A city known for its warm weather, delicious food, friendly citizens and bustling nightlife, Tel Aviv has become a popular study abroad destination. While many abroad students choose to bear the cold European winter, the students in Tel Aviv are hitting the beach (On Saturday’s in particular!) Students can directly enroll into Tel Aviv University and are instantly welcomed to their new home for the next 4 and a half months. After raving about her time spent in Tel Aviv last semester, Andrea Sachs (SAR ’13) has a lot of recommendations to make the best of Tel Aviv.
FOOD
While Tel Aviv offers an array of food options, there are many Israeli specialties that cannot be missed. Abu Hassan should be a definite destination to try their famous hummus. After trying the mouth-watering dish from here, you will not be able to return to Sabra hummus from the grocery store. For falafel, its best to just go to a hole in the wall place. It is inexpensive and delicious! Although hummus and falafel are staples, they do have some competition. Shakshouka, baked eggs in tomato sauce with seasoning, is a very popular dish. One of the best places to try it is Dr. Shakshouka, which specializes in this creation.
NIGHTLIFE
Known as the “city that never stops,” Tel Aviv has an awesome nightlife. Depending if it is summer or winter (keep in mind “winter” is a loose term in Tel Aviv as it never gets very cold), the popular spots constantly change. In the winter season, Andrea headed to the clubs Mad, Seret and Dizengoff the most often. “I always had so much fun when I went to these places. The DJs were great and they were always crowded,” she said. In the summer club season, Andrea recommends the clubs Galina and Clara. They are both world famous and located on the Mediterranean Sea, which makes them even more appealing when the weather is nice. Andrea mentioned Kibbutz Bar as well if you are looking for a relaxing night out with friends.
SHOPPING
Especially because the exchange rate works in our favor, you do not want to miss the opportunity for some shopping in Tel Aviv. Neve Tzedek is a young, vibrant neighborhood at the southern-most point of Tel Aviv. “I found a lot of cute vintage stores and boutiques in this area. When my family came to visit, this is where I took them shopping,” said Andrea. She also said the Shuk is something to check out as well, even though it can be a little touristy. The outdoor market sells delicious food and spices on one side, and the other side has touristy paraphernalia like clothing and hookahs.
CULTURE
Israel is not a typical Middle Eastern country. It is a highly developed nation and Tel Aviv is a secularized city. Americans can learn a lot from the Israeli culture. “Everyone in Israel is proud to be Israeli, which is illustrated through their passion to fight for their country to exist. They take pride in their families, their work and their country, “ said Andrea. This cultural sensation is very touching and leaves a lasting impression on those who visit.
Between the food, beach and nightlife, Tel Aviv is a happening place. “I just want people to understand it is the best place in the entire world. I cannot imagine having studied abroad anywhere else,” said Andi. With these final words in mind, go out and enjoy all Tel Aviv has to offer!