Posts tagged with "tel Aviv"

Israel Tourism

The Israel Ministry of Tourism continues to help the local tourism industry, to increase the accommodation supply to lower prices. The Investment Administration in the Tourism Ministry has recently received 107 applications from entrepreneurs seeking grants to build and expand hotels.

Investors, who are optimistic about the rehabilitation of Israel’s incoming tourism industry, are seeking to establish and convert existing buildings to hotels and expand existing buildings or restore them to their original purpose. 70 applications were submitted in the building permit tracking, 22 requests as part of a track to restore buildings to hotel use and convert existing buildings into hotels, and 15 applications were submitted in the implementation track by companies who have a building permit. This year’s grant budget stands at NIS 165 million. The directives of the Investment Administration for 2022 were published last April and the deadline for applications to be submitted was mid-May 2022.

The Israel Minister of Tourism Yoel Razvozov spoke about Israels current tourism opportunities, “There is a great deal of optimism and interest among the tourism industry. This year, we broke the record for the number of grant requests for opening new hotels in Israel, with over one hundred applications submitted. The Israel Ministry of Tourism continues to invest vast efforts in increasing incoming tourism traffic to Israel and shortening the amount of time it takes to build hotels. This will inject billions of shekels into the state coffers.”

As is well known, the corona crisis interrupted the upward growth trend in incoming tourism, which culminated in record figures in 2019 of over 4.5 million tourists. During the crisis, the Ministry of Tourism focused on preserving and nurturing the tourism infrastructure and continued assistance to entrepreneurs. This is to prepare for the return of growth. According to the Ministry of Tourism, the tourism industry’s annual contribution to the economy (before the pandemic) stood at about NIS 40 billion. The ministry is working to restore incoming tourism traffic to Israel and for the industry’s recovery following the crisis.

Despite the effects of the pandemic, progress has been registered in both planning new hotel projects and in building projects that were planned before the outbreak of the pandemic. The ministry continues to work to realize the potential inherent in hotel investments, to increase the number of tourists, and, as a result, to increase revenue from tourism to the economy.

On Tour: Israel

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In photo: Vaughn Lowery visits Israel.

While history, politics and religion are a few keywords that have become the main topic of conversation involving Israel, there’s another focus that the nation has geared up for – Israel tourism. Due to a major growth of cycling tourism in the country located in Western Asia, the government has recently invested 30 million dollars in promoting the national culture of biking.

Israel is now flowing with trails, tours and bike sharing programs, including the holiest “Biking the Path of Jesus” tours. We were recently able to grasp a taste of Israel tourism, starting off with the bike trails.

Chief mountain bike guide, Nimi Cohen, was the escort on a week-long unforgettable trek, experiencing the magic of Israel on two wheels. Originally from Israel, Cohen has been mountain biking for 20 years. Starting on the more extreme side of mountain biking in downhill and free-ride, after injury, Cohen is now a mountain and marathon racer; he is the epitome of expert.

To Cohen, life is about the Israeli single-track experience (single-track describes a narrow trail that is approximately the width of the bike). Cohen also runs a mountain biking school – named Mountain Goat, meaning to have incredible balance on the narrowest of paths – where he guides others through trips and clinics. (For more information, please visit HERE or contact Nimi Cohen directly at nimroditi@gmail.com.)

“The Judean Hills, the Negev desert, Ramon Crater, the Arava Plains, and Eilat mountains.” These areas are all locations rideable 365 days a year. During the Israeli winter and spring, between October and April, they offer a great opportunity for a full-day epic ride, when the rest of the world (and the center and north of Israel) is covered in mud and snow,” explains Cohen. “Not to be afraid of trying new s**t… new stuff, but to do it moderately and slowly,” he shares some advice to new riders. He also recommends that bikers “ride in different terrains, as diverse terrains as you can get. You will become a complete and a whole rider.”

Bike Trails in Israel

Old Jaffa – Perfect for a night ride when visiting Tel Aviv. Bike riders can enjoy the coast of the Mediterranean Sea to Old Jaffa.

Galilee – These trails connect to the Holy Land and a number of religious and historical sites. Tourists can enjoy magnificent views and some technical flowing single-track riding along the Sea of Galilee.

Mount Carmel – Coastal mountain range on the Mediterranean Sea, about 24 miles long.

