Israel - Day 11

We visited Me'a She'arim, a neighborhood of ultra-orthodox Jews who warn visitors to dress appropriately (no uncovered arms and skirts or pants for the women). We walked down a few streets and stopped in a few stores, but it was not very interesting. We then walked down King George Street to Ben Yehuda Street, a pedestrian shopping area, where we were able to help the Israeli economy by purchasing all sorts of things we don't need at prices only tourists would pay. Just kidding!

I also put on tefillin there (actually, someone put it on for me). This is a tradition done by orthodox Jews while praying. It involves wrapping leather straps around your arm and finger and putting boxes containing prayers on your head and arm. I hadn't done it in many years and was happy to have someone to help me.

Emily took off on her own to visit the Hadassah hospital and learn something about emergency medical services in Israel.

Tonight we go back to the Old City for a last look at some sights and a night-time visit to the Western Wall. Tomorrow we return to our relatives in Tel Aviv to get ready for the flight home on Thursday.

Warning sign in Me'a She'arim

Store in Me'a She'arim

Building on Ben Yehuda Street

Ross putting on tefillin

Doorway on Ben Yehuda Street

Mural on building

Street sign and flowering trees