Michelle's Journey to USA, Middle East & Europe

July 31: Happy Birthday to Grandma Bella and Fala!

Very relaxing morning, then headed to town (Fira - the capital) to see the pottery and wall painting from Akrotiri, held in the Museum of Prehistoric Thira (aka Santorini).
Caught the local bus to Red Beach - the sand is red from the volcanic ash cliffs, mixed in with the traditional black sand - not much there to see, so caught a tiny little boat across to Perissa Beach... which was much nicer, and the ride over was very picturesque. Relaxed in a cafe by the beach where I had lunch, before returning to the hotel, to catch up with my tour group to head to Oia.
Oia is well-known for its sunsets, and tonight was no disappointment. Very beautiful, especially with the white and blue houses on the cliff face. We had wine and dips there too.

Bumped into two Sydney people tonight - one guy Darren Krug, who I met in Israel at Maccabiah, and Becky Elias who's the sister of an old friend of mine. Nice seeing familiar faces. Shared the sunset with Darren, and saw Becky in town so had dinner with her and her friends.

Would have been nice to stay in Santorini longer to see more of the beaches and visit the volcano, but it will have to be another time - tomorrow we head to another island, Ios.

July 30: A bus tour took a few of us around the island for the day. First to the highest point of Santorini for a great view atop Mt Prophitis Ilias, then onto the Akrotiri archaeological dig to see ruins from over 4,000 years ago (not much to see though as excavations over the last 35 years have been quite slow). Lunch stop at Kamari Beach was beautiful... black sand on all the beaches, from the volcano... very refreshing water to swim in.
Afternoon wine tasting experience, before returning to the hotel for a nice swim in the pool, and dinner overlooking the caldera again, this time with the sunset behind us.
Bumped into some unknown Aussie guys including one celebrating his birthday, at the Tropical Bar.
I love Santorini!

Two points to note: (1) You can't drink the water here; (2) All toilets in Greece require you to put your toilet paper in the bin next to it and not actually down the toilet... interesting experience, especially when you forget!

July 29: Happy HALF birthday to me!
Didn't get much sleep, on the phone to my mobile company for hours trying to arrange a new phone...
spent most of the day doing nothing, relaxing in the hotel reception, as our ferry was late to take us to our next destination - Santorini.
Caught ferry, despite it being over two hours late - winds were so strong the previous day that it was cancelled. The Australian-built hydrofoil ride was an interesting experience, with huge swells and people being sick in the back. I slept on the floor, and managed to get through the 4-hour journey quite comfortably. Winds were noticeable, so too the stomach heading to the head every now and then!
The first site of Santorini at the port was beautiful... with the volcanic cliffs all around, the caldera (bay), islands and sunset.
Our hotel, Hotel Nikolas in Karterados is stunning. Pretty colours, refreshing pool, great atmosphere.
We had an included group dinner at a restaurant overlooking the caldera, but it only started at 10pm due to our late arrival, so our night ended up finshing quite late... with partying at Murphy's Bar before heading to bed.

July 28: Slept in and relaxed by the beach with fellow tour mates most of the morning (despite the very strong winds at the moment).
Shared a jet ski ride with Jamie, but the wind was so strong we almost got blown off. Had fun, but most of the time we couldn't see where we were going with the water in our eyes constantly!
Poolside fun, followed by a 'flaring' lesson - learnt how to do tricks with alcohol bottles... twirling, throwing, spinning, just use your imagination or think of Tom Cruise in "Cocktail".
Got to see some of "Million Dollar Baby" and "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" (how appropriate!) in the chill-out lounge, before dinner.
Partied at the resort nightclub till early hours of the morning, after watching the "Contiki Idol" competition, where one of our tour mates won!
Had fun on this island, ready for the next one.

July 27: Happy Birthday Grant!
Okay, so I'm in the Greek Islands partying hard and having fun in the sun!

Walked around Mykonos town today... saw the port area, lots of cute narrow streets (in Little Venice), a few quaint white/blue buildings, the windmills on the hill, and in the afternoon partied at Paradise Beach - well-known for its sun, sex appeal and parties. Not for the tame, that's for sure!

Catching public buses everywhere, which isn't too bad, except at strange times of morning - at least, the bus company thinks so.

Returned to the hotel for dinner and a lazy evening.