Ayalon National Park (Canada Park) – Located in the Judean Plain, this is a more communal and popular trail. Expect to see many others enjoying this all mountain loop.

Adulam – Kanim – Single-track located in the Tuscany of Israel. This is a seemingly endless, smooth flowing trail about 25 minutes southwest of Jerusalem.

Old City Jerusalem – Another stunning trail to ride along at night time.Sugar Route – This is a 17-mile bike trail linking Jerusalem to Jerico.

Sde Boker – The Halukim Wadi single-track, this is the center for astonishing desert biking.Ramon Crater – A panoramic ride along the cliff of these geological phenomena.

Shayarot Cliffs – Beautiful, all-mountain technical ride, near the Arava Valley.

Timna Park – Manmade single-track ride at the site of the ancient copper mines, which is now a geological park.

Eilat Beach – Once a tiny kibbutz, Eilat is currently a center for tourism and bike riding. Trails surrounded by a view of poetic red mountains and deep blue sea. Tourists can find rough desert all-mountain and downhill trails starting high up and ending at sea level.

Located near the Arava Valley, Kibbutz Samar offers the unique and ultimate experience of sleeping and biking in the desert at a spot called Samar Bike. Kibbutz is a communal settlement in Israel, typically a farm. During the visit, we met one of the creators of Samar Bike, Yair Sela. “We want to live in a place that we live as we want to live,”he comments on being a part of Kibbutz Samar.

Along the way, we also met Faran Zeira, whose parents founded Neot Semadar 25 years ago when she was only two years old. Even though she was only a young girl, Zeira (born in Jerusalem) affirms that she chose to be a part of the kibbutz.

“Kibbutz is a kind of community of people choosing to leave the city together, sharing things less than having things to own privately. This kibbutz is a bit different, the main issue here is the interest of learning… learning how to share, how to live together. Learning how not to push things aside, but how to deal with them,” says Zeira. “You chose to be here, it’s family, 150 people living here. It’s really intimate. If people don’t have an interest, they don’t stay.”

Kibbutz living may be far from the Israeli city life, but one thing is certain: both share the passion of riding. Ross Belfer, an account supervisor at WEILL – a public relations and marketing company in travel and tourism – is a Tel Aviv local, who knows where all the cool spots are. Belfer shares his insider-look into the city life, “Tel Aviv is surely a city of the ‘now,’ with new bars, restaurants, galleries and creative hangout spots popping up at rapid speeds. The best means to explore Tel Aviv is through the perspective of a local who best knows the city, whether it’d be the top spot for late night bites or simply a quiet and serene look-out point in Jaffa, secluded from and unknown by tourists.”

When in Israel, why not experience thrilling Israeli city life while on two wheels? Another huge part of Israel tourism is its constantly adapting and evolving cuisine. For first-timers, Belfer suggests checking out Eager Tourist, a hyperlocal travel concierge which arranges tailor-made experiences in Tel Aviv within the realms of art, music, nightlife, architecture, bike routes and beyond.

Restaurants and Nightlife in Israel:

Cordelia Restaurant, Tel Aviv – Variety of detailed food items, menu developed by Chef Nir Zook. This spot is great for a late night dinner.

Yulia Restaurant, Tel Aviv – This seafood restaurant is perfect for lunch or dinner. With patio seating, the perfect spot for any occasion.

Chakra Restaurant, Jerusalem – Offers an authentic Mediterranean experience with menu items from land and sea. Claiming their most important ingredient to be ‘love.’

Pedro Restaurant, Eilat – Pedro has a small and intimate atmosphere and is famous for its high quality meats. Guests will be sure to feel like they are at home when dining in.

Port Sa’id, Tel Aviv – Vibrant, hip restaurant adjacent to the Big Synagogue on Allenby Street with innovative dishes by Chef Eyal Shani. This spot features local DJs spinning the restaurant’s collection of 1,000+ vinyl records.

HaHalutzim 3, Tel Aviv – Buzzed about gourmet restaurant, located within the Levinsky Market and the i rst of its kind in the neighborhood. Young Chef Eytan Vanunu cooks up eclectic dishes in his comfortable and quaint, internationally inspired restaurant. Dishes include pork-stuffed challah, polenta with veal and red wine reduction, lentil salad with yogurt chive dressing.

