Brisbane to Bangkok to Israel.

So it's obvious via Facebook/Twitter and my family's announcements on every single media outlet that I have officially arrived in Israel! 

The past few days went so quickly and before I knew it, I was being served by lovely Thai flight attendants on the first half of my journey. I have to say, Thai Airways really blew me away. They were so quick and attentive with their service, I hardly had to wink before my cup was refilled and a hot towel efficiently passed to me when I needed a refresher. The in-flight entertainment had such variety, meaning I certainly wasn't left without a choice of movies, music and games (Nintendo rocks my socks). I was also very impressed by all of the meals which proved to be extremely edible (if you don't like the taste of ginger, peanut oil and noodles, I recommend you fly with another airline, or then be prepared to starve). 

Bangkok was simply the most dreary part of the entire flight leg, with every part of my body feeling the strain of sitting in a cramped chair for 10 hours. It didn't help that I had to walk 20km just to find my next check-in point on the other side of the looooong (I mean long) airport. It also ended up being the most time consuming wait with Israeli officers questioning anyone transiting (especially first timers) to their country with El Al Airways. All my carry-on bags where searched, x-rayed and I was questioned on my motives, accommodation and commitments here in Israel. Small talk certainly went a long way (as well as the occasional joke I tried to slip in here and there) because the friendlier you were, the less intimidating the whole experience was. 

El Al was another great surprise with more great service, good food but not so great in-flight entertainment. I couldn't help but notice how one of the flight attendants reminded me so thoroughly of my mother when she was younger - now it makes perfect sense when she tells me that she was mistaken as a local on her own adventures here in this Holy Land. 

Going through the Ben Gurion airport was fairly simple with a few more questions, passport stamps and some baggage collecting to be achieved. Dollars were converted to shekels and when all seemed to be going smoothly I hit a road bump. I simply could not for the life of me remember what my debit card pin was - which meant I couldn't get any money out via an atm. At this stage I started slightly panicking at my own stupidity and after frustrating attempts of every combination I could think of, I ended up in a book store with an Israeli sales boy offering me his phone to call home and make my life a little less stressful. This small act of kindness (even though I didn't end up calling) was enough to encourage me (with what money I had on me) to find the Nesher stand (shuttle bus) that would take me directly to the Abraham Hostel in Jerusalem. 

The driver was so ridiculously happy and wouldn't stop speaking a mixture of Hebrew and English, it seemed his energy had an effect on everyone with smiles etched on all our faces. The nesher taxi is a great option for travellers which I highly recommend if ever visiting Israel. It took about 40 minutes to get to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv and then another hour for him to come across my stop. But it ended up a lot cheaper when compared to a private taxi. (Think $15 or so rather than $80). 

During the drive I spoke to an American mother who was ecstatic to be visiting her recently married daughter (the reunion was such a joy to watch!) and an ambitious American student, travelling alone (like me to start with) but then meeting fellow students studying (with her) a Hebrew Language Course. But this was only one stop in her life plan, as she was majoring in Medical Studies back in the US and just felt like she needed a break (hence Israel). 

We parted ways with friendly gestures and well wishes when we reached the Abraham Hostel. This hostel is one of the world's most recognised affordable accommodation and smack bam in the middle of some of Jerusalem's major hits. The hostel gives off a great first impression and has a very 'sharing is caring' attitude - free breakfast is offered but everyone washes and dries their own cutlery. Internet is offered at a cost on their computers with perfect connection until you find an adaptor to use with your own laptop. When that happens = free wifi ftw!

I bummed around for a few hours waiting to check in and once it was time, I was given sheets, a towel, a Jerusalem map and a key to Dorm 11. The room is spacious and very clean, with a private and public bathroom available (whatever you prefer). The kitchen has been set up so anyone can go and cook their own food hence you don't need fridges etc in your room. (That is unless you stay in a private room where one is available for you). 

I have already met fellow roommates from Canada, England and some who haven't returned from their daily travels (mystery girl in the corner bunk bed...hmmm...) and they have all proved to be friendly adventurous spirits, enjoying the hustle of this amazing city. 

I was feeling a bit scared to go out on my own but hunger took over and before I knew it, I was outside in some very humid weather, dodging Orthodox Jews walking in a contagious rush (my tempo sped up a few notches) and spying stalls with delicious looking Israeli delicacies but having no idea what they actually were. It took me over an hour with no help whatsoever from locals to find a store that sold me a fairly dodgy adaptor (I desperately needed one) and to find the famous Ben Yehuda markets  that were overflowing with spices, fruits and square-looking sweet things that had pistachios sticking out from all corners. I was unfortunately ripped off already (so much for haggling skills) but a lovely ex-New Yorker reassured that it's all a part of the learning experience and I'll get used to it. Eventually. 

This is a fairly long entry so I don't blame you if you made it past the first few paragraphs and stopped there however it's amazing what can be accomplished in a short few hours when travelling. I am nowhere near confident to head out alone for a longer period of time just yet and am frankly thrilled I'll meet other volunteers tomorrow (new friends!) But I have already learnt a few things here and there and will no doubt continue adding onto this list for the next 2 1/2 weeks. Now for some good (and much needed) sleep!  

My humble abode for the next two days.  

Poor chap needed a break.

Ben Yehuda Markets. So out of my league! Ps, I bought one of those containers of grapes. So fresh and delicious, dinner sorted ;D

xxx