Machane Yehuda, Jerusalem

Oh how I wish that I could spend a month in Jerusalem, living in a small apartment, a ten minute walk from Machane Yehuda. Whether you need to buy anything, or are looking for a great experience, this is the right place.

Machane Yehuda on a regular day of the week.

And on a Friday, before Shabbat.

Machane Yehuda was established in 1887 and is popular with locals and tourists alike. In recent years the market has been transformed into a great "night spot", with interesting bars, live music and intimate restaurants with good quality food.

It is a busy, loud, colorful and hectic market that will make your head spin.

It is an absolute heaven for all of the senses. At times an assault on some of the senses but a great experience nonetheless.

THE place to buy halva is at the Halva Kingdom which originally opened in 1947 in the Old City. When the Jews were expelled from the Old City, the family moved the business to Machane Yehuda. Eli Mammam, the current shop owner, is the grandson of the original founder. There are over 60 different flavors and types of halva to test your willpower. My favorites are the plain, chocolate and pistachio. The sales people will let you sample as many flavors as you'd like. I usually bring a plastic container to transport my halva home so as not to get grease on all the clothing in my suitcase.

I love that the vendors display their goods with such care and pride. They are all very knowledgeable and helpful.

Beautiful teas, colorful spices, I wish I could take it all home.

Strawberries that actually taste like strawberries.

I don't like olives but come on, how can one resist this beautiful display.

My husband bought some of these spices to sprinkle on his salads.

Even something as mundane as parsley and celery is cleverly displayed.

Time to eat, but the best is yet to come..... Right around the corner from the market.......

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