Honest thoughts on Israel after my first visit

First time in Israel and I tried to approach it with open eyes rather than preconceptions. Tel Aviv was the base and a good one — central, manageable, and with strong food options including the best hummus I've ever had. Masada was the big set piece and fully justified the trip.

Two things worth knowing: expensive for the Middle East, which is more of a factor than some guides acknowledge. But also: very intense and fascinating culture, which I'd never read about and turned out to be a genuine pleasure. Solid first impression — I'd return.