ITN - ISRAEL TRAVEL NEWS ONLINE - May 2023

№ ??? 〉 January 2019 № 438 〉 May 2023

May 2023

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ISRAEL 18

Brown Hotels Launch The ‘Brown Brut’ Hotel

Caesarea Named Best Cultural & Archaeological Tourist Site

Kishla Bar Restaurant at the Setai Hotel Tel Aviv

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CONTENTS May 2023

ISRAEL TRAVEL NEWS

Muslim Tourism In The Holy Land Israel Tourism Israel Ministry Of Tourism Launches Its New Campaign Caesarea Named Best Cultural & Archaeological Tourist Site Aviation For The First Time: Direct Flights From Ramon Airport To Istanbul Uae & Israel Agree To Increase Passenger Flights Emirates Is Launching Its Third Flight From Tel Aviv Israel-Nigeria direct flights begin April 2023 Preparing for the Eurovision: The Exciting Surprise El AL Prepared for Noa Kirel

Hotels Brown Hotels Launch The ‘Brown Brut’ Hotel Azrieli Group Buys Eilat Hotel New Appointments In The Fattal Hotel Chain Eli Cohen Elected As President Of The Israel Hotel Association Almogim Holiday Apartments Exhibitions Special Guest At The Inauguration Of The Israeli Pavilion In Berlin

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Tourism India Showcases Israel As A Popular Tourist Destination Restaurants Kishla Bar Restaurant At The Setai Hotel Tel Aviv

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MUSLIM TOURISM

May 2023

MUSLIM TOURISM IN THE HOLY LAND

An introduction to the must-see sites that every Muslim will want to visit during his or her visit to the Holy Land

F rom its earliest days, the Land of Israel has been a center of pilgrimage for followers of the religion of Islam. Jerusalem is the third holiest city for the Muslim believer (after Mecca and Medina). According to belief, the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven from Jerusalem, and Israel is mentioned several times in the Qur’an as the “Blessed Land” or the “Holy Land”. These beliefs, along with our

region’s rich history spanning thousands of years for the followers of Islam, blend in harmoniously with heritage sites rooted in religious and cultural tradition. As mentioned, these sites and the rich history make Israel an extraordinary and invaluable destination for the approximately 900 million Muslims scattered around the world. In order to simplify the fascinating task of searching for the holy places of Islam throughout Israel, we have

compiled for you some of the prominent places that you must visit during your visit— and the sooner the better! So come on! Are you ready? Let’s get started! Al-Aqsa Mosque - Jerusalem The Al-Aqsa mosque is one of the most revered mosques for members of the Muslim religion (second only to the Al-Haram Mosque in Mecca, and the Mosque of the Prophet in Israel). Al-Aqsa is

located in the southern part of the Temple Mount, near the Solomon Stables. The mosque is considered sacred given that its name appears in the Qur’an in verses describing the nocturnal journey that Muhammad made to heaven with the angel Gabriel, from the “central” Mecca to the “far- end” Jerusalem. In this sense, Islam defines the mosque as the edge of the “sacred world,” since Muhammad reached as far as it. Al Aqsa was first established

Israel Travel News • 3

MUSLIM TOURISM

May 2023

contribute to the mosque’s unusual appearance. The mosque itself was first built out of wood. A few years later, it was rebuilt out of stone. The mosque has a capacity of up to 5,000 worshipers, and is currently controlled by the Jordanian Waqf. Dome of the Rock - Jerusalem The Dome of the Rock is Islam’s third holiest site, located on a top plaza on the Temple Mount. It is considered one of the most prominent monuments in Jerusalem, and the oldest Muslim structure in the world, to which Muslims, as well as members of other religions from all over the

world, look up. The dome, which is

considered a masterpiece and the pinnacle of Muslim architecture and art, is also known as the “Golden Dome.” It is one of the most beautiful Muslim buildings in the world. It was built in 691 AD by the Caliph ‘Abd al-Malik, and its purpose was to serve as the abode of the rock (the Muslim foundation stone). The function of the structure is to glorify and strengthen the stone by “enveloping” the huge rock that stands at its center. The structure is of paramount importance to Islam, since, according to Muslim belief, it is the place where Abraham bound his son Ishmael, as

in 705 AD, by al-Walid, the son of ‘Abd al-Melech, the builder of the Dome of the Rock (see expansion below). To this day, the circumstances behind Al-Aqsa’s establishment are not known, and they are the subject of ongoing controversy among scholars and historians.

