Today marks the half-way point in my study abroad journey. In exactly 2 months, I will be boarding my flight back to Washington D.C. While I look forward to return home, my time in Israel has also been filled with moments that I could never forget.
So, as I consider myself more of a local than a tourist now, I am going to reflect on the #OnlyInIsrael moments that have left me excited, fascinated, or amazed.
Shabbat Shalom: My first and major adjustment comes from the fact that on the 24 hours of Shabbat, Jerusalem almost completely shuts down. I have come to terms and appreciate this tradition, but the challenge of how to become a part of this observance is still a challenge that I have yet to overcome.
Airport security: I would never, ever, forget how tight airport security is in Israel. Throughout my life, I have been in more than 10 different airports across the world. However, Israel is hands down the strictest. Given the fact that I was placed in a special list, the time it takes for me from my taxi to the flight gate is twice that of a normal passenger. To be exact, it was 3 hours.
Diversity in languages: Hebrew is the main language. But like every other Westernized country, English is widely known. In addition, the Arab population shares their Arabic in big cities like Jerusalem and Tel-Aviv. On almost every form of public transportation and services, instructions can be found in all 3 languages.
Get ready to walk: not because it resembles metropolitan cities like D.C, but because only by walking can you breath in and witness the significance of the Holy Land.
Heaven for vegetarians: Because of dietary laws, most restaurants and stores cater to the Kosher observers. Fruits and vegetables are sold for very affordable prices and include a wide variety of options. And they're fresh, too!
FedEx delivery in....rental cars: Perhaps my most favorite and most laughable moment is when I welcomed my FedEx delivery man in his rental Hertz car. FedEx serves as an important international delivery service in Israel, but it seems as if the FedEx truck we are used to seeing in America is just a tad big for Israeli streets.
Drivers in Israel - recognized but ignored: Spending a day on public buses in Jerusalem is highly NOT recommended for those with a weak heart. Drivers in Israel, on both buses and cars, while recognizing each other and where they are on the streets, also tend to ignoring each other. I have been in countless of moments where my bus driver just ignores the car next to us and proceeds to drive over. It's fun sometimes, but not really.
Cit(ies) on (a) hill(s): Not only in Jerusalem, but in various other settlements and cities in Israel as well. Israeli roads are hill-y, curvy, and perfect for legs exercise.
What New Year?: Definitely not January 1st. Israel follows the Jewish calendar year, thus they celebrate New Year during Rosh Hashanah, typically falls during the second to last week of September. However, for exchange and foreigners, lowkey NYE parties are still held across the country. But no hangover is allowed. We still have work and school the next day!
Surprises!!!: In my past 2 months in Jerusalem and Israel, I have encountered unexpected surprises and discoveries almost everyday. When I thought that I have known Jerusalem better, I realized that I have not. Living in the Holy Land requires me to walk with open eyes, explore with an open mind, and reflect with an open heart.
With that being said, happy two months in Israel to me, and cheers to the new beginnings that have yet to come!