legendary 1979 creation, “Solo Threads”, but this time, together with Canadian singer Barbara Hannigan and Israeli guitarist and composer Nadav Lev, she blends dance, music, and a video installation to create a unique evocation that radiates humanity, simplicity, and spontaneity. April 3 rd at the Tmuna Theatre, tmu-na.org.il, April 9 th at Studio Annette, fbmc.co.il/flagship/studio annette

Exhibition Heroines: Fashion and Hope in World War II The Design Museum Holon

Curated by Ya’ara Keydar, this exhibition is about the surprising power of fashion in times of great existential crisis. Through dozens of clothing items, accessories, and archival footage, it shows how women used imagination, resourcefulness, and creativity to find ways to cope with an impossible reality and cling on to hope. A special sound and lighting setup accompanies visitors through multiple display spaces: first the Lower Gallery with the Jewish Museum Milwaukee’s exhibit about the Czech Jewish dressmaker Hedy Strnad, then the Peripheral Corridor, with an exhibit about the British and American women on the home front, and the Upper Gallery, with a display on life after the war. The exhibition concludes with the story of Holocaust survivor Lea Gottlieb, founder of the Gottex swimwear empire. As a tribute to the remarkable women of October 7, the exhibition also has an area dedicated to Israel’s “Iron Swords Heroines”. From April 1 st , dmh.org.il

Arts & Crafts The Pardes Hanna-Karkur Artists’ Colony Festival Pardes Hanna-Karkur

More than 120 artists will be showcasing their work at this year’s Pardes Hanna-Karkur Artists’ Colony Festival. Visitors will be able to discover dozens of original paintings, sculptures, ceramics, mosaics, carpentry works, and more, and even join one of the three scheduled artists’ studio tours to delve deeper into their lives and work. Gallery roundtables are also set to take place, as are various creative workshops (macramé, mosaics, stained glass, printing, and more), concerts, kids’ activities, etc. Many coffee carts, cafés, and restaurants will be open throughout the duration of the festival. Entrance is free, though certain activities do require a fee. April 3-5, pardesart.co.il

Photo: Yifat Yogev

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Check-in I Our Guide

How to slow travel: 6 tips for embracing quality over quantity Staying longer in one place, immersing yourself in it, connecting with local culture and people – slow traveling isn’t a style of travel, it’s about having a more meaningful travel experience off the main tourist paths. Here are six slow travel tips to help you plan / By Lihi Ron

01 More authenticity. Slow traveling is best experienced away from the obvious touristic destinations, in lesser known places like small mountain villages, or little seaside towns. These locations offer direct contact with local culture in a way that over-touristified destinations don’t. Tuscany, Provence, and the Greek islands at the end of the season offer lots of slow travel destination options. 02 Weeks rather than days. The secret to slow travel lies in the length of your stay. Instead of trying to pack in as many tourist experiences as possible in a few days, if you can, give yourself weeks rather than days, (months even), to really immerse yourself in a place - get to know locals, learn the language, begin to feel genuine familiarity with your surroundings. 03 Learn, experience, connect. Participating in local activities offers a chance to experience a place far more meaningfully. Joining a cooking class for instance or taking part in local festivals and events and learning about local traditions, opens up whole new perspectives. And don’t hesitate to approach people and ask questions - it’s such a great way

to form real connections and experience a culture from the inside. 04 Forget about highways and car rentals. Using public transport is part of fully connecting with a place in a truly authentic way. Buses, trains, ferries, bicycles are all great ways of experiencing the landscape, discovering hidden corners, meeting interesting people. Plus, it’s also far more environmentally-friendly. 05 Take the time to learn about your destination. History and culture are the keys to deeper connection and understanding of a

place. Visit small local museums, ask people about the history of their town, return to the same little café every day, live like a local. The more you’ll learn about the place, the better you’ll know it. 06 Flexibility is the name of the game. Slow travel isn’t for everyone, but it offers a fascinating alternative for those in search of more meaningful traveling. One of the core principles of slow travel is flexibility. Being spontaneous, changing plans last minute, getting impromptu recommendations from locals, all

lead to the most amazing, unexpected experiences.

