We’re in Tel Aviv! (October 15th)

This morning we left Nazareth and went to visit an Israeli army base near Tel Aviv. We were hosted by the Home Front Command, who explained to us how they protect and support civilians in different types of emergencies, including natural disasters and conflicts. Einav, a 2004 Action Partner had organised the visit for us and for people to show us around. We also bumped into Daniel, a 2007 Action Partner, while we were there (I think he possibly might have been tipped off about our visit?!).

From the army base we travelled on to Tel Aviv, where we are staying at a really cool hotel which features the work of different Israeli artists on each level. Our rooms even have coloured pencils in them in case we are feeling creative.

This evening we were hosted by the Australian Embassy, who organised a function and invited diplomats from other embassies in Israel. Cherie spoke to the group about OIYP and the YPMM program and Robson represented the participants and shared some of his personal experiences throughout the program. We also listened to presentations from the Australian Ambassador and the Egyptian Ambassador – both of whom were very enthusiastic about the program and inspired by the Action Partners they had spoken to.

After the function the night was still young so we ventured to the Harbour where Einav had organised dinner at a beachside restaurant with lots and lots of yummy food. Those of us who still had some energy left went to a party with Einav and her friends that was at an art gallery.

We have one more day all together tomorrow. Some of us are feeling a bit weird about going home and trying to explain to our family and friends about our experiences here. Hopefully this blog and the photos will help a little and we recognise that some things are difficult to explain – please be patient with us! :)


Party at an art gallery


Dinner by the beach


Mingling at the Australian Embassy