Israel & Palestine trip Day 1

We managed the unearthly hour of 2.30 am and went via Oxted to pick up Gail. The journey from there to Heathrow was really easy and traffic free and we arrived spot on "meet" time of 4am. There are 45 of us including our speaker and leader. First flight to Vienna then on to Tel Aviv and the airport before transfer to our hotel for four nights. 

After dinner and a briefing for tomorrow, we were taken on an introductory walk inside the city walls of Jerusalem. Our first hotel is just outside the walls. A brilliant walk. So many Jewish families out together and the narrow streets were heaving with people and market stalls. 

Here we have Herod Gate and the Damascus Gate. And we were privileged to spend time at the Western Wall. Always aware we are visitors to this country and city of Jerusalem. Already we are absorbed into its diversity and heritage. So blessed to be here.

Ready for bed, sleep and tomorrow...