Yafo Creative, Tel Aviv – Yafo Creative is a boutique guest house and art hub in the heart of Jaffa. Locals and travelers can connect and collaborate during weekly Friday night dinners. Yafo is known for hosting performances by Israeli and international musicians and performance artists.

Anna Loulou, Tel Aviv – Hyperlocal dance bar on a side street in Jaffa. On Wednesday nights, dance to vintage Arabic music.

Pasaz, Tel Aviv – One of Tel Aviv’s hottest spots for local DJs and bands with a new artist performing each night.

Noga Complex, Tel Aviv -A quaint, village-like neighborhood on the cusp of the city’s Neve Tzedek neighborhood and Jaffa. The Williamsburg-esque Noga Complex is teaming with design and fashion boutiques by homegrown Israeli artists. Stroll along the neighborhood’s cobblestone streets and enter several unique culinary and design focused conceptions.

Sarona Complex, Tel Aviv – The up-coming Sarona complex will soon stand as Tel Aviv’s newest art, culture and design hot spots. A formally uninhabited neighborhood boasting 19th century Templar buildings, the Sarona complex will feature art galleries, museums, fashion and design shops.

Friday Sunset Drum Circle behind the Dolphinarium, Tel Aviv – One of Ross Belfer’s favorites. Bring a drum along or just show up with beer or wine and dance to the rhythms as the sun sets.

Dvir Gallery, Tel Aviv – One of the city’s most renowned art galleries, showcasing local talent with two different locations.

Amphorae Winery, Tel Aviv – One of the most beautiful wineries in Israel. Although the winery isn’t set in the midst of its vineyards, it is set amidst organic farms in the area.

Srigim Brewery – Enjoy different beers at a tasting at the Srigim Brewery. They offer 7,000 different kinds of beers and are famous for their IPA. There is a 10-minute ascent in the Masada-ruins of King Herod’s mountain-top fortress. Tourists can ascend from the west to the east via cable car. The Snake Path is also still open for tourists wishing to use this ancient trail. Another tourist favorite is a must-do, dip in the Dead Sea. Israel also offers some of the most gorgeous and sought-out lodging experiences in the world.

Hotels in Israel:

Herods Hotel, Tel Aviv – This ive star hotel is located in the heart of the city along the coastline of the exquisite Mediterranean Sea. Herods captures a historical style in a modern day atmosphere.

Leonardo Plaza, Jerusalem – Nothing but the inest. Another ive star hotel, Leonardo Plaza offers breathtaking views of both old and new Jerusalem.

Hod Hamidbar Hotel, Dead Sea – Famous for being the lowest point on earth, the Hod Hamidbar hotel is located on the northern side of the Ein Bokek region, on the Dead Sea.

Beresheet Hotel, Mitzpe Ramon – Located on the edge of the Ramon Crater (a natural phenomenon), this desert hotel manages to have comfortable and cooler weather all year long. Guests come irst at this ive star hotel with unbelievably spectacular views throughout the entire property. This hotel truly is a gem in the middle of the desert.

Samar Bike, Kibbutz Samar – Built by riders for riders.

King Solomon Hotel, Eilat – Surrounded by sea and mountains, King Solomon Hotel is perfect for fun activities or just plain ole’ relaxation.

Carlton Hotel, Tel Aviv – A fabulous resting spot after a long bike ride. Relax and take in a beach-front view.

iBike, Mitzpe Ramon – An active boutique hotel, giving guests personal attention and special care for excitement, welfare, and enjoyment.

Dolphin Reef Spa, Eilat – Located on the shores of the Red Sea, this reef area gives visitors a chance to observe and swim with a group of bottle-nose dolphins in their natural habitat. Relax at the spa or hang with the dolphins and enjoy the view.

Eden House Boutique Hotel, Tel Aviv – This classical twelve-room property is located right in the middle between Tel Aviv’s vibrant Carmel Market and Mediterranean promenade. The modern day bed-and-breakfast spot has nothing on this place.

Traveling to Israel has never been easier than now. El Al Israel Airlines offers non-stop lights to Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv), Israel’s main international airport. The location is convenient to go anywhere in Tel Aviv and start the adventure. The Israel Ministry of Tourism website is a great way to keep up with what’s happening, or be sure to check out 360 calendar listing for Tel Aviv (coming soon).

“It’s amazing…like NYC and Miami had a baby,” 360 Magazine President Vaughn Lowery concludes with excitement on our recent press tour to Tel Aviv. “I’ve never seen anything like it. Tel Aviv is a major untapped NYC type of place [with] so many young cool entrepreneurs.”

