A Fork And A Suitcase

This is just a brief intro, a more detailed history of Sarona can be found on the internet. Sarona (named Sharona, due to its proximity to the plains of Sharon), was established as a colony some 140 years ago by German Templers (Christians who came to the Holy Land).  They believed that remaking their lives in the Holy Land would accelerate the Second Coming of Christ and the Messianic era. In 1871, The Templers purchased 60 hectares of land from a Greek monastery north of Jaffa.  Within a few months the foundation stones were laid for the first houses.  In order to dry the marshy land, 1,300 eucalyptus trees were planted.  By 1889 there were 41 homes, a communal hall, barns, sheds, a winery and workshops.  The colonists brought modern farming tools and practices to the Holy Land.  The settlement of Sarona became a model for the Jewish pioneers.  By 1925, Sarona grew to an area of 492 ha, it remained a farming and commerce community. Sarona was ...

In need of some nourishment after walking around the Jaffa Flea Market, we decided to try Shaffa Bar; the food looked good and the vibe was great.  I loved this place.  The decor was so neat and rundown, but without looking like they were trying too hard.  It had that certain ease about it, it was welcoming, relaxed and fun.    We got a table that was on a raised platform next to a piano.  Loved the napkins.  My husband enjoyed this fresh veggie salad with feta cheese and olives.  Being in the mood for something different, I got the homemade chopped liver with horseradish and chalah. It was wonderful; just like at grandma's house.  This was such a comfortable place.  After we paid and were getting up to leave, the waiter came by with some fresh water and told us to sit and enjoy ourselves longer.  The music was great, the people were friendly, and the food was delicious....

The Jaffa Flea Market is located in Jaffa, a 15 minute walk from Neve Tzedek neighborhood in Tel Aviv, and a 15 - 20 minute walk from the Jaffa port.  This huge market consists of covered walkways, alleyways, shops, carts and any way that goods can be sold.  It has been operating for over 100 years, and it has more charm than a good Hollywood production could stage.   A disorganized mess, I bet that the salesperson knows where everything is. The prices are great and bargaining is very encouraged. Some parts of the market are filled with nice antiques and others with junk, but cool junk. The market is fascinating and photogenic.   We spent two days walking around and still did not see everything.    Here and there, some new and trendy clothing and furniture shops are popping up.  The Jaffa Flea Market is open Sunday...