“]

Lots of time for studying here!

I debated for a long time what to write about today. I’ve settled into life in Tel Aviv and am enjoying my time here. I’ve learned how to navigate the bus system so I can do homework on Frischman Beach; spent my first afternoon at the שוק הקרמל (Shuk HaCarmel); and sang at an open mic night for a bunch of Americans.

The Beach. Take the heat of Tel Aviv in August, add some sand, a bath temperature Mediterranean Sea, and a bunch of international 20-something’s and that’s what many of my afternoons look like here in Tel Aviv. Despite the fun, I am doing homework while working on my tan. I also find that no matter where I am; on the beach, in the dorms, on campus, or in Tel Aviv, I am always meeting new people from my program and Israelis as well.

שוק הקרמל (Shuk HaCarmel). I’m about a week behind most of my friends here when it comes to exploring Tel Aviv. I lost about 4 days when I was sick so I do have a good excuse. Needless to say, that meant my first visit to the שוק הקרמל happened yesterday (Monday.) I went with a specific purpose, to purchase fruit and vegetables, and was very successful. I was able to pick up tomatoes, grapes, feta cheese, dried apples and Tupperware relatively cheaply. What I really enjoyed about the שוק הקרמל though is the atmosphere. Everywhere you go you see knock-off t-shirts for Coca Cola, Hebrew University, Tel Aviv University, Maccabi, and the Army in Hebrew. You can find almost anything you want/need and someone to bargain with you on the price. It felt like a true Israeli experience and one I plan on repeating each week to get the nice, cheap produce.

Since I’m here on ulpan I’ll put my improving skills to use in this final paragraph. הלילה הזה אני הלכתיל לבר של מקא. אני אוהבת לשיר והחברים שלי באוניברסיטה גם לשיר. בבר היה לילה חשוף מיקרופון. אנחנו שרנו ואנחנו היינו כיף. הרבה אנשים אמריקאית באים הבר הזה ואני פגשתי אישה לפלאדלפיה. אנחנו דברנו על העיט. אני אהבת שאני בישראל ואני מרגשה כמו יש לי חברים סביב העולם.

Wow! That was my first attempt at typing in Hebrew and let me tell ya, it’s hard. Despite my attempt at Hebrew I hope you got my drift. I had a wonderful time, sang on stage, listened to my friends who are amazing musicians, and really enjoyed the experience.

Shalom from Tel Aviv!