Article: Jillian Sutton

Visualizing Your Imagination Through a Piece of Art, Made Just For You by Joshua Taustein

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Like many people, Anna Phillips is a dreamer and starts off each year with a new list of personal and professional goals and dreams. However, people soon get distracted with school, work, family, or other life responsibilities, and lose sight of what they hoped to achieve in the year ahead.

One year, Anna received a Dreame phone cover as a gift. “I was matched with an artist from Ireland, who took all of my goals and placed them in picture form on the back of a phone cover. Every time I looked at my phone, I was looking at my goals for the year, which kept me on track. Among the things I was able to accomplish that year were taking a vacation with my dad, enrolling in a salsa dancing class, and even planning a kick-ass birthday party for myself.”

Dreame (pronounced Dreamy) is a collective of artists, dreamers, and co-creators from around the world. Sharonna Karni Cohen co-founded Dreame after envisioning a world in which anyone can express themselves through their imagination, achieve their goals, and feel like creators–without necessarily having any artistic talent.

“I started Dreame after I would endlessly scroll through newsfeeds, slowly losing myself to the lives of others,” said Sharonna Karni Cohen, co-founder of Dreame. “I felt I had lost an understanding of why I am special–each of us are unique, especially when it comes to our own imaginations and ability to create. I never succeeded in art class, but I always fascinated others with my stories and imagination. There is a strong connection between the dreamers without artistic skills and the artists around the world seeking new opportunities.”

By creating an artistic vision board–including choosing a style and colors, uploading photos, and most importantly, sharing their dreams–anyone can turn their dreams into a unique piece of artwork, just like Anna did through the Dreamlist. One of 500 well-respected artists from around the world will then take this information to create a personalized art piece that will be framed and shipped to their home within two weeks of placing the order. This art can also be framed or placed on a variety of items that people use every day. It can also be included on items such as journals, yoga mats, phone cases, or prints.

Dreame also offers the opportunity for dreamers to pick their own artist from its Artist Collective. Dreamers can write their story, upload a photo, and then see their own story turned into a unique piece of art.

Seeing success in helping people visualize their personal dreams, stories, and ideas, Sharonna brought Dreame into the office and started The Dreame Workshop. This is a team bonding exercise that uses art and creative discussion to help employees visualize their company’s values and future direction while also manifesting their personal and professional goals.

The empowering and imaginative workshop opens up employees’ creative side, answers questions they haven’t considered before, and brings everyone together to discuss their personal dreams as well as dreams related to the future of the company they work for. Following the workshop, employees will have a clearer vision for the future of their company, the culture, and their own role in building this future. There is also an option to turn everyone’s collective goals into a unique piece of artwork, which can be hung in the office or placed on a variety of everyday items. The unique artwork created at previous Dreame Workshops has served as a visual asset for corporate materials. Additionally, these artworks have served as office art installations and swag for companies like Google, PayPal, IBM, UBS, Amdocs, WSC Sports, and more.

The Big Dream envisions the future of countries around the world and is inspired by hundreds of personal dreams. All of these inspirations that have been turned into different pieces of art are then puzzled together to form a collective dream. It began in 2017 when Dreame began creating works of art based on dreams from individuals in schools, cities and associations in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. This artwork was digitally scanned and sliced, and then printed onto 1,500 yoga mats, which were then puzzled together in Rabin Square in Tel Aviv. A video of the 2017 Big Dream is available here.

This year, Dreame has partnered with other organizations and companies, including The Ramon Foundation, and The Peres Center for Peace and Innovation for The Big Dream. This will allow people to share their personal dreams and then see them projected around the world through the creation of a unique piece of artwork. On Tuesday, September 21, which is International Peace Day, this piece of artwork will be projected at locations such as the Peres Center; the Old Royal Naval College in London; the Tower of David in Jerusalem; the Leopold Museum in Vienna; and the ZAZ10TS gallery in Times Square in New York City. The final destination will be aboard a flight to the International Space Station as part of the ‘Sky’ mission with the second Israeli astronaut in space, Eytan Stibbe. The Big Dream has the capacity to encapsulate more than 100,000 dreams. Everyone is encouraged to share their dreams on this website, and can then standby and watch their dreams projected around the world.

