Bahai Gardens in Akko: A Tranquil Oasis by the Mediterranean

• Helloשָׁלוֹם
  [Shalom]
• Goodbyeלְהֵיתָר
  [Lehitraot]
• Yesכֵּן
  [Ken]
• Noלא
  [Lo]
• Please/You're welcomeבבקשה
  [Bevakasha]
• Thank youתודה
  [Toda]
• Excuse me/Sorryסליחה
  [Slicha]
• How are you?איך אתה?
  [Eich Ata?]
• Fine. And you?טוב. ואתה?
  [Tov. Ve'ata?]
• Do you speak English?האם אתה מדבר אנגלית?
  [Ha'Im Ata Medaber Anglit?]
• I don't understandאני לא מבין
  [Ani Lo Mevin]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseאני רוצה לראות את התפריט, בבקשה
  [Ani Rotze La'rot Et Ha'tafrid, Bevakasha]
• I don't eat meatאני לא אוכל בשר
  [Ani Lo Ochel Basar]
• Cheers!לחיים!
  [L'chaim!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseאני רוצה לשלם, בבקשה
  [Ani Rotze Leshalem, Bevakasha]

• Help!עזור!
  [Ezor!]
• Go away!לך לך!
  [Lech Lech!]
• Call the Police!תקרא למשטרה!
  [Tkara La'mishtara!]
• Call a doctor!תקרא לרופא!
  [Tkara La'rofe!]
• I'm lostאני אבוד
  [Ani Avud]
• I'm illאני חולה
  [Ani Choleh]

• I'd like to buy...אני רוצה לקנות...
  [Ani Rotze Liknot...]
• I'm just lookingאני רק מסתכל
  [Ani Rak Mistakel]
• How much is it?כמה זה עולה?
  [Kama Ze Ole?]
• That's too expensiveזה יקר מדי
  [Ze Yikar M'od]
• Can you lower the price?אתה יכול להוריד את המחיר?
  [Ata Yachol Lehored Et Ha'machir?]

• What time is it?מה השעה?
  [Ma Ha'sha'a?]
• It's one o'clockזה שעה אחת
  [Ze Sha'a Achat]
• Half past (10)חצי (עשר)
  [Chatzi (Eser)]
• Morningבוקר
  [Boker]
• Afternoonצהריים
  [Tzohorayim]
• Eveningערב
  [Erev]
• Yesterdayאתמול
  [Etmol]
• Todayהיום
  [Hayom]
• Tomorrowמחר
  [Mahar]
• 1אחד
  [Echad]
• 2שניים
  [Shnayim]
• 3שלוש
  [Shalosh]
• 4ארבע
  [Arba]
• 5חמש
  [Chamesh]
• 6שש
  [Shesh]
• 7שבע
  [Sheva]
• 8שמונה
  [Shmoneh]
• 9תשע
  [Tisha]
• 10עשר
  [Eser]

• Where's a/the...?איפה נמצא...
  [Eifo Nimtza...]
• What's the address?מה הכתובת?
  [Ma Ha'ktovet?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?אתה יכול להראות לי (על המפה)?
  [Ata Yachol Leharaot Li (Al Ha'mapa)?]
• When's the next (bus)?מתי האוטובוס הבא?
  [Matai Ha'otobus Ha'ba?]
• A ticket (to ....)כרטיס (ל...)
  [Kartis (Le...)]

The Bahá'í Faith, founded in the mid-19th century, traces its origins to the teachings of Bahá'u'lláh, who declared in 1863 that he was the latest in a line of prophets that includes Jesus, Muhammad, and Moses. The Bahá'í community in Akko began to take shape after Bahá'u'lláh was exiled to this city in 1868, where he spent the remainder of his life. Akko's significance as a spiritual center was solidified as it became the place where Bahá'u'lláh revealed many of his writings.

Following the passing of Bahá'u'lláh in 1892, his burial site was established in a garden outside Akko's city walls. The Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh, designed with exquisite architecture, became a focal point for Bahá'í pilgrims from around the world, symbolizing the unity and peace that is central to Bahá'í teachings. The gardens surrounding the shrine were meticulously landscaped and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Throughout the 20th century, the Bahá'í community in Akko grew, with the establishment of various institutions and the expansion of their gardens. Significant milestones included the construction of the International Bahá'í Archives and the establishment of the Bahá'í World Centre in Haifa, which is just a short distance from Akko. The gardens in Akko serve as a serene retreat for both visitors and believers, embodying the principles of harmony and beauty.

Akko has a rich tapestry of cultural and religious history, having been inhabited by various civilizations, including the Crusaders, Ottomans, and British. The Bahá'í Gardens reflect the community's commitment to coexistence and tolerance, drawing visitors from diverse backgrounds who come to appreciate the peaceful ambiance. The gardens symbolize the Bahá'í belief in the oneness of humanity, fostering a space for dialogue among different faiths.

In recent years, the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko have gained international recognition, attracting tourists and pilgrims alike. The gardens are part of a larger network of Bahá'í sites that highlight the religion's commitment to peace, education, and community service. Events and programs organized by the Bahá'í community continue to promote the values of unity and social progress in the region, further enhancing Akko's reputation as a center of interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange.

The Bahai Gardens in Akko are easily accessible from various neighborhoods within the city. If you are coming from the Old City, it's a pleasant 15-minute walk along the coast. Alternatively, local buses (lines 1 and 2) run frequently and connect the Old City with the Bahai Gardens. Taxis are also available and are a quick option for those preferring not to walk.

Bahai Gardens are best explored on foot, as the area is relatively small and pedestrian-friendly. For those wishing to venture further, local buses and taxis are available. Biking is an option, but be cautious as bike lanes are limited. Consider using a bike rental service for a more immersive experience of the surrounding area.

Akko is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas, it is advisable to stay alert, especially near the bus terminals and marketplace.

In case of emergency, dial 100 for police or 101 for ambulance services. The local hospital is accessible and has an emergency department. It is recommended to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies. For non-urgent health issues, local pharmacies can assist with over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting the Bahai Gardens and avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect the sacred nature of the site; photography may be restricted in certain areas. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers; don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a friendly 'Shalom'. Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy local foods at nearby cafes; don't eat or drink inside the Gardens as it is prohibited.

To experience the Bahai Gardens like a local, visit during the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and more serene views. Engage with local tour guides who can provide insights into the history and significance of the Gardens. Don't forget to explore the nearby markets for local delicacies and crafts, enhancing your visit with authentic experiences.