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EL AL's Premier members get much more!

A new world of personalized benefits For details

Starting April 1, 2025, for Gold members and above who are EXECUTIVE members or FLY CARD holders, subject to the full terms and conditions on EL AL's website

Check-in I Checklist

Flight Essentials for your next trip

Photo: Irad Netzer

Classic and comfortable wherever you go. Strongful’s Old Money activewear line combines classic looks with soft colored leggings and tops in whites, brown-gray truffle tones, and black. The collection is based on Oasis materials, which are soft, enveloping, and kind to the skin. The line includes new designs, such as the Baby Tee wrap top, straight-cut pants, flare leggings, and more – perfect for working out, lounging around at home, or going about your everyday activities.

Oakley sunglasses, great for sports activities, with Prizm lenses that enhance the visual experience by optimizing contrast across light and weather conditions and protect against UV rays. Lightweight, durable, available in many different styles and colors, NIS 759- 1,400, available at select eyewear stores

Outdoor Revolution 25L Neptune backpack, easy-access compartments including a main big one with internal pocket, padded laptop sleeve, outer top pocket, side bottle pockets, breathable mesh backpanel, water-repellent material, adjustable side and front straps, NIS 249, available online via outdoorrevolution.co.il

Bose Flex 2nd Gen portable speaker, big bold sound in a super- packable size, water, dust, and destination- proof, comes in jeans, sand, black, and sage, NIS 599, available online via beingbetter-bose.co.il

Toiletry Bag, NIS 30, available at Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Buttoned shirt and tetra Bermuda shorts, Tamnoon, NIS 80 per item

Hoodies backpack, fashionable and practical, padded shoulder straps, adjustable carrying handle, spacious central compartment, two outer pockets, padded internal laptop sleeve and inner pocket. Comes in gray, olive, and black, NIS 119.90, available at all Hoodies stores and online via hoodies.co.il

Salomon X Ultra 360 Edge Mid GTX hiking boots, protective all-terrain grip, secure lace-fastenings, shock absorbing EVA foam for support of the sole, waterproof Gore-Tex protection that ensures feet always stay warm and dry, men and women models available, NIS 799, available online via outdoorrevolution.co.il, and at outdoor gear stores

Photos: PR, Haim Cohen

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Italian Design Month

Come Visit Us

See the Sights I Eat, Travel, Enjoy

Returning to the Galilee: lush green landscapes, fresh clean air, and pastoral tranquility

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With the sun peacefully shining over the snowy peaks of Mount Hermon and the endless expanses of green dotted with wildflowers, it’s hard to imagine war was raging here just a few months ago. As the people of the Galilee begin to rebuild, now’s the ideal time to head north and rediscover the beauty of this magical part of the world. Among the first structures to reopen were the Galilion and the Kfar Giladi hotels - as well as many wineries, some even having continued to function under fire. The two hotels launched a joint initiative called “the Wine Route”, that includes a two to three-day package deal for two that combines a stay in one of the hotels (see below), with visits and wine tastings at the following wineries: Sadot Winery, Golan Heights Winery, Lueria Winery, and Recanati Winery. Depending on the length of your stay, you can also include a visit to the Hula nature reserve or to the city of Safed. But whatever configuration you choose, one thing’s certain – you’re in for some serious Galilean enchantment. With spring now in full swing and the inhabitants of the Galilee finally returning to their homes, now’s the time to head north and reconnect with the gorgeous Upper Galilee landscapes, its wineries and culinary scene. Wake up surrounded with greenery, breathe in the fresh air, and rekindle your sense of hope / By Nava Marton

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See the Sights I Eat, Travel, Enjoy

