Luscious ficus trees line many of the avenues of Herzliya, screening the luxury houses from the road. Home to diplomats and venture-capitalist entrepreneurs, Herzliya is one of the wealthiest cities in Israel. It is a quiet and relaxed city just north of Tel Aviv with everything you could need for a fun day. From beautiful beaches, to shopping malls, a sports complex, golf course, a marina, excellent restaurants- you name it. A great place to enjoy a day away from the crowds of Tel Aviv or Jerusalem.
We go for the food and the beach! Sometimes we end up at one of the waterfront restaurants with gorgeous breakfast spreads of crepes, fruit, and cappuccinos, but more often we opt for your everyday Middle Eastern cuisine. The incredibly rich and fresh flavors never get old even when they come from a chain restaurant at the mall! It just doesn’t get better than flat bread with crispy-fluffy falafels, a selection of various dips, pickled vegetables, olives, and a chopped Israeli salad.
Top on the list of Israeli curiosities and a personal favourite is Sachlav. Whether a beverage or a sort of thin porridge or even a pudding is up for debate. It defies categories. Sold at cafes alongside lattes, Sachlav is a hot beverage of sorts that is eaten with a spoon. It comes white and frothy with a sprinkling of cinnamon and garnished with a pile of shaved coconut, toasted coconut, and pistachios. Sachlav has a distinct floral aroma thanks to the fact that it is made from a base of powdered orchid bulbs! Orange water or rose water and vanilla are often added to the mix. Sachlav is said to be good for colds and coughs so it is popular in the wintertime. Hot, sweet, flowery, and oh so satisfying.
In contrast to the beach… cold, salty water, fresh sea breezes, and just as satisfying. On a calm day the blue green waters shimmer as they reflect the sky. The waves rush in with white sea foam on the golden sands. It’s the perfect ambience to kick back with a book, take a walk looking for seashells, or like me- race into the gorgeous water!
Words by Lydia
Photos by Rachel
