EL AL | Atmosphere

Issue 302 | February 2026

Discovering Ein Kerem Picturesque alleyways, ancient churches, art galleries, and breathtaking landscapes - enjoy an enchanting weekend in this unique artists' village nestled in the green valleys surrounding Jerusalem

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In-flight I Issue 302 I February 2026

Publisher

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

Shiri Atzmon Cover Photo and Images Shutterstock

terstock Photo: Shut

VP of Marketing, Trade and Sales Yaniv Ofir Senior Sales Manager Liad Elhadad

Editor’s Letter

Israel’s landscapes are never greener than during the month of February, the winter rains having replenished streams and waterfalls, and wildflowers blossoming in meadows and fields across the country. One of the most beautiful places to visit right now is the village of Ein Kerem, immersed in the green valleys that surround Jerusalem. Ein Kerem is considered one of the holiest sites in Christianity, as it is the birthplace of St. John the Baptist, and indeed, it is replete with ancient churches and monasteries, as well as synagogues, magnificent historical buildings, charming cafés, and many art galleries and studios. Ein Kerem is home to numerous artists and artisans, many of whom lead workshops and guided tours that offer unique perspectives on their hometown, and we heartily recommend taking part in one or more of them. This time of year is also anemone season in the south of Israel, with fields of red flowers making for the most

spectacular backdrop to the region’s traditional winter festival, now renamed Darom Balev in the wake of October 7. Head over there this month to enjoy the myriad festival activities, and endless attractions the region has to offer. And as always, our magazine is full of ideas and recommendations for fun things to do this month, with an overview of some of the most anticipated cultural events, tourism news and updates, and restaurant recommendations. Note: The printed edition of the issue went to press before it became known about the return of the last hostage in Gaza, Ran Gvili z”l. I am happy to update the digital edition of the magazine with the exciting news and sign off with the Shehecheyanu blessing. Wishing you a pleasant read and a peaceful flight, Nava Marton @nava.marton I nava@atmospheres.co.il

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

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 302 I February 2026

Contents

29 30 EL AL News 32 In-flight Entertainment 34 New Movies 36 Kids - Movies & TV 37 Top 6 38 In-flight Internet Access 39 Meet the Crew 40 Destination Map 43 Fleet

Photo: Ariela Aflalo

Photo: Luisa Salomon

Magazine 22 “12 Days in June - Rising Lion” A new book about the strike against Iran

Lifestyle 24 Food

Photo: Afik Gabay

Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere

See the Sights 14 Discover The picturesque alleyways, ancient churches, art galleries, and breathtaking views surrounding the village of Ein Kerem, nestled in the Jerusalem foothills 20 Explore 5 day trip recommendations in the south of Israel

Check-in 6 Travel News February Highlights 8 What’s on Our Radar This Month Local Events 10 Our Guide 7 tips to avoid arguments with your better half on your next trip abroad 12 Flight Essentials for your next trip

5 restaurants for a family meal or a friends’ night out

Business 26 Technology

The new tech innovations presented at this year’s Las Vegas CES trade show

Now You See Me: Now You Don’t

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale

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Check-in I Travel News & Updates

February Highlights

ar Photo: Daniel B

Imaging: Olin

Photo: PR

A new hotel to open at the Dead Sea The Southern District Committee has submitted a plan for a new hotel to be built in Neve Zohar, on the shores of the Dead Sea. The project is being designed and undertaken by Goshen Architects and will include 100 accommodation units and an area for commercial activity. In keeping with the region’s architectural principles, the design of the new hotel is low-rise with an open view onto the Dead Sea and desert cliffs, with a direct connection to the beach and promenade via a pedestrian walkway that expands into an urban square inside the hotel itself.

Israel’s longest single track With the support of the Ministry of Tourism and the JNF, and at an investment of over NIS 20 million, Israel’s most extensive single track, the Yahel Timna track, has been inaugurated, providing 100km of continuous off-road riding. The area is especially popular among cyclists in the winter season thanks to its ideal weather conditions and breathtaking desert landscapes, that offer thrillingly challenging cycling routes and trails.

Upgrade at the Dan Panorama Hotel The Tel Aviv Dan Panorama Hotel is one of the most longstanding hotels in the city and has recently undergone an extensive renovation process at an investment of more than NIS 60 million. Indeed, 217 of its rooms have been redone entirely, and its dining room has been completely transformed into becoming the home of new gourmet restaurant, Sabra. The hotel’s pool area has also undergone a significant upgrade, and been revitalized with luxurious wooden flooring, a pool bar, gorgeous open views onto the coastline, and top-quality sunbeds, offering maximum comfort and the ultimate vacation feeling.

Launch of a new Israeli hotel chain New Israeli hotel chain, Adam Hotels, has launched with the opening of two hotels in Eilat where the former Brown hotels used to be), and two hotels in Tel Aviv, amounting to a current total of 430 rooms. The Tel Aviv locations include the Fiori 41, at 41, Montefiore Street, and the Hotel 1935, at 5, Brenner Street, a five minutes’ walk from Rothschild Boulevard, and built in a beautifully refurbished historic building. The Eilat hotels include the Eve Eilat, a family friendly hotel with modern interiors, and the Adam Boutique Eilat, a boutique hotel in Eilat’s central hotel district, with quiet workspaces and a bar that’s open throughout the day. The chain was established by several investors, including Hachshara Insurance Ltd. Via their spokesperson, the company has stated that they: “believe in the potential of the Israeli market and are excited to be part of its development”.