The mosque has undergone many forms and transformations; it has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the years. This has resulted in an architecturally complex structure, with an abundance of wings and enclaves, which differ in nature and character, and

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November 2021

Israel Travel News • 3

MUSLIM TOURISM

of great importance to members of the Muslim religion, while offering an authentic mix of the views of ancient Acre. It is the largest mosque outside of Jerusalem, built in 1781 by al-Jazar, the ruler of Acre in those years, who was entrusted with the construction of the most magnificent mosque erected in Israel during the Ottoman period. The sanctity of the mosque stems from the belief that some of the Prophet Muhammad’s hair is there (and it is displayed every year during the Eid al-Fitr holiday). The mosque structure is spectacularly beautiful. It

and covered with an elegant dome, which blends into a magical space that includes green trees and rose bushes, as well as a sundial also made of marble. The mosque is intended for the Sunni Muslim community. The White Mosque - Ramla Also known as the “Jama Abrein al-Mu’azi” mosque. One of the most fascinating historical and archeological sites for Muslims in Israel, symbolizing the glory of Ramla dating back to the Middle Ages. It is an ancient Islamic structure from the 8th century AD, erected during the reign of the Umayyad Caliphs. The most notable change that has

which has 8 sides, and the gilded dome, which is rightly considered one of the distinctive symbols of the city of Jerusalem. The ancient structure has hardly changed since its construction, except for the reconstruction of the original dome, which collapsed in 1016. The dome was built on the spot of the Roman temple Jupiter Capitolinus, which was built on the site of the Second Temple, which was destroyed in 70 AD during the conquest of Jerusalem. Today, the Dome of the Rock complex is managed and is the responsibility of the Jordanian Waqf. Al-Jazar Mosque - Acre Al-Jazar is another mosque

well as the place from which the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven. Architecturally, it is impossible not to admire the octagonal appearance of the building,

is decorated with a large fountain made of marble

Situated at the entrance to the town of Arad and just a 25-minute drive from the Dead Sea, the Inbar Hotel has 100 modern rooms with cable T.V, complimentary safety deposit box and air conditioning. The hotel also has an indoor heated swimming pool and sauna. Arad,located in the Negev Desert in the southeast of Israel,is 600 meters above sea level and is blessed with a refreshingly arid,healthy climate.Because of its close proximity to the Dead Sea,the Inbar Hotel is an ideal starting point for organized tours and desert trips throughout the Negev. Other major tourist sites, such as Masada, the Ein Gedi Nature reserve, Tel Arad, Sussia, Sodom Mountain and Ein Bokek, are all within close driving distance of the hotel and easily accessible. The hotel’s reservations center will be happy to assist in organizing tours and desert jeep trips as well as providing information on any other outdoor activities.

38 Yehuda St., Arad 89109 Israel | Tel. for reservations: 972-8-9973303 E-mail: inbar_hotel@bezeqint.net Website: www.hotel-inbar.com

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May 2023

taken place over the years is the construction of the “White Tower,” which rises to a height of 30 meters. The tower was added during the Mamluk period. It was widely believed that the impressive tower was intended to be used as a minaret, but there is no reference to this. Structurally, the tower is divided into 6 levels, with a subdivision connected by 119 steps. Up until a few decades ago, “Nabi Salah” celebrations were held in the mosque each year, with thousands of Muslims from around the country gathering for a colorful celebration, which included a bustling and lively fair. Today, the mosque is visited mainly by Muslim pilgrims who hold Friday prayers there. Sydney Ali Mosque - Herzliya This mosque was established in 1491 and is yet another pilgrimage destination for Muslims. According to Arab tradition, Ali was a Muslim warrior who was killed in battles against the Crusaders around Apollonia at the end of the 13th century. The Muslim saint, Ali bin-Olim, a descendant of the Caliph Omar bin al-Khattab, is buried in the mosque. According to legend, in the past, a black stone stood near the wall of the tomb in the compound, and using this stone, it was possible to conduct a test in order to check whether a person was telling the truth

or a lie. According to the tradition, the person being tested would stand a few steps in front of the stone and his eyes would be covered. Then, the person would step forward and extend his hand. If the person’s hand touched the stone, this was a sign that he was innocent. If not, then that was a sign that he was lying, and must pray on the spot In order to atone for his sins. Mount of Beatitudes One of the northernmost points in the country, perched on one of the peaks of Mount Dov, the ridges of Mount Hermon. The place is called “Mashhad al-Tire” which means “the testimony of the bird, “referring to the bird that participated in the covenant of the pieces. According to the Qur’an, this is where God commanded Abraham to sacrifice four species of birds - a peacock, an eagle, a crow and a rooster, which he raised to life. The site includes tomb structures, and adjacent to them there are water reservoirs and ancient oak trees. The Herald’s Tomb - Safed One of the most ancient sites of the city of Safed. According to Muslim tradition, this is the place where Jacob mourned the death of Joseph. Jacob’s tears pierced the cave and created the springs that flow around the city. The cave’s name derives from the fact that the harbinger of the bad news is buried there.

