Category: Countries

  • Costa Rica, 2024

    Costa Rica, 2024

    Exploring the tides of Costa Rica in October of 2024. Serene, wet.

  • Walking Kuwait City

    Walking Kuwait City

    For two nights and a single day, Justin and I walked Kuwait City, Kuwait, Saw lots, met up with a friend, ate burgers.

  • 48 Hours in Shanghai

    48 Hours in Shanghai

    A few quick snaps from a quick ‘visa-free stop in Shanghai, China.

  • Panoramas from Israel

    Panoramas from Israel

    This summer I spent a few days visiting Israel as part of my University of Denver MBA program. A few panoramas and a video clip.

  • Exploring Prague

    Exploring Prague

    This past summer in the end of May, I visited Prague, Czech Republic with my University of Denver Daniels MBA program class. This was right after my trip to Saudi Arabia and Austria, and was the start of our MBA Program International Business Segment. We had a great time meeting with local businesses and exploring the town. Prague is an incredibly well preserved, beautiful town, with rich history, incredible architecture, and interesting culture. Although it’s very touristy, it’s that way for a reason – it really is worth visiting, and should be on everybody’s list. After Prague, we continued onto Israel…

     

    A few snapshots from Prague…

  • Building Startups and Collaboration at the Innovation to Impact Forum, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

    Building Startups and Collaboration at the Innovation to Impact Forum, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

    This week I was honored to attend the Innovation to Impact for at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

    Innovation to Impact is a one-day roundtable event that was hosted by King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), the General Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEA) and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), on May 19, 2017. The event in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia on the campus of KAUST, brought together academic institutions and private industry thought leaders from the United States and Saudi Arabia to discuss innovative academic and strategic commercial opportunities for both countries, in addition to new methods of collaboration and a deepened commitment to partnership.

  • Trekking Across East Asia, Summer 2015

    Trekking Across East Asia, Summer 2015

    This summer, I spent a few months trekking solo across Eastern Asia. On this trek, I visited New Zealand, Australia, The Philippines, Japan, South Korea, North Korea, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, and the US State of Hawaii. Here’s what I wrote during my trek:

  • Rain and Games in Macau

    Rain and Games in Macau

    My final stop in China was in the former Portuguese colony of Macau.

  • Shenzhen – Where The World’s Electronics Are Made

    Shenzhen – Where The World’s Electronics Are Made

    Shenzhen, China – where all of the electronics are made. Or at least it feels like it. For this trip, I was lucky enough to be hosted by an old friend from NYC, and got a view of work life within Shenzhen.

  • Hong Kong is the Place To Be

    Hong Kong is the Place To Be

    After spending a few weeks in Shanghai, I took the overnight train straight to Hong Kong. And I loved it. It was refreshing to be out of China, comforting to be back in a city that felt a lot like NYC, and wonderful to connect with new and old friends. I’m certainly looking forward to returning to Hong Kong as soon as possible. A few photos of my time there.

     

  • Shanghai Built Knockoff Ghost Towns Copied from Around the World

    Shanghai Built Knockoff Ghost Towns Copied from Around the World

    China is certainly weird. On the outskirts of Shanghai, China they’ve built a number of knockoff towns, copying styles from around the world. I explored a few of them, and was thoroughly weirded out.

    More on my explorations of Shanghai  – Modern Ghost Towns, Racecars, and Skyscrapers in Shanghai

  • Here’s Where China Makes Volkswagens – My Private Tour Of VW Car Plant #3

    Here’s Where China Makes Volkswagens – My Private Tour Of VW Car Plant #3

    Lots of cars are made in China, including Volkswagen and Skoda. Showing up in a suit unannounced, I managed to talk my way into an unscheduled private tour of Volkswagen Shanghai Car Plant #3. Here’s how it all works:

    More on my explorations of Shanghai: Modern Ghost Towns, Racecars, and Skyscrapers in Shanghai

  • Getting Hitched at the Shanghai Marriage Market

    Getting Hitched at the Shanghai Marriage Market

    During my exploration of Shanghai, China, I stopped by the Shanghai Marriage Market – and almost got fixed up! Here’s my experience

     

     

    See everything I did on this trip to Shanghai: Modern Ghost Towns, Racecars, and Skyscrapers in Shanghai

  • Modern Ghost Towns, Racecars, and Skyscrapers in Shanghai

    Modern Ghost Towns, Racecars, and Skyscrapers in Shanghai

    After being the more traditional cities of Beijing and Xi’an for a bit, I was ready to step into the more modern world of Shanghai. In the last few decades, like much of China, Shanghai has been on a building spree, with new buildings popping up everywhere. I took about a week to walk the city, and explore as many interesting places as I could.

    Videos:

     

    After being the more traditional cities of Beijing and Xi'an for a bit, I was ready to step into the more modern world of Shanghai. In the last few decades, like much of China, Shanghai has been on a building spree, with new buildings popping up everywhere. I took about a week to walk the city, and explore as many interesting places as I could.  Arriving in Shanghai, this is the classic shot from the Bund, looking into the main financial district.
    Arriving in Shanghai, this is the classic shot from the Bund, looking into the main financial district.

