JERUSALEM AT LAST

We made three trips into the city. Just imagine, our introduction to it began with a business arrangement to take care of halfway across the world. 

As we set out we admired the view of flourishing fields and forests.  One could not tell that little less than a hundred years ago Israel was a treeless and swampy  wilderness. Now the yellow blossoms draping down branches of acacia trees decorated both sides of the highway.  Upon entering the outskirts of modern Jerusalem, Guy navigated to find his contact. The more direct route eluded us. Detouring past the Old City, we looked for the second choice, passing George Washington Street and Abraham Lincoln Street. What a surprise to see them! Oh, and King George Street was in their company. 

We arrived in good time to meet with this man, Prof. Josh. He showed us the lookout point near his apartment.

The modern city is built on ridges. Valleys and narrow ravines are everywhere with grain fields, gardens and orchards cultivated in them.

The next trip was to visit the museum Yad Vashem, a memorial to holocaust victims. We were told it  was a 'must see.' And it is. Though photographs were not allowed and we didn't have any to post, the experience had an indescribable impact on us. 

A botanical garden had been established nearby. We were glad we'd  planned to tour it after the museum.

  

We'll get to the final trip next time.