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ISRAEL TOURISM

May 2023

ISRAEL MINISTRY OF TOURISM LAUNCHES ITS NEW CAMPAIGN A s travelers continue to choose Israel as a favorite destination, Israel Ministry of

Along with agent website and learning module for travel industry professionals

country to multiple tourist segments. Our campaign and accompanying new tools will assist them in doing so quickly and efficiently”. IMOT’s new travel agent tools include: A new dedicated agent website connecting

Expert Agents. Topics will drill down into defining where to find Israel’s major historical, cultural and UNESCO Heritage designated sites and religious attractions, as

Tourism (IMOT) has kicked off a new campaign and new tools designed to assist travel agents in supporting their customers’ travel needs. With the slogan “Israel – Exactly Like Nowhere Else,” the new campaign emphasizes all that is unique and extraordinary about Israel and the countless ways travelers can experience a country with 3,000 years of history. “I am thrilled that the growing number of tourists closely parallels the pre- pandemic record-breaking year of 2019”, said Gal Hana, Israeli Consul of Tourism to Canada. “As a destination that integrates such diversified and multi-layered niches and motivations, it’s critical that travel agents have a suite of resources to properly promote the

“As a destination

well as opportunities for indoor and outdoor adventure from the Red Sea and the Negev Desert in the south and to the northern stretches of Israel’s Golan Heights. “The need for the professional recommendations of skilled travel advisor was never so clear,” said Mr. Hana. “Our new program and web

that integrates such diversified and multi-layered niches and motivations, it’s critical that travel agents have a suite of resources to properly promote the country to multiple tourist segments”

different parties in the supply chain such as airlines, agents, tour operators, and local suppliers. The website offers travel planning tools, itineraries, tour guides and a host of other valuable resources. Israel Destination Specialist program, a

top-of-the-line educational program to deepen the knowledge of agents by encouraging them to become Israel

tools will support the industry to be the best Israel advisors for their clients,” mentioned Gal Hana.

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ISRAEL TOURISM

May 2023

CAESAREA NAMED BEST CULTURAL & ARCHAEOLOGICAL TOURIST SITE

These organizations worked in concert with Israel’s Nature and Parks Authority and the Israel Antiquities authority to restore the city’s historic sites

C aesarea was given awarded the ACTA Archeological and Cultural Award for the best foreign archeological site by GIST, Italy’s foremost tourism press agency. The city, located in the north of Israel, was chosen based on the merits of its coastal harbor, underwater sites and various scientific and archeological studies taking place there. The excavation and maintenance of Caesarea’s ancient port were made possible by the Edmond de Rothschild Foundation,

chaired by Baroness Ariane de Rothschild, as well as the Caesarea Development Corporation. These organizations worked in concert with Israel’s Nature and Parks Authority and the Israel Antiquities authority to restore the city’s ancient synagogue, the Roman aqueduct and other historic sites. “Caesarea is an inspiration for our call to co-create the future”, said Baroness de Rothschild. “We go beyond just acknowledging human diversity. We engage in building a society that is strengthened by all its

members, believes and tradition. This call is to

for a significant upgrade of our tourist product. In addition to the opening of our innovative visitor center and the inauguration of the harbor vaults in the Caesarea National Park, the project also includes, among other things, works for the preservation and restoration of the ancient synagogue of Caesarea, the establishment of a spectacular coastal promenade, a walled promenade and the unveiling of the Crusader market, the restoration of the Roman aqueduct and the public exposure of rare mosaics”.

improve our selves and pave to way for future generations. It is a call not only for sharing history but also to honor our responsibility”. Michael Karsenti, CEO of the Caesarea Development Corporation added: “The recognition we receive time and time again from prestigious international groups such as GIST or NY TIMES fills us with Israeli pride and tremendous professional satisfaction. In recent years we have been in the midst of the ‘Caesarea Project’

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AVIATION

May 2023

UAE & ISRAEL AGREE TO INCREASE PASSENGER FLIGHTS The addition of flights will allow Emirates airline to operate an additional daily flight from Tel Aviv

FOR THE FIRST TIME: DIRECT FLIGHTS FROM RAMON AIRPORT TO ISTANBUL Israir will launch direct flights from Ramon Airport to Istanbul, starting in the middle of June, ticket price from 250 USD per person

F lights between the UAE and Israel have agreed to increase the number of flights to meet the high demand for passenger traffic between the two countries, officials said. “To further strengthen people- to-people ties between Israel and the UAE, we now have increased the number of daily flights to better connect our people and economies”, said Mohamed Al Khaja, the UAE’s ambassador to Israel. Given the high demand for flights to Dubai, Brigadier General Miri Regev, Minister of Transportation and Road Safety of Israel, has approved the addition of seven regular weekly flights between Israel and Dubai for the upcoming summer season, bringing the weekly number of flights to Dubai to 49, second only to flights to Istanbul. The addition of flights will

allow Emirates airline to operate an additional daily flight from Tel Aviv. Currently, the UAE carriers flydubai and Etihad Airways also operate direct flights to Israel. “These additional flights will strengthen the ties between the two countries. Since I inaugurated the first flights to the UAE within the framework of the Abraham Accord, the activity has increased every month. In light of this, I decided to approve the addition of seven weekly flights”, said Regev. “This decision has been taken in view of the high demand for flights to Dubai, which have become a favorite destination for Israeli traveler since the signing of the Abraham Accords in September 2020. The cities of the emirates are popular vacation destinations for the Israeli audience”, the Ministry of Transportation and Road Safety said.