    As the sun fades on The Bund of Shanghai, orange lights illuminate the classicically styled buildings. It's a beautiful sight, enjoyed by masses and masses of people strolling up and down the curved walkway. The bund is beautiful now, but given the speed at which things are being knocked down and rebuilt in China, I'd be surprised if the skyscrapers of Pudong didn;t start to creep into the Bund area and the Concession areas in short time. The Chinese seem to be on such a fast and determined building spree that they're fine with buldozing away beauty, culture, and history in favor of new soulless office buildings and factories. It's a sad reality of the new China.
    As the sun fades on The Bund of Shanghai, orange lights illuminate the classicically styled buildings. It’s a beautiful sight, enjoyed by masses and masses of people strolling up and down the curved walkway. The bund is beautiful now, but given the speed at which things are being knocked down and rebuilt in China, I’d be surprised if the skyscrapers of Pudong didn;t start to creep into the Bund area and the Concession areas in short time. The Chinese seem to be on such a fast and determined building spree that they’re fine with buldozing away beauty, culture, and history in favor of new soulless office buildings and factories. It’s a sad reality of the new China.

    In the business center of Pudong, skyscrapers are huge, and being built as fast as possible. Looming in the back of this photo is the Shanghai tower, the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world.
    In the business center of Pudong, skyscrapers are huge, and being built as fast as possible. Looming in the back of this photo is the Shanghai tower, the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world.

    The Shanghai Tower, world's second tallest building, rises to the sky.
    The Shanghai Tower, world’s second tallest building, rises to the sky.

    The three supertall buildings of Shanghai - Clockwise from left: The Jin Mao Tower at 420.5 meters making it the 17th tallest building in the world. The Shanghai Tower at 632 meters making it the 2nd tallest building in the world. The Shanghai World Financial Center at 494.3 meters making it the 7th tallest building in the world, and the highest observation deck of 474 meters.
    The three supertall buildings of Shanghai – Clockwise from left: The Jin Mao Tower at 420.5 meters making it the 17th tallest building in the world. The Shanghai Tower at 632 meters making it the 2nd tallest building in the world. The Shanghai World Financial Center at 494.3 meters making it the 7th tallest building in the world, and the highest observation deck of 474 meters.

    The view from the worlds highest observation deck - 474 meters in the Shanghai World Financial Center.
    The view from the worlds highest observation deck – 474 meters in the Shanghai World Financial Center.

    Rampant building in Shanghai seen from the worlds highest observation deck - 474 meters in the Shanghai World Financial Center.
    Rampant building in Shanghai seen from the worlds highest observation deck – 474 meters in the Shanghai World Financial Center.

     

    Shanghai’s Knockoff Ghost Towns

     

    A number of years ago, Shanghai started a program called  "One City Nine Towns", in which they sought to build nine smaller townes on the outskirts of Shanghai that emulated towns from around the world.
    A number of years ago, Shanghai started a program called “One City Nine Towns”, in which they sought to build nine smaller townes on the outskirts of Shanghai that emulated towns from around the world.

    Thames town is a ghost town now - the town was built, and there are a few inhabitants, but it's largely empty. The main use of Thames Town is as a backdrop for engagement and wedding photos.  Everywhere you look, couples are snapping wedding photos.
    Thames town is a ghost town now – the town was built, and there are a few inhabitants, but it’s largely empty. The main use of Thames Town is as a backdrop for engagement and wedding photos. Everywhere you look, couples are snapping wedding photos.

    Thames town is a ghost town now - the town was built, and there are a few inhabitants, but it's largely empty. The main use of Thames Town is as a backdrop for engagement and wedding photos.
    Thames town is a ghost town now – the town was built, and there are a few inhabitants, but it’s largely empty. The main use of Thames Town is as a backdrop for engagement and wedding photos.

    Couples taking wedding engagement photos are everywhere in Thames Town, a Chinese copy of a traditional British town.
    Couples taking wedding engagement photos are everywhere in Thames Town, a Chinese copy of a traditional British town.

    Couples taking wedding engagement photos are everywhere in Thames Town, a Chinese copy of a traditional British town.
    Couples taking wedding engagement photos are everywhere in Thames Town, a Chinese copy of a traditional British town.

    Couples taking wedding engagement photos are everywhere in Thames Town, a Chinese copy of a traditional British town.
    Couples taking wedding engagement photos are everywhere in Thames Town, a Chinese copy of a traditional British town.

    Inside a Chinese copy of a typical British pub.
    Inside a Chinese copy of a typical British pub.

    Couples taking wedding engagement photos are everywhere in Thames Town, a Chinese copy of a traditional British town.  How many couples can you count?
    Couples taking wedding engagement photos are everywhere in Thames Town, a Chinese copy of a traditional British town. How many couples can you count?

    Despite the classic looking exteriors, Thames Town is mostly deserted, with the insides of many of the buildings bare concrete.
    Despite the classic looking exteriors, Thames Town is mostly deserted, with the insides of many of the buildings bare concrete.

    The british motif extends outward, into huge oversized Chinese apartment buildings.
    The british motif extends outward, into huge oversized Chinese apartment buildings.

    Selfie Sticks are sold everywhere - there's no escaping.
    Selfie Sticks are sold everywhere – there’s no escaping.

    Lots and lots of tourist traps in Shanghai.
    Lots and lots of tourist traps in Shanghai.

    At the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center,  a scale model of the entire city. Huge!
    At the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, a scale model of the entire city. Huge!

