Tel Aviv one of world's top 10 beach cities

"Lonely Planet" ranks Tel Aviv's beach 7th after Rio de Janeiro and Sydney.

20 January 13 11:33, Globes' correspondent

Even when Israel's international image is not great, Tel Aviv is a focus of interest. "Lonely Planet" has included Tel Aviv as one of the world's top ten beach cities. The travel guide ranks Tel Aviv's beach in seventh place, saying that the city is the "total flipside" of Jerusalem.

"Tel Aviv is the total flipside of Jerusalem, a modern Sin City on the sea rather than an ancient Holy City on a hill. When the weather is warm Tel Avivans flock en masse to the city beaches. You’ll find young and old soaking up the Mediterranean rays, kitesurfing and knocking back and forth little rubber balls during friendly matches of matkot. The beaches are safe and clean, and there are changing rooms and freshwater showers scattered along its length. The main beaches are packed with people most days, especially on Saturdays, when the crowds descend to pick a prime spot. Get here early," Lonely Planet writes.

Tel Aviv's beach topped Dubai, Miami, and Brighton. Barcelona ranked number one, followed by Cape Town, Rio de Janeiro, Tangier, Sydney, and Valencia.

In October 2012, Lonely Planet mentioned the Negev as one of the top ten sites worth visiting in 2013. Tel Aviv has previously earned similar flattering mentions. Two years ago, it was included in the top ten hottest cities worth visiting. "Lonely Planet" cited the city's choice of entertainment ventures and unique character.

Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on January 20, 2013

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