Israel’s second city is hip, happening and full of East-meets-West pizzazz. A buzz-inducing food scene and brilliant contemporary art collections are the chief lures, but sandy beaches, sunshine and gleaming Bauhaus-era buildings all help too – as do new, non-stop Wizz Air flights from Luton.
What to see
Located a little ways south, the Design Museum Holon's most impressive exhibit isn't a textile or light installation; it's the rouged, ribbon-like steel building itself. The Tel Aviv Museum of Art's jagged frontage dazzles too, as do the van Goghs and Picassos awaiting inside.
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Now get down to those Mediterranean waters. Above all, Tel Aviv is an outdoor city and no wonder with its nine miles of beaches and superb facilities. Gordon and Frishman Beaches are the ones to be seen on, while Alma Beach gets the family vote by bordering a playground. Temperature averages 26C in summer, so bring oodles of sunscreen.
What to do
Markets are another staple, and led by Jaffa Flea Market – a vintage warren found in the now-trendy port area where Tel Aviv began. Fashion aficionados will love the many stellar boutiques: Agas & Tamar make highly-rated jewellery while the beautiful Showroom stocks classy clothing for men and women by international designers.
Where to eat
Meet Israel's hottest food scene – supported by blogs such as Tel Aveat, run by two Londoners. With Natalie and Leah's help, spurn big-name restaurants and instead join Tel Avivians for hearty and homemade Israeli brunches at Puaa. "You feel as though you are sitting in someone's home," they say about the cafe. "With mismatched furniture, cosy carpets and portraits along the walls."
(Image credit: sivanaskayo.com)
Where to drink
Start with a beachside C.R.E.A.M (dark rum, fig syrup, sesame oil-infused cream) at newly-opened Botanika, then move to cavernous Anna Loulou, which lies behind an unmarked Jaffa door.
Where to stay
Occupying a beautiful 1920s manse, Hotel Montefiore's dozen rooms blend period details such as high ceilings and hardwood floors with black marble bathrooms and contemporary photography. An all-hours Viennese bar serves refreshing grapefruit cocktails.
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