My City: Tel Aviv, Israel with Irit Goffer Sasson of AMARO

Known as "The City that Never Sleeps," Tel Aviv, Israel's second largest city, has lively nightlife, a dynamic atmosphere and a famous 24-hour culture.

In 2010 I was one of its annual million plus international visitors. And while I did get a taste of the vibrant night life and pristine beaches, I also learned that this global city is a technological and economic hub.  It is home to the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, corporate offices, and is the country's financial capital.  It is a very contemporary and modern city in a country known for its ancient history. 

Heralding from this middle eastern city is one of the shops amazing jewelry designers, Irit Goffer Sasson of AMARO. Although I discovered her pieces while strolling the streets of Jerusalem, she and her family call Tel Aviv home.

I couldn't be more thrilled to have Irit share some of her favorite tips and recommendations...and after reading this, tell me you also won't be pining to do yoga on the beaches in Tel Aviv!  Enjoy!

Name: Irit Goffer Sasson 
Occupation: Designer and owner at AMARO 
Hometown: Tel-Aviv. Israel

What is your favorite place to hang out?

The beach of Tel-Aviv.

What is the one thing first time visitors must-see in the city?

They should go out and get a feeling the night life in the city, especially on the weekend!

Nightlife in Tel Aviv

What place off the beaten path would you recommend visiting?

Jaffa, it’s a quit and calm area, very different atmosphere then in the city center. They should visit 'Abu-Hasan' Hummus- the best one in Israel to my opinion. 

What is a local delicacy?

Hummus/Sabich- which is Pita bread with eggplants, boiled egg, salad and tahini sauce. Veggie and yummy! 

Hummus and Pita Bread

What does your perfect day in the city always include?

Doing Yoga on the beach. 

Yoga on the beach in Tel Aviv.

Where is the best place to get a culture fix in the city?

There is a lot of good concert every night in clubs and bars. A lot of museums, orchestras, theaters, art galleries, dance venues and music halls. (Jen Note:  Check out this link with 14 top-rated tourist attractions in Tel Aviv for more specifics.)

What is the one thing tourists always miss when they visit?

The night life- it’s a 24 hours active city.  

What does the city pride itself on?

Being liberal, out-going, tolerance, gay friendly.  

What would people would be surprised to learn about Tel Aviv?

That there are many surfers.

Where is your favorite place to eat?

TOTO restaurant - assortment of Italian dishes and excellent seafood (here is a link of recommended restaurants in Tel Aviv, the culinary capital of Israel)

Toto Restaurant. Photo courtesy of PR.

Shop Irit's exotic and beautiful jewelry from her AMARO line!