Here in Yafo (Po B'Yafo)פו ביפו

Before you can read this entry properly, you must first begin playing the youtube video below. It is the song Po B'Yafo by Shotei Ha'Nevua.



Now that you have the correct musical atmosphere, let me begin.

Yesterday I went on a Siyur (tour) with about 70 other people. We went to the city of Yafo, or Jaffa in Arabic. The city, like much of Israel, is rich in history. Yafo was the main port of Israel since biblical times, and still was until the modern port of Haifa came to be. For more insight on the history check out the Wikipedia Page on Yafo.

My first Yaffo Experience was great.



We spent the first about an hour and half seeing the old city as a group. Then we were given about a hour to wander around and explore the shuk (market).



The night before the siyur I met up with Yael, who used to be the Shaliach for South Bend, Indiana. I told her I was going to Yafo the next day and asked her for any suggestions. Yael and her friend both immediately said "אבולעפ'ה" (abolahfia). It is a bakery right as you get into Yafo. There they have amazing bagels, not American bagels, and this great stuff called "םחלב". It is a sweet white pudding. When you purchase it the clerk adds a layer of rose water on the top and you add crushed almonds and coconut. THIS STUFF IS AMAZING! It cost SHEVA shekel (7), which translates to about two dollars. A must do in Yafo.

At the infamous shuk I got my introduction into the art of haggling. I ended up talking this jerk of a guy down more then fifty percent on a backgammon board.

After exploring the shuk, human nature, and exotic treats, the group meet up for a lunch provided by the our program. Now usually the phrase "lunch provided" translates to: "crappy sandwiches." Yesterday's provided lunch was defiantly on the contrary. We ate at a resturant called Dr. Shakshouka. I have a new found love for shakshouka. If you have never had shakshouka, or are scared to try it. Don't be. Shakshouka is centuries old, which means it has to be good.This is a picture of me and my friend Gil enjoying our succulent shakshouka. (Shakshouka is a fun word to say!)

After a satisfying lunch, Gil, Becca, and I decided we HAD to take advantage of the fact that we were two blocks from the beach. So, the three of us walked down to the beach. Gil and I swam in our underwear because we didnt have swimsuits, and Becca took a nap. It was great to break away from the large group and just relax in a less stressful setting.

I can't wait to go back to Yafo, the bus from Holon is fast and free! Next time I want to go in the evening. The city seems beautiful during the day, it must be stunning at dusk.