Fertile land for a budget-friendly trip
AS WELL as its luxury hotels, Netanya has plenty of accommodation to suit budget itineraries, several of them smaller, familyrun establishments. And the good news is that, unlike in some cities, one does not have to compromise on location to get the good deals.
For example, the Park Hotel, where you can often bag a double room in the winter for less than $100 (£75), is one of the closest to the beach, promenade and city square.
“We are very centrally located and have sea views from all rooms and from most of our public areas like the lobby and restaurant,” says Eric Cohen, the owner. He describes the hotel as “very cosmopolitan” — the lobby is humming with different languages.
The management is proud of the breakfast buffet and the dinners are also hearty, commonly with buffet trays of meat, chicken and many side dishes. “We have a family atmosphere,” says Cohen, adding that the hotel is a popular Shabbat destination for many Israelis and foreign tourists.
Also central is the King Koresh Hotel. The name may not mean much to you — but it is the Hebraised form of Cyrus the Great, a powerful king in the region two-and-a-half millennia ago, who made a far better impression than most rulers on the Jews.
The hotel has been operating for more than 25 years and, as a Shabbatobservant and mehadrin kosher establishment, attracts religious guests. It is popular with Israelis and tourists who want to combine a hotel stay with a simchah, as its function halls can hold up to 270 people.
Not only does Netanya offer budget accommodation, it is also possible to be out and about in the city without spending a fortune.
The Cliff Gallery is an important art showcase, with work by artists from across Israel. There are changing exhibitions of painting, sculpture and jewellery — and entrance is free. The same goes for many other, privately-owned galleries in the city.
If you are a foodie, or simply love the hustle and bustle of a Mediterranean market, spend a couple of hours at Netanya’s — a melting pot of the city residents’ diverse countries of origin. Here you can enjoy a multi-cultural food feast at low prices.
A light lunch in Netanya can also come with a light price tag. The city is home to a branch of Cofix, where each item — whether a cappuccino, sandwich, cereal, packaged pasta dish or salad — costs six shekels (about £1.30).
Some of the finest attractions in the Netanya region are in the great outdoors, mostly without entrance charges.
At the Poleg Reserve, in the south of the city, you can find some of the rarest flowers of Israel, including the Sharon iris and the lupin, while the Winter Pond Reserve, also in southern Netanya, is a rare gem.