First Days, Southern Tel Aviv

Alright so here I am!

I'm staying at the Florentine Hostel in the Florentine neighborhood of Tel Aviv, which is in South Tel Aviv and east of Old Jaffa. It's quite a funky hostel, up a couple flights of stairs but makes up for anything with its fantastic roof lounge complete with hammocks, couches, and view of the city. I'm actually already at the end of my stay! But, it has been uniquely comfortable (wait until I show you my bed :) - it will be a wait I left my camera/computer cord at home unfortunately). The first evening all I managed to do was walk to nearby Florentine St. to check out the neighborhood vibe. It's kind of like a pre-Williamsburg Williamsburg but lower the ground and a bit shabbier. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, delis, motor shops, and walls with interesting graffiti. Graffiti! It's really incredible here, an art form not to be looked past and that I've really enjoyed spotting all over the city.

Yesterday I was really able to explore Tel Aviv. I started out walking around Old Jaffa Port, grabbing a hot potato filo pastry (thought it was eggs but tasty nonetheless) and stumbling upon the eclectic Old Jaffa flea market (mostly junk but junk with personality). I then walked up towards central Tel Aviv, passing the beautiful beach which was peppered with surfers. My aim was Carmel Market which was wonderful! It seems to be the main market, filled with fruits, veggies, pastries, clothing, knick knacks, and about everything in between. I picked up some eggs, bok choy, a pomegranate, tea, some pastries, a charm, and a green dress. On the way back to the hostel I had my first falafel - yum! It was stuffed to the brim and really really good, especially the pita... and the hummus....and the falafel... :) I was also able to see Suzanne Dellal Center where the dance intensive will be held. It's in a really beautiful quiet neighborhood called Neve Tsdek. I actually must hop to for I'm moving in an apartment today and checking out of Florentine today!

I will be sure to update as soon as possible, there is a lot of Tel Aviv to tell! Today I plan on exploring more to the North, perhaps a museum and park and walking down some of the must see streets...

Til next time!