There is a reason we have five senses.
Each of them has a meaning, and we use each of them to explore and learn about the world. When you listen to a new language, when you try a new food, when you touch a fabric, when you smell an herb, you get impression about the environment around you.
And the more we tune into our senses, the stronger and more meaningful our experiences become. On my tours, one of my main goals is to make you use all your senses.
So, how can you amplify your experiences in Israel? Try to look for experiences that combine all five senses. Exploring a market, for example, is a great way to do it.
Not only is it a sensory experience, but also an opportunity to explore cultures: What kind of food do locals eat? What kind of drinks? How do locals dress? What do local herbs and spices smell like? I truly believe that every trip is always an opportunity to have an anthropological experience.
If you feel the same, and you are looking to embellish your experience in Israel, here are some of the most well-known Israeli markets to explore:
1. The Carmel Market- In the heart of Tel Aviv, is the Carmel Market. This lively market is well known for its variety of goods, from gourmet food to underwear, you can find there ANIYTHING you need. The Carmel Market is THE place for foodies, but also the place where locals buy their groceries. This is its charm: although it is quite touristic, locals also use it, and you can score some great authentic items.
2. Mahane Yehuda Market- Another "foodies" attraction, this time, in Jerusalem. The market has a lengthy history, which began a few hundred years ago, as a trade spot between local Arabs and Jews from the area. Over time, it has become a successful market and has been reconstructed several times. Today, like the Carmel Market, it is still serving the local communities, but has become a place you can find almost any kind of food you want: Yemenite, South American, Arabic, Chinese, Italian, and more. All of this is thanks to the different cultural traditions that make up the tapestry of Israeli society today.
3. Jaffa's Flea Market- One of my favorites! Do you enjoy looking for unique clothing? Jaffa's Flea Market is the place for you! An open-air market with coins, old furniture, clothes, but also some authentic works of art is waiting for you. And at night, the market has a cool night life scene!
4. The Old City of Jerusalem Bazaar- It's hard to miss the bazaar of the Old City. Thanks to the tourism over the years, where there are pilgrims and crowds, there is also commerce. The Bazaar of The Old City is full of spices, scents and colors, with authentic Arabic outfits and cultural treasures.
5. Talpiyot Market in Haifa- It is about time to mention the third largest city in Israel, right? Haifa is a beautiful city, completely different from her big sisters Tel Aviv-Jaffa and Jerusalem. Located at the foot of The Carmel Mountain (not to be confused with The Carmel Market in Tel Aviv!) there are two nice and interesting markets to explore. Talpiyot Market- in Hadar neighborhood, which appears as if you stepped into a time machine. The market itself is mostly serves the local community and includes groceries, but the surrounding area is a magical time window to the 30th in Israel. The golden age of the Hadar neighborhood ended somewhere in 1970, and it became a neglected area, until the last few years, when the gentrification process coupled with local initiatives brought a different population to the area, like artists, hipsters and students, who have opened some excellent places to eat.
6. The Flea Market in Haifa- On weekends, there is a local flea market in Haifa. If you are spending the weekend in the city and enjoy markets, you should try to experience this one. Unlike most flea markets in Israel, which have become to some extent commercial and touristic, the flea market in Haifa stays true to the authentic flea market vibes. You can find some real treasures if you are a fan of the diving genre. :)
7. Nazareth Bazaar- A bit like Jerusalem's bazaar, the Nazareth bazaar is the northern branch of these kinds of markets. A bit smaller, but still has some nice places to check out, and its location by the Annunciation Cathedral makes it a popular and touristic place to visit.
8. Tzfat's Bazaar- The Tzfat's bazaar is a little different: it's more like a long and colorful alley with stands and galleries selling mostly Jewish Judaica. The Old City of Tzfat has a different vibe and when you walk around the area, you cannot miss this alley.
9. Ramlah-Lod Market- Where you barely see tourists, there is magic. Do you like the feeling of visiting an authentic place? Then I recommend the Ramlah Market. Great fresh local street food and all at a fair price. Ramlah, for most, is not on the usual touristic route, but if by a chance you are nearby, you may want to check out this market.
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