Eve Eilat I Photo: courtesy of the Hotel

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Check-in I Local Events I February 2026 I Nava Marton

What’s On Our Radar This Month

Photo: Yossi Zavkar

Opera The Dybbuk, The Israeli Opera | Tel Aviv The Israeli Opera is celebrating 40 years of creation with a rich and diverse program centered on seven original Israeli creations and international collaborations, featuring world-class Israeli and international artists. This month, an original Israeli production of “The Dybbuk” will be premiering. Composed by Yosef Bardanashvili and directed by Ido Riklin, who also wrote the libretto for this recreation, and under the baton of Dan Ettinger, this new version retells the story of thwarted love between Leah and Hanan, the heroes of S. An-Sky’s classic play. Riklin breathes life into two characters that are torn between their faith and their passion, between tradition and personal freedom, and eventually pay with their lives for society’s inability to accept free choice. Bardanashvili’s music masterfully blends together Jewish musical traditions with the complex psychological world of both protagonists. This production is a collaboration between the Israeli Opera and Choir and the Israel Symphony Orchestra Rishon LeZion. February 18-25, israel-opera.co.il

Photo: Luisa Salomon

Music The Red Sea Jazz Festival - Winter Edition | Eilat

The Red Sea Jazz Festival’s winter edition offers a magical blend of energetic groove and intimate moments of musical communion. The lineup of shows this year includes the original production of “Fathers and Sons” in which the audience witnesses real life moments of connection between parents and children on stage, an evening with Chava Alberstein singing her most beloved songs in special jazz arrangements, and a concert with the Israel Jazz Orchestra accompanied by four Israeli powerhouse female vocalists – Netta Barzilai, Nunu, Gal De Paz, and Liraz Charhi. Also this year, the festival is launching its Artist Residency program, with clarinetist Anat Cohen inaugurating the initiative. And like each year, free shows and jam sessions will be taking place across the city throughout the duration of the festival - on beaches, cafés, bars, and restaurants. February 19-21, ticketmaster.co.il

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Photo: Raday Rubinstain

For the kids The Festival of Spoken Ivrit | London

The Israeli House London is holding the 8th edition of its Hebrew Children’s Theatre Festival this month, with the biblical verse: “Love thy neighbor as yourself”, as its main theme this year. The festival is held in collaboration with the World Zionist Organization (WZO) and the Israeli Hashaa Theatre company. London’s Jewish and Israeli community is warmly invited to come and enjoy a wonderful selection of plays, support the festival, and strengthen Jewish identity and the community’s connection with the State of Israel. An Israeli delegation with Miriam Peretz at its head will be taking part in the festival’s opening gala, together with heads of associations and organizations, school principals, teachers, and more. February 1-12, jw3.org.uk/festival-spoken-ivrit Music Festival The Latino American Music Festival | The Tel Aviv Museum of Art

Photo: Michal Vach

Three decades after it first premiered, Rami Be’er’s iconic masterpiece is being brought back to the stage by the Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company. Indeed, “Aide-Mémoire” seems more relevant than ever, as it deeply reflects on Israeli and global realities, while echoing both the personal and collective trauma left by the Holocaust on society and the individual. This new production invites audiences to experience a unique encounter with a timeless work that expresses not only the longing for brotherhood and peace among all people, but also the contribution of art to the healing processes of the individual and society, whoever and wherever they may be. Until May 7th, kcdc.co.il/en/ Dance Aide-Mémoire - The Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company | Across Israel

Over 100 artists from Peru, Spain, Cuba, Mexico, the Netherlands, Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, and Israel, will be thrilling audiences with three days of Latino rhythms and sounds as part of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art’s 4th Latin American Music Festival. The sounds of salsa, samba, bolero, bossa nova, and more will fill the museum’s beautiful exhibition spaces, with notable shows that include tribute concerts to Mercedes Sosa and Celia Cruz, an evening celebrating the sounds of Brazil called “País Tropical”, a tribute show to legendary Cuban musical ensemble, “The Buena Vista Social Club”, a rendering of the Misa Criolla, and more. The festival will be

