Purim in Film, Tel Aviv

Food Adventures with Shelley #2: The "Secret Garden" Sonya Gertzel Shapira, Tel Aviv

Brunch is mine and my friend Shelley's favorite meal, and when better than a sun-filled Friday morning to indulge. Because I am a huge dining enthusiast, I keep a list of eateries in my moleskine that I must try. At the top of my list was Sonya Getzel Shapira--a whimsical garden café neatly tucked away in a small side street of King George. Behind rustic wrought-iron gates, a bohemian vibe is set with simple lawn furniture and brightly coloured mosaic-style tables which freckle the outdoor space. Nonconformist Tel Avivians lazed in the sun sipping cappucinos and eating shakshuka while waiters whisked by with crispy cinnamon pastries, and thick-layered sandwiches. An open-faced Croissant served with ham, cheese, and egg was the winner for Shelley, and my traditional Israeli breakfast of an omelette, salad and a crusty loaf of oat bread satisfied my brunch craving.

Vienna, Austria

Rich desserts, a swell of culture

The Opera House

Viennese Chocolate

Like a cloud.

Pure Faith

A visit to the holiest site in the world at 1 am.Trekking through the old city, a full moon above, brought us to the Kotel. Illuminated by bright light, the wall stood pale and stoic against the midnight sky. Newly-tied red Kabbalah bracelets adorned the hand that touched the wall as we prayed. Women surrounded us, hands grasping the Tanach with white knuckles. Sobbing and loud silence were the only sounds that penetrated the air. We walked backwards. Scents of mediterranean spices and rose water embraced us as we strolled through the deserted shuk...

"My house is a house of prayer... for all peoples" Issiah 56:7

Rainy day photography