Maura travels to the Desert on her own; Reyna arrives! Visit to Jaffe

we send Maura off by late morning.  She is going to visit 4 kibbutzim in the desert- about an hour north of Eilat- about 3 1/2 hours from Tel Aviv.  She has her route down, and her computer packed, her appointments made and accommodations arranged. 

Randall and I have a bit of a rest- and then get ready for Reyna to arrive.  She is due in late afternoon. Our cousins, Shiri and Corinne (with her son Ran) are going to pick her up- and surprise her.  Reyna thinks we are coming for her.  what a treat.

Randall and I take our bikes and ride up the tayelet to the "nemal"- the port.  It is Wednesday afternoon; the streets are filled with people- but, we can still ride fairly smoothly on the bike route- and then through the route along side the cafes, and all the people riding bikes, walking and running; walking dogs, pushing strollers. 

 what a lovely afternoon.  we stop and take a break.  Paddle boarders and surfers are out on the water.

When Reyna arrives- we are delighted- she had a wonderful visit with the cousins and a promise to see them soon.  We go out on the street for dinner and find a great little spot. 

Reyna is exhausted- sleeps for a few hours and then goes out during the night to catch up with old friends.  Cafes and bars are open all night- and many people are out and about all night.  She rests for a few more hours and then - wakes up to greet the day with us.

The next morning is Christmas Day, and after a hearty breakfast, Reyna, Randall and I ride bikes down the tayelet- to the south- to Jaffe.  (Yafo)  we park the bikes and walk through the old city. 

Here the day is a relatively normal one- everyone is out and about.  The old city of Jaffe is a favorite of mine.  There are shuks in the area, too- one is called Shuk Pishpishim. (literally means "fleas")  But, in recent years, the area has become more upscale. 

Jaffe is a restored old city; once completely Arab, it is now partially Arab and Jewish.  The village is more of an artists colony. 

Looking north to Tel Aviv on the tayelet.

Looking South toward Jaffe.

On the tayelet- a sculpture-  Woman in the Wind

In the City: wandering through narrow streets with artists studios in the nooks and crannies.

We met Liat Avar who makes beautiful clothes from fabrics she orders from Italy.  she is so creative.

Later, Reyna takes us to Shuk Pishpishim- and we travel through these narrow streets.

Every shop looks interesting- and of course, dogs adorn the streets and furniture!  here are a couple of sleeping dogs.

Reyna takes us to Puah- a favorite restaurant. we have to wait, but, it is sure worthwhile.

Simple salads, a baked whole fish; an eggplant lasagna made with quinoa, tomatoes potatoes and eggplant.  I asked to see the kitchen to find out how it is made, but, they were too busy to let me come back there.  I will try to repeat it.