1. Winter-Spring 2013
CROWNE MAGAZINE
CROWNE PLAZA & HOLIDAY INN HOTELS – ISRAEL
GUEST MAGAZINE www.crowneplaza-il.com

2. Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
Winter - Spring 2013 Contents Eyal Shmueli
Managing Director
Tal Shmueli
Graphic Design
Studio T
Marketing Manager
Sigal Shmueli
Marketing
Yuval Nevo
News from the Chain 13
What a Beauty 16
Presidential Aspirations 20
To 120 24
Holiday Inn: 27
An International Success Story
Gossip Girl 31
Eilat on Ice 34
A Palace of a Hotel 38 Produced & Published by:
The International Business Club: 40
You Deserve More
Israel Travel News Ltd.
Romantic Winter 42
11 Gush Etzion St.
The Restaurants of Crowne Plaza 44 Givat Shmuel 54030 ISRAEL
and Holiday Inn Tel: 972-3-5251646.
Fax: 972-3-5251605
Culture Vultures 49 office@itn.co.il
www.itn.co.il
“Wine, which 53
Gladdens the Heart” Africa Israel Hotels and
Israel Travel News Ltd. are not
Crowne Plaza & Holiday Inn 57 responsible for the contents of
Hotels in Israel any advertising appearing in this
publication.
6 Crowne Magazine

3. Dear Guests,
Ludwig van Beethoven was not just a famous composer, but also someone
with an exceptional outlook on life, and one thing he said comes to mind
every now and again: “A united force will always overcome a larger force
that is splintered.” And why am I sharing this thought with you? Since it is our
worldview at Crowne Plaza & Holiday Inn Israel Hotels.
With this perspective in mind, all the employees at each of our hotels work
Happiness is as a team, to transform your stay with us into a happy and unforgettable
experience.
just a check-in I am sure you can see the results with your own eyes. We invested large
away… sums this past year to implement large-scale renovations in our hotels in
Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and by the Dead Sea. Although particular emphasis
was placed on refurbishing our Presidential Suites and turning them into
absolute gems, we also focused on improvements in the public areas, for
your wellbeing and comfort.
Crowne Plaza Israel is a part of the international InterContinental Hotels
Group, and this is why we are so particular in preserving our uniformity
Enjoy a magical stay and the look of our hotels, in keeping with worldwide standards. Jerusalem,
Haifa, Tel Aviv, New York, or London - wherever you are - you are sure to
in Israel at the largest enjoy the same uncompromising, high-level standards, as well as personal
International Hotel quality service, at every hotel in our chain, anywhere in the world.
Chain - Crowne Plaza As members of an international hotel chain, we view service as our guiding
principle. I am certain you will find our staff members attentive to you; they
will be pleased to do their utmost to answer your needs and requests.
Please, do not hesitate to turn to us on any matter or question - before,
during, and also after your stay.
Please allow me to extend to you a personal invitation to join our Priority
Club. Membership entitles you to a myriad of discounts and benefits the
next time you stay with us. Whether you’re on the road for a night, out
of town for business or venturing off to a far away destination, we offer
extraordinary benefits that ensure you get the very most out of your travel.
All our staff members join me in thanking you for choosing us, and I wish
you and your family a happy holiday stay.
Crowne Plaza News
Free Wi-Fi at all hotels Free shuttle to the Beachfront
at Crowne Plaza City Center Tel Aviv Free shuttle to
the city center at Crowne Plaza Jerusalem
Ron Yariv,
Crowne Plaza Israel: Tel Aviv City Center Tel Aviv Jerusalem Haifa Eilat Dead Sea Holiday Inn Ashkelon General Manager
Look us up at
Contact your travel agent for more details, or call: Crowne Magazine 9
Tel: +972-3-5390808 Fax: +972-3-7602035 www.crowneplaza-il.com

4. News from the Chain
Rejuvenating. Exciting.The Crowne Plaza Israel chain continues to surprise
all the time, offering you a wealth of unforgettable experiences.
