Visiting Israel: between discoveries and stories

This small corner of the country abounds with history hidden within the stones of its ancient walls. To allow us the full experience, we are accompanied by a local guide [1] who will recount the greatest stories from the annals of his beloved country. Israel is a young nation, certainly, but its lands have been inhabited since antiquity. Traveling from North to West, let's explore some of the must-sees of this sacred land.

CAESAREE

Nestled right on the Mediterranean Sea, Caesarea is a magnificent little town, a blend of ancient ruins and contemporary delights. We begin by strolling through its impressive archaeological site, now a national park. With a few anecdotes, the guide brings to life the wonders built by King Herod in 37 BC. Its port, destroyed and rebuilt countless times, is rebuilt just as many times. A short walk away, we find ourselves perched on the stones of the Roman Theatre's cavea . We feel like we're actors in an Asterix and Obelix adventure. This theatre still hosts performances by local and international artists.

But don't be fooled, Caesarea isn't just about history. Between the sea and the land, you'll also find a golf course, diving sites, and a place to rent a paddleboard .

BETHLEHEM

Bethlehem is certainly one of the most striking places I've ever visited. Located just 10 kilometers from Jerusalem, Bethlehem exudes a completely different character. A local guide will describe the values of his city to us in the style of Forrest Gump, peppering the conversation with little life lessons. We'll visit one of the oldest churches in the world, the Church of the Nativity. People from all corners of the globe travel to visit the sacred site where Jesus was born. The place is both bustling and silent. The wonder of the pilgrims fills the room.

On the way back, we pass Banksy 's hotel, the work of this mysterious yet popular English street artist , known for his anti-capitalist imagery. He first painted numerous graffiti pieces on the Separation Wall, dividing the Palestinian territory from that of the State of Israel. Then, on the front porch of his new artwork, The Walled Off Hotel , he installed a charming little café with what he calls "the ugliest view in the world" [2] . Banksy, naturally libertarian, invites you to sip a large latte face to face with this unsettling wall. It's hard to resist the thought-provoking nature of Banksy's actions.

Masada and the Dead Sea

Masada is another archaeological site in Israel, also attributed to the famous historical figure Herod the Great. Comprising several palaces, the fortress was built in the heart of the Judean Desert a few years before Christ, with the aim of defending against potential Egyptian invasions. The ascent to Masada is easily made by funicular. However, for adventure seekers, a hike in the dead of night will bring you to the summit in time for sunrise. From there, an incredible view unfolds, stretching between the Dead Sea and Mount Moab.

Once back on the lowlands of Judea, a swim in the unique Dead Sea where the salt water – made up of 30% salt rather than 4% in a regular sea – will make our buttocks flout the theory of gravity.

JERUSALEM