As I pen this post from 3:30 AM on my flight from Tel Aviv to New York City, sleep remains elusive. Despite aiming for eight hours on this twelve-hour journey, only three have materialized. My mind, however, is wide awake, still buzzing with the vibrant memories of the past eight days – an experience that was, without exaggeration, one of the most unique, enlightening, creatively stimulating, gastronomically delightful, fun, inspiring, educational, and utterly amazing journeys of my life. This incredible adventure was made possible by an invitation from the wonderful nonprofit Kinetis, to join their 7-day Vibe Israel tour. Vibe Israel is a groundbreaking initiative that leverages experiential travel and the reach of online influencers to bridge the gap between preconceived notions and the true reality of modern Israel. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect; just a week before receiving this invitation, I had been contemplating applying for a Birthright trip, thanks to the nudge from Davida.
Over seven intensely packed days, we immersed ourselves in a myriad of extraordinary experiences. I’m eager to share the highlights of this transformative trip through this detailed blog post, which will also be followed by several recipe features inspired by the rich culinary landscape of Israel – believe me, I’ve gathered a treasure trove of ideas! One of the most thrilling aspects to share is the collection of stunning photographs. We were incredibly fortunate to have an exceptional photographer, Or (whose talent truly shines!), documenting every moment of our journey through captivating stills and engaging videos.
Our adventure commenced on a Sunday night in Tel Aviv, where I joined an exceptional group of fellow bloggers: Ben, Jessa, Kathryne, and Emily. I couldn’t have wished for a more delightful or engaging crew to share this exploration of Israel with; our days were filled with laughter and camaraderie. Upon arrival, we were treated to an unparalleled VIP airport service that whisked us from the plane, efficiently guided us through customs and passport control, retrieved our luggage, and seamlessly escorted us to our waiting taxi – all in under 30 minutes. A true record-breaking arrival, if I ever saw one! This exceptional VIP treatment set the tone for the entire eight-day Vibe Israel Wellness Tour, which led us to some of Israel’s most remarkable restaurants, luxurious spas, and innovative farms, offering a comprehensive look into the nation’s burgeoning wellness scene.
Allow me to delve into some of my most cherished experiences from this unforgettable journey, enhanced by the stunning photography captured by Or.
The Dead Sea: A Journey into Surreal Wellness & Kibbutz Ein Gedi
Without a doubt, the Dead Sea stands as one of the most astonishing places I have ever visited. My initial expectations were limited to the widely known fact of its buoyancy, and indeed, you float effortlessly! Boasting a staggering 33.7% salt concentration, the Dead Sea is ten times saltier than the ocean. It’s a geological marvel that, while not officially recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, certainly deserves consideration for an honorary eighth spot. The experience of being there is utterly surreal, almost otherworldly. The pristine salts and minerals found in its waters are renowned for their incredible health and therapeutic benefits, making it a natural wonder for well-being.
The quintessential Dead Sea ritual involves coating your entire body with its rich, therapeutic mud – essentially a full-body mud mask straight from nature. After allowing it to dry for a few minutes, you simply glide into the water, no floatation device needed. A word of caution for nail-biters or those with any open cuts: the highly saline water will sting intensely! The sensation of floating is truly unique; I felt like a human bobber, suspended weightlessly. Post-float, a rinse in fresh mineral water left my skin feeling incredibly smooth and revitalized. It’s an experience so profoundly rejuvenating, I’d consider incorporating it into a regular skincare regimen if only it were more accessible!
Prior to our Dead Sea immersion, we spent a relaxing afternoon at the Ein Gedi Kibbutz, a traditional Israeli community historically based on agriculture, now also home to a renowned spa. This tranquil oasis, located conveniently near the Dead Sea, offers visitors several days of rejuvenation through saunas, Dead Sea water treatments, massages, and other luxurious spa services. The communal atmosphere was delightful, providing a unique opportunity to interact with locals. As part of our Vibe Israel experience, each of us received a special spa treatment: a date wrap! We were gently massaged with a delicious date paste, then wrapped in plastic to allow our skin to absorb all its nourishing goodness. Dates, it’s worth noting, are ubiquitous in Israel and are often incorporated into local wellness practices. The spa treatment was exquisitely pampering, and I could have easily spent several more days at this serene retreat.
During our visit, a magnificent creature, a wild ibex, gracefully strolled onto the property to graze, allowing me to observe it from just three feet away – an unexpected and magical encounter with Israel’s natural wildlife.
Carmel Market and a Culinary Slow Food Workshop
My adoration for vibrant markets found its ultimate expression in Israel. Israelis possess an unparalleled knack for running bustling, well-stocked markets. The Carmel Market was an explosion of fresh produce, with rainbows of fruits, vegetables, aromatic spices, and nuts seemingly endless. Here, we participated in an illuminating slow food workshop with the renowned Rafram Hadad. The experience began with us hand-picking our fresh ingredients directly from the market stalls, then heading to a beautiful loft kitchen to transform our selections into a delicious lunch.
