Israel’s coastal diamond of Eilat is the country’s most southern city, cornered into a pocket of land that neighbours Egypt and Jordan. A resort town and playground of environmental diversity, a trip here will leave you in a state of complete awe. Year round travellers are welcomed by balmy, sunny days and the impossible beauty of the Red Sea, an unusually salty body of water that abounds in coral and marine life, inviting divers and snorkelers to spend their holiday hours beneath the sea. After many hours spent in the water or strolling through the glass tunnels of the Underwater Observatory Marine Park, the city’s museum collection should be perused in all its glory. Take a break from the heat with a drink in the arctic inspired bar of Ice Space, learn the unique history of Eilat at the City Museum, or be seduced into the risque walls of the Erotic Museum. With all this adventuring a hunger is likely to strike, best satisfied with authentic falafels, the pastry sweet of baklava, and traditional Israeli breakfasts featuring grilled halloumi, hummus and eggs poached in a tomato medley known as shakshouka. From Eilat numerous day trips can be taken to sprinkle your stay with even more excitement; Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan can all be reached in under an hour by car, and the ancient wonder of Petra is well within reach. By the end of your trip you will appreciate that Eilat Israel is more than just a glitzy tourist town with magnificent beaches. Visit during Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashana or Purim and you will witness cultural festivals that sing in tune with Israel’s traditional religious heart.