Photo: David Ash

opening with Tijuana Brass, a duo of virtuoso trumpet players, Hansel Diez and Manuel Machado, and closing with a Latin jazz ball with a whole

host of artists and musicians. February 19-21, hotjazz.co.il

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Check-in I Our Guide

7 tips to avoid arguments with your better half on your next trip abroad A romantic weekend away with your partner sounds like the perfect recipe for strengthening your relationship, but in reality, tensions and arguments can easily arise. With proper preparation and open communication, you can turn your vacation into the ultimate bonding experience. Here are seven snippets of advice to help you enjoy (almost) every moment together / By Nava Marton

also of intensity - and good communication is key. 05 Give each other “breathing space”. Spending every waking hour together, even for the most in love couple in the world, can be challenging. Don’t be afraid to spend an hour or two on your own - go for a morning run or go reading in a café. This way you acknowledge one another’s need for personal space and feel refreshed and in a better mood when you next meet up. 06 Agree on a screen-time policy. Will you be working during your trip? Will you be answering every message at any time? Will you be uploading everything to social media? Discuss all of this in advance and agree on the amount of screen-time you’re both okay with. Avoid situations where one feels the other is not present because they’re on their phone. 07 Plan special moments together. Amidst all the various experiential activities you’ll be enjoying, don’t forget to make time for simple “together moments”: a romantic dinner, an evening stroll, an activity you love doing together. A successful couple’s vacation is about truly enjoying your time together and creating good memories.

terstock Photo: Shut

01 Plan your trip together (but not every detail). Don’t let one partner take full responsibility for planning the whole trip. Decide together on the general framework of the trip but leave room for spontaneity. Plan the big things together (flights, accommodation, major attractions that require booking in advance) and leave space for flexibility in the day-to-day. 02 Discuss money matters in advance. Talking budget isn’t exactly romantic, but it’s important that you do so well in advance. Determine your overall budget, talk about how you’ll be splitting expenses. Decide together whether you want to spend more on experiential activities or on comfort and agree on a budget “red line”. This will prevent unnecessary tension in real time.

03 Discuss your personal travel styles ahead of time. If one of you is an adventurer who wants to try out everything, and the other is more the “relax and take it easy” type, it’s worth identifying the differences in pace, energy and the type of activities that interest you ahead of time. The solution doesn’t have to be mutual concessions - autonomy within the vacation, a bit of time apart during the day, can actually strengthen your relationship. 04 Communicate in real time (without blame games). Don’t let frustration build up. If something is bothering you, talk about it right then and there. Do it honestly and sensitively, through constructive conversation rather than criticism (“I feel...” instead of “You always...”). A vacation is a time of closeness, but

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Check-in I Checklist

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Rivedroite leopard print shoulder bag - made of recycled materials, ideal for travel, NIS 469, available online via mosto.co.il

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Zohara pajama sets - Bouclé fabric pajamas combining ultra softness and elegance, with a clean design, a high-quality finish, hidden seams and a delicate elastic band. These pajamas are part of a pant and polo / buttoned shirt pajama set in mocha, antique pink, white, and black, NIS 349, available online via zoharatights.co.il

Marco Polo packing organizer set – perfect for organizing clothes and belongings inside your suitcase, lightweight, made of nylon with silicone coating, includes three compressible bags in various sizes for up to 60% extra storage space, and a carrying handle for maximum comfort. NIS 110, available at select outdoor gear stores, and online via outdoorrevolution.co.il

Randor x Outdoor Revolution men’s fleece coat - made of high-quality, breathable, insulated, water-repellent and extremely warm fleece fabric, navy blue, drawstring hood, two side pockets, NIS 199, available at select outdoor gear stores, and online via outdoorrevolution.co.il

Femina slippers - felt slippers with buckle and inner fur, NIS 129.90, available at all Femina stores and online via femina.co.il

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Photos: PR, Dedi Elias

See the Sights I Eat, Travel, Enjoy

Wander through picturesque alleyways, beautiful ancient churches and synagogues, marvel at magnificent Ottoman structures, and witness the breathtaking beauty of the landscapes that surround this unique artists’ village, nestled among orchards, almond trees, and art galleries / By Ariela Aflalo A place to fall in love: our guide to an enchanting weekend in Ein Kerem Photo: Shutterstock

Holy sites As the birthplace of St John the Baptist, Ein Kerem is considered to be one of the holiest places to Christians around the globe. There are eight churches and monasteries in the village, and seven synagogues. Some of the

14 ATMOSPHERE FEBRUARY 2026 and craftsmen of every kind, Ein Kerem is replete with art galleries, artisans’ workshops, charming Ein Kerem lies in the heart of the green valleys that surround Jerusalem. A veritable little artists’ village with rows and rows of old stone houses that are home to artists

little cafés, ancient churches and synagogues, and historical buildings. There’s no better time than the month of February - when the almond trees are in the bloom, to head over there and explore its multilayered history, exceptional architecture, lush green corners, and unique charm.

most notable religious sites include: Mary’s Spring: According to Christian tradition, this ancient spring is the very place Mary and Elizabeth, (John the Baptist’s mother), met when they were both pregnant with their sons, the two founders of the Christian faith. There are those who believe that the water here is holy and possesses fertility properties. The spring has a narrow, rock-hewn tunnel, built during the Second Temple period, that visitors can crawl through and explore. The Church of Saint John the Baptist: Deep below the grounds of this Catholic church of the Franciscan order, the remains of an ancient Jewish mikveh were discovered a few years ago. Visitors are welcome to visit them, as well as the church, which is cared for by Father Sabrino who also manages a guest house onsite. Father Sabrino is also a fantastic cook who enjoys preparing Italian delicacies, including pasta dishes, focaccia, pizzas, and more, which he serves in the guesthouse dining room that’s also open to non hotel guests. On Fridays, visitors are welcome to enjoy the dairy buffet he serves in the evening. (For more information: 050-5228370). The Gorny Convent: This Russian Orthodox monastery is composed of three churches. The main one possesses five golden domes visible from far and wide, and breathtakingly beautiful Byzantine frescoes and gold leaf icons inside, covering its entire walls and ceilings. One of the smaller churches is the Convent of Our Lady of Kazan, a more intimate structure where visitors can admire a highly revered Russian Orthodox icon believed to have miraculous properties. The monastery is home to Russian Orthodox nuns who live in small stone houses surrounded by greenery. This is also a great place to enjoy spectacular panoramic