A s of June 17, Israir will start direct flights from Ramon Airport to Istanbul. The flights will depart twice a week on Mondays and Saturdays. This is the first time that flights will depart from Ramon Airport to Istanbul Airport. The price of a plane ticket starts at 250 USD per person and a 2-night package including transfers will cost from 385 USD per person. Hila Hermolin Ronen, Israir’s VP of Marketing and Sales: “Israir is constantly working on expanding the products and destinations and diversifying them for its customers. After we switched to operating flights to Ramon with Airbus 320 planes, we

are allowed to operate international flights from Ramon. In February of this year, the direct flight line to Istanbul was renewed after a 15- year hiatus, when Israeli airlines stopped operating on this line, and Israel Air was the first company to celebrate the historic event”. “In light of the high demand for the destination, we decided to operate flights to Istanbul from Ramon and also give an option to choose a combined flight, taking off from Ramon to Istanbul and landing back at Ben Gurion Airport on Sundays and Thursdays, to allow those who choose to vacation on the weekends”.

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TEL AVIV

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AVIATION

May 2023

EMIRATES IS LAUNCHING ITS THIRD FLIGHT FROM TEL AVIV The airline giant from the Emirates, which started operating its flights to Tel Aviv about a year ago, is launching a special promotion for bookings until April 29

E mirtaes airline, which recently announced the launch of a third flight from Tel Aviv to Dubai starting in May 2023, is now launching a special offer: Dubai starting at 369 USD

including taxes. The offer is valid for

other regular flights. As a reminder, the national airline of Dubai, which is considered one of the best airlines in the world, began operating for the first time in Israel in June of last

year with one daily flight, after about four months it received permission to operate 2 daily flights and will now operate 3 daily flights on the Tel Aviv-Dubai route.

bookings until April 29, for flights from May 1 to June 30, 2023. The special price is valid for flights: EK936/935 and can be combined with

ISRAEL-NIGERIA DIRECT FLIGHTS BEGIN APRIL 2023 Direct flights between Israel and Nigeria will begin on April 2023, Ambassador of Israel to Nigeria, Mr Michael Freeman, said in Abuja

“ On April 2023, we will be starting direct air links between Israel and Nigeria; there will be twice weekly flights from Lagos, Abuja and Tel Aviv with Air Peace Airline.This would not have been possible without efforts by the current administration. The Ministers of Aviation and that of Foreign

Affairs were instrumental in making this happen.” “Now, it is important for us to make it clear that this government made this happen and we have to understand the positive differences these flights will make. At the moment, if you plan to fly to Israel, you have to go through Ethiopian,

Turkish or British airlines and experience 13 hours delays overseas, whereas direct flight is 5 hours and 20 minutes”. The ambassador assured that the Israeli mission in Nigeria would work closely with the Federal Government to deepen diplomatic ties between the two countries. He added that business relations between

Nigeria and Israel would also improve since Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa and Israel is known for thriving businesses. According to him, the air transportation link will strengthen business opportunities, increase tourism potential and enhance foreign currency flow to Nigeria as well.

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Situated on the Mount of the Beatitudes – site of the ceremonies on the Mountain (Matthew 5:102), overlooking the Sea of Galilee and adjacent to the Church of the Beatitudes – erected on the mountain in the last century, after they had been destroyed all the churches that were built from time to time until the fourth century The Guest House has 50 rooms, serving daily lunches, offers the possibility of filming and has a chapel which can be booked to celebrate Masses, for studies and / or prayers.

Franciscan Sisters of I.H.M. (Suore Francescane Miss. del Cuore Immacolato di Maria) Mount of the Beatitudes, South Golan 12365 Israel. P.O.Box 2236 / Tiberias 1412102 - Israel Guesthouse Reception - Tel: ++ 972-4-6711200 | Fax: ++ 972-4-6726735 Sanctuary for mass celebration reservations - Tel: 972-4-6711223 / Fax: 972-4-6711225 Email: ospbeat@netvision.net.il | http://beatitudeschurch.com

AVIATION

HOTELS

May 2023

PREPARING FOR THE EUROVISION: THE EXCITING SURPRISE EL AL PREPARED FOR NOA KIREL

CARLTON RESTAURANT ON THE BEACH TEL AVIV Carlton on the Beach takes the idea of dining and lounging to a whole new level. Sit on our stunning beachfront deck where you can eat, drink, relax and get a great tan while enjoying uninterrupted sea views

delegation to Liverpool at the end of the month. This is a special aviation sticker that says “GOOD LUCK Noa KirEL PhenomenAL”. El Al engineers made special and precise drawings in advance, to make sure that the sticker matches the fuselage. It is a complex procedure that takes about 4 weeks, and includes dozens of people involved in it. The special sticker is adapted to the fuselage and must meet several conditions - high speed, extreme temperature differences between the cruising altitude and the temperature on the ground, production from a special material that will not interfere with the aerodynamic flow, etc. Ahead of the departure of the Israeli delegation to the Eurovision Song Contest, Noa Kirel came for a special visit to the El Al offices and received an exciting surprise