I can confidently declare that Israelis are the most welcoming hosts I have ever encountered. While it may seem like a broad generalization, my experience unequivocally confirms it. If you harbor any doubts, I urge you to witness it for yourself! We were graciously invited into a local Israeli family’s home, where we utilized their splendid kitchen to prepare our meal. Following our culinary efforts, we gathered around a piano, engaging in lively conversations and impromptu jam sessions for a delightful hour and a half. It was a perfect encapsulation of authentic Israeli warmth and hospitality.
Behind the Scenes: Strauss Hummus Factory Tour
Prepare to indulge in all the hummus! One of the truly fascinating stops on our tour was a visit to the Strauss Hummus Factory, where I witnessed firsthand the large-scale production of this beloved Middle Eastern staple. Strauss, the parent company of the well-known Sabra brand, is an Israeli food giant specializing in hummus and various cold salads. Having never experienced an industrial food tour before, it was an incredibly eye-opening opportunity to observe the intricate processes involved in mass food production. What particularly impressed me about this factory’s output was their commitment to non-GMO, whole ingredients, resulting in products that are consistently delicious and healthy!
Following the factory tour, we had the privilege of meeting the chief recipe developer for Strauss’s Israeli sector. He oversees the creation of all new products from an impressive test kitchen – a dream job, in my opinion! He then guided us through a hands-on workshop, demonstrating how to prepare traditional Israeli hummus at home. We gleaned invaluable tips and tricks, from the optimal method for soaking and cooking chickpeas to achieving the perfect chickpea-to-tahini ratio (a precise 4-to-1). A surprising revelation was that authentic hummus does not contain olive oil within the mixture itself; it is traditionally drizzled only on top for flavor and presentation. Every day truly brings new knowledge, and this insight has forever changed my hummus game. I am now inspired to eat hummus like it’s my full-time occupation, much like the Israelis do, perhaps with a slightly lighter hand on the pita bread!
Mastering Israeli Breakfast with Paula Rosenburg
Hands down, this was my absolute favorite activity of the entire trip: an Israeli breakfast workshop hosted by Paula Rosenburg, a local healthy living expert, talented recipe developer, and naturopath. From the moment I met her, I adored her. Paula radiates a beautiful personality, both inside and out, and her passion for healthy living shines through her incredible energy and work. She is dedicated to reinventing classic Israeli dishes with a healthy twist, a philosophy that deeply resonates with my own approach on FFF.
During the workshop, we prepared three iconic Israeli dishes: shakshouka, tahini, and falafel. It was my first time experiencing authentic shakshouka, and I instantly fell in love. The dish bursts with so many fresh, vibrant flavors in every bite. We crafted a vegan version using tofu and nutritional yeast, a delightful alternative to the traditional egg-based recipe. You can certainly expect to see my unique take on shakshouka appearing on FFF very soon! Making falafel was an incredibly fun and engaging experience; the “ball jokes” were definitely flying! It’s surprisingly easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful. We opted to bake ours instead of frying, and honestly, I found this baked version to be even more delicious than the traditional fried kind. The tahini dish we created was visually stunning, infused with beet juice to give it the most vibrant pink hue imaginable. Surprisingly, the beet flavor was subtle, not overpowering, and perfectly complemented the tahini. Keep an eye out for this recipe on FFF too!
Rishlakish Organic Olive Press: The Liquid Gold of Israel
This stop marked a first for me: taking a literal shot of olive oil! Apparently, it aids digestion, which was a welcome benefit given some travel-induced “backup” I experienced during the trip (yes, I went there). A fun fact about my palate: I dislike olives, yet I absolutely adore olive oil – clearly, I inherited my dad’s unique taste buds! Our visit to the Rishlakish Organic Olive Oil Farm and Press was an enlightening and enjoyable experience. This family-run business is committed to 100% organic practices, and I learned a wealth of information about olive oil production, from how olives are processed into oil to numerous practical tips and tricks. Did you know that olive oil MUST be stored in a green glass jar? If the jar is clear or plastic, the olive oil will quickly go rancid. This vital piece of information instantly became a mental note: always invest in and store the good stuff properly!
I thoroughly enjoyed being on this working farm and gaining a deeper understanding of a product I use daily. One of the most interesting facts I learned is that Extra Virgin Olive Oil is actually suitable for high-heat cooking, such as stir-fries, as it can be safely heated up to 400°F. Another fascinating tip pertains to baking with olive oil: when substituting it for other oils like butter, canola, or coconut oil, you only need to use 2/3 cup of olive oil for every 1 cup of the alternative. These insights were truly captivating!
