This past week we traveled to Masada, Ein Gedi, the Dead Sea, and Jerusalem. The day began with a very energetic bus ride to masada which began at the early hour of 2:30 am. We arrived at the ancient site just in time to watch the beautiful sun rise over the horizon. Shachris was davened in the ancient shul that was used by the Jewish refugees on the mountain. Our very interesting guide then led a short tour of the hill which was packed with history. We hiked down on the snake path which made us thank Hashem that we didn’t have to hike up it at 5:15 am. After Masada we then preceded to the refreshing pools of Ein Gedi. The cool water really was a salavation from the intense summer heat of Israel. Ein Gedi really is one of the most beautiful places in Israel. As opposed to the refreshing springs of ein gedi the dead sea was quite warm. I found it fasinating how we floated on the water helplessly. My skin certainly gained much from that stop on the tiyul. Another short bus ride and we entered Jerusalem for an awsome time bowling. With great prizes to keep it competitive everyone had a blast bowling after such a fantastik time in the desert. Our group then joined the Darja boys for mincha and some delicious shawrma at Ammunition Hill Park. This tiyul truly was a highlight of the summer.
Akiva Kirschner, Cincinnati OH