A head of the

departure of the Israeli delegation to

Eurovision, which will take off on a special El Al flight to Liverpool in May 2023, Noa Kirel arrived for a special visit to the El Al offices. Kirel toured the El Al campus in Israel and met with El Al employees in the various departments. During the special tour held at the telephone service center, and at the customer relations center, Noa met the company’s CEO, Dina Ben-Tal Genansia, and the deputy CEO Omri Cohen. The highlight of the visit was a big and exciting surprise waiting for Noa on the apron - a special unicorn sticker that was specially affixed to the plane, which will fly the

C arlton on the lounging to a whole new level. Sit on the stunning beachfront deck where you can eat, drink, relax and get a great tan while enjoying uninterrupted sea views. Breakfast on the Beach, treat yourself to homemade bread and pastries, a rich variety of Beach takes the idea of dining and

organic nuts, seeds and granola with a choice of natural fruit yogurt and a variety of cheeses. And from the Israeli Independence Day, it will become a new sunset bar called “Contento Sunset Bar” that will work together with the hotel and provide a total experience for hotel guests and business events.

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May 2023

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Israel Travel News • 17

HOTELS

BROWN HOTELS LAUNCH THE ‘BROWN BRUT’ HOTEL The chain reveals plans for continued expansion in Israel and abroad

I nternational Brown Hotels Group officially announce the opening of the Brown Brut Hotel, ending its soft launch running period. Situated on the coastline, the Brown Brut hotel opened in 2022 right by the renewed promenade of Tel Aviv, steps from the picturesque Neve Tzedek neighborhood, Old Jaffa and the city center. With an exquisite chef’s restaurant, a designed business lounge with a panoramic view of the sea and old Jaffa, a conference and event hall, a huge sun terrace overlooking the sea, a children’s and youth club and 225 spacious rooms and suites, this hotel is suitable for travelers, businesspeople and families alike. Additionally, a large wellness complex with a spa and a gym overlooking the park will soon open to offer a complete ‘Brown Hotels’ touch. The hotel’s design as well as its name –

Brown Brut was inspired by Brutalism, a popular construction style in the 70’s. The building, originally called “Beit Gibor” is the northernmost of six buildings in the Textile House complex and rises to a height of 18 floors. One of its most prominent features is the painted precast concrete elements placed around the downward sloping windows, which were ecologically placed in a way to reduce penetration of direct sunlight into the office spaces which once occupied the building. The rooms and public spaces, designed by the architect Rona Levin from the Levin-Packer Architects office, continue with the brutalist aesthetic with a monochromatic and modern color palette, natural wood walls for the bathrooms covered with graphite- colored terrazzo tiles and a grid motif which repeats in the cabinets and desks

designed from blackened metal or utilizing partition nets. All of these give the rooms a modern and sophisticated look that corresponds with the views of the Mediterranean Sea which can be seen from every window. In addition to the double rooms and family suites, the hotel’s business lounge which serves the hotel’s VIP customers, is decorated in a colorful retro-fifties design and is equipped with meeting rooms for 6-18 people and a conference and event hall. VIP Guests can also enjoy the beautiful spa and expansive sunbathing deck with hot tubs facing a breathtaking panoramic view of the blue sea and the coastline of Tel Aviv-Yafo. In the space where the legendary “Herbert Samuel” restaurant was once located at the front of the hotel now operates “Kilometerage”, a restaurant by chef Idan (Pompi) Boushari, winner of

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May 2023

March 2020

House Croatia resort which has been operating successfully in the coastal town of Trogir since 2016. Leon Avigad, founder and co-owner of the Brown Hotels Group: “We are proud of the dedicated team of Brown Hotels in Israel and Europe, operating in 5 countries and dozens of sites, promoting the training of the service teams and preparing the hotels in detail for the upcoming tourist season. The Brown Hotels Collection will end the year 2023 with 54 hotels, of which 27 are in Israel, 20 in Greece and Cyprus and 7 in Croatia, and a total of about 4,000 rooms. By the end of 2025, the company is expected to have grown to a total of 74 hotels, including about 8,000 rooms. Our teams will continue to implement our strong experiential hospitality, alongside our signature style, and all aspects which make a Brown Hotel unique within the soon-to-launch hotels.” Nissenbaum said he doesn’t believe Israel’s efforts to create a star graded system for Israel’s hotels will work. “The only thing people look at today is what the travel agents and social media are saying.” “We have enough Anglo-Saxon tourists, we need to spend money on really good people who are out there, talking about Israel. There are a lot of people who are scared to come.” “My worry is that someone who is not as connected to the prime minister will enter the office and they won’t be given the budget and it will be worse than it is now,” he said. “Ninety percent of the focus is right. I wish Levin would stay.” Every hotel in Israel must somehow set itself apart from the others. According to Nissenbaum, “each hotel has its niche and each tries to expand beyond that niche. Everyone thinks they are the best; that is not always true. We do have that reputation out there. We are the market leader in Jerusalem, Eilat and Haifa and we are considered the luxury player.” “In our hotels, you will experience local Israeli flavor at the highest level,” he said. “For Israel, this is the best service that you are going to get.”

