THE ORIENT JERUSALEM
In what may sound like a scenario from a Dan Brown novel, the German Templar Society built housing and a school for its community in western Jerusalem in the late 19th century. This summer, after years of restoration, two of its buildings and a new main structure opened as the Orient Jerusalem, an opulent hotel that reflects East and West as much as past and present. Setting: In Jerusalem’s lively, upscale German Colony, a five-minute taxi ride to the edge of the Old City. It’s an even shorter walk to the bustling First Station (HaTachana) complex, a vibrant retail and restaurant haven on the site of the city’s first train depot, built in 1892. The appeal: Sumptuous, cross-cultural blend of old and new. Tapestries adorn the ceiling of the soaring lobby, next to a striking glass pavilion and traditional Jerusalem courtyard. Guest rooms’ modern interiors feature combinations of wood, glass and stone, along with earth-tone furnishings handmade by local artisans. Detailed tile work and metallic accents in bathrooms recall vintage mosaic-lined bath houses — a theme the hotel’s spa and wellness center takes a step further with its Turkish hammam. A small interactive museum allows guests to explore the Tem- plar era, while the Orient Contemporary Art Collection showcases Israeli art previously exhibited in Israel’s top museums. Soak in stunning views of the Old City from the rooftop infinity pool. Insider’s tips: Try local specialties such as eggplant kadaif in Khan, the lobby restaurant. Explore the outdoor bars and cafes in the First Station and enjoy the nightlife of Machne Yehuda Market. Good to know: The newly constructed central building hosts 203 rooms and suites, while the two preserved Templar Buildings from the 1880s house 40 even more luxurious lodgings. Foreign visitors do not pay tax on hotels. Details: Emek Refa‘im St. 3, Jerusalem. (011) 972 2-569-9090, www.isrotel.com/orient. From $460.