Ein Kerem’s picturesque alleyways I Photo: Shutterstock

The Gorny Convent I Photo: Shutterstock

The Ein Kerem loop trail: I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

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See the Sights I Eat, Travel, Enjoy

Where to stay Hotel Allegra, Ein Kerem

A lovely boutique hotel named in memory of a love story from the 1920’s between an Arab Christian from a wealthy Ein Kerem family, and Allegra, a Jewish girl. Their families were against the union, so the two eloped, and later returned to the village where they lived in the house that now houses the hotel, until Israel’s War of Independence when they fled. The hotel offers thirteen suites and rooms of varying typology, but all have vaulted ceilings, stone arches, and elegant modern furniture. Each room is named after a famous couple, such as Tammuz and Ishtar, the goddess of love, and Orpheus and Euridice from the Greek mythology. The hotel is surrounded by a pastoral garden with enchanting little seating areas. The kitchen is helmed by chef Ron Winkler who concocts fantastic breakfast spreads in the morning and delicious chef’s meals in the evening, when the restaurant is also open to non-hotel guests upon prior reservation. hotelalegra.co.il

Ein Kerem Legend - Pnina Ein Mor I Photo: Nofar Tagar

views of the surrounding landscape. (Entrance from the Hadassah Hospital parking lot; make sure to check opening hours in advance). “Ein Kerem Legend” A special tour with Pnina Ein Mor Pnina Ein Mor leads wonderful experiential tours of Ein Kerem, where she has been living for decades and leading guided tours since 1995 when she founded her company “Ein Kerem Legend” with her husband David. A tour with Pnina means experiencing Ein Kerem at a whole different level, as she takes you into the beautiful homes and gardens of other Ein Kerem residents, her friends and neighbors, often fascinating artists and artisans. Today, Pnina’s daughter runs the company which also offers private event services, such as Bar/Bat Mitzvah ceremonies in the village’s ancient synagogue (ekl.co.il). Nature walks and hikes The Ein Kerem loop trail: This trail was created by Ein Kerem residents

who wanted to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the village which is of such great historical, religious, and cultural relevance. Eight kilometers long, the trail merges with the KKL-JNF Israel National Trail, passing through houses and alleyways, agricultural terraces, orchards, breathtaking landscapes, and secret natural springs. (Start and finish point: Mary’s Spring). The community garden: A beautiful garden entirely restored by village residents, with lush greenery, trees, and flowerbeds replete with fresh herbs and beautiful flowers. You can come here for a walk, have a picnic, sit on one of the lovely benches and enjoy the view, and let your kids play on the swings. On the weekends, free activities and workshops take place here and are open to all. Workshops and creative activities Ein Kerem is home to a huge number of creative people with a passion for sharing knowledge and experience.

Photo: PR

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See the Sights I Eat, Travel, Enjoy

Many of them open their homes and studios to visitors, offering workshops of every kind, including cooking, painting, sculpting, and more. Here are a but a few: Atalya – art, food, and foraging: Chef Atalya Ein Mor was born and raised in Ein Kerem, and today, manages her private gastronomy and foraging company, leading workshops and experiential tours year-round. On Fridays, she treats visitors and workshops participants to brunch, leads cooking workshops, and foraging tours on which participants pick plants and herbs in the surrounding valley and forest, and cook with them outdoors in nature. (atalya.co.il) Aquarelle painting with Chaya: Aquarellist Chaya White leads private and group workshops in her lovely home studio, where you can also admire and even purchase her beautiful paintings. ( @whitechaya5) Storytelling with Shoshana Karbasi: Writer Shoshana Karbasi welcomes visitors into her charming home where she organizes special literary evenings full of poetry, stories, music, and walks around the village. During the summer months, they are held on Karbasi’s panoramic rooftop or in the blossoming garden, but in the wintertime, they take place in her living room – a magical place that looks like it came straight out of a children’s fairy tale book. (baitatikek.co.il) Attika Kadisha: The Ein Kerem Chabad House is located inside the lovely home of Nachmi Gafni who hosts special storytelling workshops in her living room, where she also showcases her impressive collection of Judaica objects, antiques, and other beautiful items, all available for purchase. She has also opened a cute little vintage clothes’ shop called “Sheindela”. All her activities are aimed at financing her open