    My timing in Shanghai was perfect for the Shanghai Auto Show -which was horribly overcrowded. I lasted about an hour, and then had to leave - it was madness pushing through the masses to stand in line to see a random crappy car. And no models!
    My timing in Shanghai was perfect for the Shanghai Auto Show -which was horribly overcrowded. I lasted about an hour, and then had to leave – it was madness pushing through the masses to stand in line to see a random crappy car. And no models!

    Masses at the Shanghai Auto Show.
    Masses at the Shanghai Auto Show.

    023-2015-04-24 Shanghai - DSC05268- Donenfeld - 4096wm

    A typical Chinese view - massive scale construction happening everywhere.
    A typical Chinese view – massive scale construction happening everywhere.

    I got addicted to this pounded, breaded, fried chicken, simply called "big chicken".
    I got addicted to this pounded, breaded, fried chicken, simply called “big chicken”.

    They sprinkle the chicken with chile and garlic powder. So good.
    They sprinkle the chicken with chile and garlic powder. So good.

    Anting is a Chinese copy of a typical modern German town. I strolled around there for an afternoon, and was completely weirded out. The town is laid out like a european town, but none of the charm, flare, or people are there - it's almost completely deserted.
    Anting is a Chinese copy of a typical modern German town. I strolled around there for an afternoon, and was completely weirded out. The town is laid out like a european town, but none of the charm, flare, or people are there – it’s almost completely deserted.

    Housing areas are huge, and while there is lots of vegitation, there's little activity.
    Housing areas are huge, and while there is lots of vegitation, there’s little activity.

    A bar in Anting setup with German wares - but no patrons.
    A bar in Anting setup with German wares – but no patrons.

    Anting, outside of Shanghai
    Anting, outside of Shanghai

    Walking down the street in Shanghai, this is a common scene - building going on everywhere. In order for buildings to be buit faster, they house workers directly on site, to cut out the commute, and maximize working hours.
    Walking down the street in Shanghai, this is a common scene – building going on everywhere. In order for buildings to be buit faster, they house workers directly on site, to cut out the commute, and maximize working hours.

     

    On Sundays, a portion of the central park in Shanghai becomes matchmaking central. Here, parents post advertisements for their kids, with hopes that another passing parent will see the ad and connect their kids.  Personal ads are put on cards which are pasted to umbrellas for higher visibility, and assembled into large boards.  The practice is so huge that there are now even brokers who manage listings for lots of people.
    On Sundays, a portion of the central park in Shanghai becomes matchmaking central. Here, parents post advertisements for their kids, with hopes that another passing parent will see the ad and connect their kids.
    Personal ads are put on cards which are pasted to umbrellas for higher visibility, and assembled into large boards.
    The practice is so huge that there are now even brokers who manage listings for lots of people.

    Parents trading matchmaking details about their single kids.
    Parents trading matchmaking details about their single kids.

    A hopeful parent holds up information about his kid, hoping that another parent will have a suitable match.
    A hopeful parent holds up information about his kid, hoping that another parent will have a suitable match.

    Personal ads in the Shanghai matchmaking market.
    Personal ads in the Shanghai matchmaking market.

    Weddings are a big deal, and it seemed like this ceremony was a huge disco party!
    Weddings are a big deal, and it seemed like this ceremony was a huge disco party!

     

    Volkswagen has a major plant on the outskirts of Shanghai. Although I didn't have an appointment or any contact there, I showed up and managed to talk my way into a private tour of the factory.
    Volkswagen has a major plant on the outskirts of Shanghai. Although I didn’t have an appointment or any contact there, I showed up and managed to talk my way into a private tour of the factory.

    My two tourr guides at the Shanghai Volkswagen were super fun!
    My two tourr guides at the Shanghai Volkswagen were super fun!

    I had the good fortune of Couchsurfing with Suskita - an awesome person who is kicking ass in Shanghai as she shoots photos, rides bikes, and hosts travelers from all over the world. Suskita is the best!
    I had the good fortune of Couchsurfing with Suskita – an awesome person who is kicking ass in Shanghai as she shoots photos, rides bikes, and hosts travelers from all over the world. Suskita is the best!

    Suskita's apartment is in a massive apartment complex.
    Suskita’s apartment is in a massive apartment complex.

    Pujiang, a Chinese copy of  a modern Italian town. Strange for sure.
    Pujiang, a Chinese copy of a modern Italian town. Strange for sure.

    042-2015-04-24 Shanghai - DSC05510- Donenfeld - 4096wm

     

    Shanghai has the world's fastest Maglev train, which I rode twice, for fun - 501 km/h!
    Shanghai has the world’s fastest Maglev train, which I rode twice, for fun – 501 km/h!

    A Baidu street view car! Cool!
    A Baidu street view car! Cool!

    On my way from Shanghai to Hong Kong, the Chinese smog is terrible.
    On my way from Shanghai to Hong Kong, the Chinese smog is terrible.

  • Visiting the Terracotta Army in Xi’an, China

    Visiting the Terracotta Army in Xi’an, China

    After my week in North Korea, I returned to Beijing, China for a day, and then continued on to Xi’an on 2015-04-20. My friend Emily is currently living there, which made for a perfect opportunity to drop by to see a friend, and to check out the Terracotta Warriors. I only spent 3 days there, but in those few days, I saw a bit of the local expat scene, got to know a small bit of town, and saw for myself the legendary Terracotta Army.