July 26: Up at 5am, with little sleep overnight, to leave Athens and board our ferry to Mykonos. Very comfortable seats, so got a lot of sleep on our 6 hour journey. Huge ferry with over 1,000 people... takes cars too. Stopped at Syros and Tinos islands along the way.
Beautiful scenery. Very windy. Very hot. Lots of blue and white.
Coach transferred us to the Contiki Resort, which is unfortunately half an hour out of town and on the other side of the island. Beautiful beach, but a little frustrating as the resort doesn't offer much, other than lying by the pool or beach - and I did a lot of that already in Israel.
Still, making the most of it... and looking forward to heading into town during the day tomorrow.
(Resort is not as good as Great Keppel Island, which I visited in 2003.)

Dinner was very average at the hotel... but the town rocked! Went with the group for a short walk around Mykonos town, via some famous churches and pelicans - then onto Rhapsody for some drinks and Scandanavia Bar for a night full of dancing. Met up with some Maccabiah people tonight, and bumped into other Sydney people I knew too. Great seeing familiar faces.

Getting home was a nightmare - no taxi wants to drive to the other side of the island at 5am... so I discovered... made it in the end, but getting a lift with a moped guy was very tempting.

July 25: Very hot today, did sightseeing tour round Athens with a local guide. Went passed the original stadium used in 1896 for the first modern Olympic Games, before driving to the Acropolis. Had another look at the Parthenon and Acropolis Museum - just as impressive as my visit there on Saturday.
Had free time in Plaka (old city) to explore the souvenir stores, flea markets in Moustariki, cafes, and designer label stores. Lots of souvenirs at half price from the 2004 Athens Olympics around. Nice experience checking out the area, met tour people too.
Caught tram back to the hotel, only to realise my mobile phone had been stolen! Not happy!

Note: if anyone wishes to contact me, it will have to be via email. I cannot receive any phonecalls or text messages sent. I should be able to keep my Aussie number but may not have it working again till I return home.

Spent most of the afternoon sorting things out including trying to get a police report... very difficult and frustrating... still have to wait 10 days to go and pick it up.

Dinner was at a local restaurant, with Greek music and dancing. Very touristy but the food was great.

July 24: Relaxed this morning, took my time to get into town. Tram ride is very scenic, going passed the suburbs and many beaches too. (It's very new - only finished being built a week before the 2004 Athens Olympic Games started.)
Spent most of my day at the National Archaeological Museum - the biggest collection of Greek artefacts, including statues, pottery, vases, coins, figurines, wall paintings, burial remains and more. Lots of eras and time periods covered, as well as information provided on the history itself. Very worthwhile.
Went passed Parliament to see the 'half hour' guard march outside - there is a changing of the guard ceremony each hour which I missed... the half hour one, is just the guards walking up and down around the tomb of the unknown soldier - watching them walk is very funny!
Returned back to the hotel to meet my Conitiki Tour Manager, Ben, to do a 13-day 'greek island hopping' tour... as well as my other travellers. Katie is my roommate - from Canberra, 26 yrs... and well our tour manager is only 26 too... looks very young though. 35 people on our tour, most are Aussies, USA or Canadians, with a couple from Brazil.
Relaxed with everyone over dinner, then a few drinks at the "Matrix Bar" round the corner on Metaxa Street (in Glyfada, where we are staying).

July 23: What can I say other than wow! A long day but very intersting and amazing!
Woke up after only two hours sleep, to catch a pre-oredered taxi to the Ben Gurion Airport outside Tel Aviv. Taxi driver informed me of the bomb blast in a resort town near the Sinai Desert in Egypt earlier this morning.
Caught an Olympic Airways flight to Athens - wasn't sure what to expect with anything to do with Greece including the airline, but at went smoothly...
mind you that was until I arrived at the Athens airport, and my pre-ordered driver didn't come to pick me up. Turns out the paperwork from London never arrived at the travel agent in Athens. A few phonecalls solved everything!

Hotel is south of the city of Athens in a resort area called Glyfada. It only costs 60 cents by tram to get into town, so no biggie... but it takes an hour.

Decided to check out the archaeological sites of Athens, despite knowing I would cover these briefly on Monday with my Contiki group. From past experience, we rush through important sites, so doing it on my own was far better.
Went to the Exhibition & Congress Hall, then walked to the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian's Arch. Lots of ruins, temple columns, bath houses and more.