The Lueria Winery I Photo: Nava Marton

The Recanati Winery I Photo: Nava Marton

כיתוב

The wine house at the Galilion Hotel I Photo: PR

The Recanati Winery I Photo: Nava Marton

Savoring the landscape, glass of wine in hand What better way to start a Galilean getaway than with a glass of wine – at least that’s exactly how we began ours, resting from our journey, taking in the spectacular landscapes, glass of rosé in hand, at the Galilion Hotel wine house. From there, we went on to tour the Recanati and Lueria wineries. The Recanati Winery The Recanati Winery had opened its new visitors’ center in September 2023, before shutting down a month later because of the war. Last January, immediately after the announcement of the ceasefire, it reopened - out of a sense of urgency and duty to rebuild. Sleekly designed, its huge screens show clips of the vineyards and winemaking process, and glass floors

The Lueria Winery This boutique family winery is

reveal stacks of barrels of wine under your feet, in the floor below. The winery is located at a straight-line distance of less than 6km from the Lebanese village of Maroun al-Ras, and from the vast lookout balcony, you can clearly see it, and even as far as the snowy peaks of Mount Hermon. Two tours take place daily, Sunday to Thursday, at 11am and 1pm, allowing visitors to witness each step of the winemaking process, from the trucks offloading the freshly picked grapes, to the pressing, fermentation, and bottling. After the tour, there’s a winetasting session aside a light meal (at additional cost) with local cheeses, breads, and dips. The Recanati Winery produces single-vineyard wines - reds, rosés, and whites, with each grape variety telling its own story, as well as that of the land it grows in.

located at the foot of Mount Meron. Decades ago, Yosef Sayada planted vines here. Now, he makes wine with his son Gidi. Here too, a new visitors’ center was about to open when the war began. Today, it also includes a restaurant, a bar, and a lookout balcony. Endless stacks of bottles make for the perfect décor to a delicious meal (the menu includes pizzas, dips, cheese platters, salads, and more), enjoyed aside fantastic wine. The Lueria wine menu is composed of whites and reds. The vineyard tour here isn’t a guided one, so you are free to roam, glass in hand, observe the winemaking process, enter the barrel room, and take everything in at your own pace. And of course, at both wineries you can purchase the wine you tasted.

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See the Sights I Eat, Travel, Enjoy

A room with a view at the Galilion Hotel I Photo: Nava Marton

The Galilion Hotel I Photo: Rotem Golan

The Kfar Giladi Hotel I Photo: PR

The Kfar Giladi Hotel I Photo: PR

Where to stay The coziness of both the Galilion and the Kfar Giladi hotels is what makes this holiday so special, offering you an anchor to go back to, after your long visits and tours. The Galilion Hotel During its war-induced dormancy, the Galilion conducted extensive renovations. Nestled among the lush green hills of the Hula Valley, it offers 120 rooms and suites (for couples and families) across two two-story structures, built around a big, beautiful central pool. Each room has a balcony with a seating area looking out onto the spectacular views that inspired the rustic, elegant design of the hotel’s interiors in tones of green and blue, with elements of bird motifs. There’s a new spa with 10 treatment rooms, a sauna and a hammam, and the hotel restaurant offers a very rich Galilean menu based on quality local ingredients. The buffet breakfasts and dinners are as abundant as they are

delicious. The Kfar Giladi Hotel Located in Kibbutz Kfar Giladi, the Kfar Giladi Hotel has it too undergone renovations before reopening last month. It now offers 158 elegantly designed rooms and suites, suitable for couples and families alike. The lobby has been entirely refashioned, given a new central fireplace with seating areas all around, and a bar serving Galilean wines, cocktails, and spirits. Both the hotel pools (indoor and outdoor) have been renovated as well. The culinary experience here has been rethought through the prism of sustainability. The dining hall windows look out onto breathtaking views, and the menu includes elegant seasonal chefs’ dishes, made with top-quality local ingredients from the kibbutz itself and nearby farms. The meal is presented in buffet form, as you are invited to choose from a selection of dishes and collect them on trays

designed to echo the kibbutz dining experience. The hotel’s new sustainability based hospitality model offers a holistic stay that includes tours of the area as well as the opportunity to support local initiatives such as the new escape room that tells the story of the kibbutz, local community orchards, art workshops with local artists, and more. Full details and prices of the “Wine Route” package deal can be found on the websites of both hotels: giladi-hotels.co.il, galilion.co.il Day trip | waterfalls, streams, and migratory birds The Upper Galilee is rich with hiking trails and nature reserves, such as Agamon Hahula and the Nahal Ayun reserve. Agamon Hahula Nestled in the heart of the Great Rift Valley, the restored Hula wetlands were established as a birdwatching