About Anna

A few years after she had her dreams included on her phone cover, Anna Phillips continued to dream big. Originally from San Diego, she worked and traveled around the world. She was now living in Israel, while Nir, her Israeli boyfriend, lived in New York City. Nir shared a dream he had of one day camping together with their children and looking at the stars together.

Anna worked with a Dreame artist from China to turn this dream into a painting, which hung in Nir’s home for a couple of years. “This became an important part of our relationship and was a foreshadowing of what was to come.” Soon after that, Anna worked with the same Chinese artist to create another unique piece of artwork. This time, it was a signal to Nir that Anna was ready to take the next step in their relationship and tie the knot. Today, Anna, Nir, and their daughter Liviyah are all dreaming together.

*The featured image is from the Monday compilation. Working with employees at Monday, these images came from a Dreame Workshop and were included in employee’s journals and more.

Photo of Anna Phillips for Dreame via Joshua Taustein for use by 360 Magazine

Anna Phillips Proposal– A painting of Anna and Nir under a chuppah.

Anna Phillip's artwork via Dreamy and Joshua Taustein for use by 360 Magazine

Anna Phillips Under the Stars– Anna worked with an artist in China to capture her boyfriend’s dream of camping under the stars with their family.

Anna Phillips and her phone– Anna’s annual goals were placed in picture form on her phone.

TALIA LONDONER – GET IT OUT

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Talia Londoner Announces Her Arrival With Vibrant, Retro-Pop Single and Video, “Get It Out”

Produced with renowned Penthouse photographer, Hank Londoner, and Directed by Boaz Aquino

Watch the video here

Debut EP out Fall 2021

Today, with the release of her vibrant, retro-pop video for “Get It Out,” the LA-born, Tel Aviv-based singer/songwriter Talia Londoner shares the first taste of her euphoric musical sound, destined to place her among the next generation of pop stars. Combining the vibrant feminist visuals of early Madonna and the classic emotional style of Katy Perry, Robyn, and Kylie Minogue, “Get It Out” was produced and designed with renowned Penthouse photographer, Hank Londoner, and director, Boaz Aquino, taking listeners back to the anthemic, party pop of the 1980s. It’s the first single from Londoner’s debut EP, out this fall.

Talia’s style and aesthetic was shaped by a uniquely colorful background, growing up the daughter of Penthouse head photographer, Hank Londoner, and prima ballerina, Susan Freedman Londoner, in an iconic LA home commonly referred to as “the Dollhouse.” Boasting a bright yellow facade and an unmissable red door, each room surprised guests with a different color and floral textured wallpaper, creating a bright whimsical environment for the aspiring creative and host of colorful characters who came through its doors each day. The dollhouse is the birthplace for Talia’s bold and honest approach; it’s where she learned that truth and a willingness to reveal all of your colors can be a glue that bring people together. The making of “Get It Out” was a complete family-affair, with both Hank and Susan contributing to its production, design, and styling.

Transplanting from LA to Tel Aviv in 2013, Londoner found herself in high demand as a songwriter, collaborating with prominent groups like UK’s Invisible Men, Simon Cowell’s former head of A&R Anya Jones, Cutfather, and Israeli producer Oren Emanuel. After making it to the Top 10 on “The Voice,” she toured the country and saw numerous radio hits with the Israeli electro-pop outfit, Let’s Mars. The release of “Get It Out” marks Londoner’s return to the US after a whirlwind trip abroad, and the birth of her unique brand of timeless pop that she hopes will unite and inspire.

“’Get It Out’ is an uplifting, 80-inspired self-love anthem about letting go and feeling your way to freedom,” adds Londoner. “It’s a love letter to myself and to you.”

Talia is certainly an artist to watch this year! We can’t wait to hear what she comes up with next.

Israel Tourism × Wine

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On August 19, the Israel Wine Producers Association (IWPA) will host “A Sip of Israel in North America” in partnership with the Israel Ministry of Tourism in North America (IMOT) for a virtual wine tour of Israel. Believed to be the first such event of its kind for travel advisers, this virtual tour will illustrate how extensive and deep-rooted winemaking is in Israel.

The tour will feature wines from each region of Israel – Tel Aviv, Galilee, Golan, Jerusalem and the Negev – with commentary from the director of each corresponding region in North America (Western, Midwest, Canada, Northeast and Southern respectively). Each will share highlights of activities and attractions tourists can discover in these regions. In addition, the directors will be joined by the winemaker of each of the five wines as well as host, Joshua Greenstein, Executive Vice President of the IWPA.

