Israel

Posted on: October 04, 2008 at 12:24AM

If you enjoy going to local markets, go to the Shuk (Souk) Machane Yehuda, Bring your camera and souvenirs to give away, if you have any. On my first day in Jerusalem, I asked the staff at Dan Panorama Hotel (where I was staying) for directions. It cost me 5.70 shekels one way (about $1.60 USD) to ride the bus . I had a great time shopping and interacting with people. This market caters to the locals. They had a lot of fresh fruit, vegetables,fresh fish, fresh bread and pastries, dried fruits, clothing and leather goods. It was colorful. The produce was fresh and very cheap. One does not need to know the language to shop there. Prices were written on top of the product. The locals were helpful in translating for the tourists. I went there twice in between my scheduled tours of Jerusalem and suburbs. It was one place to absorb the local culture. When I went back the second time, some of the vendors recognized me. This was one of the most interesting markets I have ever been to. Everyone there was friendly. I even managed to haggle with the vendors. It was a very pleasant experience for me. report a problem