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See the Sights I

Mount Hermon reopens to visitors Last month, the Hermon ski resort reopened to visitors, even though skiing isn’t yet possible, due to damage caused to the lifts during war. But in truth, even without the skiing, there’s so much to enjoy here: the 2,040m-high cable car, the high speed sledding tracks, the SkyRider VR simulation, and the list goes on. Note than in the summer, a whole range of summer attractions will replace the winter ones. Also, guided tours to the top of the mountain are available year-round, offering an opportunity to learn about its fascinating history and spectacular fauna and flora, as you enjoy breathtaking views of the Hula Valley, Golan Heights, and Lebanese and Syrian mountain ranges. skihermon.co.il

The Nahal Ayun Nature Reserve

Agamon Hahula I Photo: Inbar Shlomit Rubin

stream, as well as to four impressive waterfalls, including the Tahana waterfall (21m), one of the most beautiful in Israel, which also boasts the remains of an ancient flour mill, (“tahana” means “mill” in Hebrew), and the Hatanur waterfall, which at 30m, is one of the highest in the country. The reserve has two parking lots with an area for picnics and shaded wading pools. parks.org.il Mitzpe Dado: a breathtaking scenic lookout Just above Metula, Israel’s northernmost town, lies Mitzpe Dado, a spectacular lookout from where you can see the mountains of the Golan Heights, the Naftali Mountain Ridge, Mount Hermon, but also the Lebanese towns of Al-Khiyam, Marjayoun, and Kfar Kila – names the war has rendered

familiar. Now though, the sky is blue, the air is clean, and tranquility has been restored. Remnants of the war can only be observed once you enter Metula itself, where houses have been hit by rockets. Its inhabitants are slowly but surely returning to their beautiful town, ready to rebuild. ˆ

ark by the KKL-JNF. Twice a year, no less than 500 million migratory birds pass through it. Pelicans, cranes, buzzards, ducks, plovers, and a myriad songbirds come here to enjoy the nutrient-rich waters of the Hula Lake. Indeed as spring marks the start of the birds’ mating and nesting season, the lake’s white waterlilies are in full bloom and the new lythrum blossoms color everything purple, attracting bees, butterflies, dragonflies, frogs, etc. agamon-hula.co.il The Nahal Ayun Nature Reserve Not far from Metula, this reserve is home to the perennial Ayun

Mitzpe Dado I Photo: Nava Marton

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Self-Service Options - Easy, Quick, And Convenient! Manage Your Bookings Without Needing A Customer Service Representative: Change your flight (date, destination, departure time) Request a credit voucher and check your voucher balance Cancel your flight and receive a refund Earn points for past flights for Frequent Flyer Program members Order a special meal For more information, visit elal.com or the EL AL app. Subject to the terms and conditions on the EL AL website.

Anava Vineyards: Israel’s Premier Private Vineyard Club

Anava Vineyards is Israel’s first exclusive vineyard club, offering a rare opportunity to experience the full journey of winemaking—from vine to bottle. Nestled in the historic Elah Valley, part of the renowned Judea Wine Region, Anava Vineyards is surrounded by ancient olive groves and forests, with a 2,000-year-old wine press standing as a testament to its rich winemaking heritage. Each member is designated a vineyard parcel, yielding up to one barrel of wine per year. While the vineyard is fully managed by top industry professionals, members have the option to engage in the process as much—or as little—as they choose. Embrace Your Passion: Wine, Israel, and a Lasting Connection Anava Vineyards is designed for

those who appreciate fine wine and seek a deeper connection to Israel. Among its members are leaders, innovators, and families fulfilling a lifelong dream of connecting to the land. Anava Vineyards also provides a unique opportunity for companies and communities looking for a meaningful way to engage with Israel’s agricultural heritage. Expertise and Craftsmanship at the Highest Level The vineyard is overseen by some of Israel’s most respected wine professionals: • Avinoam Inbar, a leading viticulturist with experience at Domaine du Castel. • Eyal Drory, the winemaker at Agur Winery and wine advisor for Anava Vineyards, is a rising star in the Israeli wine scene. With a deep