Can't understand a word of Greek, but looks like Athens has had a major facelift. Everyone told me that Athens was dirty and not a nice place to be... I seem to disagree. The places are very clean and well, the signs of all tourist sites are in English and Greek... plus even if I don't understand a word, I can match symbols on a page and realise that that is where I need to get to.

Lots of ruins in Athens... and some of them are over three thousand years old!
Interesting learning about Greek History in high school and now seeing it for myself.
Had a quick bite to eat - food here is really cheap, despite being in Euro - and yes, they try to drain every cent out of you including a 1 or 2 Euro cover charge for water, oil and bread... turns out it's not always compulsory, so if I don't touch the extras, I don't have to pay. Takes a little bargaining, but they deal with it.

In the sweltering heat, I then walked around the base of the Acropolis, to the Theatre of Dionysos (like an amphitheatre), and then to the top of the very steep hill! The top of the Acropolis and Parthenon can be seen from all over town.
Interesting how all the buildings seem to be getting restored at some point in time - scaffolding everywhere.
The top of the Acropolis and the Parthenon building itself are spectacular! It might be a huge walk, but very worthwhile even in 40 degree plus temperatures. The view from the top is great too - can see the city of Athens, the Ancient Agora, Lykavittos Hill, the Observatory, suburbs and more.
The Acropolis Museum is also very interesting - with a large collection of statues found around Athens and the Acropolis at different periods in time.

And Beth, thanks for the break under the tree!

Walked back down the steps passed more ruins down to the Ancient Agora - a culture centre and meeting place. The Agora area has a Byzantine Church, Museum (with lots of statues and pottery from different periods of Greek history), ruins of civic offices, a gymnasium and other anicent buildings including the 'Stoa of Attalus' and a temple-like one very much intact (very unusual). The Roman Agora took over from this Agora round the turn of BCE/ CE era.
Also saw a tortoise walking around the grounds minding its own business. Took me by surprise - especially in the middle of nowhere, with not even a minute drop of water anywhere nearby. I know, they don't need water, but still!!?

Had a quick walk passed the flea markets in Monastiraki, then experienced the public transport system to Syntagma Square, where the federal parliament is located. Missed the changing of the guard, hope to see this tomorrow.
Caught the tram home, via Glyfada Square for dinner, and had an early night. Very tired from the heat and lack of sleep these last few days.
Note: Greece is amazing.

July 22: Okay, so today is my last real day in Israel. Spent some time at the markets, before doing some errands (eg post office). Welcome home to mum and dad too!
Had a relaxing afternoon by the pool, before receiving a great massage arranged with the hotel. After two months of travelling, a nice pampering moment!
Had banquet-like dinner with the Aussie team - about a quarter are back at my hotel, others are with relatives and some have left already. Nice meal. Few speeches, and scrag award given to the Aussie women's soccer team.
Said my goodbyes, before getting a couple of hours sleep - I have a very early morning flight to the Greek Islands tomorrow.
Great seeing familiar faces and meeting new people, happy I came to Israel and experienced Maccabiah.
Note: I am back on my Aussie mobile number for anyone who wishes to contact me.

July 21: Yes, another day of travelling all over Israel. Gets a little frustrating but today was great.
Had a dream that a plane crashed, so didn't get much sleep... but other than that, did some shopping in Ben Yehudah Street and a brief stint at the Dizengoff Centre (to rekindle my teenage memories), before heading to Old Jaffa.
Was in Jaffa a few weeks ago, but didn't get to see the museum at the visitor's centre, with the archaeological findings and historical information... it wasn't much, but at least I got to see it. Also walked passed the clock tower and flea market before walking along the promenade next to the beach, back to my hotel.
Collected some clothes to exchange (including my Maccabiah Aussie suppoters t-shirt), before boarding the bus to Jerusalem an hour away. The closing ceremony was lots of fun. Not as many people there, but the stage had a back-drop of the old city walls, at Sultan's Pool, very pretty.
Lots of speeches, cheering, dancing, singing, and performances from famous Israeli singers and dance troupes (eg. martial arts, flame twirling, spanish culture)... the Maccabiah flag was also handed over to the 2009 Organising Committee (for the 18th Maccabiah).
Interesting how everything at the ceremonies has been spoken in Hebrew, English and Spanish.
Got to mingle with the athletes, and exchanged clothes for a number of UK and USA merchandise. Also have pins from other South American and European countries!
Late night, big party, but a great way to end the 17th Maccabiah.
Few chats to friends back in the USA, before retiring to bed.
There were a few more blasts in London today, but nothing fatal. Still a little frightening, hope it settles down... especially as I am travelling there after the Greek Islands.