“Are You Being Served?” are accessible to hotel
Crowne Plaza Israel Hotels guests for any question
places enormous emphasis or request. They will be
on personal service for all pleased to beofassistance
their guests. As a way of with any transportation
offering guests accurate, arrangements, as well as
updated information recommendations on
on what is taking place cultural activities, shopping,
Are You Happy? We Have the Right Club for You
near each hotel, a new entertainment venues,
The Crowne Plaza Israel guest loyalty club is celebrating the first
concierge service was booking excursions and
anniversary of its discounts, benefits and special offers. Thousands
inaugurated recently at the tours and any additional
of happy members have already begun to enjoy five set benefits: a
chain’s hotels in Tel Aviv, information.
20% discount on accommodations for couples during the months
Jerusalem and Haifa. Plans
in which each of their birthdays falls, with each of the two receiving
call for it to be expanded The Internet sites of each
one additional benefit; a 15% discount on accommodations
to all the hotels in the of the participating hotels
during a couple’s wedding anniversary month; a 15% discount
chain. feature a short film in
for accommodations on a chosen month of the year (except
English, which highlights
for July, August, and on Jewish holidays); a 10% discount on food
A professional and the top sites in its city.
and beverages at the hotels’ restaurants and in the lobbies, even
efficient staff of concierges Moreover, guests can use it
when not staying at a hotel; a 10% discount on a variety of spa
is in charge of the to contact the concierges
treatments, even when not staying at a hotel.
new personal service directly, even before they
concept, and concierges arrive.
Club members are also invited to special events, such as “Happy
Morning” (a members-only breakfast and talk) and early booking.
Crowne Plaza Presents: Shuttle Service for Guests
Members receive an e-mail newsletter each month, featuring
The Crowne Plaza City Center Tel Aviv - the ideal hotel for an
information on new special offers and articles of general interest.
urban vacation in tune with the city’s rhythm. The hotel operates
a shuttle service, free of charge, to and from the seashore, so that
Club Manager Naama Shveki keeps in touch with every member,
guests can take advantage of everything Tel Aviv offers. An elegant
and deals personally with every inquiry or matter. She may be
minibus departs every two hours on the hour to the Crowne
contacted by e-mail: club@crowneplaza-il.com
Plaza Tel Aviv beachfront and back. The service begins at 10 a.m.
and runs until 10 p.m. Airport transfers are available too, for an
If you are not yet a member, joining is easy: by telephone - *3993
additional charge, when booked in advance.
from any telephone in Israel; on the Web (www.crowneplaza-il.
com), or via the front desk at each hotel in the chain. The one-
The Crowne Plaza Jerusalem also operates a shuttle service, with
time fee is NIS 200, and Crowne Plaza Israel donates half of the
two stops: the Machane Yehuda (“Shuk”) area and the Mamilla
registration proceeds to “Elem,” an association caring for the needs
Center. Shuttles depart every two hours, and guests may board
of youth at risk.
and alight freely, to enjoy all the sites along the route.
Crowne Magazine 13

5. It’s Excellent; It’s Crowne Plaza
IHG, the world’s largest hotels corporation, has chosen the Crowne
Plaza City Center Tel Aviv as one of the three leading hotels in
the European/Mediterranean Basin area, for quality of service and
level of product, for 2012. The accolade was bestowed upon the
Crowne Plaza City Center Tel Aviv, the Crowne Plaza Amsterdam
and the Crowne Plaza City Center Bruges. In addition, the Crowne
Plaza Haifa and General Manager Herzl Levy were finalists for the Business in Ashkelon Tal Feist, in keeping with
Employee Facilities Award. The Holiday Inn Ashkelon the chain’s international
“The Crowne Plaza City Center Tel Aviv, in the very heart of the served as a magnet last standards.