“We have done a number of collaborations with the IWPA on a regional basis, but with webinars and virtual tours on the rise, Josh and I saw an opportunity to do something much bigger,” said Chad Martin, IMOT Director of the Northeast Region. “The Ministry of Tourism has long wanted to get the point across that not only is Israel a wine destination, but with the convenience of Israel’s small size, a wine experience can easily be added to almost any day of touring.”

To help round out the experience for the travel advisers, IWPA is offering a special wine package so that participants wanting to taste the wines and really have a “A Sip of Israel in North America,” can get the full virtual experience.

The event is on August 19th and begins at 4:30 p.m. EST, 3:30 p.m. CST, 1:30 p.m. PST, and 9:30 p.m. BST. The five-bottle wine package is $99 with free shipping and is available across the continental US, Canada, and the UK.

To stay up-to-date with future travel to Israel or to plan your trip when the country reopens to international travel, visit https://israel.travel/. To stay inspired, follow IMOT on Facebook,Instagram and Twitter.

Visit Israel: Tourism Rises

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Israel Hits All-Time Record for Arrivals in 2019 with 4,551,600 Tourist Entries, a 10% Increase Over 2018

NEW YORK – Once again Israel has broken its record of tourist entries with 4,551,600 in 2019 from across the globe. This record is a 10% increase over 2018, which saw 4,120,800 tourist arrivals.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled that 2019 ended with a record high of incoming tourism to Israel that resulted in a NIS 22 billion in revenue,” said Yariv Levin, Israel’s Minister of Tourism. “Thanks to the innovative marketing and promotional campaigns, we are happy to report a 10% increase in tourism compared with last year. We’re excited to continue this momentum in 2020.”

The top six source countries to Israel for incoming tourism are the United States (889,700), France (367,500), Russia (318,100), Germany (289,000), UK (235,400) and Italy (190,700).

The number of tourist hotel nights reached 12.1 million in 2019, compared with 11.6 million in 2018, which is an increase of 4.4%. The number of tourist stays in 2019 increased in Jerusalem by 8%, 9% in Tel Aviv and 18% in Tiberias.

To keep up with the increasing numbers of travelers to the country, hotel brands are working to open new properties across the country. Notable openings in 2020 include the renovated Mitzpe Hayamim in the Galilee, Six Senses in the Negev, and the pod hotel, WOM Allenby in Tel Aviv.

In addition, significant transportation updates are being made to allow entries to the country to be smooth and hassle-free. In 2019, Israel opened Ramon Airport in Eilat, announced 3 billion NIS expansion plan of Ben-Gurion Airport and launched new direct flight routes from Las Vegas, San Francisco, Orlando, Dallas and Washington DC. In March 2020, the first direct flight route out of the Midwest United States will launch from Chicago with El Al Airlines.

“In 2019 we have broken the record for incoming tourism with a record 4.55 million visitors,” said Amir Halevi, Tourism Ministry Director-General. “We are within reach of achieving 5 million tourists and hope that our efforts will push us over the edge in the years to come. The Ministry of Tourism will continue to work with our tourism brands to attract both new and returning travelers to experience all our country has to offer, from the Negev in the south to the Galilee in the north.”

For more information on traveling to Israel or to plan your trip, visit Israel.travel.

About the Israel Ministry of Tourism:

The Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT), is Israel’s national tourism agency responsible for planning and implementing marketing and promotional initiatives to position Israel as a preferred travel destination. IMOT aims to increase tourism traffic to contribute to Israel’s economy, and to enhance and diversify the visiting experience. IMOT works to promote Israel’s impressive assortment of historical, cultural, culinary and religious attractions – each the perfect blend of tradition and modernity. IMOT offices in North America are located in New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago and Toronto.

For details on upcoming events and attractions in Israel, visit IMOT’s website at israel.travel. Follow us on Faceboo k, Twitter and Instagram to receive the latest updates.

AGAT

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Agat hails from Tel-Aviv. Her immense talent captivates listeners with her intrinsic synth-pop sound.

