Still in the North

Despite the unfortunate event that took place in Jerusalem today, MBI continued as planned with a day packed with activity. In the morning they headed off to hike the Etzba cave which is on the southern part of the Carmel Mountains. It's a nice hike that was a mere two hours of hiking and included viewing the aforementioned cave. After stretching their legs in the morning, the MBIers headed to their buses and headed a little farther North to Akko, where they were to spend most of the rest of the day.

They started out by walking around the old city of Akko, which parts of the city date back to the Crusaders and Napoleon. They first went to an Old British prison where many Jewish political prisoners were held during the British mandate. There ultimately was a famous jailbreak there that was caused by a well organized attack by the Jewish underground in Israel. They continued to walk around Akko and next went to the Templer's Tunnel, which was only found in the '90s, yet dates back to the 12th century.

The Templer's Tunnel was part of a fortress that included underground tunnels. Walking around parts of Akko that date back to the Crusaders is truly amazing to think about the history the MBIers were able to see. Later they spent more time walking around the old city and got to have some arab sweets such as baklava and knafe. Then the MBIers went to another beautiful site which is the Tunisian synagogue in Akko. This incredible synagogue is known for having gorgeous mosaics all around the synagogue. It is certainly different from most of the synagogues the MBIers are used to from their homes. In the evening they had a peula(activity) with their bus.

Tomorrow they will be leaving Nachsholim and going to Machon Ayalon(an underground bullet factory from the Independence War) and in the afternoon getting to go to the beach and enjoy the Mediterranean. At night they will end up at Nes Harim and will be excited to find tomorrow to be the first laundry day of MBI!

Tomorrow I should be posting the updated times for the free weekend for your reference and to pass along to your family and friends. As such if you have not sent in your form please do so ASAP or contact me to let me know what the delay is.

Tomorrow afternoon I will be heading to Chicago where I will be Thursday and Friday and I also will be visiting Machaneh(Camp) Tavor on the weekend. I will be back in the office on Tuesday. I will continue to be checking my email and updating the blog during this time. Also if you need to reach me during the day on Thurday or Friday, please call the Habonim Dror Cellphone at 917-822-2330.