Spend four days, consecutively, in Tel Aviv? I cannot remember the last time I did that. After all, for me and many people in the Jerusalem area, when we think of the city, we conjure up visions of a dense humidity, traffic aims and no where to park, claustrophobic high rise buildings, and a boundary lines that seems to take over other towns.

Wrong!

The problem starts with how people describe the city of Tel Aviv. They relate to it in terms that do not have that much importance to many of us outsiders. For example, Tel Aviv has been called the ‘start up capital’ of the start up nation. The first Arab-Israel start up school is to be launched near there. Flattering. Impressive. But this is not necessarily a reason to visit.

Alternatively, Tel Aviv is often referred to as possibly the most openly gay society in the world. In a region of geo-political conflict, such pluralism is a rare phenomenon and which must be treasured. But again, this is not something that advertises the cities best features for those outside that spectrum.

Yes, there is a better way to describe Tel Aviv. Simply look at its people and what they are creating.

Wednesday afternoon, I had two meetings in the heart of the city’s financial district. My young hosts were located in brand new structures, which had been carefully placed between old buildings that are protected by local by-laws. This is not just about protecting the past. This policy shows the next generation where they have come from and how they should not forget the lessons of the founders of the state.

On Thursday evening, I found a wonderful restaurant called LaSagna. Ostensibly, this sounds like another expensive way to serve up gluggy ravioli. Wrong again! I had one heck of a minestrone soup, followed by a wonderful plate of fresh paste.

The atmosphere was warm and friendly – a family business. The manager found my wife and I a quiet table, even though they were packed on an out-of-season February evening. And the talk? Yes, I deliberately listened to the conversation of others. Be it in Hebrew, English or Italian, most were discussing how they were going to get to the starting line of the Tel Aviv marathon. (This is to be held the following day.)

I too was in town for the run. But I had found myself a great location to stay in. I urge people very strongly to check out Alexander’s Hotel, relatively new and just next to the old ‘port area’. It is ideally situated for the local tourist, visitors from overseas or travelling business folk. And, it is literally a couple of minutes walk from the beach.

The hotel can be found in a quiet street. The staff appear to be locals and they go out of the way to be friendly. The décor is modern, yet relaxing. They kindly provide fruit and wine in the lobby, an unexpected treat. It was a delight to spend a couple of nights there.

As for the marathon, about 40,000 people of all backgrounds, including many from overseas, turned the streets of the Israeli metropolis into a sea of red and green tea shirts. It was a brilliant celebration of getting together, whatever you age, religion or colour. But more of that in my next blog.

For now, I just ask you to remember. Tel Aviv is open for business, to all, and its fun!.