Taste of Israel with Arava Allon
Join me for a Taste of Israel
Arava Allon
Licensed Guide and Culinary Expert
I was born and raised in Israel, and have always loved experiencing new places, meeting people, and exploring the hidden corners of this amazing country. I've been working in tourism since 2007, and am a licensed tour guide with an additional degree in Archaeology and Land of Israel Studies from Bar Ilan University.
One of my unique talents lies in my ability to make the complexity of Israel accessible to any visitor and to find the most unusual and newest experiences to share with people.
I live with my husband Tzvi and our 3 little girls right outside Jerusalem, a city I have come to call home.
Machane Yehuda Tasting Tour
Tour length: 2-3 hours
Enjoy a tasting tour through the Machane Yehuda market, a well-loved Jerusalem institution.Take in the sights and sounds of this fantastic market while you hear the stories of the many different ethnic backgrounds of the vendors that combine an incredible diversity of cultures: Georgian, Kurdish, Persian, Yemenite, Iraqi, Ethiopian, and so many more.
Jerusalem's Old City Tasting Tour
Tour length: 2-3 hours
Introduce your taste buds to the best the Middle East has to offer. In the heart of the Old City, in the Christian and Muslim quarters, discover the stories of family heritage and tastes passed from generation to generation of the local delicacies. From the 200 year old Tahini factory and the best Israeli hummus, as well as a spice shop from the 18th century, seven generations of lamb Kebab, Makluba, and finish with the famous Knafe and sip Turkish coffee with the locals.
Hidden Gems of the Old City
Tour length: 3 hours
Stroll through the marketplaces (shuks) of the Christian and Muslim Quarters, and the covered courtyards and alleyways of the Jewish Quarter. Discover the history, tastes, stories, people and places that make this city unique. Meet the owner of a third generation photography shop, and visit a stall with unique textiles with golden strings, watch a Tallit (prayer shawl) weaver as he works, and speak to an Armenian potter. Along the way taste spices, hummus, Kebab and Middle Eastern desserts. View the city from special lookout points in all quarters and discover the hidden treasures that the city has to offer.
Kebab Workshop
Tour Length: 1-2 hours
Join seventh generation Kebab specialist, Muhammed Shahin and learn the mysteries of the kebab making. Dive into over 200 year-old tradition of making Kebab with Ras El Hanout, creating your own hummus and salad, kataif (a local type of savory pancake) and finishing with Knafe, a sweet dessert treat.
Artists of the Four Quarters
Tour Length: 2-3 hours
meet artists representing the diverse communities that make up the the four quarters of the Old City. Hear from each artist about how their heritage has influenced their art and the meaning of art in their specific tradition.
Customize a Tour
Tour Length: As you wish!
I'd love to work with you to create the perfect itinerary. Whether for a half day or a full day, in the new city or the old city, I can show you a side of Jerusalem that you've never experienced.
Get in Touch
I'd love to hear from you!
