Monday, August 16, 2010

Latrun Tank Museum - Yad LaShiryon

This past summer my nephew completed his training in the IDF tank division. The ceremony, took place of course, at the Latrun Tank Museum or Yad LaShiryon.

kids playing on old tank at Latrun Tank Museum
After the ceremony, our kids ran off to climb and play with the endless array of tanks dating back to earlier wars (possibly War of Independence) as well as today's high-tech models.

Although I hope all tanks will be turned into tractors speedily in our days, my kids definitely had a blast (no pun intended) playing with these (non-functional) machines of war. On a more serious note, the museum also provides an appropriate backdrop to discuss why we still need an army and as a remembrance of the brave soldiers who died protecting our country.

Just a 20 minute drive from Ramat Beit Shemesh, the tank museum is educational and fun for the whole family. My only suggestion is to go when the weather is a bit cooler as the whole place is outdoors....unless of course you plan on cooling off at the gorgeous Yishi pool.
For more information about hours and entrance fees, call 08-978-4352.

Friday, August 6, 2010

Camp Landau Color War 2010



One of the summer highlights for boys in Ramat Beit Shemesh, is the famous Camp Landau. Headed by Rabbi Yehoshua Landau, the camp celebrated its 10th anniversary this year.

With amazing, energetic and talented staff, the boys enjoy great sports, swimming, and awesome day trips (the beach, water parks and more).

The camp usually runs from after Tisha b'Av for 2 weeks, providing kids a great, wholesome and fun environment.
For girls, Mrs. Landau runs Bnos (girls 1st grade and up) and Camp Kinderlach (younger ages for boys and girls).

As parents we have so much Hakoros HaTov to Rabbi and Mrs. Landau for the wonderful camps they run each summer.

One of the most exciting parts of camp is color war. Above is a video of the first day of color war. Team White got some Breslov guys to come with their white van and dance with all the campers. Check it out...

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Eilat - Dolphins, Ibex, Coral Reef and More


After blogging about Ein Gedi, I found some fantastic videos and pics of a trip we did to Eilat. I know it's a long way from Ramat Beit Shemesh, but it's well worth the travel. The amazing color contrast between the blue of the Red Sea and the reddish brown of the ancient mountains of Edom is awesome.

(As an aside, I would suggest that Frum folks visit Eilat only between December-February. The weather is pleasant, but cool....so things are relatively Tzanuah, and just about all activities can be done in an appropriate environment.)

My favorite place to visit in Eilat is the Dolphin Reef. You can hang out on their huge deck getting up close with the dolphins, scuba dive or snorkel with them, or just collect shells and beautiful rocks at their private beach. You can spend hours there with the whole family. Check out the amazing "conversation" this staff member has with one of the dolphins on the video above.
8 year old kid scuba diving at the Dolphin Reef in Eilat

Next up is the Underwater Observatory. Here you can view the incredible, natural beauty that exists a few feet under the surface of the Red Sea. With gorgeous coral and exotic fish, you will be blown away by the Niflaot HaBoreh! This too is a great family trip and one can easily spend several hours going thru all their water exhibits with sea turtles, sharks being fed, colorful and fascinating fish and much more.

Other water activities include snorkeling and scuba diving in a coral reef area, wind-surfing, and para-sailing.

Moving inland, you can do some amazing hikes (like the Red Canyon), go rappelling, go camel riding, or visit Kings City. Even sightseeing in hotels like Herod's Palace is a tourist attraction, with their super-luxurious lobbies and historical interior design.

There is so much to do in Eilat, that you will definitely find something fun for everyone!

Chilling at Ein Gedi Spring

Ramat Beit Shemesh is great....but sometimes, especially when things get hot (like right now in August), finding a cool pool can be the thing to do.

So when I saw this refreshing pic we took at Ein Gedi a few years ago, I just had to post it.

friendly Ibex in Ein Gedi
Ein Gedi springs, besides featuring in Tanach, is also a great family hike. With wildlife (Ibex, Hyrax, etc.), and lots of waterfalls and pools, your family will have an awesome time.

The main thing is to get there early and beat the crowds. From Ramat Beit Shemesh, I'd suggest leaving at 7:30AM or 8AM at the latest. The drive down (near the Dead Sea) is about 1.5 hours.