understanding of terroir-driven winemaking and a passion for crafting expressive, high-quality wines, he ensures that every bottle reflects the excellence Anava Vineyards stands for. While some members choose to be actively involved in the vineyard, others prefer to leave it to the experts and focus on selecting their final blend, knowing that every aspect of the process is handled at the highest level. A Deep Connection to the Land “I see myself as the hands and eyes of our members in the vineyard,” says Nadav Jesselson, founder of Anava Vineyards. “Every vine, every parcel—I care for them as if they were my own, ensuring each member’s vision comes to life. They are with me in every step, connected to the land and the journey,

Informative content

even from afar.” Coming from a family that made aliyah from New York, Nadav has always been deeply rooted in Israel’s land and agriculture, ensuring that every member experiences that connection in a personal and meaningful way. Zionism: More Relevant Than Ever As Yom HaShoah and Yom HaZikaron approach, we are reminded of the deep sacrifices made to protect and preserve the State of Israel—especially in light of the challenges of the past year and a half. At Anava Vineyards, every vine planted and every bottle crafted is an act of remembrance and resilience—a way to honor the past while building for the future. The land tells a story, and through our work, we ensure that its legacy continues. A Commitment to Community, Education, and Sustainability Anava Vineyards is more than a vineyard—it is a community for those who share a love for wine, agriculture, and Israel. The club is dedicated to education, sustainability, and strengthening Israel’s agricultural heritage. Anava Vineyards actively works with youth groups, schools, and soldiers, welcoming volunteers from Taglit-Birthright, young leaders, and those seeking a deeper connection to the land. Every visit is about more than wine—it’s about history, heritage, and hands-on learning. Anava Vineyards: A Living Legacy Anava Vineyards is more than a club— it is a way to leave a personal mark on Israel’s winemaking tradition, rooted in the land and inspired by history. Join Anava Vineyards Be part of Israel’s first exclusive vineyard club and craft your own legacy in the land. For more details, contact us at: info@anavavineyards.com

Magazine I The Jewish-Christian Interfaith Connection

Israel’s growing presence at the NRB - building bridges between faith communities As thousands of Christian communicators gathered in Dallas for the National Religious Broadcasters Convention, the event fostered powerful moments of Jewish-Christian connection through innovative programming and meaningful dialogue / By Zahava Schwartz

at Torah Day School of Dallas for Israel365’s third annual Shabbat event. The 25-hour program featured renowned speakers and scholars including Rabbis Tuly Weisz, Elie Mischel, and Pesach Wolicki, who led sessions exploring biblical perspectives on current events. A highlight of the gathering was an evening conversation with Erick Stakelbeck, the celebrated host of The Watchman on TBN. Known for his pioneering work in bringing Israeli perspectives to millions of Christian viewers, Stakelbeck shared insights from his years of reporting on Israel. The weekend showcased the depth of connection between Christian broadcasters and the Jewish state, as participants shared meals and engaged in Bible study. “These connections formed at NRB and during our Shabbat gathering represent the future of Jewish Christian cooperation”, noted Rabbi Tuly Weisz, founder of Israel365. “When we come together around our shared biblical heritage, we create meaningful partnerships that strengthen both communities”. ˆ Zahava Schwartz is the editor of Israel365 News. Israel365 strengthens Israel by building bridges between Jews and Christians. To learn more about Israel365, visit www.

