We spent our first full day in Israel in the Golan Heights. After spending the night at Kibbutz Gadot, we started the day with a hike through the Banias National Park, where we walked along a stream and saw a waterfall and an ancient temple. Next, we drove to the foothills of Mount Hermon. We saw the border with Syria and walked through bunkers from the '67 war. As the sun set, we visited a former Syrian army base and heard the story of the famous spy Eliyahu Cohen. In the evening, we went to a local bar and enjoyed singing some karaoke.
After struggling through a blizzard as we left Washington, we have been happy that the weather has been beautiful since we have been here. The sunny skies and 60 degree weather is perfect for sight seeing.
The landscape in the North is lush and green. On the border with Syria, we can see firsthand the security implications of the Golan Heights. From the top of the mountains we can see miles into Israel and Syria. A highlight of the day was listening to views about the future of this piece of land. Some thought it should be annexed by Israel and others suggested that it should be used to negotiate peace. Overall it was a great way to start our adventure in this complex and exciting country.
Pablo Kapusta, Washington, DC
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