The coral reef of the Gulf of Aqaba is the northernmost point on Earth where the precise conditions for such a fragile life system are possible. Like corals, Eilat and its residents are a phenomenon unique to Israel - a resort city, but also a symbol of pioneering. A synonym for "freaking out" against the background of the desert landscape that surrounds us on all sides.
Over the years, the big hotels that rose like mushrooms after the rain hid the people who make the city what it is, leaving tourists in the huge designed hotels until the terms "jump off the bridge", "there on a grain of rice" and "King David Burger" (peace be upon him) were forgotten from consciousness. Now it seems that Eilat is taking tourism into their own hands and renewing the nostalgiafor Eilat of yesteryear, with innovations in local tourism, culinary and culture.
Tourism officials in the city claim that the coronavirus has caused a positive change after Israelis preferred resorts in Greece for several years, and that they have rediscovered the city following the restrictions. Already at the entrance to the city, changes are being felt - the airport that was closed gave way to the park-terminal project, which is expected to close the space between the city and the tourist area near the beach. In general, the construction boom is expected to cause a significant increase in the supply of accommodation, which should lower accommodation prices in the city.
Aerial view of Eilat, photo: Yaniv Cohen
The promenade is being renewed
In the past, hotels located deeper in the city were considered less luxurious than those adjacent to the sea - and today the renovations that many of them are undergoing have made them no less good and cheaper. Such is the Brown, which is a few minutes walk from the sea and the city center. The spacious and well-equipped rooms allow for a relaxing vacation at accessible prices, and especially allow you to discover the city, its tastes and people during the short walk to the sea.
These changes and many others are noticeable when you climb to the Red Sea Observatory in the heart of the city, overlooking the city and the bay - a more accessible and lightweight alternative than the Slate Mountain observation point in the south of the city. Also, after moving the promenade stalls to an organized complex a few years ago (don't worry, there are still stalls where you can find a necklace with a name on a grain of rice and Bob Marley sleeves), the promenade is also being renewed and is expected to reopen in the coming months, when the work is completed.
At the Tulum restaurant and bar on the promenade, they are already waiting for the completion of the work and the opening of the view to the bay. The place has become a mecca for many tourists, thanks to its extremely photogenic dishes and design. An interesting tourist innovation is found in the middle of the sea - the "Eilat Island" is a bar that anchors a few hundred meters from the beach and sits on buoys. The attraction for which we came this far is the flyboard, a device suitable for all ages, through which you can hover in the air above the water and get a new angle on the bay.
Tulum, photo: Eilat Tourism Corporation
The innovations in the tourist area are noticeable, but something else is happening to Eilat - the city and its residents are also revealed to the Israeli and foreign tourists who have returned to it. As part of the "Eilat Free" activities, tourists can tour and experience a variety of free or discounted activities (such as yoga workshop, meditation, desert tours or Pilates).
Among other things, there is a culinary tour led by Yael Lerner, a resident of Eilot, where you will not find any restaurant or large chain, but only small and family businesses such as "Humusoff" or "Zohar's Knafeh", which prepares desserts that you will not believe can be found south of the Galilee. Also surprising in quality is the bakery "Bread Broitman", where the quality of the ingredients in cookies, challah and sandwiches served there is felt in every bite. Locals and tourists come to the bakery for elaborate breakfasts, or to take fresh salads and deli products home.
Yael Lerner's culinary tour in Eilat // Photo: Discover Tours
The changes in the culinary field are felt throughout the city - new restaurants have arisen that serve authentic and unflattering food. Such is Thai Story, a Thai restaurant with a menu consisting of dishes that remain faithful to the original - the country that is itself a kind of Eilat of the Far East. The tastes, atmosphere and service are no less than any similar institution in Tel Aviv, but the atmosphere is more relaxed and most diners are on vacation, which is very noticeable.
Back to local history
Lerner's tours also deal with local history and culture. One of the historical tours begins at the Eilat Museum with a short, air-conditioned explanation, and includes boarding a bus from the 50's that is identical to the bus they used to travel to the city for about 8 hours. Another tour guided by Lerner passes through Eilat's artists' gallery, and then continues to the homes of world-renowned local artists. The tour passes, among other things, the home of Amir Elkayam, and during the visit he explains about his works, the most intriguing of which deal with the kidnapping of Yemenite children.
Eilat Island, Photo: Yaniv Cohen
Eilat's involvement in local tourism extends beyond the city. Near the Rabin border crossing is the Bird Watching Park. The artificial lake and the vegetation growing around it are the first resting point for hundreds of thousands of birds that migrate between Africa, Asia and Europe. The place has become a magnet for birders from around the world. Sitting in the hiding sheds from which you can watch the flamingos, or demonstrating the installation of a tracking ring on the bird and its release into the wild, is an excellent free option for an easier walk in nature than walking in the Eilat mountains.
Red Sea Lookout, Photo: Discover Tours
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