    I took a train from Beijing to Xi'an, and during the journey, the pollution and smog from Chinese industry was incredible. Visibility barely extended to the buildings next to the train track, and as I stared out the window in disgust, I could see individual clouds of pollution washing over China.
    I took a train from Beijing to Xi’an, and during the journey, the pollution and smog from Chinese industry was incredible. Visibility barely extended to the buildings next to the train track, and as I stared out the window in disgust, I could see individual clouds of pollution washing over China.

    Entering the Terracotta Warriors excavation and exhibition area, I was immediately hit by a barrage of Chinese tourist concessions, vendors, and crowds - which I had come to expect. The tourist concession area was newly built, but most of the vendor stalls were half occupied or empty - another case of grand building without the business, or culture really, to fill it.
    Entering the Terracotta Warriors excavation and exhibition area, I was immediately hit by a barrage of Chinese tourist concessions, vendors, and crowds – which I had come to expect. The tourist concession area was newly built, but most of the vendor stalls were half occupied or empty – another case of grand building without the business, or culture really, to fill it.

    Before entering the main excavation, I saw a quick intro film - in the round! Notably, this system still used old 8mm projectors, all setup to run in synchronized loops.
    Before entering the main excavation, I saw a quick intro film – in the round! Notably, this system still used old 8mm projectors, all setup to run in synchronized loops.

    The main hall of Terracotta Warriors. There are actually three excavation sites, but this one was by far the most impressive. The entire site is ringed by a tourist walkway, with lots of photos being taken at all times.
    The main hall of Terracotta Warriors. There are actually three excavation sites, but this one was by far the most impressive. The entire site is ringed by a tourist walkway, with lots of photos being taken at all times.

    The warriors are in various states of repair, and each face is unique.
    The warriors are in various states of repair, and each face is unique.

    Lines and lines of warriors.
    Lines and lines of warriors.

    Terracotta horses, preserved in the musem.
    Terracotta horses, preserved in the musem.

    An incredible amount of the asian tourists there had selfie sticks, which the used continuously, even for non-selfies. It very much looked like they were being led around by their selfie sticks.
    An incredible amount of the asian tourists there had selfie sticks, which the used continuously, even for non-selfies. It very much looked like they were being led around by their selfie sticks.

  • Finding Community in China’s Capital – Beijing

    Finding Community in China’s Capital – Beijing

    The Kehillat Beijing Jewish Community, in the Forbidden City, Beijing, circa 1999.
    The Kehillat Beijing Jewish Community, in the Forbidden City, Beijing, circa 1999.
    My first stop in China was the capital city, Beijing. Visiting China was a big moment for me – it’s size, population, and ever increasing role in global affairs make it a force to reckon with. I felt like it was essential to give a good chunk of time to develop an understanding at a basic level at least of China. I wanted to understand the people, the politics, the industry, and the culture.

    Coming from South Korea, a flight into Beijing was the logical first step. Additionally, this put me in a good position to visit North Korea in the coming weeks. I ended up staying at combination of CS Friends places and hostels, in a number of different neighborhoods.

    I split my time in Beijing between training lightly for the upcoming Pyongyang Marathon, shopping and exploring “modern” beijing, and checking off most of the major tourist attractions. I was in Beijing for Passover, and had the good fortune of connecting with the Kehillat Beijing Jewish Community group for two very very awesome Seders, as well as good new friends. Connecting with the Jewish community in Beijing made me feel so much more at home, and inspired that communities like this exist around the world. My people! :)

  • Staffing an Adventure Trek with Israel Outdoors – Round 2

    Staffing an Adventure Trek with Israel Outdoors – Round 2

    Israel Outdoors Blog
    Israel Outdoors Blog
    Recently I had the opportunity to staff a cultural tour and adventure trek with Birthright/Taglit tour operator Israel Outdoors (Part of Authentic Israel) – their popular “Israel Quest” itinerary. This was my second time working with Israel Outdoors, and they’ve been consistently great to work with – fantastic trips, fantastic staffers, and fantastic participants! Here’s my first time working with them. I worked as one of two field staff members, and managed day-to-day group logistics and planning as well as conducted daily educational seminars and discussions. Israel Outdoors also covered the trip on their own blog.

    A few photos and video from the most recent trip:

    Group pic! Israel Outdoors Bus 288
    Group pic! Israel Outdoors Bus 288

    The triangular memorial at the Gadot Overlook, Golan Heights, Israel.
    The triangular memorial at the Gadot Overlook, Golan Heights, Israel.

    Hiking in the beautiful mountains in the Golan Heights, Israel. Despite the hot climate, there were plenty of marshes, springs, and swimming holes.
    Hiking in the beautiful mountains in the Golan Heights, Israel. Despite the hot climate, there were plenty of marshes, springs, and swimming holes.

    Cooling off in one of the swimming holes along the Yehudiya Canyon Trail, Golan Heights, Israel. This is one of many beautiful swimming holes in the area, flanked by hexagon-shaped basalt columns.
    Cooling off in one of the swimming holes along the Yehudiya Canyon Trail, Golan Heights, Israel. This is one of many beautiful swimming holes in the area, flanked by hexagon-shaped basalt columns.