Where to eat Café Itta: A lovely little women’s social café (Itta means “woman” in Aramaic) with staff entirely made up of women and girls who needed a little help in overcoming difficult circumstances. The walls are covered in artworks, beautiful stationary, and other items, all made by women. A very inspiring and welcoming place where lots of residents spend time during the day. (tirosh-hope.com/itta) Hatzer Ein Kerem: A restaurant with a beautiful internal courtyard and an upper floor with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The dairy menu draws from the Greek, Italian, and Israeli tables, with dishes that include pasta dishes, pizza, and fish dishes. (hatzereinkarem.co.il)

The community garden I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

Atalya - art, food and foraging I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

Café Itta I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

Attika Kadisha I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

house activities, as is the tradition of Chabad Houses. (attika.co.il) Efrat Giat the shepherdess: Continuing the family tradition, Efrat Giat raises goats and makes artisan cheese. She also hosts special storytelling evenings during which she also serves her cheeses, and leads cooking classes and workshops. Workshop participants are also welcome to see the goats’ pen and have a try at milking them (efratgiathome.com). ˆ

18 ATMOSPHERE FEBRUARY 2026 Efrat Giat the shepherdess: I Photo: Pnina Ein Mor

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See the Sights I Eat, Travel, Enjoy

From the annual anemone festival in the Northern Negev to the kibbutz that entered the list of “The 250 best tourist villages in the world”: Israel’s beautiful south is in full bloom during the winter months, making it the perfect time to head over and enjoy its myriad sites and attractions / By Ariela Aflalo 5 daytrip recommendations in the south of Israel

markings are present all along the trail, which you can also access by car. The trail passes through gorgeous landscapes - orchards, forests, reservoirs, archeological remains, and agricultural fields. At Tel Sharuhen, there’s an observation tower with breathtaking views, and there are parking lots and picnic areas all around. The highlight of the trail is the 80m suspension bridge that hangs above the Besor stream and ends at a sand dune you can climb and roll down from. habsor.co.il 03 Midbarium, Beer Sheva Midbarium is a desert animal park where wild animals roam free while visitors can observe them from observation decks and walking trails without disturbing their peace. The animals live among rocks, caves, mazes, woodland, and bodies of water that replicate their natural habitats. This zoological park offers a unique kind of experience: you can walk through a bat maze, feed goats, go through an obstacle course, and take part in many more interactive activities such as experiencing a bird flight simulator and climbing up a special climbing wall that replicates the cliffs of the Judean Desert where Nubian goats live. There’s also a special

Darom Balev Festival I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

01 Darom BaLev | anemone festival Fields of anemones in full bloom paint the Negev red during the winter months, bringing joy to the heart - especially with the return of the region’s annual winter festival (once called Darom Adom, it has now been renamed Darom BaLev in the wake of October 7). All through February, events and activities including the Darom BaLev March and Race, various guided tours, markets and fairs, live music shows, and more, will be held, aside special The Northern Negev’s red

experiential tours celebrating the region’s rebuilding efforts, inviting visitors to reconnect with the landscapes and cultural heritage, and get acquainted with the new places and businesses that have recently been launched. Throughout February, habsor.co.il 02 The Besor stream suspension bridge The Besor stream hiking trail passes through a nature reserve that runs parallel to the riverbed, about 18km that connect Eshkol Park to Kibbutz Tze’elim. Signage and surface

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tourism, cultural preservation, and tourism innovation. The produce grown here is all organic, and it includes dates, olives and olive oil, cultivating vineyards, herding goats and more. The kibbutz has an artisanal dairy, a winery, a natural fruit juice and nectar factory, and a great restaurant and roadside inn. It also has an impressive arts center with studios and workshops where local artists live and work, as well as two accommodation complexes, one that has traditional mud plastered rooms furnished in rustic simplicity, and the second that offers accommodation in big mud huts that look out over the Arava Mountains. Guided tours of the farm, winery, dairy and arts center are available year-round. neot-semadar.com ˆ

The Besor stream suspension bridge I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

LEGO exhibition currently on show, with life-size LEGO lions, giraffes, rhinoceroses and bears made by artist and Guinness World Record holder Duncan Titmarsh. midbarium.co.il 04 The Zukim Artists’ Village This ecological community and artists’ village was founded in 2004 by a group of friends who together created a veritable desert gem that attracts visitors from across the country, eager to see this little

oasis with their own eyes. The village is full of galleries, artists’ studios, artisan workshops, food stalls, and boutiques. People are welcome to enter the galleries and studios, talk to the artists and hear about their lives and work. You can wander through the studios of painters, sculptors, carpenters, ceramicists, holistic therapists, natural cosmetics chemists, and more. Zukim also has a delightful café-restaurant-gallery called Nanu, an artisanal pizza place and an Indian restaurant. There are wonderful accommodation options here as well, such as Nof Zuqim, Midbara, and Eretz Arava. zuqimartists.co.il 05 Neve Midbar, Kibbutz Neot Semadar Neot Semadar is the Negev’s greenest, most colorful and eco friendly kibbutz. It functions as an agricultural cooperative, with kibbutz members farming the land and switching jobs and roles within the kibbutz every five years. Not for nothing did the UN Tourism Organization list it as one of the “250 Best Tourist Villages in the World,” citing it as an example of sustainable