Harduf Anthropomorphic Kibbutz and Organic Farm Lunch: Community & Sustainability
The Harduf Anthropomorphic Kibbutz was an extraordinary place that deeply moved me. Its core mission is to provide a nurturing home and holistic support for individuals with special needs, abused children, and those struggling with mental illness. Beyond simply offering shelter, they implement comprehensive programs designed to guide residents through challenging times, with a strong emphasis on rehabilitation through various art forms – a truly wonderful and healing approach, in my opinion. This kibbutz exemplifies compassionate community living.
The kibbutz operates on the principles of self-sufficiency, powered by a 100% organic farm cultivated by the community members themselves. What truly sets this farm apart is its remarkable diversity; unlike most farms that focus on a select few crops, Harduf’s farm resembles a colossal garden, boasting hundreds of different varieties. They also raise their own chickens and dairy animals, ensuring their community is entirely sustainable from their own land. Witnessing this inspiring model instantly ignited my desire to start gardening immediately! Our guide led us through the abundant garden, where we were free to pick any vegetables we desired, collecting armfuls of fresh produce.
Following our harvest, we gathered fresh eggs and made our way to one of the kibbutz’s communal cooking spaces. The highlight was undoubtedly making our own pita bread over an outdoor fire – an incredibly cool and authentic experience! This hands-on workshop perfectly aligned with my passion for food and community.
The Vibe Israel crew became quite adept at capturing fantastic group photos throughout our journey!
Accommodation Highlights: Where We Rested and Recharged
Diaghilev Hotel – For the majority of our time in Tel Aviv, we stayed at the Diaghilev Hotel. Its prime central location proved incredibly convenient, allowing us to explore many of Tel Aviv’s attractions on foot – an excellent perk for city exploration! The hotel exuded a distinct artsy, boutique vibe, which I absolutely loved. Everywhere you looked, there was captivating art, and our rooms were thoughtfully designed for comfort and relaxation.
Mizpe Hayamim – This exquisite hotel is celebrated as one of northern Israel’s most renowned spas. We consistently heard rave reviews about their massages, and the experience certainly lived up to the hype. Each of us was treated to an amazing suite, thoughtfully stocked with dried fruits and a bottle of wine, adding a touch of luxury. Mizpe Hayamim is not just a spa; it also operates as an organic farm. The on-site Muscat Restaurant, which I’ll detail below, embodies a truly inspiring hotel model: its menu is almost exclusively fueled by fresh produce harvested daily from its own fields, orchards, and farm, complemented by dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheeses produced on-site. All meats are responsibly sourced from local providers, emphasizing sustainability and freshness.
Additional Memorable Activities in Israel
Tour of Tel Aviv via Bike Share – I am a huge enthusiast of bike-sharing programs, and Tel Aviv’s system, remarkably similar to Minneapolis’s acclaimed network, deeply impressed me. I was astonished by how bike-friendly the city is. We pedaled along the beautiful coastline, through bustling markets, and explored vibrant shopping districts, experiencing Tel Aviv from a unique perspective.
Rooftop Yoga – My excitement soared when a rooftop yoga session was spontaneously added to our itinerary! We met up with an incredible local instructor, Maya, and indulged in a rejuvenating 60-minute sunset vinyasa flow on the breathtaking rooftop of her Tel Aviv loft. It was a moment of pure bliss and tranquility.
Workout at a Local Health Club – My final day in Tel Aviv fell outside the official Vibe Israel Tour schedule. Ben, Jessa, and I were the only three still in the city, with an entire day free to explore. I was thrilled to discover Ben and Jessa’s shared passion for fitness (if you haven’t seen their blog, check it out!). We spontaneously visited a local gym for a quick, invigorating workout session, and conveniently utilized their showers since we had already checked out of our hotel, making the most of our last moments in Tel Aviv.
A Culinary Odyssey: Where We Dined in Israel
It truly felt as though we literally ate our way across Israel, indulging in an astonishing variety of dishes ranging from innovative vegan creations to delectable organic meat-based specialties. Every restaurant chosen for this particular Vibe Israel Tour was meticulously selected to align with our group’s keen interest in healthy and wholesome food. The cuisine was consistently exceptional, though served in truly generous quantities! The chefs and owners of these establishments were incredibly hospitable, showering us with practically every item on their menus – I kid you not. Almost every meal began with an array of drinks and numerous appetizers, followed by substantial main courses, and culminating in delightful desserts. The majority of our meals were served family-style, which was a fantastic arrangement, allowing me to sample and savor absolutely everything! Here is a curated list of the culinary gems we experienced, along with a brief description of their specialties.
Taizu – An Asia Terranean Kitchen. This restaurant presents a fresh and innovative concept, reflecting Chef Yuval Ben Neriah’s unique interpretation of street foods from five key Southeast Asian countries: India, China, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. All I can say is that every dish was utterly delicious!
