Israel Day 4 - Latrun & Valley of Elah

Day 4 was the last day of the spousal program and we had another full day. Our first stop was to the Latrun Monastery, a monastery of 22 Trappist Monks, that is surrounded by a grove of olive trees and vineyards, where the monks make their own wine and olive oil. We were hosted by one of the monks and then enjoyed a concert with musicians who performed Arabic, Turkish, and Israeli music. The musicians got the audience involved, teaching us to play the drums and other musical instruments. Some in audience were even brave enough to do some belly dancing (not me -- I stuck to the drums).






After the monastery, we visited "Mini Israel", a theme park which showcases the most important Israeli sites in mini exhibits. And we had lunch at a kibbutz. A kibbutz is a social collective of families that share resources within a community. The food was awesome and overlooked a beautiful valley.




Our last stop of the day was to Eshatol herb and spices farm. This was a truly unique shopping experience. ALL went mad over the amazing amount of all natural herbs, teas, and spices! You know it's a special place when our drivers, our guides, and all the visitors are scooping stuff up bags and bags of this stuff - for health reasons, for new flavors, and for the unique shopping experience. This is just waiting to be developed in the United States!



And then the night begins.... HP hosted an end of conference Purim 60s party. Purim is a Jewish holiday where people get dressed up in costumes and masks to commemorate the saving of the Jewish people from destruction in the ancient Persian Empire. HP hosted an event along the seafront and we were happy to bring our Elvis and Priscilla Presley costumes for the super fun celebration! By the way, it's National Sleep Awareness week this week. We aren't getting much sleep!