Jerusalem Oct 26-28

Nothing like sitting outside at a cafe, drinking coffee, taking it all in. Looking out at a mix of old and new israel, secular and religious, lots of children. Is this really the only place in the world where its ok to be Jewish 100% of the time? Easy train up to Jerusalem where i walked (best walking city in the world), met up with Joel and Lara in their new house overlooking the hills west of the city. Lots of good conversation, he has a good life here.  

Monday woke up and realized walking to hotel, then to old city could mean 2000' climbing. Will save that for the ride and took a taxi then the bus with my new rav kav card. They're building out the light rail system here, in addition to so much new construction everywhere. Met up with Bentzi and Abby, good to reconnect with them both. The country is so traumatized, and hopeful - but nobody talks long term peace with the arabs. Walking around, there are more soldiers than I've ever seen here. Magic of touching the kotel, the light in Jerusalem, is undiminished. 

Tuesday after my first real israeli breakfast, did a walking tour of the Muslim and Christian quarters - different perspective than other tours I've done and learned many interesting facts. Like that the Greek orthodox church is the biggest landowner in israel (besides the state), and even own the land of the knesset. Put together princess, met up with the boys and did a quick ride down through the water tunnel and UP 1000' back to the hotel for meetings with 104 riders and ~20 staff/crew. Interesting talk about the hostages from ambassador Daniel Shek. Good 1st day of the trip. 8 miles.

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