Aviv Day 5!

Turning 18 is a big milestone for each and every person, one to be celebrated, Jared Ellison’s 18^th was no exception and of course a big night was ‘the go.’  Due to the mixed readership of this publication, the exact details of Jared’s celebrations shan’t be divulged however he did hit the town in a big way and many entertaining new memories and stories were created. The early breakfast time of 7AM was certainly not appreciated by Jared nor his fellow late night revellers. We indulged in some unexpectedly scrumptious French toast and the usual boiled eggs before boarding the bus from which we disembarked in the heart of Jerusalem.

Our first attraction in an intense day of touring was the city of David, wherein lay Hezekiah’s Tunnel. A long cavernous trail featuring water up to the bellies of some of the shorter members of the group, such as Robbie, Jason and Bec; the tunnels weren’t for everyone. Self-proclaimed claustrophobes steered clear as the rest of the group headed into the darkness preparing themselves for the inevitably cold water which would soon fill their thongs and even seep into the shorts of some of the vertically challenged. iPhone batteries dwindled as torches illuminated the tunnels, dating back to 7^th century BCE, which used to carry drinking water from beyond the bounds of the old city of Jerusalem inside for consumption inside the walled city. The tunnels were enjoyed by all, with the exception of the absurdly tall, Jared and Grant spending the entirety in a bent over position which is sure to be felt in their posture well into the trip.

The journey back to the rest of the group entailed further walking, much to the umbrage of Alexa and Jenna, whose complaints filled my ears for much of the journey. Once the group reformed in its entirety we spent a small amount more time inside the city of David, whose small convenience store we single-handedly kept in business for at least another week. Following this, we headed up towards Jewish quarter, stopping for lunch which consisted of a variety of quiches and pastries as well as drinks, before some ran into some familiar faces. A brief run-in with members of Bnei shnat allowed many to meet up with friends they had not seen for an extended period of time. Next we ventured into the Jewish quarter, an area whose narrow streets and amazing architecture had many, including me, in awe of its unique beauty.

We wandered its streets and tasted its delicacies during our hour of free time, a needed reprieve, as many girls were already resenting the lack of shopping opportunities they had thus far received. Following free time we headed up to an observation roof where the dome of the rock and other prominent sites were visible, during which time the sounds of Islamic prayer filled the air, a swift reminder of the special shared city in which we currently found ourselves. As 3:30PM approached we visited an old synagogue, boys and girls separate of course, for a quick Mincha daven. Subsequently we took to the streets as Toby, Jared and Harry busked in hilarious fashion, making a minute amount of kesef but entertaining all in the process.

Next we headed to the famous Ben Yehuda St where we did what teenagers do best, symbolically rebelled against society. A few girls in the form of piercings (sorry parents, I will not name and shame…) whilst the boys headed to the local bar for a quick beer in classic Aussie fashion. A fun time was had by all. We made our way back to Kiryat Moriah via bus and a huge day of touring and fun came to an end.

One more awesome day down. 145 to look forward to.

Jake