    Cooling off in one of the swimming holes along the Yehudiya Canyon Trail, Golan Heights, Israel. This is one of many beautiful swimming holes in the area, flanked by hexagon-shaped basalt columns.
    Cooling off in one of the swimming holes along the Yehudiya Canyon Trail, Golan Heights, Israel. This is one of many beautiful swimming holes in the area, flanked by hexagon-shaped basalt columns.

    Light streaming through the stained glass windows inside the Abuhav Synagogue, Tzfat, Israel. Wikipedia: The Abuhav Synagogue is a 15th-century synagogue in Safed, Israel, named after 15th-century Spanish rabbi and kabbalist, Isaac Abuhav. Its design is said to be based upon kabbalistic teachings.
    Light streaming through the stained glass windows inside the Abuhav Synagogue, Tzfat, Israel. Wikipedia: The Abuhav Synagogue is a 15th-century synagogue in Safed, Israel, named after 15th-century Spanish rabbi and kabbalist, Isaac Abuhav. Its design is said to be based upon kabbalistic teachings.

    We meet and greet our soldier companions!
    We meet and greet our soldier companions!

    Crowds at the Mahane Yehuda Market, Jerusalem
    Crowds at the Mahane Yehuda Market, Jerusalem

    Every hebrew beer imaginable, available at the Mahane Yehuda Market, Jerusalem
    Every hebrew beer imaginable, available at the Mahane Yehuda Market, Jerusalem

    A moment of reflection at the Kotel, Old City, Jerusalem.
    A moment of reflection at the Kotel, Old City, Jerusalem.

    Construction looms closeby the holocaust memorial, Yad Vashem.
    Construction looms closeby the holocaust memorial, Yad Vashem.

    Graves at Mt. Hertzl Cemetery.
    Graves at Mt. Hertzl Cemetery.

    Sunrise burns through early morning clouds over the Dead Sea, as seen from Mt. Massada.
    Sunrise burns through early morning clouds over the Dead Sea, as seen from Mt. Massada.

    Balls of salt wash ashore at the Dead Sea.
    Balls of salt wash ashore at the Dead Sea.

    Hiking witin half a mile of the Egyptian border in Eilat, Israel. The desert blooms brilliantly after each rare rain.
    Hiking witin half a mile of the Egyptian border in Eilat, Israel. The desert blooms brilliantly after each rare rain.

    Dust and sand accompany a soul-cleansing hike through the southern Israeli desert.
    Dust and sand accompany a soul-cleansing hike through the southern Israeli desert.

    Beautiful swimming in the Red Sea.
    Beautiful swimming in the Red Sea.

    Desert flowers color the landscape in the Negev Desert.
    Desert flowers color the landscape in the Negev Desert.

    Waterfalls are a rare treat in the desert canyons of Southern Israel.
    Waterfalls are a rare treat in the desert canyons of Southern Israel.

    Thanks to Ezra Siegel for creating this awesome video of the trip!

    Program Itinerary:

    Sunday, November 9 – Departure
    Depart JFK Int’l Airport at 5:55 PM
    Arrive at the airport four hours early

    Monday, November 10 – Arrival & The North
    Landing at Ben Gurion Airport at 3:00 PM
    Meet Israeli Staff
    Depart for The North
    Program Introductions & Ice Breakers
    Overnight: Kibbutz Gonen, Golan Heights / Tel: 972-4-695-5286

    Tuesday, November 11 – The North
    Gadot Lookout & Memorial
    Nahal Zavitan – Canyon Hike in the Golan
    Mount Bental – View of the Golan Heights Depart for Netanya
    Hamei Tveria – Relax in natural hot springs
    Cultural Activity
    Overnight: Kibbutz Gonen, Golan Heights / Tel: 972-4-695-5286

    Wednesday, November 12 – The North & Tel Aviv
    Tzfat – Birthplace of Jewish Mysticism
    Depart for Tel Aviv
    Group Night Out
    Prepare for Mifgash
    Overnight: Blue Bay Hotel, Netanya / Tel: 972-9-860-0123

    Thursday, November 13 – Tel Aviv & Jerusalem
    Welcome & Ice Breakers with Israeli Peers
    Rabin Square – Memorial to Yitzhak Rabin
    Independence Hall – Declaration of The Modern State of Israel
    Shenkin Street
    Depart for Jerusalem
    Haas Promenade – Panoramic View of Jerusalem
    Group Activity
    Overnight: Maale Hachamisha Hotel, Jerusalem / Tel: 972-2-533-1331

    Friday, November 14 – Jerusalem
    Jewish Quarter – Old City Walking Tour
    The Kotel – Reflections at the Western Wall
    Mahane Yehuda – Colorful Jerusalem Marketplace
    Prepare for Shabbat
    Start of Shabbat – Candle Lighting Ceremony
    Festive Shabbat Dinner
    Group Activity
    Oneg Shabbat – Celebrating Shabbat
    Overnight: Maale Hachamisha Hotel, Jerusalem / Tel: 972-2-533-1331

    Saturday, November 15 – Shabbat
    Shabbat Programming
    Prepare for Yad Vashem
    Havdallah Ceremony – Conclusion of Shabbat
    Political Seminar with Neil Lazarus– The Situation Today in Israel
    Overnight: Maale Hachamisha Hotel, Jerusalem / Tel: 972-2-533-1331