Village Green Vegan Restaurant – This spot offered fresh, delicious vegan food served hot-bar style, reminiscent of a high-quality Whole Foods Market. It quickly became one of my favorite lunch experiences.
Cafe Louise – Known for its fresh, delicious, and healthy meals, with a strong emphasis on vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. The dishes were light yet incredibly flavorful!
Nanuchka Georgian Vegan Restaurant – An authentic Georgian restaurant that is remarkably 100% vegan! The flavors were outstanding, proving that vegan cuisine can be rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
Muscat Restaurant (Mizpe Hayamim Restaurant) – The dishes here are a true celebration of local produce, prepared daily using a diverse array of fresh ingredients sourced from Mizpe Hayamim’s own fields, orchards, farm, and dairy. Their desserts were absolutely fabulous, providing a perfect end to each meal.
Puaa Restaurant – Imagine comfort food re-imagined with a healthy twist! This restaurant has a charming “hole-in-the-wall” ambiance, paired with an incredibly creative and inspiring menu that delighted our palates.
Reflections on Israel, Tel Aviv, and Its Vibrant Culture
Entering this experience, I honestly had no clear expectations. My perception of Israel was, like many, somewhat skewed by media portrayals. However, I have been utterly captivated and profoundly impressed by an extraordinary community brimming with diversity, unparalleled hospitality, a thriving health and wellness movement, genuine authenticity, and cutting-edge technology. Tel Aviv, in particular, stands out as one of the coolest cities I have ever had the pleasure of visiting. Nestled along the beautiful Mediterranean Sea, it is aptly known as the start-up capital of the Middle East. The entire city is remarkably walkable and incredibly green, boasting extensive bike paths, ubiquitous recycling nets, public hydration stations, and countless dog walkers, reflecting a deep commitment to urban sustainability and quality of life. The general vibe I absorbed was decidedly European and remarkably innovative. Israel itself is an exceptionally young nation, just 66 years old, and this youthfulness is reflected in Tel Aviv, where the average age is a vibrant 31 – truly remarkable!
I thoroughly enjoyed the diverse mix of people we encountered. While many were native-born Israelis, a significant number were transplants from various parts of the world, contributing to Israel’s incredibly rich cultural tapestry. One significant misconception I held was the idea that everyone in Israel is Jewish and deeply religious. Interestingly, the Jewish individuals we met in Israel often appeared less overtly religious than some Jewish communities in America (a sentiment affirmed by Joanna, the founder of Kinetis!). My previous vision of an exclusively religious populace across Israel was completely reshaped; the people we interacted with in the areas we visited were largely “average Joes” and remarkably Westernized in their lifestyles. It’s important to note that we unfortunately did not visit Jerusalem, which I understand is home to a more concentrated religious population.
What truly elevated this adventure was the profoundly personal nature of every single experience. The opportunity to meet so many incredible locals, be welcomed into their homes, and hear their unique stories created an immersive experience unlike any other. I believe the individuals who contributed to this tour were instrumental in making it feel so surreal and authentic. It felt as though we were granted an exclusive, insider’s edition of Israel, which is precisely my preferred style of travel – connecting deeply with the heart and soul of a place.
Regarding the health and wellness scene in Israel, I was genuinely blown away. It always brings a smile to my face to see people exercising and embracing fitness in foreign countries, and Tel Aviv certainly had its fair share of active individuals on its streets! It was evident that the general population is health-conscious, and the city boasts a commendable number of healthy restaurants, which made me incredibly happy. The most intriguing aspect of the Israeli health movement, in my observation, was its apparent strong correlation with veganism. While the U.S. features a multitude of “health diets,” what I witnessed in Israel suggested a clear equation: Healthy = Vegan. The vegan movement there was exceptionally popular, and it’s truly heartwarming to see so many people enthusiastically embracing plant-based diets and proudly prioritizing their greens!
The Gang at the Farewell Cocktail Party
I could easily continue for many more paragraphs, but I shall conclude here. I want to extend a profoundly heartfelt and enormous thank you to Kinetis, its visionary founder Joanna, and the exceptional program director Rotem for making this life-changing experience possible. I am already eagerly anticipating my next journey to Israel!
P.S. I am proud to announce that I managed to incorporate workouts on five of the days I was in Israel. This much-needed activity was a welcome balance after consistently indulging in the generous culinary offerings (right, Kate?). Special thanks again to Emily Miner for motivating those workouts!
This post is proudly sponsored by Kinetis and Vibe Israel. While I received a complimentary round-trip flight and all-expenses-paid trip to Israel, rest assured that all opinions expressed herein are 100% my own and genuine. Thank you for supporting my dream of cooking and eating my way around the world!