July 20: Happy Birthday Susan...
Relaxed most of the day, before heading to the gym (felt great - especially with the air conditioning!).
Met up with some more relatives, this time from my maternal grandfather's side (most have been from my maternal grandmother's side). Had lunch with Efraim, but wish I'd have had more time.
This afternoon I got to see a gold medal match - for the first time, and even better the Aussies won! Saw the Open Netball girls convincingly defeat South Africa and claim gold. Stayed for the presentation too, which was nice. While in Herzliya, a few of us decided to go via the Pier/Marina to have a look, before heading back to Tel Aviv. Very nice area - reminded me of Darling Harbour/Cockle Bay.
Masters team had a gathering in the lobby, so tagged along to that for a short while, before passing out.

July 19: Firstly, a big mazeltov to Abby and Leon on the birth of their new baby boy!
Did a tour of the Bahai Gardens in Haifa this morning (middle to bottom) in the boiling heat. Very interesting seeing the Shrine of the Bab and learning about the Bahai faith. The gardens finished being built in 2001, and took 15 years to create. Very beautiful, worthwhile, but lots of steps - thank god I was going down them!
Then headed down to Tel Aviv with all my luggage, by train, to check-in to the hotel in Tel Aviv. Farewell Haifa! Met some really nice USA Maccabiah people on the train too.
Had a quick look around the Carmel and Shenkin markets and Nachalat Binyamin (Carmel is like Paddy's market, but Binyamin and Shenkin are like Paddington markets on a Saturday, lots of arts and crafts).
Headed up to Herzliya in the evening to meet with some of my relatives, including Amit, who was born only three weeks ago!
Caught a bus tonight and got scared, but made it safely to my destination.
Been a little jumpy with all the bombs going off in various countries at the moment - hope it settles.

July 18: Finalised my travel plans for the next few months and took it easy. Went shopping at the weekly markets just outside Haifa (didn't really buy anything though), and then with the Aussie soccer girls headed back to their hotel. Had lunch and relaxed by the pool.
Went to see the Open men's soccer match between Brazil and Israel but a fight erupted round half time (just as we arrived) as two guys from Brazil were red-carded, prompting a huge brawl between the two teams... so much so that the referees called off the match, the Israelis left pretty quickly, and consequently Brazil has been thrown out of the competition, and effectively disqualified, ending up at 17th position. Today's match was a semi-final, so they lost their chance at being in the top 4. Nothing like a little excitement for the day!
Got to see the Maccabi Haifa under 18 team train nearby too.
Dinner with the team at the hotel, and relaxed with people from other country's soccer teams too in the bar/lobby area. Went out to a pub later in the evening (The Bear Pub)... but a very quiet and relaxing day.
Thanks for the phonecalls for those I spoke to too!

July 17: Got a lift very early from one of Sally's relatives (with Sally and Bec) from Kfar Saba back up to Haifa. Was exhausted but seemed to just keep 'going' the whole day. Went and saw the Aussie men's soccer unfortunately lose their quarter-final to Mexico 4-1, so they play off for 5-8 places tomorrow, when they play their second last match against South Africa - an interesting rivalry seeing as though many of our players are ex-South Africans!
Then returned to the soccer people's hotel for lunch, to relax and run some quick errands... even though it's a Sunday, it's the first day of the working week for people in Israel (Fri, Sat is the weekend).
Went to the Aussie women's soccer match in the late afternoon - their last for Maccabiah, against the USA. They went down 4-0 (or possibly 3-0 not sure), but tired very hard and were just happy about being in Israel in the first place!
Tali picked Sally and me up from the football field and brought us home for a yummy schnitzel and salad home-cooked meal - something I miss occasionally.
Relaxed on the couch, caught up on some news via the TV, and worked out some of my plans for Europe later in my trip.
Very tired. It's hot, but think I'll sleep well tonight!