the reality show “Israel’s Next Restaurant” on Reshet 13 Network. The trendy restaurant serves a menu inspired by the building’s location between the Carmel Market and the Mediterranean sea, accompanied by a cocktail bar and Israeli housekeeping. Being in the service industry in Israel, getting good staff to wait, to cook, to clean, to staff reception, is not easy. The pressure on the hotels is to constantly increase wages. It is not only the salary alone, but also the costs around that. We have five thousand employees. We have five thousand families relying on us. That is a lot of weight on our shoulders. I worry about that. I worry about the manpower. I worry about development because we are at the height of craziness now. It is a seller’s market and people are asking ridiculous prices.” wines, and in the mornings it serves the hotel guests, who can enjoy a rich and generous breakfast (dairy/fish. Not Kosher) buffet style and mouthwatering pastries from the hot taboon oven. The group continues to expand and establish new hotels throughout the Hotels in Israel must also deal with a multitude of regulations set forth by the government and this can often become a major headache. While the government has been working to some extent to minimize red tape, there is still a long way to go. “Minister of Tourism Yariv Levin has been very good for the business,” Nissenbaum said. “I think he made some really wise decisions with Israel’s resources and marketed Israel in the right way. Can more be done? Absolutely. The PR we have outside is not where it needs to be.” Mediterranean region. In addition to the two resorts that have recently launched in Eilat – the Brown Eilat Boutique Hotel and the Brown Lighthouse Eilat, a third, Brown Red Sea, will be opening in April, where extensive renovation works and a modern desert-inspired redesign are currently being completed. Additionally, three new hotels will open in Tel Aviv this year: The first, a 144-room

hotel in the Workers Council building on Brenner Street designed by Arch. Dana Oberzon; the second, a luxurious and elegant 54-room boutique hotel designed by Ruby Israeli on Montefiore Street; and the third, an 80-room hotel on Gruzenberg Street, an additional and spectacular wing to the iconic first group hotel – Brown TLV on Kalisher Street. In addition, Brown Hotels is deepening its ties to the Greek market, adding to the 11 existing hotels and resorts active in the capital Athens, along the coastline and on the islands of Evia, Corfu and Crete, another 9 properties, which will open by the end of 2023. The group also marks another new and intriguing destination for Israelis – the port city of Rijeka, the third largest city in Croatia, where the group has recently completed the purchase of seven properties – six hotels and a campsite. These are in addition to the Brown Beach

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Israel Travel News • 53

HOTELS

May 2023

AZRIELI GROUP BUYS EILAT HOTEL Azrieli reports that it plans demolishing the Red Rock hotel and investing 500- 600 million ILS in building a new hotel I sraeli real estate company, Azrieli Group, has notified the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange that it has acquired acres) of land on which it stands at the western end of the Red Sea resort’s North Beach.

The company will continue operating the existing hotel until it is demolished. Founded by the late David Azrieli, the company built Israel’s first shopping malls before diversifying into office space and more recently

senior citizens homes, data centers and hotels. The Red Rock Hotel will be the second hotel in Azrieli’s portfolio after the acquisition of the Mount Zion Hotel in Jerusalem in December 2019 for 275 million ILS.

the Red Rock hotel in Eilat. Azrieli will pay 130 million ILS for the hotel and the building rights on nine dunams (2.25

Azrieli reports that it plans demolishing the hotel and investing 500-600 million ILS in building a new hotel.

NEW APPOINTMENTS IN THE FATTAL HOTEL CHAIN

Fattal Hotels chain updates on new appointments in the chain

I smail Abdel Rahman , Aviv Hotel. Ismail is a veteran and experienced manager, including manager of the housekeeping department and later as manager of the rooms department of the Leonardo Class Dead Sea Hotel and vice president of operations. was appointed manager of the Leonardo Beach Tel Yafit Naim , was appointed manager of the Leonardo Gordon Beach Tel Aviv Hotel Naim served as operations manager of the Leonardo Beach Tel Aviv Hotel. She served as the vice president of the Herods Tel Aviv Hotel.

Yafit Naim

Sharona Lahav Carmit Hayon Racheli Amsalem Ismail Abdel Rahman

Racheli Amsalem was appointed General Manager of the Herods Tel Aviv Amsalem served as the CEO of the U Splash Resort Eilat. Among her positions, she served as the Vice President of Food and Beverage of the U Hotel Coral Beach Club Eilat

and as the Events Manager of the Herods Eilat Palaces.

of the Leonardo Royal Resort Hotel, Director of the Food and Beverage Department of the U Hotel Coral Beach Club Eilat. Carmit Hayon was appointed CEO of Leonardo Privilege Hotel and Leonardo Royal Resort Eilat.

