Just as I imagined

We have certainly had some kind of royal treatment.  In fact, we were whisked off a side door from the airport before ever exiting the walkway at the actual gate.  A guy was waiting for us from our hotel and put us in a car, driving us to customs and baggage claim.  We waited for our luggage and our hotel guide walked us to the front of a line in customs and we went right through ahead of hundreds of people.... oops....sorry people.

Then we were put in a car and driven to Jerusalem  We had a very nice driver who spoke to us about all subjects, especially the political climate of Israel and the US.  His opinion was as we expected for a native Israeli.  He stopped by Netanyahu's private residence to show us before taking us to our hotel.  Demonstrations go on daily outside his gate......very interesting for sure.

We pulled up to the Waldorf....OMGoooooooooosh!  What luxury!  It used to be the "palace hotel" as one of the oldest in Jerusalem dating back to the ottoman empire.  However, only a small portion of it is authentic and restored, the rest is brand new.  AND it's gorgeous!

We struck out for a walk this evening, short though.  We are very tired though it's evening here and we're still on Atlanta time, our jet lag is catching up.  We visited a grocery store to buy some things for Sabbath coming up.  Good new is that this whole city shuts down in honor of our Father's command.  At least they get that part right.  Tomorrow we're off to explore.

landscape of Israel, from desert to lush green

hills everywhere and Jerusalem limestone is the only bldg material allowed

the old "Palace Hotel", now the Waldorf

stairway is part of the original hotel

atrium windows open at 90 degrees for air circulation

notice the three different type windows....ode to the different empires

getting engaged.....set up below our balcony for the lucky couple

we think that is David's citadel