    Sunday, November 16 – Jerusalem & The Negev
    Yad Vashem – Holocaust Memorial & Museum
    Har Herzl –National Memorial
    Depart for The Negev
    Mifgash Activity with Israeli Peers
    Overnight: Inbar Hotel, Arad / Tel: 972-8-997-3303

    Monday, November 17 – The Negev & Eilat
    Ascend Masada – Via the Roman Ramp
    Masada – Ancient Mountaintop Fortress
    Descend Masada – Via the Snake Path
    Dead Sea – Floating at Ein Bokek Beach
    Wrap Up & Depart with Israelis
    Depart for Eilat
    Group Night Out
    Overnight: Astral Coral Hotel, Eilat / Tel: 972-8-638-8888

    Tuesday, November 18 – Eilat & The Negev
    Mount Tzfahot – Canyon Hike
    Snorkeling in the Red Sea
    Depart for the Bedouin Tent
    Enjoy Traditional Bedouin Dinner and Hospitality
    Overnight: Chan Shayarot, Bedouin Tent, Negev Desert / Tel: 972-8-653-5777

    Wednesday, November 19 – The Negev & Tel Aviv
    Camel trekking – Travel the Negev Desert in Style!
    Ein Ovdat – Canyon Hike
    Sde Boker – Desert Outpost & Grave of Ben Gurion
    Depart for Tel Aviv
    Jaffa – Ancient Seaport & Artist Colony
    Israel Pathways – Learn More about Opportunities in Israel
    Closing Dinner & Wrap-up Session
    Depart for Airport

    Thursday, November 20 – Departure & Arrival
    Depart Ben Gurion Airport at 1:20 AM
    Arrive at JFK Int’l Airport at 1:05 PM

    https://instagram.com/p/vkxHF7uNxr/

  • Shooting Photos for Israel Outdoors

    Shooting Photos for Israel Outdoors

    While guiding in Israel for Israel Outdoors, I had the opportunity to take a bunch of marketing photos for upcoming product promotions and trips. Israel Outdoors recently published a small selection of my photos. Thanks Israel Outdoors, great working with you!

    Israel Outdoors participant alumn Jeffrey Donenfeld, recently came back from his first time staffing an Israel Outdoors Bike trip. Oh how we love keeping it in the Israel Outdoors family! When he is not staffing trips to Israel, Jeffrey […]
    Israel Outdoors participant alumn Jeffrey Donenfeld, recently came back from his first time staffing an Israel Outdoors Bike trip. Oh how we love keeping it in the Israel Outdoors family! When he is not staffing trips to Israel, Jeffrey […]

  • Discovering Cosmopolitan Lebanon

    Discovering Cosmopolitan Lebanon

    I never expected to travel to Lebanon, but after being dropped off at the Amman Airport by a friend I met at the Bedouin Camp, I decided to buy a same-day ticket from Amman to Beirut, and see what happened.

    Overall, I was extremely impressed with Lebanon. The country and people were absolutely wonderful, and despite the reputation with war and conflict in the region, I found it peaceful, comfortable, and beautiful.

    Beirut stood out as a hip, cosmopolitan capital with a distinct French colonial vibe, happening nightlife, vibrant arts and entertainment scene, and thriving international culture.

    Photos from Lebanon, on Flickr

  • Desert Living in Jordan

    Desert Living in Jordan

    After a brief 10 days of guiding in Israel, I joined up with two new friends to trek from Israel into Jordan.

    I felt like traveling to Jordan, as well as other Arab nations, was a very important bit of travel to do after touring Israel. With such a heated political situation between many different groups in the area, everybody has their own opinion on what’s going on, who’s wrong and right, and what should be done. I was eager to experience more of the Arab view of the conflict in Israel, as well as experience the culture and country in general. Luckily for me, two of the participants I had been guiding the previous 10 days on Birthright decided to come along with me for the first few days of my trip.

    Starting out, we had a basic plan, but left most of our specific itinerary to chance – we all traveled with a small backpack and minimal gear, making it easy to move around and adjust our itinerary. Also of note, during this trip I was shooting photos with my iPhone 5 and Sony RX100M2

    Starting out, Chelsea, Hannah and I met up at the Florentine Backpackers Hostel in Tel Aviv, Israel – a fantastic hostel, with good basic accommodations, a lively and social rooftop, and within easy walking distance to the old town of Jaffa. Of note, Jaffa has some great street art, and a lively bar and shopping district.
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    To get to Jordan, we took a Taxi on a Saturday all the way to the Sheik Hussein northern border crossing, which was uneventful and easy to get across.
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    Finally, in Jordan!
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    After crossing over into Jordan, we hopped another taxi into Amman, with a quick lunch stop. Even stopping at a roadside restaurant, we were immediately impressed with the awesome food in Jordan – definitely a step above the Israeli fare we’d been eating the weeks prior.
    https://www.flickr.com/photos/jamfan2/14498025014/in/set-72157645388378943

    Once in Amman, we found the Farrah Hotel, a basic, but comfortable accommodation, where we had our own 4-bunk room.
    https://www.flickr.com/photos/jamfan2/14476219186/in/set-72157645388378943
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    The first two days Chelsea, Hannah and I spent exploring Amman. Sites visited included the Citadel, Roman theater, various shops and tea spots, the mosque, and the world’s largest (freestanding) flagpole. Additionally, we found a bar or two on Rainbow street that served beer – which is quite a rare thing in Jordan. After two days exploring, the three of us felt comfortable walking around, and generally knew our way around the few neighborhoods we explored.