Rabbi Tuly Weisz, founder of Israel365 and Sivan Ziv, District Sales Manager Central USA, EL AL Israel Airlines

The National Religious Broadcasters Convention, held in Dallas during the last week of February 2025, brought together leading voices in Christian media, offering a unique platform for strengthening ties between Christian communicators and Israel. The NRB has seen a growing Israeli presence year after year, reflecting the strong Christian Zionist beliefs of its participants and the organization itself. This year, Israel’s Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Heritage maintained prominent booths, alongside numerous other Israel-focused organizations. EL AL Airlines and Israel365 both brought a significant presence to the convention, with EL AL introducing

attendees to the warmth and hospitality that await visitors to the Holy Land, while Israel365 hosted its innovative exhibit about the modern day realities in Israel. This exhibit emerged as a compelling draw for convention attendees, offering a behind-the-scenes look at many of the complex challenges and opportunities facing Israel today. Through dynamic presentations and guided tours led by prominent voices including Laurie Cardoza Moore, Luke Moon, and Frank Gaffney, participants gained deeper insights into Israel’s rich heritage and contemporary realities. Following the convention, more than 150 participants gathered

israel365.com or scan the QR code here.

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Magazine I Exhibition

The Humans of the Holocaust The Humans of the Holocaust project was created by photojournalist Erez Kaganovitch, himself the grandson of a Holocaust survivor. Geared towards the younger generations, the exhibition showcases 40 portraits that reveal life stories full of optimism and human connection. A traveling exhibition, the Humans of the Holocaust, is currently showing in Bavaria, Germany, before later moving on to various museums and campuses in the USA / By Adi Shalom

Rita Berkowitz | Holocaust survivors are human beings with dreams and ambitions “In beauty pageants contestants are always asked what their message to the word is. Unlike other beauty queens, I don’t ask for world peace. Rather, I want to convey a simple message: that Holocaust survivors are far more than their forced title. Holocaust survivors are not only a living monument with a Holocaust number tattooed on their arms. They are Humans with dreams and ambitions that against all odds, managed to survive the inferno they were thrown into. Most of us managed to rebuild our lives, create new families, and live fulfilling lives. My decision to participate in the Miss Holocaust Survivor beauty pageant symbolizes for me my conscious decision to wake up every morning and live my life to the fullest”.

With inspiration and optimism, The Humans of the Holocaust project offers a fresh perspective on the experiences of Holocaust survivors, showcasing individual stories of how the human spirit can overcome even the most inhumane circumstances. “The project is not a ‘traditional Holocaust project’, says the artist and photographer Erez Kaganovitz, “instead, it invites viewers to engage deeply with the human stories behind the history. Through thought provoking photographs, the project sparks curiosity, aiming to better educate and inform audiences about the important lessons we must learn from the Holocaust. The stories and images are both inspiring and unexpected, conveying a message that transcends cultural boundaries. The pictures and stories have a global message you don’t have to be Jewish to engage with. It provides a powerful opportunity for people to gain a deeper understanding of the dangers of antisemitism and blind hatred, inspiring them eventually to become better human beings. Dugo Litner | Finding humor in the darkest place on earth “The Nazis did everything they could to break down our human spirit, so the only thing I could do to maintain my Humanity was to try to use my sense of humor and to make myself and the people around me happy.

If not for my sense of humor and the hope that my father is waiting for me at home, I’m sure I would have run directly to the electric fence and killed myself on the spot. This is exactly the reason why I’m posing with a yellow-colored balloon in the shape of the yellow badge with the word “Jude” written on it, on a background of a brick wall... I’m reclaiming the symbol that turned me into a subhuman being and turning it into an optimistic and smiling creation. When I tell my story in front of a crowd, I don’t skip the moments of despair. It’s all there. But I emphasize that life prevails. After all, one of the most important mitzvahs in Judaism is to be constantly happy! This is my life’s motto: Am Yisrael Chai Vekayam VMabsoot! (The people of Israel is alive, endures, and is happy)”.