July 16: Had a nice breakfast at the hotel in Jerusalem, before meeting Sally and her daughter Bec (who came to Jerusalem this morning) at another hotel to do a walking tour with a friend of hers that is a tour guide (Reuben).
Walked passed the King David Hotel, through some really nice gardens, saw an old burial grave area and then through various parts of the Old City including the Jaffa gate, the Tower of David and its museum and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre which is very significant for Christians. It is where Jesus was brought on his cross (crucifix) after dying, and there lies the stone upon which he lay when the Jews were preparing his burial. The tomb where he is buried is also inside this Church. Lots of people visiting the Church.
Had a great felafel for lunch, then walked around the Arab markets in the afternoon, trying to get bargains at all times!
Went to the "Time Elevator" - a ride simulator about the history of the Old City of Jerusalem - then said goodbye to Reuben, before catching a taxi with Sally and Bec to Hod HaSharon, north east of Tel Aviv, and then onto Kfar Saba for me, so that I could visit Dana (nee Feigin), Elad and Gili (their daughter).
To my Melbourne folk, Gili is still as gorgeous as usual, and Dana and Elad are well. Dana looks great even with her pregnant tummy. She kindly fed me a great chicken soup and let me stay the night too.
Long day walking around, very tired.
Got to speak to some friends and family earlier today - thanks for the calls!

July 15: Watched the Aussie girls unfortunately lose their soccer match to Israel 18-0, before heading with Ronnie Kessler (who is also in town for the Maccabiah) down to the train station. Caught the (very safe, fast and air conditioned) train to Tel Aviv, then I swapped and got a very scenic ride to Jerusalem. Taxis were hard to find on a Friday afternoon, but managed to get to Ben Yehudah Street by 5.30pm.
As expected (due to the sabbath) all shops were closed - except one! Managed to have a quick look inside and bought some really nice candlesticks.
Walking around there brought back a lot of memories from when I was in Israel in 1996 and 1994 with group programs, including the t-shirt shop, Underground nightclub, creperie next door, my favourite jewellery shop, but unfortunately "Apple Pizza" has closed down.
While wandering around also got to hear the siren which sounds throughout Jerusalem ten minutes before Shabbat comes in - at first I wasn't sure what it was... a great experience hearing it.
Had shabbat dinner at a family friend's house - Barbara Tsur (nee Kandy). Got to see some of the children for dinner (who are now all grown-up) including Tamar and her boyfriend and Erez. Nice seeing them and having a proper shabbat dinner in Israel!
Nava was at work but met up with me at my hotel later in the night, to briefly say hello.
Was offered to go out, but was too tired.

July 14: Have decided to go to the Greek Islands after Israel, so spent my morning arranging that.
Then went to the WIZO Ahuzat Yeladim Centre (a school, living quarters and centre for children 12-18 years who ahve behavioural issues or dysfunctional families and need help) - sponsored a lot by WIZO Australia. Heard about the centre and met some of the children... and managed to get a lift with them down to Petach Tikvah (from Haifa) which was very handy!
Saw the Aussie guys unfortunately lose to France in Indoor Soccer (Futsal), but was great to see another sport other than soccer! Also stayed for half of the UK vs Argentina Masters match as I have become friendly with some of the UK guys.
Then went to Netanya to watch my friend in the Beach Volleyball. Danny Skrabal and Max won their game against Mexico - yeah! Netanya is very beautiful - loved the beach and the main square, Ha'atzmaut Square, with lots of markets, cafes and shops, had my first felafel in Israel too. My first time in Netanya - although brief I loved it! It's like a relaxed and less populated version of Tel Aviv - similar to Surfers Paradise.
The three of us (Sally, Dan Ullman and me) then headed to the Wingate Institute (it's like the national institute of sport) outside Netanya to watch the final night of the swimming, where most races were contested between Israel and the USA and Australia came third; great though that all members of the Aussie swim team won a medal of some sort!
We also saw the Australia v UK Rugby match nearby, but unfortunately the Aussies lost.
So the day was long, and spent watching non-soccer sports! Lots of fun...

The way home to Haifa was a disaster! Managed to find a taxi that would agree to take us north... only for the taxi to overheat and leave us at a petrol station to try and work out what to do. Luckily one of the management team had been in Herzliya and was travelling north to Haifa (round midnight, same time this all happened) and was able to rescue us and give us a lift home!

