Day 9 - The North
Today started with a hike. Due to a series of unfortunate events, the hike lasted only about five minutes before we stopped, waited, and were told we had to turn around and go back to the bus. The fourty of us have been together nonstop (except when sleeping, which doesn't last long) for nine days. Emotions are beginning to run high. Although we only made it a few meters we still were able to see a splendid view before turning around. Supposedly at the top we were to see where the borders of Israel, Syria, and Jordan meet. Pretty cool, oh well.
I still had fun climbing the rocks and taking in the scenery. We passed some cool flowers that looked almost silver or metal. The picture doesn't do them justice. They were very interesting, I wonder what they were called.
After a little down time on the bus because our hike was cut short, we visited Tzfat. Tzfat is a city in Israel that is supposed to be one of the most spiritual places. It is the highest city in Israel, located in Galilee. It is also the center of Kabbalah, Jewish mysticism. In Tzfat, all of the railings and window pains are painted a sky-like blue. The blue is to keep evil from underground away because it confuses them with the blue of the sky.
Tzfat is also known for its artistry.
We were able to walk through the town and market for souvenirs. Many of the products in this market were paintings, artsy religious symbols, photography, and handmade jewelry. I got a ring for myself with the blue opal stone in the middle. I got earrings for my mom, again with the blue. And, I got a pomegranate, a symbolic shape that was painted with the town of Tzfat and a Star of David. The pomegranate I got can be used as a small vase.
We also passed a few more danger of death signs. A couple of men were playing this interesting game that looked like backgammon, but was not. They stated the name of the game but I have
forgotten it now. It does not make that big of a difference though because I did not learn to play.
After Tzfat we went to our final hotel, in the Golan Heights. We had a musician, Ro'l Levy and his son play guitar and sing some songs. It was again another time to bond and unite on our last night.
Corey was even invited to get his guitar and play a few songs alongside. It was a fun way to celebrate and be able to enjoy our last night in Israel.
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