The Zukim Artists’ Village I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

Midbarium I Photo: Nadav Tzur

Kibbutz Neot Semadar I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

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Magazine I Culture

How Israel won inside Iran: this is what the whole world has been trying to understand. “12 Days in June - Rising Lion” isn’t just another war book - it is a deep dive into the remarkable feat pulled off by a nation that came together and won / Adi Shalom Behind the strike that shook Iran: “12 Days in June - Rising Lion”

The importance of documenting for future generations CLEARED BY THE IDF CENSOR

How did Israel pull off its win inside Iran itself? How did Israel manage to strike Iran completely by surprise, deep within enemy territory? How were simultaneous strikes on Iranian leadership and nuclear sites at Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow pulled off with such accuracy? And how did Israel succeed in intercepting 85% of the ballistic missiles and 99% of the UAVs fired at its cities? All the answers to these questions and more are revealed in “12 Days in June – Rising Lion”, the book that provides rare behind-the-scenes analysis of the highly sophisticated, fast-paced military campaign. This 300-page book is based on fifty in-depth interviews the author conducted with the people who made it happen: Mossad personnel, military intelligence, Air Force commanders and pilots, and more, and contains incredible accounts of the bravery on the homefront, in-depth analysis of international reactions, as well as of the US-Israel partnership, particularly of the moment American B-2 bombers entered the picture and attacked Iranian nuclear sites. So, this is an Israeli story - but a very American one too.

“When missiles flew over Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities, and the population, again and again, rushed into shelters”, says Hilik Seeon, editor-in-chief of NEXA Publishing and author of “12 Days in June – Rising Lion”, “it became clear Israel was making history deep in the heart of Iran, and I knew we had to document this war for posterity, write down every detail in real time, keep a close record of what went down. Little Israel was succeeding in shaking giant Iran to its core, pulling off a most sophisticated, almost James-Bond-like military operation. It was clear to me this was a story that had to be told in depth and in detail - one that needed to be told and retold in homes across Israel and the Diaspora. This book isn’t just another war book. It’s a behind the-scenes retelling of a remarkable feat, an intensely sophisticated, technology-based military campaign led by extraordinary people that ended with a major Israeli achievement that is still making waves deep in the heart of Iran”. On June 13, 2025, Israel launched a strike that stunned the world and became a turning point in its history. Years of Mossad agents embedded deep inside Iran had laid the groundwork for an operation no one anticipated. Building on this was the precise targeting work of IDF Intelligence (Aman), whose teams sat side by side with Israeli Air Force commanders on the night of the attack, working together at a level never before achieved. With this intelligence foundation in place, the Israeli Air Force carried out one of the most accurate and complex operations it has ever executed: total air superiority, 1,500 fighter jet strikes, and 500 UAV attacks, all conducted without interruption. Within moments, Iran's air defenses fell apart. Senior Revolutionary Guard commanders and nuclear scientists were killed. Its ballistic missile infrastructure was all but destroyed. • How did Israel achieve complete surprise deep in enemy territory? • How were simultaneous strikes on Iran's leadership and its nuclear sites at Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow pulled off with such accuracy? • And how did Israel intercept 85% of the ballistic missiles and 99% of the UAVs fired at its cities? "12 Days in June - Rising Lion" tells the gripping story of remarkable intelligence, advanced airpower, technological edge, professionalism, and determination. The story of a nation that came together and won. A book you will not put down. BEHIND THE STRIKE THAT SHOOK IRAN THE UNTOLD STORY OF MOSSAD, AMAN & THE IAF PUBLISHING

DAYS JUNE IN 12 HOW ISRAEL WON INSIDE IRAN

PUBLISHING

HILIK SEEON

“This book”, Seeon continues, “is a historical document written almost in real time, one that aims to become a source of learning for military commanders and security institutions around the world – who have all been seeking to understand just how Israel pulled it off. But it is no less a thrillingly compulsive read just in itself, one that any reader will enjoy”. The book was first launched at the IAC conference last month in Miami, Florida, and a copy, in its English version, was gifted to United States President, Donald Trump. Published by NEXA Publishing, NIS 299, 12daysjune.com

Hilik Seeon, editor-in-chief of NEXA Publishing: “This book is a historical document written almost in real time, one that aims to become a source of learning for military commanders and security institutions around the world …but it is no less a thrillingly compulsive read just in itself, one that any reader will enjoy”

22 ATMOSPHERE FEBRUARY 2026

Lifestyle I Food

From a gourmet Jerusalem skewer spot to a Tel Aviv French bistro and a Thai eatery in Netanya - here are five of our favorite places to go for a family gathering or a night out with your friends / By Sharon Ben-David Around the table: 5 restaurants for a family meal or a friends’ night out