    Chelsea checking out some books
    https://www.flickr.com/photos/jamfan2/14519437993/in/set-72157645388378943

    Selling dyed chicks and chickens
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    An Egyptian weaver, making a rug while watching camel racing in Abu Dabi on TV
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    On our way to the roof for sunset, we saw this guy
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    Sunset in Amman
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    Black tea with mint, all the time.
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    Roman Theater
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    World’s Largest Flagpole! (on left)
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    Temple of Hercules
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    Exploring
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    Mosque
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    After two days of exploring Amman, and with our new friend Sarah, I rented a car and the four of us took a road trip east on Route 10, into Jordan’s eastern desert. We would have driven all the way to Iraq if we could have, but unfortunately didn’t have the time or security detail. Instead, we did an incredible loop through the desert, stopping at epic desert castles and a tranquil desert oasis.
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    Desert Castles, quite spectacular
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    This tea was made from sage and other stuff from a nearby tree, and we were told it would cure Hannah’s headache.
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    Oasis
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    The harsh eastern desert – but we had fun!
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    After day three, Hannah and Chelsea traveled back to Israel, and I traveled solo down to explore Petra. Petra was an incredible experience, and the rock formations were truly incredible. In Petra, I stayed a night at the Valentine Hotel, and then moved further south to live with a group of Bedoiun at the Seven Wonders Bedouin Camp.
    https://www.flickr.com/photos/jamfan2/14519498013/in/set-72157645388378943

    Seven Wonders Bedouin Camp
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    Exploring Petra
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    Tea break, looking to the south.
    https://www.flickr.com/photos/jamfan2/14312730050/in/set-72157645388378943

    Petra by night was a great experience – a bit crowded, but sneaking away from the crowd and exploring the Siq in the dark was mystifying.
    https://www.flickr.com/photos/jamfan2/14495975531/in/set-72157645388378943
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    After a week of exploring Jordan, I got a little antsy to get out of the desert, and hitched a ride with with a guy from the Bedouin camp back up to the Amman airport. Next stop, Beirut, Lebanon.

  • Trekking Across Israel as Staff for Israel Outdoors

    Trekking Across Israel as Staff for Israel Outdoors

    Israel Outdoors and BRI logoOver the past two weeks, I had the opportunity to work as a staff guide for Israel Outdoors during the Israel By Bike cultural trek, part of Taglit Birthright Israel. Years ago, I actually participated as a guest in this exact same trip, and it was an exciting honor to now have the opportunity to lead it. Israel Outdoors calls this itinerary “Israel By Bike“, but it’s a lot more than just that. Overall, staffing this trip was an incredible experience. I had two co-leaders, and a group of about 40 participants 18-22 years old. The group was great, and I sincerely enjoyed meeting everybody, and the opportunity to contribute my enthusiasm and views on the region as we traveled through the entire country. 

    During the trip, I took about 1400 photos, and edited down to a small set. View the full set on Flickr, as well as on my Instagram feed. I shot on my iPhone 5, and Sony RX-100ii cameras, allowing me to both post photos throughout the day, and shoot in raw for later editing. The full set is displayed here, and I’ll also be publishing a series of theme-specific posts in coming weeks.

    Photos, Full Screen

    Daily Itinerary

    Day 1

    • Arrival at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport
    • Meet Israeli guide and group intros at Haas Promanade
    • Transfer to Jerusalem
    • Checkin to Hotel Accommodations -Jerusalem Gold Hotel

    Day 2

    • Visit to Davidson Center, Jerusalem
    • Tour of Old City Jerusalem Jewish Quarter
    • Visit to Kotel, reflection at Western Wall
    • Explore Mahane Yehuda market and lunch
    • Afternoon relaxation on Ben Yehuda Street
    • Overnight at Jerusalem Gold Hotel

    Day 3

    • Travel North
    • Scenic stop at Steia Maris Lookout and education about the Bahai Faith and Bahai Gardens
    • Visit to Arbel and Lunch
    • Checkin to hotel Savyonei Hagalil
    • Preparation for Shabbat and festive Shabbat Dinner

    Day 4

    • Shabbat learning opportunities
    • Hike to lookout point
    • Havdallah Ceremony and cultural activity
    • Overnight at Savyonei Hagalil

    Day 5

    • Hike up Mt. Meiron
    • Cultural tour of Tzfat, including dip in Mikve
    • Return to Hotel

    Day 6

    • Visit to Banias and lunch
    • Rafting the Jordan River and relaxing on the water
    • Camping in desert near Masada

    Day 7

    • Early morning wakeup in desert
    • Sunrise ascent of Mt. Masada
    • Breakfast at Masada Visitors Center
    • Floating in the Dead Sea
    • Camel Trekking with Bedouin
    • Sleeping at Negev Bedouin Camp and Campfire

    Day 8

    • Biking at Nahal ZIn
    • Visit to Sde Boker
    • Shvil Hasalat
    • Dinner at Blue Bay Hotel

    Day 9

    • Drive to Tel Aviv
    • Visit Rabin Square
    • Visit Independence Hall
    • Swim at Tel Aviv beach
    • Wrap up session and departure

    A selection of photos taken during the trip – many were posted on Instagram during the trip.

