A day off – after the touring

walk alone in the extensive gardens of the King David hotel reflecting on the past three days of touring through a land that embodies stories that have been told to me from earliest childhood.

In more recent times, it’s more about the search for peace and justice between Israel and Palestine that has my attention.

The heady scent of pines, rosemary and iceberg roses in the heat of the sun appeals as I wander lazily. And I discover a great little corner of the garden beside the swimming pool, sheltered by large white umbrellas where I will go for a bite in the early afternoon.

A walk in the gardens of the King David Hotel in Jerusalem

I was energized in being in this place so central to civilisation; the home of the three main monotheistic religions. I opted for ‘touring’ three days in a row, without rest. And I’m pleased with my decision to have a guide who was content to make plans on a day-to-day basis. I loved that flexibility; to set the pace; to stop and take photos; ask questions; and pause when we wanted to.

I’m tired, but now I have three more days to reflect and do my own thing; go back to places in the Old City of Jerusalem that touched me. Visit a church with music; walk with the crowds in procession along the Via Dolorosa on a Friday afternoon. Leave my camera at home (if I can!); sing; pray. It’s endless. Maybe even sleep.

Tonight, I go to the synagogue for Shabbat.

I wake to a view over the Walls of the Old City

Chilled Mediterranean fig for lunch by the pool - so good on a hot day. In my old London days, friend Hector would always chill the plate as well as the fig before serving. But I can't have everything.