Israel/Palestine

Might as well put up a little post while I have the spare time and an airconditioned space protecting me from the dry heat outside.

I am sitting in the MCC office on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem right now. I can see the famous gold Dome of the Rock not too far away. Today I had some free time to explore the old city, surrounded by high stone walls that are hundreds of years old. It's a fascinating place to be, walking around the maze of narrow stone streets that wind around to reveal hidden nooks and crannies. The smells of spices and arabic coffee swirl into my nose as I'm dodging carts and various goods that line the paths. People-watching is enough to entertain anyone for a while. Long bearded Jewish men walk along, Muslim women browse clothing, and tourists from all over the world come to see the holy sites. Children chase each other down the alleyways and mazes of streets and stairways that I would have considered to be hide-and-seek heaven when I was a wee one.

It has been quite a learning experience for me, and I will write more about it when I get home. I have seen and felt the frustration of the Palestinians when I hear about the situation and difficulties here.

My suitcase never made it on the airplane from London to Tel Aviv, so I was left with a pair of pants and 3 shirts for a few days until it finally arrived. I now own some really cool Arabic deoderant and shampoo.

Well, I think it's time to head back to the hotel and then maybe go for a visit of the Western Wall, where the lonely planet guidebook tells me the university students come for Jewish dancing on Friday evenings. Apparently you can see live shots from their webcam here: wallcam

much love to all from the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, Israel!

Melissa