What to Expect in Israel's Central Region
November 3, 2009 Foreign Travel No CommentsThe spiritual mysticism that encases Israel has undoubtedly been alive since the beginning of time. It has been a hot bed of various religious struggles that cost the lives of our ancestors the world over. It is rich and alive with biblical as well as historical remnants that remind us of our colorful human history.
Many people might find it hard to believe, but Israel is actually one of the world’s ambassadors of peace today. As Israel’s central region has developed over the years, tourism has been widely promoted in the area. It offers a wide array of upscale and affordable accommodations alike. This is not to mention historic, religious and key economic spots that converge at the heart of this timeless country.
People visiting Central Israel would never pass up an opportunity to experience the very happening Tel Aviv. The city is the counterpart of New York City, with plenty of things to see and do all day and all night. Situated at the center of the country and at the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, Tel Aviv is known for its many amazing beaches. It also boasts plenty of public markets that illustrate the sights, sounds and aromas of Israel, which are a huge hit to tourists. Scattered are the hotels in Tel Aviv that can accommodate every traveler with different budgets. Most of them are even the most notable hotels in Israel.
The world, however, has overlooked the other tourist attractions that this small and dynamic region has to offer. At the center of Israel lies Netanya. This city has been a growing popular tourist spot in Central Israel. It brags a fourteen kilometer beach stretch where numerous Netanya hotels are situated facing the ever magnificent Mediterranean Sea. Unknown to many, Israel is one of the largest exporters of diamonds in the world and in Netanya, tourism and diamond trading is fast growing. The finest diamond cutters and polishers in Israel live in Netanya. At present, the diamond trade flourishes in this region, thus adding to Israel’s top economic and historical spots for tourists.
A nature reserve south of Netanya is popular among flower enthusiasts during the months of February and March. These travelers make their way to this small city to see the wild and cultivated dark blue irises. Tourists can enjoy a walk on the pathway and immerse themselves in the beauty of these flowers where they shine their brightest during these times of the year. In addition to that, numerous parks and squares are built in the heart of the city, offering a wide array of activities for every visitor. Most of them are even in close proximity of the best hotels in Netanya.
Approximately eight kilometers south of Netanya situates a popular hiking spot known as The Poleg Nature Reserve. Relaxing guided hiking tours are offered alongside the Poleg river that eventually merges with the vast open sea. This nature reserve is also popular to botanists for the wild flowers that grow alongside the trail. The eucalyptus trees that grow here are also draw vacation-goers. The trees were planted to help drain the swamps that develop in the plains of Sharon. Today, these trees have spread. They perennially serve their purpose as well as add to the beauty of this growing tourist hot spot.
This is just a piece of what Central Israel has to offer. Aside from the historical and biblical spots that the country is known for, other neighboring Israeli cities also offer various tourist destinations of different taste, color and flavor. While the Holy Land embraces modernization, it has never sacrificed its heritage.
