OK, so you probably know that Haifa is the third biggest city in Haifa, famous for the coexisting lifestyle of Muslims, Jews and Christians together, it has the gorgeous Bahai Garden, what else is there? Here are five surprising things you might do not know about Haifa:
Easily find a lawyer
Looking for a lawyer in Haifa? Just take a stroll through downtown, and you’ll find one on practically every block! But why so many lawyers, you might wonder? Well, here’s the scoop: Haifa is home to the Justice Authority, led by the Supreme Court. It’s a hub for legal proceedings, making it no surprise that lawyers abound here. Need representation? Haifa’s got you covered, with professionals who know the ins and outs of the local courts and can get you there in a flash.
Now, onto something else that sets Haifa apart: the Carmelit, dubbed the shortest metro line in the world. Named after Mount Carmel, where the city sits, this charming little metro boasts just four stations. But don’t let its size fool you—it’s incredibly convenient for zipping from downtown to Upper Town, offering stunning views of the city, the Mediterranean Sea, and the port along the way.
The Best coffee
For the best coffee experience in Israel, look no further than Samy Coffee. Tucked away in a modest shop, this establishment is renowned for its exceptional coffee flavor and its message of coexistence. Founded in 1974 by Abu-Samy Faishel, it’s now run by the third generation with a passion for their craft. Their coffee is so beloved that it’s exported to Italy, the USA, and soon even more countries! With quality beans sourced from around the globe, Samy Coffee’s roasting and blending methods are a closely guarded secret passed down through the generations. When in Haifa, make sure to pay them a visit at Aatzhmahut 90 St. and don’t forget to pick up some excellent tahini and candy while you’re there.
04-851-4403 Open 07:30-19:00 every day, Friday 7:30-15:00. Closed every Saturday.
Haifa is gorgeous and trendy
Haifa has emerged as one of Israel’s trendiest destinations, with its vibrant student community from Haifa University and Technion contributing significantly to its allure. The city boasts charming bars, bustling markets, and a youthful energy that permeates places like Paris Square, where young people gather to sip coffee and soak in the atmosphere.
What sets Haifa apart is its unique blend of elements: the salty sea air mingling with the city’s topography, colorful graffiti adorning walls, picturesque ghost houses, and the lively local flea market offering street food delights. For adventurous souls like us, exploring Haifa on foot and via the metro is an absolute must. Soak up the vibes, embrace the spirit of exploration, and uncover the hidden gems that make Haifa truly special.
Love Boat
Here’s a surprising fact fresh off the press: since April 2021, Haifa has been hosting a massive cruise ship in its port, none other than the luxurious “Odyssey of the Seas.” Belonging to Royal Caribbean’s esteemed Quantum Ultra Class, this vessel is renowned as one of the world’s finest luxury boats.
Originally slated to embark on regular tours from Italy, global health crises led to a change of plans. Now, the ship’s summer schedule includes captivating cruises from Haifa to Greece and back.
Featuring numerous restaurants, swimming pools, a basketball court, a wave ski simulator, theaters, and top-notch facilities, the Odyssey of the Seas promises an unforgettable experience that might even make you wish you could stay on board indefinitely.
And here’s a unique twist: In 2021, if you were fortunate, you could have caught a glimpse of the Norwegian staff exercising or sunbathing onboard as they await vaccination clearance to disembark.