Dugo Litner

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traveling the jerusalem–tel aviv train line, . la cin é math è que fran ç aise, paris

chris marker: the lost photographs of israel a world premiere of photographs taken in israel in by the renowned director chris marker, as preparation for his documentary film "description of a struggle." the photographs disappeared, but recently the negatives were discovered in the french cinematheque. new prints of of them can be viewed in the exhibition, alongside marker׳s seminal film. his witty, poetic, and almost prophetic view of the young country remains as incisive today as it was then.

the israel museum –

Michael Sidko

Menachem Haberman

Zippora Singer

Rita Berkowitz

Michael Sidko | The last survivor of the Babi Yar massacre “Over the course of two days on September 29-30, 1941, Nazi Germany’s forces and Ukrainian accomplices massacred 33,771 Jews. Among those massacred were my infant brother Volodya, my baby sister Clara and my mother. Even though I was only six years old I still remember every gruesome detail. I wish I didn’t, but the sights, sounds, and smell of gun powder still haunt me to this day”.

and wear the Tefillin on my forehead, saying: ‘Hear, O Israel, the lord our God, the lord is one’. This immortal verse charged me with power and strengthened my belief in the existence of God. It also made me feel I was still “normal”, not just a sack of bones with a number tattooed on it. Even though the Holocaust happened, I believe in God. And yet, I have friends who lost their faith in God because of it. Faith is a very personal thing. I always felt that despite the horrendous destruction, we had to continue the lineage of the Jewish People and maintain our faith. Without it, I don’t think I would have been able to survive and tell you my story now”. Zippora Singer |

lying on the floor, too weak to walk, when a German soldier came and turned me over with his boot. He looked at me and said, ‘Your time has come, Schwarze’. I clenched my fists and thought: You’re wrong. I will live. I refused to believe that evil would prevail. And indeed, that soldier was wrong. In Bergen-Belsen, in that dreadful place, I met Chaim Sheinzinger, a Polish Jew who had served in the British army. Alone and destitute, we married on my 23 rd birthday. Later, we moved to Scotland, where our beloved daughter Liora was born, and in 1961, we immigrated to Israel. Despite

Menachem Haberman | Faith made me feel normal

“While in Auschwitz, I could never tell when it was Passover, or Yom Kippur, or Rosh Hashanah. However, I knew I had to retain my bond with the Jewish faith. There was a set of Tefillin in Buchenwald camp, in block number 59, and I would take any opportunity to stand in line, even in the freezing cold, the horrors I endured, the pain that has lingered for nearly eighty years, and the haunting sights and smells of death - I now look with joy and happiness at my three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. They are my victory.” ˆ Photographer, native Tel Avivi and TEDx speaker, Erez Kaganovitz is the human behind the Humans of Tel Aviv, Humans of Israel, Humans of October 7 and Humans of the Holocaust projects. You can find his compelling work at humansoftelaviv.co.il My grandchildren and great grandchildren are my victory “In Bergen-Belsen, I remember

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Lifestyle I Food

From London to Thailand, from authentic Israeli cuisine to Asian fusion, more and more Israeli chefs are opening restaurants in various cities around the world, creating exciting menus, proudly placing Israel on the culinary map / By Sharon Ben-David Cross-border appetites: 5 new Israeli-led restaurants around the world

Photo: Dominika Radomska

Claro | London, UK Following the success of the first Claro in Tel Aviv, chef Ran Shmueli has opened a second one, in an impressive three-story building that used to be a bank, and now belongs to the royal family, in the heart of London’s exclusive St James’s neighborhood. The atmosphere is at once elegant and English in style, and Mediterranean in spirit. The menu is based on the most meticulously selected ingredients and a precise culinary vision, as defined by Shmueli himself and Tel Aviv Claro’s operating chef, Tal Feigenbaum. Dishes include Shmueli’s signature classics, such as his smoked trout filet, but also offerings especially crafted for the London establishment, such as burgul-stuffed cabbage with pomegranate reduction sauce and beef tortellini in chicken and onion broth. Though different in style and design to its Tel Aviv big sister, London Claro shares that same foundational connection to quality local produce, and a deep-rooted love for Middle-Eastern flavors. claro-london.com

Photo: Assaf Karela

Laylah | Ibiza, Spain A veritable oasis in the heart of the Ibizan culinary scene, Laylah offers a dining experience like no other on this Spanish island of revelry. It operates from April to October, with chef David Frenkel at its head. After thirteen years at the helm of Tel Aviv Italian eatery Pronto, steering it with great success from simple trattoria to fine-dining establishment, Frenkel decided to leave Israel and explore the joys of the nightlife food scene abroad. Indeed, as evening turns into night, his elegant, new Ibizan restaurant becomes a bar and a club, open till the small hours. Meat and cauliflower cigars with chili and tahini, aside tacos and ceviche, are but a few of the dishes you’ll find on the menu here, which completes a decidedly chic nightlife experience. laylahibiza.com

