JERUSALEM

The original pilgrimage, Jerusalem is fascinating and beautiful and you should not be put off by the security warnings (within reason). Apart from seeing the ancient, there is a lot of new work being produced, particularly because the Bezalel Art School based in the city.

*Machane Yehuda market is worth a mention, as well as the restaurant based there that shares its name, to sample seasonal dishes and produce.

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THE ISRAEL MUSEUM

WEBSITE: WWW.IMJ.ORG.IL
VISIT TIME: 2 HOURS

The Israel Museum feels like a mini-city and is one of the leading art and archaeology museums in the world. Due to its location in the Holy Land, it exhibits biblical artefacts, as well as important religious and prehistoric objects that would keep Indiana Jones occupied for a very long time. Tourists flock to see the famous Dead Sea Scrolls but thanks to an extensive renovation in 2010 and good leadership, the museum keeps its finger on the pulse with engaging encyclopaedic displays, and world-class contemporary installations and exhibitions. Head to the Billy Rose Art Garden for a stroll and 20th century sculpture.

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YAD VASHEM

WEBSITE: WWW.YADVASHEM.ORG
VISIT TIME: 1 HOUR

Yad Vashem is a memorial, archive, and education centre, dedicated to the Holocaust and its victims. It is an incredibly touching experience to visit the space and it services those still searching for their families, for answers, or those wishing to pay their respects. The new building was designed by Moshe Safdie whose intelligent and conscientious design speaks of the memory of architecture and place. The impact of a building on visitors is remarkable for the humbling effect. I cannot imagine it was a task taken on lightly.

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