Jerusalem

 

I was in Jerusalem on September 9, 2001. The political climate at that time has been overshadowed by the momentous historic events that were only a few days in the future. However, even before September 11, tensions between Israelis and Palestinians in Israel, especially in Jerusalem, were running very high. 

During my time in Israel, there was daily news of Palestinian suicide bombers. Often, authorities would catch the bomber before an attack was committed and this news did not reach the international wire services. My family in Israel was acutely aware of the daily dangers and yet, they continued to live active and (mostly) uninhibited lives. Even so, Jerusalem was considered especially dangerous and most of my relatives cautioned me very strongly to avoid this city.

In the end I conspired with my cousin Irit, who lives near Jerusalem, to visit with her. We planned to drive in to Jerusalem without letting the rest of my family know. I appreciated the opportunity to spend a few hours in this historic city but even Irit felt that it would not be safe to enter the old-city; which is one of the most contested parts of the country.

So, Irit, her boyfriend, and I though spent a very pleasant and enjoyable day, we remained in  the newer parts of the city and only saw the old city from a distance.

 
That's the McDonalds where King David used to eat

Personal Tour Guides

It was nice to have the company of two people who both knew the city well. They continued to apologise for the quality of their English but  they both actually speak very well.

JB in Jerusalem

Looking very much the tourist, your humble web-master poses with the backdrop of the old city. The car with the open door is Irit's.

 

Old City, Jerusalem

 

Old City, Jerusalem

 

Old City, Jerusalem

 

Old City, Jerusalem

 

Personal Tour Guides

It was nice to have the company of two people who both knew the city well. They continued to apologise for the quality of their English but  they both actually speak very well.

 

A Cute Little Car

Before leaving Jerusalem to head back to Rishon LeZion, Irit asked that we pose beside her car.