The Great Synagogue of Florence, one of the most beautiful in Europe, was built in 1882 in the Moorish style. (photo by Shoshana Reich) We got to Florence, that inimitable Italian city of art and beauty, in a roundabout way. First, we…
The Israeli-American Council (IAC) has partnered with the Taglit Birthright Israel program to launch a special Hebrew track called IAC Shelanu. The new program offers a 10-day trip to Israel designed specifically for Israeli American young adults, ages 18-26. IAC…
Members of the Gitxaala Nation at the 2014 Qatuwas Festival. (photo by Kris Krug) Vancouver, Erev Tisha b’Av (Aug. 4): As Jews across North America are preparing themselves for the sombre, mournful fast commemorating the destruction of the holy temples…
A ziplining selfie: Dangling over river gorges in Clayoquot Plateau Provincial Park. (photo by Baila Lazarus) The mission: to explore British Columbia from as many geographical perspectives as possible. The means: a 10-day road trip on Vancouver Island. The locations: whatever…
Eli Ben Zaken, centre, with sons Ariel, left, and Eytan. His daughter, Ilana, is also part of the business. (photo from castel.co.il) The third in a series featuring nine Israeli wine producers features Eli Ben Zaken of Domaine du Castel,…
When driving in the area, be careful, as deer sometimes meander across the roads. (photo by Lauren Kramer) I’ve lived in Vancouver for just 14 years, so I know I’ve just barely begun to discover all the beauty in the…
There’s immense beauty along Chuckanut Drive whatever time of day you choose to meander those winding roads. (photo by Robert James) The spring sunshine is warming your car, tempting you with a day drive on an open road that promises…
Shiloh Winery overlooks the Shiloh River and the Judean Hills. (photo from shilohwinery.com) The second in a short series featuring nine Israeli wine producers features Mayer Chomer of Shiloh Winery, situated above the Shiloh River overlooking the Judean Hills. Mayer…
The visitors centre at Barkan Winery. (photo from barkanwinery.co.il) Wine has been made in Israel since biblical times. The Book of Deuteronomy lists seven blessed species of fruit, including “the fruit of the vine.” Israel’s Mediterranean climate boasts many microclimates,…
An aerial view of the acropolis of Herodium. (photo from commons.wikimedia.org) In Israel, water scarcity has long been an issue. Even the Old Testament narrates that the Hebrews complained to Moses about the lack of fresh drinking water (Exodus 17:1-7,…
