Today was an interesting one. After waiting for Harold to return from getting his cell phone data plan working, we walked to the Michal Negri store; the original one. The area was most interesting with small boutiques and coffee shops. From there we walked to the Carmel Market where we bought a few small items and fruit to take with us on our journey. Unexpectedly, we met up with cousin Barbie and hubbie Paul.
We checked out of the Best Western and moved to the David Intercontinental a short way down the road. Because we had lots of luggage, three of us took a taxi with the luggage while two walked the ten minute stroll to the hotel.
This is a very luxurious expensive Western style hotel. As usual, the better the hotel the less you get. The internet cost is $22 plus tax per day. Crazy. The room is great though.
We met up with many of the Houston Mission group when we checked in. Somehow they forgot to give is a room, but eventually they came through with Club rooms, although we did not have lounge access. No problem as we did not have enough time in the room, anyhow.
We met up with the majority of the group in the lobby and boarded our bus (number 3) to drive the Petach Tikvah. When we got there, we entered an auditorium in the Josephdal-Dodi community. This is a community which has been assisted by the Houston Jewish Federation for many years. They were extremely welcoming. There was young girls handing out flowers to us, the guests, and saying "Welcome to Israel." Very sweet.
There were a few short speeches before we met up with our host family for the evening. We walked to their house about ten minutes away. This turned out to be a totally unexpected joy. The family of Yuval, Havatzelet and four of their five children were an absolute delight. Yuval spoke good English and we made do with the others. The conversation was fascinating, discussing many aspects of their lives in Israel. The food was absolutely amazing. We had at least ten courses of fish, meat and chicken with many salads. There was delicious Yemeni soup, deserts, home made wine, drinks, fragrant tea, nuts and other tasty dishes.
The evening flew past. We were sad to eventually have to say goodbye, until we hopefully see them again one day soon.
We returned on the bus, before getting ready for bed. Tomorrow is an early 06h30 wake-up for the busy day ahead!
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