by Hillary Glaser

Created on: August 05, 2008

So, you've decided to descend on the Holy Land but perhaps you only have a few days to explore- what do you see? As an Israeli, I'm inclined to tell you about the regular places that most tourists go to... but there are a few places on this list that are not as well known to tourists.

#10- Bahai Gardens and the surrounding Haifa area: regular trips rarely make it up to Haifa but you don't want a regular trip, do you? The Bahai gardens are among the most beautiful gardens in the entire world! The terraces represent the 18 disciples of Bb that sit upon Mount Carmel and pay tribute to the Shine of Bb. The surrounding Haifa area is jam-packed with museums, cafes, and a great artists colony!

#9- Kibbutz Misgav Am: the name literally means "Fortress of the People" but this communal living complex is much more than *just* beautiful orchards. Misgav Am sits as the most-northern kibbutz in Israel and sits on the border of Lebanon. Locals will tell you about the atrocities experienced during many wars and conflicts but they will also tell of the good times and camaraderie. Founded in 1945 by Holocaust survivor Dr. Reuven Moskowitz, Misgav Am was known for having friendly relations with the Lebanese citizens living on the other side of the fence - despite the shaky relations between their two countries. This is a must-see for any history and sociology buff!

#8- Latrun: this hilltop battle site turned museum overlooks the road leading to Jerusalem and is rich in biblical history! It was once used as a fortress by the Maccabees to launch a sneak attack against the Greeks. In the modern-era, the site was used as a battle ground in the 1948 Independence War (my uncle even fought there!) and is now used as a tank museum and hosts many army functions.

#7- Dead Sea: if you have a wound or just need to relax, the Dead Sea is the BEST place to find comfort. As you float in the dead sea, you'll see a pool of oil around you- that's oil being cleansed from YOUR body! It's AMAZING! Slather on some dead sea mud for the full effect but make sure not to dive in, the salt count is high enough to keep fish from living in the sea!

#6- Yotvata: On your way down to Eilat by car, you'll pass a lot of desert ... and then a cow. About a half hour outside of Eilat sits the Yotvata kibbutz and adjoining dairy store. If you love dairy- Yotvata is THE place to go! While the kibbutzs of Lotan, Yahel, and Ketura provide the milk for the dairy haven, Yotvata produces an endless amount of goodies... all

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