city’s most desirable business and shopping district, offers both year, attracting many The hotel has inaugurated
Israeli and foreign guests a hospitality and service experience based businesspeople, and the a modern business lounge
on the topmost international standards,” affirms hotel General chain has answered the too, which includes a
Manager Michael Pelsz. needs of this market spacious room with intimate
TripAdvisor has also recognized the Crowne Plaza City Center segment for a more sitting areas, PC stations and
Tel Aviv - along with the Crowne Plaza Haifa and the Holiday pleasant and efficient stay daily newspapers. A new
Inn Ashkelon - and the prestigious hotel evaluation website has by upgrading the hotel’s meeting room has been
awarded each with a “Certificate of Excellence.” Business floor. Twenty designed to accommodate
rooms on the floor were up to 12 participants, and
converted to spacious a billiard room has been
Deluxe rooms, based on a created for the enjoyment
modern design by architect of guests.
Worthwhile Investment
Crowne Plaza Israel invested NIS 60 million in upgrading its
properties this past year. The Crowne Plaza Tel Aviv, situated on
the Mediterranean shore, was graced with a new Presidential
Suite comprising a luxurious Presidential Suite floor, a family suite,
a junior suite and four deluxe suites. Five floors were renovated
and redesigned at the Crowne Plaza Jerusalem, and the Presidential
Suite, standard rooms and suites were all renovated and redesigned
at the Crowne Plaza Dead Sea.
“As part of our strategic program to position Crowne Plaza Israel
as one of Israel’s leading chains of hotels, we implemented wide-
ranging series of programs last year that are aspects of our service
strategy, which positions guest comfort at the center of things, as
well as the daily needs of both business and private guests,” explains
the chain’s General Manager Ron Yariv. “The decision to upgrade
the hotels is in keeping with the chain’s management concept,
Left to right: VP Operations & Business Development Dudu Oz; which espouses the necessity to renew and preserve the hotels at
Crowne Plaza Haifa General Manager Herzl Levy; Crowne Plaza the highest and most up-to-date level.”
Tel Aviv City Center General Manager Michael Plesz, and Crowne
Plaza Hotels Israel General Manager Ron Yariv, pictured at IHG’s Executive room in the Crowne Plaza Dead Sea
ceremonial awards gala at Dublin, Ireland’s Abbey Theatre this past
November.
14 Crowne Magazine

6. What a Beauty
Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the hottest woman of
them all? Why, Bar Refaeli, of course.This is the story of
how a small-town freckle-faced girl became the object of
desire for so many men.
Whether just returning how their grandmother radio personality at the time,
By Galit Edut
sweating after taking her dog was once selected as the took the pretty baby to a
for a walk, or in a bikini while most beautiful woman in professional photographer.
on vacation in Mykonos, the world. I have no greater She has been featured in
Bar Refaeli looks like the feeling than when my dad ads ever since then, and
girl next door. There are no looks at me and says: ‘What has played small roles on
stories in her past about a beloved daughter I have,’ TV. Her big breakthrough
addiction to drugs a la Kate or when I feel amazing love occurred when she was 15,
Moss, or Naomi Campbell- from my friends.” soon after removing the
style outbreaks of rage. braces from her teeth, when
Shutterstock
Aside from the friends that she appeared in ads for a
She is simple, accessible and love and admire her, she number of Israeli fashion
it is easy to connect to her also has more than 300,000 companies like Castro, Fox,
clean, healthy look. Perhaps followers on Twitter, who Pilpel, and won the “Model
this is the secret of her enjoy reading stories about of the Year” award.
success. “It’s a combination sun, sea and her good
of appearance, charisma, life. How wonderful is it? Bar’s first opportunity out of
intelligence and charm,” Let us remind you that Israel came two years later,
summarizes Yefe Scott Leafs, well-respected business and after that the sky was the
director of Refaeli’s agency magazine Forbes ranked her limit! She has appeared on
in the United States. as the highest-paid model in the covers of top magazines
Israel, with earnings of more around the world, modeling
That also is probably what than $5 million. glamorous lingerie for a
the editors of the men’s Victoria’s Secret campaign,
magazine Maxim thought, Beautiful Baby and being photographed for
when they chose her When she was no more the cover of Sports Illustrated.
