A dove carrying an olive branch has long been one of the historical symbols of the Jewish people and the State of Israel. Historically, doves have always been a symbol of peace and the combination of a dove with an olive branch represents the close ties between the Jewish people and the Mediterranean olive tree.

Olive trees and its oil have always played an important role in Israel’s history and this combination of the dove and olive branch symbolizes the link between the new young state and the ancient two thousand year-old Israel. In fact, olive presses and olive oil constitute an entire culture that began in ancient biblical times when olive trees were loved and revered as shown by the quote from Deuteronomy Chapter 8:7 where Israel is referred to as “A land of olives, oil and honey.” Olive pits have been found dating back 6,000 years and dozens of ancient olive presses show just how important a role the olive played and how many groves there must have been.

Olive oil has also played an important role in religious rituals being used to anoint priests and kings for libations and burials. In fact, during biblical times, the entire season of the olive harvest signified a time of festivities. Today olive festivals honor this tradition and the olive harvest is celebrated in the fall with many activities. A unique and fun excursion for tourists is to visit the olive groves and harvest olives together with the farmers and then watch the olives as they are pressed.

Other activities surrounding the olive harvest are special gourmet meals prepared by restaurants featuring olives and olive oil; music events; nature walks; and workshops.

Olive trees are still considered sacred today in modern Israel and the production of olive oil is a symbol of abundance and health. Olive oil remains one of Israel’s most important agricultural products and continues to be used as a source of food, medicinal treatments and cosmetics, and cleaning and hygiene agents.

Plan to visit Israel during the harvest season and join in on lots of fun, interesting and colorful events surrounding the Olive harvest. Contact Israel Tour Connection to plan your trip to Israel.

Tel Aviv is a bustling metropolitan city that offers a large array of exciting fun events from dust to dawn and from dawn to dusk! Often referred to as the city of lights or the city that never stops, Tel Aviv is the perfect tourist destination for those who want an active nightlife in addition to all of the other tourist attractions that Israel has to offer.

Over the years, Tel Aviv has become Israel’s major cultural center due in part to the vibrant nightlife. Whether it’s a performing arts festival, street show or theater venue, the city is home to an amazing variety of cultural venues. From music clubs and dance parties that offer every type of music to movie theaters playing both current and classic movies, to theaters offering classic and modern plays or comedians performing, to Israeli dance companies as well as international groups – it’s all here in Tel Aviv.

As you can see, when we say Tel Aviv is a versatile city with much to offer, we mean it! For example, begin with a good restaurant by the sea and enjoy a romantic sunset. Or see a play or musical at any of the diverse theaters. Join others to watch a movie at midnight and then have a drink after the movie. And, if you still have any energy left, dance until daybreak and watch the sunrise over the rooftops.

Plan to spend time in Tel Aviv and enjoy all she has to offer. Visit restaurants and coffee shops offering up ethnic foods as well as gourmet dishes; dance at the local bars and pubs; enjoy her art galleries featuring renowned artists as well as young up-and-coming ones; have fun at a dynamic amusement park or just enjoy nature at one of the many open parks. All of these wonderful attractions are scattered throughout the city waiting for you to visit.

For more information about Tel Aviv or for help in planning your itinerary, contact Israel Tour Connection and let us make your trip one to remember