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Coming to Isreal's official memorial to the victim's of the Holocaust was a requirement for my trip and one I do not regret.
But first order of business, I needed to get my Rav Kav card! What is it? The transportation card that allows you to use the bus/light rail system. So, off I went to find the central station. I got onto bus 75 and the driver was so helpful. He told me when to get off and where to go. Into Central Station I went up to the 3rd floor and I followed the Rav Kav signs. Got my number and waited in line. Before I knew it, my number was called. Even though the clerk did not speak English, we were able to communicate enough that I was given my card! How cool is that? I went to a kiosk and transferred money on it then off to grab the light rail to the museum.
Again, people are so nice here! I asked a couple of ladies next to me about the stop I should take. They were more than helpful and not only told me what stop to get off on but pointed me into
the right direction.
Off to the museum I went. Entrance is free but there is a small charge to get the audio headphones in your language to hear a guide walk you through all the exhibits.
Words cannot describe this experience. There were times of great difficulty for me and I needed to pass through quickly. However, I know that this is a place to come again and really take in those exhibits that I went by. Pictures are not allowed and I had no desire to take any. It seemed wrong to me to do so. At the end, you walk out onto a terrace to view Jerusalem and the view was breath taking! I do have that picture.
I then went to the Children's Memorial. Please look it up because I simply cannot describe it...it completely shattered me and the tears were flowing.
After that, I needed to walk away to gather myself and just be.
I walked back to the rail station and got on the next train. I decided to get off when I saw on the monitor Jaffa Square. It sounded familiar so why not? After wandering for a bit,
I grabbed lunch at this corner shop. I pointed to a picture of a falafel wrap and they gentleman behind the counter started putting it together. He kept asking (well gesturing since he didn't speak English) if I wanted this or that. I just nodded at everything! Lunch was great, very filling and I couldn't finish it.
Then, I found my way to a bus stop, jumped on the 78 and within 6 stops, I was back home! Honestly, I have felt more nervous on the Max at home than I have here blindly using the public transportation!
After a nap and contemplation of this morning's outing, Lori came to sweep me off to dinner, drinks and sights to see. Meeting her has been such a great blessing!
First off to the King David Hotel to have dinner and wine on the terrace. Incredible views of the old city pared with incredible food and wine.
Next, across the street to climb the tower at the YMCA. Seriously, the most opulent YMCA I have ever been in! 360° degree views of Jerusalem.
Then, she whisked me away to the Waldorf Astoria for a drink and experience
being in that beautiful lobby and bar.
After that, a must visit to the Notre Dame hotel and up to the 4th floor to their wine and cheese bar. There we had dessert and aperitifs. I ordered orange creme brulee with lemoncello. Yum! And again, magnificent views of the old city.
What memories I am gathering...along with new friends to guide me.
This trip was so meant to be and without a doubt, I am coming back!
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