Scenic hike, snorkeling & Shabbat in the Negev

We started our morning bright & early as we took a bus ride down to Eilat.  We had a challenging hike, but ended up with a spectacular view where we overlooked the Gulf of Aqaba and Eilat.  In addition, we were able to see four countries at the same time..Israel, Egypt, Jordan & Saudi Arabia.  We hiked down the mountain and put on our fins & flippers and enjoyed the beautiful fish in the the clear blue water of the sea.  We snorkeled around the reef and taking in all of natures's wonder.  We then headed back to Kibbutz Qetura to get ready for Shabbat.  We joined the Kibbutz community together in a wonderful song-filled service and then dinner all together in the Chadar Ochel.  We were pleasantly surprised to find out that the acappella group (the famous Yale Whiffenpoofs) were staying at the kibbutz for the evening in the middle of their whirlwind 9 month tour.  After enjoying dinner together as one community, one of our students (Shelby) celebrated her birthday and was serenaded by the Whiffenpoofs a birthday song.  What a wonderful evening! Shabbat Shalom!

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SNORKELING ON CORAL BEACH IN EILAT...

IST 2013 all together for Shabbat at Kibbutz Qetura