    Initial assembly of the group at JFK Airport – this was our initial meetup, and the first time my co-staffer Allie and I made group introductions.
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    Let’s jet!
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    We connected through Zurich, Switzerland
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    Zurich Airport – great piece of architecture
    https://www.flickr.com/photos/jamfan2/14471771451/in/set-72157645237763596

    Ice Breakers at the Old City, Jerusalem
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    Tour of the Old City’s Jewish Quarter
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    Visit to the Kotel
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    Meeting our Israeli Soldiers
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    Mt. Hertzel and Yad Vashem – very heavy
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    Architecture of Yad Vashem
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    Driving North
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    Bahai Gardens
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    Hiking Mr. Meron
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    Shabbat
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    Hiking on Shabbat
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    Exploring Tzfat
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    Candles in Tzfat
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    More exploring
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    The trip’s first bike trip
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    Sunrise hiking up Mt. Masda
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    Swimming in the Dead Sea
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    Camel Riding and Desert Living with the Bedouin
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    Second Biking Trip
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    Exploring the Market in Tel Aviv
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    Final Sunset
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  • Next Week I’ll Be Guiding An Adventure Across Israel

    Next Week I’ll Be Guiding An Adventure Across Israel

    Israel Outdoors and BRI logoComing up starting on May 19th, 2014 I’ll be guiding a ten day adventure across Israel with Birthright Israel and Israel Outdoors. During the trip, I’ll be working with two other expert staff members – Allison Bell and Asher Drimmer, traveling with a group of 40 guests. Years ago, I actually participated as a guest in this exact same trip, and it’s an exciting honor to now have the opportunity to lead it. Israel Outdoors calls this itinerary “Israel By Bike“, but it’s a lot more than just that. We’ll be biking, hiking, swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing all throughout Israel, experience as much as the country has to offer. In addition to the many activities and locations we’ll be discovering, we’ll also be developing our own personal relationships with both the land and the people of Israel. During our trip, we’ll be joined by a few members of the Israeli Defense Force, to learn firsthand what their lives are like living in Israel and serving in the military – a unique opportunity to make deep connections.

    Here’s a quick outline of what we’ll be up to during our ten day itinerary:
    israel-map

    • Meet and greet at Tel Aviv’s Caesarea – The beachside amphitheater
    • Traditional vibes while staying at a Kibbutz Guest House in the Galilee
    • Exploring the mystical city of Tzfat
    • Biking along the winding banks of the Jordan River
    • Rafting the upper Jordan River
    • Ascend the Golan Heights
    • Hike down the lush Nahal El Al Canyon on the Golan
    • Winetasting at the Golan Heights Winery
    • Exploring the Jordan Valley
    • Tour of the Old City’s legendary Jewish Quarter
    • Personally experiencing The Western Wall
    • Shopping at the Mahane Yehuda market
    • A group night out on Jerusalem’s Ben Yehuda pedestrian mall
    • Secluded stay at the Dead Sea Hotel
    • Sunrise ascent to Masada via the Snake Path
    • Hike to the desert waterfalls at Ein Gedi
    • Bike along the chalky desert trails of Mount Sodom
    • Floating time along the beaches of the Dead Sea
    • Camel trekking and traditional Bedouin hafla dinner feast
    • Explore Nahalat Binyamin artists market and street festival
    • Bike the Burma Road trail in the Jerusalem foothills
    • Crawl through the archeological caves at Hirbet Midras
    • Walking tour of historic Jaffa on the Mediterranean shores
    • …. and much much more.

    We’ll be able to squeeze all of this into a quick ten day timespan with a bit of crafy planning, a dedicated transportation and security team, and our expert and experienced Israeli liasion. Israel Outdoors has been running this trip for years, and they’re the absolute best in the business – a pleasure to work with them.

    Next up in preparing for the trip now that the itierary is set, everybody’s airline tickets have been locked in, and everything is in motion is to pack! Shortly I’ll be posting my quick packing list of what I’m brining with me on the adventure. I’ll be traveling ultralight, and ultraversatile to adapt to the variety of situations we’ll encounter while traveling. Stay tuned!

    Interested in your own adventure in Israel and the Middle East?

    Get in touch with me and I’ll help you make it happen! 

    One former traveler’s home videos from Summer 2013:

  • Exploring Sydney, Australia

    Exploring Sydney, Australia

    After a fantastic two weeks hiking around New Zealand, I made the hop over to Australia. Although my time in Australia was limited to really just a transit through Sydney and Brisbane, I still managed to see a bit. Additionally, Australia was a good opportunity to chill sit and relax and get some work done – and combined with crappy weather and a bit of a cold, I certainly did that. Staying in Kings Cross, I spend a bunch of time laptopping, uploading photos and videos from Antarctica, and genrally catching up with friends and family.

    Additionally, in Sydney I met up with a friend for a drink or two, and took a great walking tour of the city. And of course, I took the requisite tour of the Opera House.

    Here’s a quick shot of more than a Martin Thomas Hill’s “Forgotten Songs” installation.

  • Video From The Austrian Hospice In Jerusalem, Israel

    In January, after traveling through Turkey in December with Kirk Henderson and Stephanie Safdi, I went to spend a few days in Israel. I didn’t shoot much video, but here’s one good one, from the roof of the Austrian Hospice, in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City.


    Austrian Hospice Rooftop from Jeffrey D on Vimeo.