• PAGE ONE
• INDEX
• HOME

In promising land

Inder Raj Ahluwalia

In the ancient past, Solomon and Sheba held their legendary tryst here. Today, it is a favourite getaway for fun-seekers, the young, and the young-at-heart, thanks to its magnificent seaface, rugged inner mountain skyscape and sunny climate.

Located at the northern tip of the Red Sea, Eilat presents spectacular scenery. Violet-hued desert-mountains meet the white sands beside the coral-filled sea. Visitors are greeted by sun-kissed beaches, swaying palms, a rainbow of sails, and gleaming white hotels with their balconies angled to the jewel-like sea.

If all this isn't enough, Eilat enjoys 359 annual sunny days that draw thousands of `snow birds' from northern Europe, eager to escape their harsh winters and frolic in sylvan surroundings.

The resort is best characterised by the Red Sea, which offers exciting experiences. High temperatures make the water ideal for swimming, and have endowed it with rich corals and other marine life.

Places such as the Coral Beach Nature Reserve provide excellent views of the protected reef and myriad fish. Those keen on diving and snorkelling can get up-front and personal with the fish, while the less adventurous can marvel at them on th e glass-bottomed boat excursions, or at the magnificent Underwater Observatory, and even via a submarine tour to the depths. The complex also has a reef tank, aquarium and a special pool for rays, turtles and sharks.

The other great marine attraction is the Dolphin Reef, where one can see and dive with dolphins. Daily dolphin-training courses draw the crowds and provide an insight into the world of these exceptionally intelligent and friendly creatures.

Water sports are the other main local attraction, and one can choose from day cruises and extended diving safaris to windsurfing, sailing, para-sailing, water-skiing, pedal boating and deep-sea fishing throughout the year. Long sandy bea ches with palm trees and all amenities of leisure such as lounge chairs, showers, sunshades and snack bars, invite swimmers and sunbathers.

For an experience of the desert way of life in a landscape of beautiful, rugged scenery, take an excursion to Timna Park, which has King Solomon's Pillars and the Red Canyon. There are desert tours by jeep and on foot, and interesting sites su ch as a regional museum for archaeological excavations and the Bedouin Culture Centre, which mirror the region's heritage and lifestyles.

The best of Israeli cuisine can be sampled in Eilat, but the choice extends to much more. On offer is a colourful palette of delicacies from the sea, from the Mediterranean region, and from around the world. Exotic spices and secret recipes turn the catch of the day into delicious fare, and Israel's famous fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products enhance the cuisine. From family-style restaurants and cafes, to sophisticated pubs and bistros that swing early into the morning, feasting is quite in fashion.

Several times during the year, one can rub shoulders with locals at special music festivals featuring rock, jazz or chamber music, that draw musicians and artistes from the world over. These are busy times for the town, and an added bonus for tourists .

Shopping in town is highly recommended as this is a free trade zone, which means no taxes charged, no need for VAT refunds, and very attractive prices. There is everything to buy, from Israel's world-famous designer swimwear, to diamonds and gems tha t are cut and polished and set in exciting designs of shimmering gold.

Apart from adventure pursuits such as camel safaris, rock- climbing and marine sports in its immediate vicinity, Eilat is a convenient jump-off point to other Israeli sites and sights. There are convenient day tours to Jerusalem, Tel A viv, the Galilee and the Dead Sea. Organised coach tours, self-drive cars and the convenience of a mere half-hour flight to the centre of the country, facilitate the traveller.

Eilat spells pure charm for the tourist. All the year-round. The local holiday experience can include watching thousands of birds migrating between Europe and Africa along the busiest `highway in the sky', or listening to contemporary jazz, or just sit ting back and enjoying a pure `Kosher' meal. It is all on offer, without exerting too much...

Fact file

Getting there: Eilat is located at the southern tip of Israel. The best approach is via Tel Aviv, which is a few hours' drive away, and connected with Delhi and Mumbai by El Al Israel Airlines.

Accommodation: The city offers a vast choice with some 7,000 rooms in all budget categories.

Best season: The city is a year-round tourist destination.

Local transport: Taxis are available, but one can walk around the entire city and its seaface.

Food: There is a choice of cuisine available, including vegetarian food.

Indian nationals require a visa to enter Israel.