Photo: Guy Ashkenazi

Makom Shel Basar Diner, Kiriyat Ono

In recent years, the Tel Aviv suburb of Kiriyat Ono has become a little enclave of culinary excellence and abundance, with restaurants of every kind, from Thai, to Italian, French, and Mediterranean-fusion. Among all the new restaurants to have opened these past months, the Makom Shel Basar Diner stands out as one of the most well-designed, culinarily forward, and outright delicious. Sister establishment to Makom Shel Basar Neve Tzedek, a much-loved Tel Aviv meat restaurant, it maintains the same commitment to quality and meticulous service. The dining area is spacious, elegant, full of light and warmth - ideal for large gatherings, family meals, or meetups with friends and/or colleagues. The menu includes dry-aged steaks, juicy burgers, generous kids’ options, and more. There’s also an area that can be booked for private events, business gatherings, or formal occasions. dinerrest.co.il

Photo: Asaf Karela

Luciana, Rishon LeZion

Singer Eden Ben Zaken is a household name in Israel, so when her partner opens a restaurant at an investment of millions of shekels, you can expect heightened interest and curiosity. And as expected, the result of this substantial investment, a new Rishon LeZion “Luciana” establishment, is undoubtedly a flashier, more youthful version of the other longstanding “Luciana” restaurants in Jerusalem and Beer Sheva. The dining room is spacious and bright, trendy in its design and

aesthetics, while still exuding the warmth of a family trattoria. In a lively atmosphere, tempting plates of kosher, Italian-inspired dishes are served throughout the day, with the menu indeed drawing inspiration from the Italian table but reflecting the spirit of modernity and personal creativity at play here. Luciana is an ideal spot for a family meal, a romantic date, or a friends’ meetup - the kind of place you leave feeling you can’t wait to come back to. @luciana.rishon

24 ATMOSPHERE FEBRUARY 2026

Photo: Afik Gabay

Chatuchak, Netanya The rooftop of a commercial building in Netanya is the last place you’d expect to find one of the country’s most authentic Thai eateries. Indeed, behind a heavy glass door, a spacious dining space entirely composed of Thai décor elements, all shipped over from Thailand, transports you directly to Bangkok in one sweeping look. Behind this little Thai haven are chef Yanir Green and culinary entrepreneur Anuthai Gilor, experts in meticulously crafting menus that without ever compromising on authenticity, brilliantly espouse the local palate and food culture. Authentic signature dishes mix with beloved classics in a rich mosaic of flavors, a one-of-a-kind culinary journey that meanders through delicate sweetness, spicy-sourness, and extreme spiciness. Chatuchak isn’t just another Asian-fusion place, but rather an establishment that strives to bring to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, the spirit, colors, smells and textures of the beloved Southeast Asian Kingdom of Thailand. chatuchak.co.il

Photo: courtesy of the restaurant

The Steakiya, Jerusalem Chef Assaf Granit and his Machneyuda Group are world renowned and Michelin-starred, and their new kosher skewer spot in Jerusalem, “Steakiya”, is every bit as thrilling as their other restaurants and eateries. Steakiya recently opened its doors where the acclaimed vegetarian eatery “Tzemach”, now operating in a different location, once was. Vibrant and bustling, with tons of style and personality, its beating heart is its coal fire grill, which adds warmth and coziness to the buzzing atmosphere. Tables bedecked with a myriad delicious salads and dips await every diner upon arrival, and the menu effortlessly slaloms between the Ashkenazi, Sephardi, Kurdish, and Moroccan tables, offering a cheeky, but no less spectacular culinary tapestry that makes no apologies for its unorthodox blend of cuisines, but rather celebrates it with joy. @steakiya.il

Bel Ami, Tel Aviv

dining to the heart of Tel Aviv. The menu opens with indulgent breakfasts loaded with delicious pastries and French cheeses, and expands into offerings of fresh salads, egg dishes, and original interpretations of French classics. In the evening, the lights are dimmed and a chic, romantic feel infuses the atmosphere, with the menu then focusing on classic French dishes served with astutely selected wines. Professional service, meticulous Art Deco interiors, and an exciting open kitchen, contribute to creating a space that is at once a neighborhood eatery and a sophisticated restaurant, one that is both uniquely Parisian and Tel Avivian in spirit. Bel Ami is the perfect spot for a Tel Aviv family gathering or a friends’ meetup. belamitlv.com

Photo: Noam Preisman

This new French bistro is the sparkling-new and much discussed new project by restaurateurs Yoram and Ari Yarzin (owners of, among other establishments, Café Italia and Magazino). It brings the elegance an culinary excellence of French bistro d

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ATMOSPHERE FEBRUARY 2026

Business I Technology

The new innovations presented at this year’s Las Vegas CES tech trade show From robots that cook and clean to lab-grade allergen testing right in the palm of your hand – here’s our selection of the latest tech novelties presented at this year’s Las Vegas CES tech fair / By Guy Shahar

Lab-grade testing in the palm of your hand Food allergies are increasingly widespread, making allergen-testing devices more and more necessary. handheld device able to test food in real time with lab-level accuracy, identifying hidden allergens so you can consume food risk-free. All you need to do is place a little bit of the food you want to test in the device and it immediately lets you know if it contains gluten, dairy, or other common allergen-heavy products. A French startup has come up with the Allergen Alert, a small,

The new generation of smart glasses

This year’s CES was marked by the presence of strong smart eyewear innovations, including the new Xreal One S, with its lighter design and a sharp display, and the RayNeo X2 - the world’s first glasses with built-in eSim, which means they don’t need to be placed next to the phone they are connected to in order for you to be able to receive messages or surf the Web; and gamers are going to love Asus’ new Viture glasses which offer a crazy 240Hz refresh rate, which ensures a completely smooth gaming experience without any judder, even in the fastest games.

