Day 9: Israeli Independence Day (Yom Ha-Atzma'ut)

Shorter day today because a lot of the main attractions were closed.  It was a lot like July 4th in the U.S. with going to the beach and barbecues, except the stores were closed instead of have special "Fourth of July Sales!!!" like in the States.  Many kids noted how almost all Israeli's recognize the importance of these last two days (Israel's memorial and independence days), partly because of two things:  Remaining an independent and safe country is an everyday concern, and Israel's independence was declared only 62 years ago.

Highlights of the day:

• Took a short drive to the Hall of Independence where Israel declared its statehood in 1948.
• Visited Old Jaffa, a much older city than modern Tel Aviv.
• Rabin Square, where Keren told us the story of how Yitzhak Rabin was murdered.
• Swam in the Mediterranean the rest of the afternoon.  Weather was mild, and the temperature started to drop in the late afternoon into the low 70s.  That didn't stop the kids from getting in the water!
• Walked the promenade along the water after dinner and got some ice cream.  Early day tomorrow, so early night tonight.

Israel trip - day 9