Jerusalem - Old City Market (Shouk)

by Sharon
(Israel)




Jerusalem is one of the most interesting cities in the world. It has a special atmosphere, and you can actually "hear" and "feel" the ancient history everywhere you go.

One of the best places to visit in Jerusalem is the old city, and in the old city definitely the Arab Market (Shouk) is the most colorful and magical place.

The Arab Market is located between Jaffa Gate and the Temple Mount. The Shouk has high arches and ceilings, and is set along narrow alleys. And did you know that a large portion of the Via Dolorosa is located inside the market?

We used to visit the market quite a lot when I was a kid. For me the market was a Luna Park. I remember us kids running in the alleys, playing hide and seek, speaking with the merchants, and looking at the huge chunks of uncooked meat hanging on hooks.

But the Arab market is more than a magical place for kids. It offers a variety of lively shops that sell everything from nuts and spices to jewelry (crucifixes, and Judaica), hookahs, and clothes, all with an oriental flavor.

It can be very tempting to buy almost everything you lay your eyes on, and the prices are so cheap. But don't rush to buy right away. Explore the market, find what you like and then bargain over the price. Do not be shy, bargaining is an acceptable and expected part of the buying process.

The Shouk is a must attraction, and shouldn't be missed.

Sharon
www.expats-moving and-relocation-guide.com

Photo of Old City Market - From Chadica




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Jerusalem - Old City Market (Shouk)

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Beware when using credit card with merchants in old city of Jerusalem
by: Anonymous

Our credit card has recently been defrauded of $220 by a merchant in the old city of Jerusalem. His shops are located near the Tower of David and one is real close to the Christian Student Center. The store names are Maraka Gifts Card and Novelty's. The other is called Tower of David Gift shop (not to be confused with the lovely Museum gift shop). The owner, his brother and father are aggressive, intimidating and robbers. Please notify me by email if you have an address and phone number for this shop. Obviously we didn't know we would run into this type of dilemma after we arrived home to our country. Be careful, safe, and try not to use credit cards in these small merchant shops since many merchants are on the street and hard to find again.
Looks Fantastic!
by: Melanie

Thank you for your family vacation idea of Jerusalem! It is a place that I have always wanted to visit. Looks like the market is a lot of fun!

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