Sharona Lahav was appointed CEO of U Splash Resort Eilat Lahav was the manager of the Leonardo Royal Resort Eilat. Among her positions she served as Vice President

20 • www.itn.co.il

THE OLD CITY OF AKKO INVITES YOU TO DISCOVER ITS SECRETS ABOVEGROUND AND BELOW THE OLD CITY OF AKKO INVITES YOU TO DISCOVER ITS SECRETS ABOVEGROUND AND BELOW

Old Akko (Acre) is a port city situated on a peninsula on the Mediterranean coast in northern Israel. It is known for its well- preserved old city walls. A visit to this ancient city is an important part of the Holy Land experience and one of Israel’s main tourist destinations. Currently home to thousands of residents, Akko is a study of contrasts – the convergence of East and West, modernity and antiquity, beauty and ruins. Known for centuries as the gateway to the Holy Land due to its location as a port of entry for international dignitaries and trade, Akko provides a unique glimpse into the Crusader and Ottoman periods in the region. The subterranean crusader city was revealed and restored under the Ottoman city above. This extraordinary phenomenon was .awarded World Heritage Site by UNESCO A 5,000-year old story unfolds inside the halls of the citadel - the museum’ displays and films projected on the walls tell the story of the crusades. During this tour, each visitor receives a headset, and can choose one of 10 different languages. The Hospitaller Fortress POINTS OF INTEREST: The Knights’ Kingdom POINTS OF INTEREST: The Knights’ Kingdom The Hospitaller Order, which thrived in Jerusalem during the First Crusader Kingdom (1099-1187) transferred its headquarters to Akko during the Second Crusader Kingdom (1191-1291). The A 5,000-year old story unfolds inside the halls of the citadel - the museum’ displays and films projected on the walls tell the story of the crusades. During this tour, each visitor receives a headset, and can choose one of 10 different languages. The Hospitaller Fortress The Hospitaller Order, which thrived in Jerusalem during the First Crusader Kingdom (1099-1187) transferred its headquarters to Akko during the Second Crusader Kingdom (1191-1291). The Old Akko (Acre) is a port city situated on a peninsula on the Mediterranean coast in northern Israel. It is known for its well-preserved old city walls. A visit to this ancient city is an important part of the Holy Land experience and one of Israel’s main tourist destinations. Currently home to thousands of residents, Akko is a study of contrasts – the convergence of East and West, modernity and antiquity, beauty and ruins. Known for centuries as the gateway to the Holy Land due to its location as a port of entry for international dignitaries and trade, Akko provides a unique glimpse into the Crusader and Ottoman periods in the region. The subterranean crusader city was revealed and restored under the Ottoman city above. This extraordinary phenomenon was awarded World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Hospitallers expanded their headquarters and rebuilt the site, which consisted of two to three floors around a central court as well as underground sections. The Templars Tunnel The Templars were a military-monastic order who – in the name of the pope – aided pilgrims and the ailing coming from Europe to visit the holy sites of the Land of Israel. MORE POINTS OF INTEREST: The colorful Market Street and Bazaars are the main thoroughfare of the Old City, running from north to south. One cannot visit the city without tasting the delicious dishes at the wonderful Chef Restaurants and paying a visit at the unique Boutique Hotels. A regular ferry from Akko to Haifa and from Haifa to Akko is a special experience that offers tourists the chance to enjoy the spectacular views of the cities by sea. The colorful Market Street and Bazaars is the main thoroughfare of the Old City, running from north to south. One cannot visit the city without tasting the delicious dishes at the wonderful Chef Restaurants and paying a visit at the unique Boutique Hotels. A regular ferry from Akko to Haifa and from Haifa to Akko is a special experience that offers tourists the chance to enjoy the spectacular views of the cities by sea. There are Churches, Mosques and Synagogue in Old Akko. Some of them are opened to visits. The “Or Torah” Synagogue in the new city is a site worth seeing. So is the “Al Basha” Turkish Bath and the Seraya, a structure built during Turkish rule in Akko, in the late 18th century, where the offices of the civilian regime officials were located. It is also recommended to visit the galleries in the Old City and the “Okashi” Art Museum as well as the “Treasures in the Walls” Museum. There are Churches, Mosques and Synagogue in Old Akko. Some of them are opened to visits. The “Or Torah” Synagogue in the new city is a site worth seeing. So is the “Al Basha” Turkish Bath and the Seraya, a structure built during Turkish rule in Akko, in the late 18th century, where the offices of the civilian regime officials were located. It is also recommended to visit the Galleries in the Old City and the “Okashi” Art Museum as well as the “Treasures in the Walls” Museum. Hospitallers expanded their headquarters and rebuilt the site, which consisted of two to three floors around a central court as well as underground sections. The Templars Tunnel The Templars were a military-monastic order who – in the name of the pope – aided pilgrims and the ailing coming from Europe to visit the holy sites of the Land of Israel. MORE POINTS OF INTEREST:

OLD AKKO (ACRE) Akko is a city that has been shaped by the Romans, Ottomans, Crusaders, Mamelukes, Byzantines, and British, and fittingly is today home to brilliantly coexistent mixed population of Muslims, Jews and Christians. Akko is a study in contrasts - the convergence of east and west, modernity and antiquity, beauty and ruins. OLD AKKO (ACRE) Akko is a city that has been shaped by the Romans, Ottomans, Crusaders, Mamelukes, Byzantines, and British, and fittingly is today home to brilliantly coexistent mixed population of Muslims, Jews and Christians. Akko is a study in contrasts - the convergence of east and west, modernity and antiquity, beauty and ruins.

