TEL AVIV-JAFFA, HI TECH MEETS HISTORIC

MUCH OF the world has now been living under varying degrees of lockdown, at varying times, for more than a year. China and Sri Lanka were the first to introduce restrictions in late January 2020, with localised lockdowns in China and recommended restrictions in Sri Lanka.

Shortly afterwards, many other Asian countries introduced local recommended restrictions, but relatively few moved into full lockdown.

Europe, in contrast, saw most countries introducing restrictions in March. Italy was the first to do so, in late February, with a localised lockdown and by late March the vast majority of Europe was under full lockdown.

Israel entered full lockdown on March 11 and the UK on March 23. South America saw a similar pattern to Europe, with a number of member countries moving straight into national lockdowns with no precursory local restrictions, while North America was still with only regional lockdowns.

By April 1, 2020 more than 100 countries worldwide had instituted either a full or partial lockdown, affecting billions of people — it was as if the world had be placed on pause. Or had it?

The first wave of lockdowns was unnerving and, after the novelty of being home for a week or so had begun to wear off, the enormity of the situation started to reveal itself.

However, human beings are nothing if not resilient and ultimately adaptable, as we all started to adjust to the new ‘normal’ and look for means by which life could continue

PHOTOS: BEAUCHAMP ESTATES Sea-view bathing in historic Jaffa townhouse. Agent, Beauchamp Estates, 17,300,000 shekels (approx. £3,909,000)

Airy and light kitchen/ dining space of the Jaffa home, with characterful round windows

The Jaffa property is full of authentic Ottoman architectural details