Lifta / Mei Niftoach

Right next to Jerusalem's Central bus station on a steep hill is the village of Lifta, the last remaining Arab village that was depopulated to have not been either completely destroyed or re-inhabited. Most visitors to Jerusalem barely notice it but it is a hallmark to recent and ancient history. A spring flows through the village and many religious Jews use the pools as a ritual bath called a Mikvah.

Tel Aviv Gay Pride and Beach Time

Ancient Jewish sun worshipping ritual

Ein Mabua in Ein Prat (Wadi Qelt) Nature Rreserve June 2015

Outside Jerusalem is the Ein Prat nature reserve, called Wadi Qelt in Arabic. A stream cuts through the hot Judean Desert. We visited Ein Mabua inside the preserve, a beautiful man-made pool fills with fresh spring water and little fish nibble at your toes. Not many tourists venture out here but it's worth the trek.

Thanks to the one and only Ari Plachta

Israeli police watch over East Jerusalem neighborhood of Isawiya