Kotel6: 5 stars for Kotel6

As Frommer's suggested, Kotel6 was a delightful place to stay during my time in Israel. From this base, my host showed off his impressive grasp of the surrounding area. Future guests of Kotel6 should not miss the hummus of AbuShukra, a stroll down Emek Refaim, a climb to the top of the YMCA tower (including a run in with NBA great Alan Houston), Shabbat dinner surrounded by lovely new friends, a tour of HUC, Friday morning taste testing at the shuk, a free municipality tour of the Muslim Quarter, a hidden balcony view of the Kotel, or a good Jazz bar on Ben Yehudah.

If you have enough time, you can also explore other parts of Israel. I recommend guests stay away from Budget rental (you can email for details) but don't miss your chance to drive the Northern coast from Tel Aviv all the way to Rosh HaNiqra. Check out Old Jaffa and enjoy dinner at Cordelia (a real treat), visit Anna and Gershon in Atlit (Anna is an amazing cook and she will feed any friend), and if you're feeling adventurous, take out a sea kayak to explore the grottos of Rosh HaNiqra. Stop at Zichron Yaakov to wander through the artist cooperatives or even Ikea to try hummus, Ikea style (Swedish meatballs are also available.) Partying with HUC students is optional but recommended if you want to meet some future Rabbis, Cantors, and Jewish educators. They were all incredibly welcoming and I am looking forward to a return trip!

A big thanks to my host, who will be back to his regular blogging soon.

Shalom,
AET

Machne Yehuda on Friday Morning