So in Tel Aviv, it's sort of obvious what spring time entails- people start wearing less clothing, the beaches start to fill up, there are more bikes, barbeques, and dogs, etc. It's like any other modern, western beach town. But in Jerusalem, the less-than-outdoorsy and oh-so-religious city, it's a little more vague. The drivers are too terrifying for people to ride their bikes, religious people don't really change their wardrobe for the summer (or do they? Not sure about that one), and dogs aren't really something they're into. Maybe they barbeque..? Well, one thing I've discovered they do is go hang out at these springs that are all over the city. Even if they do keep all of their clothes on while they swim, it's one of the local ways to get out of this damn-intense city and enjoy a little bit of nature! These springs are so pretty, and on one of the first warm days of the season, we busted out and went to the prettiest one.
Lounging spring-side
The view from the spring- on top of the hill is an Arab village called Wallaje. There are two mosques and you can hear them echoing during the call to prayer. Sublime.
Please notice the argeelah (or hooka) on the left. This soldier-boy and his soldier girlfriend brought their very own to the spring. What Jerusalem spring experience would be complete without a travel argeelah?? Only in Israel.
Of course, after a nice, relaxing time, we ended our stint with an argument with our 20-year old hooka-smoking friends about the attacks in Gaza. They think we need to be "strong" and "not back down" to the Arabs. Again...only in Israel.
I like your spirit and your conviction. You must have many interesting stories to tell about what you have seen and what you feel.
ReplyDeleteGarry.