Jerusalem's Echo

Here's a lesser known, free-of-charge attraction that might encourage a Jerusalem Syndrome outbreak, if one is prone to that. So here it is:
Kikar Ha'Chatoolot ("The Pussycat Square") is located in the south end of Yoel Moshe Salomon/ Nachalat Shivah pedestrian mall. In the evenings it is easy to recognize the place by the hooka and cheap jewelry stall that's standing there. If you need a hookah this much, know that you'll get a better deal in the Old City, so skip it.

view of the square from the pedestrian mall

The Square isn't big and is rather empty. Go to the middle, and stand on the inner circle marked on the floor. Face north, towards the wine store.

Look at this direction.

Now say something. Out loud. Your voice will eerily echo to your ears, but no one else will hear it. The square is on top of an underground parking space and this is probably the scientific explanation for this acoustic wonder, but who cares? You'll hear voices! In Jerusalem!

Drinking Water in Israel

Last week's rain inspired today's topic. Today's topic is not wacky or trendy; it is simply useful. Rain=water and here are a few things about water you should know when you visit Israel. First, tap water is safe and drinkable, whether you are in the city or in a rural area. Its flavor varies from place to place, depending on its source, as well as the domestic water pipes quality. Some claim that tap water doesn't taste that well due to the high mineral content but it's an acquired taste. Also, Israeli tap water is fluoridated. There's a huge public debate whether fluoridation is beneficial or not. So far it is quite certain that the Ofer Family, the tycoons that provide the fluoride to the Israeli water system is the greatest benefiter.

Bottled water is available for sale everywhere. There are 4 main local brands: Eden, Neviot, Aqua Nova and Ein Gedi Water. Aqua Nova is filtrated tap water and the other brands are spring water. Please, please, please do us all a favor and don't buy Ein Gedi Water. It is bottled by Kibbutz Ein Gedi in Judea Desert, that's been pumping David spring and nature resort dry. Do not support them. There are imported brands like San Benedetto and purified and spring water bottled by smaller companies usually found in smaller shops and/ or away from the big cities.

(don't buy this brand)

In any case, drink plenty of water – Israel is a hot country.