July 13: Went to see the Aussie men's soccer team beat Germany 2-0 earlier this morning, before heading with Sally and the girl's team manager by hired taxi to Akko (Acre).
Walked around the markets, had a great Israeli lunch at "Said" cafe, saw the waterfront and also the Turkish Bathhouse - very interesting. Lots of history here including Crusader involvement.
Did an audio guide tour through various parts of the Citadel including the Great Hall, Knight's Halls, Hospital area, prison rooms (later on in history), long underground tunnel and more.
Very hot day today, dripping from head to toe!
Caught train to Binyamina to meet up with a relative to take me to her place. Had never met her (Aviva) and her family, including her three children, two of whom are very similar in age to me. We are related through the very big Mischaloff family I told you about earlier when I was in the US. They tracked us down on the Yad Vashem database (and vice versa).
My other relative, a different branch of the same extended family tree, Shmuel, also came to visit. Hadn't seem him since I was 10 and he is now in his 80's, so it was very special to see him again too.
Great evening seeing relatives... returned to Haifa later in the evening.

July 12: Big sleep in, much needed after the very late night last night.
Went into Haifa to look around - had a brief look at parts of the Bahai Gardens and other views from a hilltop - before seeing the Aussie girls play the USA in soccer. Much better match, USA won 3-1.
Had yummy home-cooked meal with Tali, Asi and Sally - roast chicken and veges.

*** There was a bomb blast in Netanya earlier this evening. This is to say that all Australians, so I believe, are safe... and obviously, I am okay.***

July 11: Long day but got to sleep in. Went to watch the Aussie women's soccer team play their first match. Unfortunately they lost to Israel but they tried very hard, especially in the boiling temperatures.
Had a quick bite to eat before heading down to Tel Aviv by train to meet the Australian supporters group to go to the Maccabiah Opening Ceremony, held at the National Stadium at Ramat Gan.
The ceremony was amazing: lots of famous Israelis singers, President and Prime Minister of Israel were there among others, over 8,000 athletes and team members marched into the stadium (with no dramas)... Australia went first, the cheer was huge from the over 400 supporters in the stand. We were given t-shirts to wear, flags to wave, clappers, whistles and more! Saw lots of people I knew.
Children of the four people killed in the 1997 Maccabiah bridge disaster walked first, then other people from 1997 who didn't get to walk in the opening ceremony who were here now and not competing in the 2005 team, and then the 2005 contingent - of which there were about 530 people (similar size to UK - USA was over 800). Very emotional to see them come in.
Lots of countries represented even if only in small numbers - Austria, Poland, Grenada, Panama, Japan, China/Hong Kong, Finland, Ukraine, India (cricket team), no New Zealand though.
All 6 continents were represented. Israel came in last - huge cheer for them too.
We said Yizkor for the Aussies who died in 1997. The whole stadium audience had torches to turn on to light up the areas, however the Australian section sat in darkness as we were the ones in mourning. Very symbolic.
The artistic section performed the history of the Jewish people in metaphoric ways, and there was lots of dancing and creativity put in - creation, wedding ceremony, rainbow (symbolising our commitment to G-d and vice versa, so I was told).
Torch was sent around the stadium and then lit by Israel's first Olympic Gold meddalist (forgotten his name) who achieved gold at the Athens 2004 Games for windsurfing. The flame was lit and then went up a shaft to light the cauldron. Hard to explain but looked great.
Lots of speeches, but night went very well.
Very happy I was there to see it happen.
Ceremony was broadcast live on Israeli TV, Channel 1, and supposedly on Fox Sports cable TV back in Australia too.
It was hard getting back to Haifa after the event. We could have stayed on people's floors back in Tel Aviv if we went back on the supporters' buses but then we would have still had to get back to Haifa somehow in the morning.
Thankfully we managed to get in touch with the athletes who were in a separate section. Although Australia's bus was full, the Americans were very kind, and allowed us to travel with them back to Haifa. Got home around 2am, long day, but a wonderful experience!

July 10: Up early to catch bus with some Maccabiah people to Haifa, to watch the first match of the Masters Mens Soccer - Australia v Mexcio. Result was 2-2, however Australia looked promising in the first half 2-0. Unfortunately this fortune did not stay, but a draw is better than nothing at all. Met a few guys from the USA team watching the match to seek out strategies.
Walked down to the women's field to watch a little of the USA v Israel match (NB: It's the first time women's soccer is in the Maccabiah).
Caught a taxi with my luggage and Sally who met me at the ground to the team hotel. Walked around the neighbourhood, had lunch at a very nice and relaxing cafe and then by the pool till mid afternoon.
Staying at my very good family friend's place - Tali and her husband Asi. We went out for dinner tonight to "Pasto", a very yummy Italian restaurant - nice to have a change!
Relaxed and chatted the night away. It's nice being in a home environment too.

