Jaffa: The Timeless Port City

• Helloשָׁלוֹם
  [Shalom]
• Goodbyeלְהִתְרָאוֹת
  [Lehitraot]
• Yesכֵּן
  [Ken]
• Noלֹא
  [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!
  [Lechaim!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseאני רוצה לשלם, בבקשה
  [Ani Rotze Leshalem, Bevakasha]

• Help!עזרה!
  [Ezrah!]
• Go away!לך לך!
  [Lech Lech!]
• Call the Police!קרא למשטרה!
  [Kara La'mishtara!]
• Call a doctor!קרא לרופא!
  [Kara 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 Mestakel]
• How much is it?כמה עולה זה?
  [Kama Ole Ze?]
• That's too expensiveזה יקר מדי
  [Ze Yakar Madi]
• 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'clockהשעה אחת
  [Ha'sha'a Achat]
• Half past (10)חצי (עשר)
  [Chatzi (Esre)]
• Morningבוקר
  [Boker]
• Afternoonצהריים
  [Tzohorayim]
• Eveningערב
  [Erev]
• Yesterdayאתמול
  [Etmol]
• Todayהיום
  [Hayom]
• Tomorrowמחר
  [Mahar]
• 1אחד
  [Echad]
• 2שניים
  [Shnayim]
• 3שלושה
  [Shlosha]
• 4ארבעה
  [Arba'a]
• 5חמישה
  [Chamisha]
• 6שישה
  [Shisha]
• 7שבעה
  [Sheva'a]
• 8שמונה
  [Shmoneh]
• 9תשעה
  [Tish'a]
• 10עשרה
  [Eser]

• Where's a/the...?איפה נמצא...
  [Eifo Nimtza...]
• What's the address?מה הכתובת?
  [Ma Ha'ktoovet?]
• 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 (אל...)
  [Kartis (El...)]

Jaffa, one of the world's oldest ports, boasts a history that dates back to at least 7,500 BCE. According to Greek mythology, it was founded by Japheth, son of Noah, after the biblical flood. The port city is mentioned in various ancient texts, including those from Ancient Egypt and the Hebrew Bible, highlighting its long-standing significance in regional trade and culture.

Jaffa came under Egyptian control during the New Kingdom period, around the 15th century BCE. The city is mentioned in the Amarna letters as Yapu, indicating its strategic importance to the Egyptians. Archaeological findings, such as a large scarab bearing the cartouche of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, underscore its role in the Egyptian imperial network.

Jaffa fell into the hands of the Philistines around the 12th century BCE. It later became part of the territory of the Tribe of Dan, one of the ancient Israelite tribes. The city is frequently mentioned in the Bible, notably in the stories of Jonah, who set sail from Jaffa, and King Solomon, who used Jaffa’s port to import the cedars of Lebanon for the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem.

Under Persian rule, Jaffa thrived as a major port and urban center. The arrival of Alexander the Great in the 4th century BCE marked the beginning of the Hellenistic period, during which the city was known as Joppa. This era saw the blending of Greek and local cultures, influencing its architecture, language, and daily life.

Jaffa became part of the Roman Empire in 63 BCE when Pompey the Great conquered the region. The city played a significant role during the Roman and subsequent Byzantine periods, serving as a key port for trade and military movements. Notable Roman-era structures, including an amphitheater and aqueducts, bear witness to its importance during this time.

In the 7th century CE, Jaffa was captured by the Rashidun Caliphate and became part of the Islamic world. The city changed hands several times during the Crusades, with both Christian and Muslim forces recognizing its strategic value. Fortifications from this era, including the Crusader citadel, reflect the turbulent and contested nature of the period.

Jaffa flourished under Ottoman rule from the early 16th century until World War I. It became a vibrant center of commerce and culture, with significant developments in infrastructure, including the construction of mosques, churches, and schools. The city's population grew, comprising a diverse mix of Muslims, Christians, and Jews.

Following the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Jaffa came under British control as part of the Mandate for Palestine from 1920 to 1948. The city experienced significant modernization and became a focal point for Arab-Jewish tensions. The 1948 Arab-Israeli War led to significant demographic changes, with many Arab residents fleeing or being expelled. Jaffa was subsequently incorporated into the newly established State of Israel and merged with the rapidly growing city of Tel Aviv.

Today, Jaffa is a vibrant district of Tel Aviv, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks. The Old City, with its narrow winding streets, ancient buildings, and bustling flea market, attracts tourists and locals alike. Jaffa's diverse population continues to reflect its multicultural past, making it a unique and dynamic part of modern Israel.

Jaffa is easily accessible from various parts of Israel. The nearest international airport is Ben Gurion Airport, located approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Jaffa. From the airport, you can take a taxi, which takes around 25-30 minutes to reach Jaffa. Alternatively, you can use the train service from Ben Gurion Airport to Tel Aviv HaHagana Station and then take a local bus or taxi to Jaffa. There are also regular bus services and shared taxis (sherut) operating between major cities and Jaffa.

Jaffa is well-connected by public transportation. Local buses run frequently and connect to various parts of Tel Aviv and other nearby areas. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or ordered via mobile apps. For a more local experience, consider renting a bicycle or an electric scooter, which are popular and environmentally friendly options. Walking is also a great way to explore Jaffa's narrow streets and historic sites.

The official currency in Israel is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS). Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Jaffa. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, local markets, and for tipping. ATMs are available throughout Jaffa, and many offer instructions in multiple languages. Currency exchange services can be found in banks and exchange bureaus.

Jaffa is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any tourist area, it is important to stay vigilant and take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Be cautious in the flea market area, as pickpocketing can occur. It is always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables openly.

In case of emergency, dial 100 for police assistance, 101 for medical emergencies, and 102 for fire services. There are several medical facilities and hospitals in Tel Aviv, which is very close to Jaffa. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Jaffa where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest embassy or consulate of your country.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques or churches, dress modestly and be respectful of worshippers. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Shalom' or 'Salam'. A handshake is common in business and formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Jaffa like a local, visit the Jaffa Flea Market (Shuk HaPishpeshim) where you can buy unique antiques, handicrafts, and enjoy street food. Take a stroll along the Jaffa Port, one of the oldest ports in the world, and enjoy fresh seafood at the local restaurants. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about Jaffa's history and culture. Don't miss the Jaffa Clock Tower and the narrow alleyways of Old Jaffa, which are filled with art galleries, boutiques, and historic landmarks.