On the Ground in Jerusalem!

I am on the ground in Israel!! We arrived at Ben Gurion International Airport today around 4:45 pm after a 10 hour flight. After getting our bags and going through customs we loaded the bus and met our fantastic guide for the week, Mike. After driving the 45 or so minutes "up to Jerusalem" (Mark informed us that you always go "up to get to Jerusalem, regardless of where you are coming from) we finally arrived at our very first destination the Hass Promenade which overlooks the Old City of Jerusalem. (See picture left.)

We then checked into our hotel, the Moriah Hotel, and had a fantastic dinner of middle eastern fare. After getting stuffed we all met for the first time as a group to get introductions and logistics out of the way. It is before 11 pm here and I am about to hit the sack as we have a very long day tomorrow.

Preview of tomorrow: highlights from a visit to a Trauma center to experience Hadassah medical practices, Mt. Herzl National Cemetery, Security Border tour, and the Machena Yehuda Market.