The Al-Jazzar Mosque in Old Akko, Jama El-Basha, is Israel’s largest mosque outside of Jerusalem. It is named after Ahmed Al-Jazzar Pasha, Akko’s famous ruler.The building dominates Akko’s skyline to this very day. The Al-Jazzar Mosque in Old Akko, Jama El-Basha, is Israel’s largest mosque outside of Jerusalem. It is named after Ahmed Al-Jazzar Pasha, Akko’s famous ruler.The building dominates Akko’s skyline to this very day.

Al Jazzar Mosque, Old Akko

Hammam El Basha, Old Akko

For more information on Old Akko: Phone: +972-4-9956-706/7 | www.akko.org.il/en/ Write to us: info@akko.org.il For more information on the city of Old Akko: Phone: +972-4-9956-706/7 | www.akko.org.il/en/ Write to us: info@akko.org.il

HOTELS

May 2023

ELI COHEN ELECTED AS PRESIDENT OF THE ISRAEL HOTEL ASSOCIATION Eli Cohen was elected by a majority of votes in the elections held in the National Hotel Association

E li Cohen, 52, was elected to the position of president of the Israel Hotels Association in place of Avi Nissenkorn who retired about 4 months ago. Cohen, who has in-depth knowledge of the tourism industry and rich management experience in both the public and private sectors. Cohen served, among other things, as the Director General of the Ministry of Tourism. During his years at the Ministry of Tourism, he led the Open Skies Revolution, a revolution that enabled commercial competition between airlines. During his time, the Ministry of Tourism also made the first trade agreements with the low-cost airlines that began, for the first time, to fly to Israel. Between the years 2006-2008, he was the supervisor of the salary in the Treasury and a member of the management of the Ministry of Finance. During this period, he signed several large collective agreements in the economy. In 2008, he was appointed the VP of Commerce of “El-Al” and at the end

of 2010, he joined Bank Hapoalim as the head of the bank’s marketing and service headquarters. In 2017, he was appointed CEO of the “Mekorot” group. Under his management, Mekorot completed an organizational reform that included a listing on the stock exchange and a doubling of the annual development budget in addition to a technological revolution. In addition, “Mekorot” under Cohen’s management implemented the Abraham Agreements and was the first Israeli company to sign a business agreement First official with a company in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Eli Cohen is expected to lead the hotel industry, which is sensitive to geopolitical changes, in the challenging period of the post-Corona era in tourism, which is aiming to repeat the achievements of 2019 and even beyond them, precisely in a period of security instability. About 450 hotels are members of the Israel Hotel Association, including the large, medium and small chains and of course independent hotels.

“Mekorot” under Cohen’s

management implemented the

Abraham Agreements and was the first Israeli company to sign a business agreement First official with a company in the Kingdom of Bahrain

22 • www.itn.co.il

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HOTELS

May 2023

ALMOGIM HOLIDAY APARTMENTS W hen you want to enjoy a holiday in Eilat in a special atmosphere with lots of spice promenade and the sea, with a great combination of space and privacy, a variety of services

and real freedom, come stay at the Almogim Eilat holiday apartments complex: accommodation in large, luxurious, spacious holiday apartments equipped with everything you need for a wonderful holiday experience.

and adjacent facilities, and a particularly attractive price. All the apartments are designed very meticulously and you will find kitchens equipped with dinnerware, bedrooms with pampering beds, TV screens with a package of YES channels, internet, spacious bathrooms and fitting full for any family or a small group.

The holiday apartment complex is located in the center of the city: A five- minute drive from the

CASSIA HOTEL IN JERUSALEM Formerly the King Solomon Hotel Jerusalem, Cassia is a boutique gem for travelers seeking art, culture and tranquillity

Reflecting the dynamic, metamorphosing spirit of Jerusalem, Cassia Hotel is the boutique gem the city has been waiting for. Located near the picturesque neighborhood of Mishkenot Sha'ananim and Liberty Bell Park, Cassia opens its doors as a new brand following a three-year renovation at the property formerly known as King Solomon Hotel Jerusalem. Fashionable interiors nod to the city’s creative renaissance, while a central location puts visitors near top attractions, like the Jaffa Gate, Zion Gate, and Montefiore Windmill. The newly reimagined boutique property features 148 guest rooms and suites that combine artful interiors with modern amenities to foster relaxation and inspiration. Cassia will offer a bespoke wellness experience to

relax both mind and body as guests enjoy its collection of contemporary Israeli art, authentic Israeli cuisine, and breath-taking views of the ancient-yet-vibrant city. The rooftop pools and cabanas will be surrounded by luscious greenery and overlook the Old City and Jerusalem Hills, and the soon-to-come spa will offer a range of unique treatments and beautifying therapies including an infrared jacuzzi and immersive snow room experience. As guests take a break from exploring the city, they can still take in the sites from indoors as Cassia offers the country's first-ever virtual window to Jerusalem, which brings the dynamic beauty of the city in image, motion and sound inside the property.

Phone: 02-5695555 | Email: Reservations-jerusalem@cassiahotels.com | www.cassiahotels.com

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