The robot that cooks and cleans LG has unveiled its vision for the “Zero Labor Home” with the new CLOi-D robot. This isn’t just another cute toy. The CLOi-D is an impressive, cutting-edge piece of robotics with the finest motor skills, that can fold laundry, put dishes in the dishwasher, open drawers, sort objects and put things back in their place. Using advanced artificial intelligence and interconnection to other LG home products, it is able to synchronize and learn your individual tidying habits an leave your home perfectly tidy so you don’t have to lift a finger.

Verge’s new electric motorcycle CES is not limited to tech innovation. It platforms a wide variety of developments in various fields. Indeed, e-motorcycle brand Verge, presented its new e-bike model, the world’s first solid-state battery powered electric motorcycle which offers a driving range of up to 600km on a single charge and 300km with just a 10-minute charge. This is an even greater range than most gas-powered motorcycles. It makes no doubt we’ll soon be seeing other kinds of e-vehicles with similarly significant ranges and extremely fast charging times.

Photos: PR

26 ATMOSPHERE FEBRUARY 2026

ISRAEL AIRLINES

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Purchase an eSIM from HOTALK and enjoy a variety of data, and calls and text plans for use in Israel, at attractive prices.

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Valid for 30 days; available only in Israel | Roaming package plan purchase at attractive prices for EL AL customers is made directly through the HOTALK website and is under the full and exclusive responsibility of HOT Mobile | Cannot be combined with other promotions, benefits, or discounts | Service terms are as detailed on the WE CODES Travel SIM website | EL AL and/or HOT Mobile reserve the right to modify or cancel the offer at their discretion

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EL AL NEWS

Leket Israel – Rescuing food, strengthening society Leket Israel, the national food rescue organization, works daily to salvage fresh, nutritious food surpluses from farmers, IDF bases, institutional kitchens, and more. The collected food is distributed through approximately 346 partner nonprofits to 470,000 people in need across the country, including seniors and Holocaust survivors, single-parent families, and at-risk children and youth. Leket Israel’s food rescue activity provides much more than a meal: it reduces social gaps, strengthens the economy, and minimizes food waste in Israel. Each year, the organization rescues over 30,000 tons of fruits and vegetables and about 2 million hot meals, impressive figures that demonstrate its far reaching impact. Leket Israel is proud of its long standing partnership with EL AL, which includes support for diverse projects and employee volunteering. Thanks to this collaboration, the organization is able to expand its operations and reach even more families in need. For more info and to volunteer go to leket.org

Remember and Never Forget

Photos: courtesy of EL AL

At the end of January, EL AL marked International Holocaust Remembrance Day on its flights, in collaboration with two

survivors, working tirelessly for their well-being. To donate or volunteer, visit k-shoa.org and search for “Foundation for the Welfare of Holocaust Victims” (All the details you’ll find there are fully managed and under the sole responsibility of the Foundation). In addition, in partnership with the World Jewish Congress, EL AL joins the global #WeRemember initiative, as part of the annual global campaign of the World Jewish Congress (WJC) in Israel, led by President Sylvan Adams, to mark International Holocaust Remembrance Day, under the call to remember the past and to secure the future. Today, more than ever, it is crucial to raise our voices worldwide to ensure Holocaust remembrance for future generations and to remind the world of the severe consequences and violence that occur when hatred and antisemitism are allowed to rise.

organizations dedicated to Holocaust commemoration and survivor welfare: the Foundation for the Welfare of Holocaust Victims and the World Jewish Congress, as part of the #WeRemember campaign. It is a great honor for EL AL to be taking part in this important initiative and help raise awareness among tens of thousands of customers through Holocaust Victims calls on the public to donate, volunteer, and stand by Holocaust survivors, now in their ninth and tenth decades of life, so that they can live their remaining years with comfort and dignity. For over three decades, the Foundation has provided daily support for the physical, emotional, and social needs of Holocaust our onboard media systems. The “Last Call” project by the Foundation for the Welfare of

EL AL expands its partnership with SAS for seamless connectivity to Scandinavia

As part of its codeshare agreements with leading airlines, EL AL can now offer convenient connections to Scandinavia through its extended partnership with SAS – Scandinavian Airlines.

You can now book non-stop flights between Tel Aviv and Copenhagen. These flights are operated by SAS and marketed by EL AL under flight code LY. This collaboration provides EL AL customers with more comfort, more flexibility, and more options for vacations across Northern Europe. Members of the EL AL Matmid Frequent Flyer Program, will enjoy earning points

and Diamonds on codeshare flights booked under the LY code. Book now and start planning your Scandinavian experience!

Photo: Leket Israel

30 ATMOSPHERE FEBRUARY 2026