Embraced with a rich soundtrack during her childhood with the likes of Led Zeppelin, Stevie Wonder and The Beatles, the Israeli songstress possessed musical skills which led her to composing her own material. She plays different instruments and often delves into diverse musical cultures and styles. As part of exploring her talents, Agat began performing in groups and bands. Ultimately, that participation became an expressive outlet for her creativity.

After dropping out of school to study music, Agat started investigating jazz harmony; and eventually halted her lessons and focused on writing for her own projects. In the past year, she decided to put the majority of her energy into launching her own sound – genre bending electronic and rock. Experimenting with different sounds and drawing from inspirations like David Bowie, Chris Cornell and Mike Patton, she continues to construct tracks for fearless people whom lives life with no boundaries.

For all things Agat go HERE.

Artist To Watch: NYC’s Finding Thomas Releases Debut EP

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There is a new artist on the rise in NYC, and they go by the name of Finding Thomas. Founded by singer/songwriter Thomas Guttman, the band has just released its debut EP, which you can listen to now via HERE.

Distinguished like a Rolex GMT Master II, Thomas Guttman creates music which hovers above genres, marked by a refusal to be pigeonholed. Born and raised in New York City, Finding Thomas performs regularly at downtown clubs like The Standard, East Village, Rockwood Music Hall, The Bitter End, and Bowery Electric, where the fresh sound of the new never fails to surprise. With deep roots in the past, and a sensibility finely to the present, one hears the lingering roar of the previous century colliding with the madness of the current century – yet it’s still fundamentally rooted in bass, guitar, drums, and laced with a biting, lyrical poetry.

Finding Thomas’ EP is cohesive and complex, with each track showcasing a different side of the band. Influences are as varied as they are nuanced, resulting in a timeless suite of songs. The international ensemble of musicians on the recording conjures a surprisingly straight up rock & roll record, with enticing hooks and brutally honest lyrics.

The EP opens with “Better On My Own,” which was recorded during a summer session with Israeli-based producer Eran Tabib. Featuring a tender guitar hook, paired with a tale of a heart shattered into pieces so sharp that they cut, Thomas sings with an intimacy that feels like he’s confiding in the listener.

“It was amazing to be working with Eran in Israel,” said Guttman. “We had been working together for a few years in New York, as a vocal coach. Luckily the stars aligned and we were able to set up a session very last minute in Tel-Aviv . The timing was perfect, as I had just written ‘Better On My Own’ after a rough breakup in December and the fresher the better.”

Watch the music video for “Better On My Own” via YouTube HERE.

Taken as a whole, the EP presents a fresh, personal, authentic new voice, marked by a taut, musical tension – between loose and tight rhythms, romantic and caustic tones, and past and the future sensibilities.

For more information on Finding Thomas please visit HERE.

ISRAEL FOR MOTHER’S DAY

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We’ve got a destination for you to consider: Israel.

As the years pass by, you start to recognize the value of traveling together and there is no better way to bond than a mother-child trip. Historical sites, delectable cuisine, and stunning scenery make Israel the perfect destination to celebrate this Mother’s Day.

What to Do: Israel’s rich history provides travelers with limitless sites to see, and attractions to experience. Whether you’re a shopaholic looking to splurge this Mother’s Day, or a beach bum in desperate need of a vacation, Israel has it all.

Neve Tzedek – Treat your Mom to a shopping spree this Mother’s Day in one of Tel Aviv’s oldest districts, Neve Tzedek. The small, narrow streets of the district have become increasingly fashionable due to restoration works that have commenced in recent years. Rather than simply buying your mother a gift this holiday, indulge in a shopping experience together and explore the unique boutiques, design shops and other captivating shops Neve Tzedek has to offer.

Gordon Beach – For the mothers who need a break from work and family responsibilities, relax on one of Tel Aviv’s most popular beaches, Gordon Beach. The white, sandy beach that stretches alongside the most modern promenade in the country has an outdoor gym, volleyball courts, surfing, windsurfing, kayaking and a plethora of beach side bars and restaurants to choose from where mothers and daughters can unwind and let loose.

Hidden Tunnels – The mysteries and underground worlds of Israel are waiting to be discovered by Mother’s who are consumed by wanderlust. Visit the top four hidden underground tunnels – Western Wall Tunnels, Hezekiah’s Tunnels (also known as Siloam Tunnels), Herodium National Park and Rosh HaNikra Grottoes – to peek into life during ancient times. This will be an unforgettable Mother’s Day for those who are truly looking to go off the beaten path.

