What to do and what to eat when you’re in Israel: A ‘Biyahe ni Drew’ itinerary

 

Drew Arellano and the “Biyahe ni Drew” team found themselves food-tripping in Israel and chumming it up with our kababayans living there in the second leg of their 3rd anniversary special. Pilgrimage sites also take the spotlight because, of course, it’s Israel!

Check out this list for the places to visit and dishes to try when you’re in the Holy Land! Happy planning, Biyaheros!

(Biyahero tip!  If you are planning to go on a vacation, plan it ahead of time with Ephesus Travel and Tours for a hassle-free trip around the city of Israel.)

Old City of Jerusalem

The Old City of Jerusalem is surrounded by a wall and divided into four chapters -- Jewish, Armenian, Christian, and Muslim.

Described as a “city within a city,” the Old City of Jerusalem is surrounded by towering stone walls and ancient buildings. One of the most crowded areas here during the Holy Week is the Temple Mount, where you will see the famous Western Wall or Wailing Wall, a sacred place for Jews because this is where they offer their prayers and lament for their loss by tucking letters to God in between the cracks of the wall.

Mt. Zion

There are two ways on how to reach the peak of Mt. Zion: Walk with the pilgrims or ride a donkey!

Mount Zion, a hill located outside the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem, was once called as the City of King David because this is where he established his royal capitol after defeating the Jebusites in Jerusalem and where he was eventually buried. The tomb of King David is situated in a ground floor corner of the remains of a former Hagia Zion, a Byzantine church.

Another popular pilgrimage site in Mount Zion is the “Coenaculum” also known as the “Upper Room,” a room believed to be the site of one of the most important events in Jesus’ life -- the Last Supper.

Mount of Olives

In an unforgettable episode of ‘Biyahe ni Drew,’ Drew Arellano visits the Church of All Nations located at the foot of Mount of Olives in Jerusalem.

The Mount of Olives is the location of many biblical events. From the Temple to Bethany, Jesus Christ would go to this mountain to pray and rest.

Aside from its biblical significance, there is another reason why people take time to visit this place. At its foot is the Church of All Nations, or also known as the Basilica of the Agony. The church received its name because many countries contributed to the cost of its construction.

During Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, tourists and pilgrims visit this church to offer a prayer on the same rock where Jesus Christ prayed before his crucifixion.

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

The Holy Church of the Sepulchre is also known as the Church of the Resurrection or Church of the Anastasis by Orthodox Christians.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre or also known as Church of the Resurrection was built by the mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine in 330 A.D. It was in the 4th century when it started to become popular among Christians, making it a place for worship and glory.

Inside the church, you will see a stairway leading to Calvary or Golgotha, a place where Jesus Christ was crucified.

What to eat

Drew Arellano gets to try some of the most popular dishes in Israel like their hummus and falafel.

Levantine, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean flavors influence Israeli cuisine, so when you visit the Holy Land, make sure to enjoy the country’s food offerings!

Hummus

Often serve during lunch time, Hummus is considered a staple in Israeli households. It is a Levantine and Egyptian food dip or spread made from mashed chickpeas or other beans. Israelis prepare it with ingredients like tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. In an Israeli household, hummus can be served and eaten in many ways. Some serve it as appetizer while others eat it with their favorite pita bread.

Falafel

Falafel is one of the most popular cuisines in Israel. It is a deep-fried ball made either from ground chickpeas or fava beans. When eating a falafel, some top it with pickled vegetables and drizzle it with different kinds of sauce or paste like the tahini.

Tahini

In Israel, they have their own version of peanut butter. Instead of using peanuts, they use toasted ground hulled sesame seeds to create a paste called tahini. This dip or paste is used in some of Lebanese, Armenian, Greek, Turkish, and Israeli cuisines. This can also be paired with dishes like hummus, halva, and baba ghanoush. ---Tyne Villan/BMS, GMA Public Affairs

"Biyahe ni Drew" airs every Friday, 8:00 PM, on GMA News TV. For more information, follow the show on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For updates on your favorite documentaries, follow also the official Facebook page of GMA Public Affairs.