July 9: Slept in - much needed. Went to Dizengoff Street to walk around despite shops being closed for the Sabbath, and then to Yitzchak Rabin Square, where he was assassinated in 1995.
Another hot day, so I relaxed by the pool in the afternoon.
Dinner with more supporters at a nice restaurant nearby, "Nana", then chilled with the Aussie cricket guys in their hotel nearby.
Very low key today...

July 8: Went very early this morning to Ramat Gan for a memorial service to remember the (four) Australians who died on the bridge disaster at the 15th Maccabiah in 1997. A memorial was unveiled... many speeches from dignitaries... families of those who died came to Israel for the occasion too. Sad morning.
Saw many Aussies there whom I knew including Col and Gloria Goldstein who are in Israel at present (not for the Games) and the UIA Mission group. Lots more supporters arriving too.
Went for walk round Tel Aviv today, and then along the beach up to Jaffa. (Very beautiful.)
Saw some galleries but the visitor's centre was already closed for shabbat so didn't get to see the archaeological remains... may try to return later in my stay to see them.
Very hot outside, but nice relaxing by the pool afterwards.
The athletes have now all gone to their respective cities round Israel where they will now stay for the next 2 weeks during competition. Quiet at the hotel. I am staying in Tel Aviv for the weekend. Many of the Aussies Masters teams are still here and met some of the British guys too.
Attended the casual shule service at the hotel, after a relaxing rest by the pool. Went out with some other supporters to the Tel Aviv Port ("Namal") for dancing, and drinks by the beach in a very nice island-like environment, where we bumped into other visiting Australians.

July 7: Morning was very relaxing while the teams went to training (we're all staying in the same hotel for pre-camp).
The afternoon was spent in Jerusalem - we walked around parts of the Old City including the Zion Gate, Armenian area and the ruins located in the Jewish quarter, a golden menorah from over a thousand years ago, and then down the to Kotel (Western Wall/Wailing Wall). It's the holiest symbol in the Jewish religion and symbolises the western wall of the Temple that once stood on that site - which is now also where the Dome of the Rock stands.
Very emotional standing there... even though it was my fourth visit.

Unfortunately we didn't get much time at Yad Vashem - the Holocaust Memorial Centre - but we did get to see the Children's Memorial, Janus Korcheck statue, Hall of Rememberance and the new Museum with lots of artefacts and information about the persecution of Jews and others during World War II and in its lead-up. There was also a section about the Righteous Among the Nations (gentiles who helped save those being persecuted).

Having 600 people travel on a tour is hard to coordinate - hence being short on time these last two days has been unfortunate but expected.

The evening was spent back at the hotel - with a huge team BBQ dinner and dance party by the pool. Chilled out with some of the guys from the Masters Soccer and Open Cricket teams before hitting the sack.

Heard about the unfortunate terrorist incident in London. My thoughts go out to those affected and I wish everyone in London well at this terrible time.

July 6: Slept in, ran some quick errands, went for quick walk through the Carmel markets with another supporter (Elliott), and then spent most of the day on a tour down south passed very arid parts of the country to the southern part of the Dead Sea. Had a brief swim (and float) in the saltiest sea in the world before heading to Masada (a fortress from the BCE/CE days).
Went up by cable car and climbed down by foot, while seeing the sun set - very pretty. At the top, saw ruins of the synagogue, sauna, fortress walls and more.
Very hot in Israel- I know it's summer here, but the sun is hot and the air is dry.
Had dinner at a Bedouin village/tent. Typical Israeli food (pita, cucumber and tomato salad, humous etc), camel rides, jewellery stalls, drumming, folk band, belly dancers, sat on pillows. Enjoyable night.
Got to catch up with some of my friends and the athletes today including my Melbourne cousin here for Junior Cricket.
There's over 530 people here in the Australian team - including athletes, managers, coaches, physios, doctors etc. There's a few supporters around at the moment but more are arriving on the weekend.
Staying with Sally, a mother of one of the soccer girls - great company and it's nice having some else around doing the same stuff as me.

July 5: Flying overnight from New York (on July 4) to London, then across to Tel Aviv (lots of flying)... to eventually start my Maccabiah supporter's experience.