Where to Stay: Israel is home to many highly-ranked hotels, offering guests relaxing and luxurious stays that cater to any type of vacationer.

Budget: Dan Panorama – The Dan Panorama Hotel offers easy access to everywhere you want to be. Across the street is the Mediterranean Sea and within minutes you find yourself on an inviting sandy beach with warm and clear waters. With a huge pool and sundeck, premium leisure-time facilities and dining options, as well as all the dynamic and sophisticated attractions of Tel Aviv on its doorstep, the Dan Panorama Tel Aviv is perfect for a mother-daughter weekend trip on a budget.

Spa: Carmel Forest Spa Resort – The Carmel Forest Spa Resort is the ideal getaway for mothers who need to escape stress and relieve tension. SpaFinder named the secluded 126-room resort the Best Spa in the Middle East several years in a row. The spa offers more than 70 body and beauty treatments such as massages, balance and release therapies, seaweed wraps, stone therapy, Reiki, Shiatsu, Healing, and Ayurveda. No guests under 16 years of age or mobile phones are permitted – making an exceptionally quiet and peaceful atmosphere for mothers to tap out of reality for a while.

Luxury: Mamilla Hotel – Moms can take a break from cooking this Mother’s Day because Mamilla Hotel Dining has something for everyone. Rooftop Outdoor Lounge & Restaurant sits high above the city with a panoramic view of Jerusalem’s Old City. Happy Fish is a Mediterranean inspired fish restaurant overlooking Mamilla Avenue. You can eat in the harmonious ambiance of the ballroom for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and then head over to the mirror bar to bask in Jerusalem’s sophisticated nightlife scene. Coffee lovers can indulge in gourmet coffee at the espresso bar, while wine experts can raise their glasses at the winery.

Global Data Center Isreal

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Israeli company Global Data Center doubled the capacity of its facility in an investment of millions of dollars

Global Data Center, a leading provider of a cutting-edge data center facility in Israel, has completed the doubling of its facility in an investment of millions of dollars.

Most of the expanded area in Global Data Center’s facility in Herzliya (near Tel Aviv) has already been filled with IT infrastructures of both existing and new clients of the company. The expanded area provides all the standards, services and levels of service provided by the facility’s original area. The expansion of the data center’s area by more than twice joins other measures that the company has taken recently, such as tripling the data center’s business continuity space, allowing the company’s clients to quickly move to work at the Herzliya facility in an emergency.

Global Data Center operates a secured underground data center facility built in compliance with the latest global standards. The tier-3 site provides hosting services for IT operations units, full business continuity and disaster recovery, as well as on-site and remote back-up, cloud computing services, on-demand control and operating services, and smart hands services.

Companies using the services of Global Data Center’s facility include leading institutional organizations in Israel such as Harel Insurance Investments and Financial Services Ltd., Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd., IBI Investment House Ltd., alongside industrial firms. Global Data Center also hosts at its facility some of Israel’s leading high-tech companies such as Infinidat Ltd., Zerto Ltd., SolarEdge Technologies Inc. and DSP Group, alongside multi-national corporations, government organizations and other entities.

Global Data Center was founded by Moshe Lasman in 2013 in cooperation with and the financial backing of Viola Group and Leon Recanati’s GlenRock Investments. Lasman previously served as the head of the Outsourcing Department at IBM Israel and head of Global Services at HP Israel. Alongside Lasman, the company’s executive team includes experienced managers from tier-1 companies in Israel.

Moshe Lasman, founder and CEO of Global Data Center, said: “the expansion of our data center is a significant milestone for us and good news for Israel-related companies and organizations which would like to host their IT infrastructure in a way that ensures business continuity, around the clock service, security, survivability and cost savings. Digital transformation, the critical role of data in business processes and the flexible model for consuming electricity and area drive organizations to receive services from high quality specialized vendors such as Global Data Center.”

Lasman continued: “As a data center which has been active for five years without any fault, the expansion serves as a proof for the strong momentum we are experiencing, when large Israel-based organization have stopped hesitating whether their infrastructure should be hosted at an external facility, and just ask how and where the hosting should take place. We will continue to be an essential foundation for any large organization which aims to leverage the benefits of hosting its IT and communications systems at an accessible data center which complies with the most rigorous international standards and is equipped with all the required certifications and licenses.”