On Wednesday we woke up and took the first sherut back to Tel Aviv from Nazareth. It was much easier to find our way through the Old City through when we took a moment to look at the map

Back in town, we freshened up and went to brunch at Cafe Sonya, an adorable little cafe off King George with backyard seating under trees, filled with lots of little birds flying around looking for food.

We got two orders of shakshuka, eggs poached in a tomato sauce, with Moroccan bread and salad. We also ordered mint tea and a deliciously fresh grapefruit juice.

After brunch we headed towards the shuk for some shopping and stumbled into the most adorable jewelry shop, Mango Tree.

Of course I wanted to buy everything but seeing as I had plenty of other destinations and souvenirs ahead of me I settled on a beautiful hamsa charm for a long gold necklace. The lovely ladies at the Mango Tree will create whatever your heart desires and they have plenty of inspiration in the form of already-made necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings hanging all around the shop. Maggie and I fell in love with one long necklace and decided to each get one with slight variations to fit our personal likings. 

The owner was so patient and helped pick out the perfect stones and details for each of our necklaces. 

Heading back towards Maggie’s apartment, we decided it was time for a little happy hour drink, even if we had all night to party. We settled into a wine bar across the street with a great view for people watching but before we knew it, it was time to get ready for the big masquerade. We got ready just like old times in New Orleans and then rang in the new year at a masquerade. What are the chances, right? Two girls come from New Orleans to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Tel Aviv and end up at a masquerade. Fitting. And absolutely the most fun I could have asked for.

How did you ring in the new year? Any good resolutions?