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Lifestyle I Food

Photo: Justyna Radon

Mazal | London, UK Authentic Israeli shawarma,

Helmed by chef Ayal Kitches, also owner of Japanese fusion food stall Osu in Tel Aviv’s Shuk HaCarmel, this new vermuteria-restaurant lies in the heart of Athens’ bohemian Psirri quarter. The menu is Israeli and Mediterranean in spirit, as well as inspired by East Asian flavors and techniques. Little plates of tapas blend cultures with joy and delight here, with dishes that include Moroccan fennel, orange, chili, lime, and caper salad, grilled fish, cheese platters, and more. Whenever you’re in Athens, and you feel like something other than gyros and tzatziki, Via Maris is the place to go for a fresh, cosmopolitan meal served in a fun, relaxed atmosphere that fills the heart with Israeli pride. @viamarisathens a successful pop-up shawarma stall venture, they opened Mazal, an authentic Kosher Middle-Eastern eatery that gives London’s Jewish community a place to go whenever the craving for schnitzel hits. The menu also includes such dishes as Moroccan cigars, Israeli vegetable salad, Israeli black coffee, and more, proudly coloring the gray London sky in Israeli blue and white. mazal.london

hummus, ara’is, tahini, amba, and even chicken soup in the heart of Camden Town are now available thanks to chefs Aviv Baum and Neta Segev, two restaurateurs and nightlife entrepreneurs with extensive experience in Tel Aviv who have been living in London for many years, longing for the flavors and dishes from back home. After

Photo: Tom Bartov

Dao | Ko Pha-ngan, Thailand Chef Nir Mesika grew up in Israel to an Egyptian-Moroccan family where food was central. After conquering great feats in New York, including earning a spot on the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand list with his eatery Zizi Limona, and opening the East-Village fine-dining restaurant Timna, he opened a second Timna in Tel Aviv in 2019 - to even greater success. When the war broke out in Israel in 2023, Mesika had just landed with his family on the Thai island of Koh Pha-ngan to start a new chapter in their lives. Now, the doors of Dao, his intimate, 16-table establishment, is open, delighting guests with refined Asian fusion dishes served in exquisite, handmade, ceramic tableware that echoes the movement of the moon in the Koh Pha-ngan sky. daokpg.com

Via Maris | Athens, Greece

Photo: Evan Maroulis

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Lifestyle I Design

With Passover just around the corner, gift-giving season is now in full swing. Here are five talented Israeli designers creating beautiful, meaningful, environmentally conscious objects that make for the perfect present / By Adi Fogel Hollander Unique gifts by Israeli designers

monc. design Mey Oren

As every bibelot collector will tell you, collecting little earthenware figurines can be an addictive activity. Israeli brand monc., led by designer Mey Oren, creates beautiful little ceramic figures in two principal collections, namely Collecto, and Purco. Collecto for its part is a series of unique, original creations by leading artists and illustrators, while Purco is a DIY collection with “design-it-yourself” kits that comprise a white, blank, ceramic figurine and a set of tattoos to cut out and apply on the figure according to taste and fancy. The figurines can then be baked in the oven to ensure the tattoos stay affixed for all eternity. moncdesign.com monc.design.ltd

monc. design I Photos: Amir Menachem

ODAKA David Seth

There’s nothing quite like enjoying your morning coffee in a beautifully crafted ceramic cup. Designer David Seth’s brand ODAKA specializes in handcrafted ceramic kitchenware shaped and designed in clean, minimalist lines. The brand’s name evokes the Hebrew word pair “od daka”, or “one more minute” in English, and has become a favorite among design-conscious cafés and hotels. Its latest nature-inspired collection, “Terra”, presents beautiful matt finishes and pure lines. odakahome.com @odaka.home

ODAKA ן Photos: courtesy of the designer

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