Will be in Israel for 17 days, or longer, supporting the Maccabiah Games - the easiest explanation for this is to think of it as a 'Jewish Olympics' where people from all over the world come to Israel, representing their country, to compete in various sports. It's the third largest sporting event in the world behind the Soccer World Cup and Summer Olympic Games with almost 8,000 athletes. A hugely social and sports-dominated few weeks... my cup of tea, so I believe.

Via a few dramas, got to the hotel in Tel Aviv... great to hear all the Aussie accents and see some familiar faces.

July 4: Today is Independence Day and I should be staying in New York tonight so that I can see the famous fireworks above the river and Statue of Liberty, in celebration of Independence Day. Unfortunately though, I must fly out this afternoon to catch a flight to London, to take my connecting flight to Tel Aviv (where I only arrive late on the afternoon of July 5).

Hoping to spend some last-minute quality time with Adam and Morris before heading to the airport. Sad about leaving... have had a great few weeks in the US... feels like home in many ways... hopefully I'll be back sooner than later.

July 3: Making the most of the my last full day in the USA...
Went to the Jewish Museum on 92nd/5th Ave and saw some exhibitions about salons and Maurice Sendak, as well as the standard Jewish History and traditions stuff... like at the Sydney one.
Went for a stroll down to the Guggenheim Museum but didn't go in as I've been there before, then had a brief walk along the reservoir at Central Park.
Headed further down town to do a tour of NBC - saw the sets of Late Show with Conan O'Brien, Saturday Night Live, Nightly News and more. I even got to be a weather girl for some fun!
Walked around Grand Central Station and the base of the Chrysler Building before heading across town to Madame Tussaud. Lots of wax statues of famous people - too many to name, but lots of fun posing with them.
Met up with Morris and walked down town to the Post Office, Madison Square Garden, Chelsea, Washington Mews, Washington Square Park and Arch, Greenwich Village, Soho, Tribeca, Chinatown and more. Relaxing evening, very pleasant weather.
Had a late night meal at the famous (open 24hr) Chinese restaurant "Wo Hop", before heading home.

July 2: Long weekend here, everyone's celebrating!
Picked up my photos that my cousin burnt onto CD for me, then spent more time with other cousins back down at the beach cabanna. The beach we went to is between Jones and Long Beach on Long Island. It's a private beach and only people from the area or owners of cabannas can enter.
Heaps of people at the beach sunbaking, boogie boarding, swimming, the usual. Lifeguards sit on yellow high chairs and wear navy blue. Sand is very white, unlike our yellow.
Had lunch down there and chilled with a range of cousins - great to meet some of them for a first time, others to see them again.
Returned to Manhattan by train in the late afternoon.... only to see Times Sqaure is a manic state: MTV was broadcasting live the LIVE 8 concert from Philadelphia and a stretch limousine was blown up and burnt out on 44th Street, right next to where "Fiddler on the Roof" is being performed. Coincidence or not, not sure?!
Adam and I then headed to see the musical, "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels", based on the movie, starring John Lithgow among others. Very funny, lots of laughs - recommended. We then met up with some of Adam's friends and went to Luna Park (bar) at Union Square, Tonic (a strange underground club - for someone's birthday), and a Jazz bar (underground too, on Avenue C).
Adam is very kindly putting me up for the next two nights before I leave the US.

July 1: Can you believe it's July already?!

Spent most of my day running errands and moving out of the hostel. Adam kindly offered for me to leave my bags at his place while I went to Long Island for the weekend. Thanks Adam!

Had a short look in at the Museum of TV & Radio and realised it wasn't what I thought, so took advantage of the free entry to the Museum of Modern Art across the road, and have another look at exhibits I didn't get the chance to see earlier in the week.

Caught the train to Long Island to see my relatives and celebrate an early 50th wedding anniversary (mazeltov bill and sue!) - it's really in September but as all the relatives are in town for the summer and the July 4 weekend, it was better to have the celebration now. First, we had a BBQ dinner at the beach (Lido Beach - near Jones Beach and Long Beach); but due to the cold windy weather that set it, as it was about to storm, we went back to one of my cousin's place for cake. Great meeting everyone and catching up with those I'd met previously.

Dad, I know you miss me... so a big special hello to you tonight! Hopefully our chat will keep you going for the next while :-)