from all the world’s most than a baby, everyone who She is the face of the perfume
beautiful women as the knew Bar Refaeli knew Escada, for which she is
hottest of all. But Refaeli is what fate had in store for believed to have received
one supermodel with her her. She was born in a one million shekels, and she
feet firmly on the ground. moshav called Olesh, to appears in advertisements
This is what she chose to Tzipi, a former model, and for global jewelry company,
say in an interview with the Rafi, a businessman. When H. Stern. And that’s not the
newspaper Israel Today: “One she was two years old, the whole story.
day, when my breasts will be family moved to the town
down to my belly button, I of Hod Hasharon, where “In the past, I only wanted
will be able to take out the her parents still live. At the to be involved in modeling;
copy of Maxim magazine age of just eight months, today, I also want to take
and show my grandchildren Shosh Atari, a well-known part in other things,” she
16 Crowne Magazine Crowne Magazine 17

7. said in an interview with too will find my own prince series of turbulent break-ups comments do not affect me;
website Mako. And what Bar on a white horse.” followed by well-covered I am not offended and do
wants, Bar usually gets - like get-togethers. Then there not feel the need to protect
developing an acting career. All Those Men were the two visits to the my mother.” Nor her father,
Her resumé states that she The prince, you ask? Well, Holy Land covered by a who was convicted last
played in the Israeli TV series if you believe the rumors, frenzied media pack, and year of maliciously causing
“Pick Up” that was broadcast Refaeli turned down Prince even a ring - engagement damage to a paparazzo that
on Channel 10and had an Harry of Britain. But let’s be ring or not. And then it was ambushed his daughter.
even bigger role in Chaim honest; we don’t need to over.
Buzaglo’s movie “Session.” worry about the cover girl. There were more scandals
When she was 19 years old Although gossip columns related to money and
Also, she took the stage she was seen in the arms link her name now and then business contracts, but,
during the Hanukkah holiday of “Baywatch” star David with famous celebrities, she above all, there was the
last December, with her Charvet, and he was followed is unattached now, although issue of her not serving in
good friends, the “What’s by millionaires Oded Kobo there are many who are the Israel Defense Forces. A
the Connection” trio, in the and Dean Stern. Then Leo willing to swear that the few days before she was due
musical “Cinderella,” where, DiCaprio came along. He story with DiCaprio is not to enter the army, a fictitious
as expected, she played the chatted her up at a party over. Time will tell. marriage to a family friend
main role. “Playing Cinderella and well, how could she was arranged. When details
is the dream of every young turn down such a handsome Never a Dull Moment of the marriage became
woman,” she said in the Hollywood star? They were Scandal or festival, that’s known, she came in for
interview. “I just hope that I an item for six years, with a how Refaeli’s life seems to some very tough criticism
be. When you are that big a in Israel. But it seems that
Bar Refaeli featured in an story, scandals stick to you. Refaeli has become Israel’s
H. Stern campaign. Already at the beginning of unofficial ambassador
her career, there were kind around the world in recent
hearts that claimed that her years, with the result that
mother Tzipi was the real the army affair has been
power behind the throne, forgotten and forgiven.
pushing her daughter
forward - mostly for good And what now? Refaeli
but also for worst - and recently launched an online
dealing with all her private lingerie sales venture she
and professional issues. promotes energetically in
interviews on the world’s
“Are people retarded? What biggest and most famous
do they want, that a 15-year- talk shows. In addition, we
old girl - Bar or any other will very probably continue
- should travel to Cuba or to see her in coming years
Zanzibar alone? Oh, really,” at all kinds of spectacular
she said in an Israel Today launches, well covered
Photo: Tom Monero
interview. “I really do come by the media, and on the
from a warm and loving covers of international
home, and I never needed glamour magazines, always
anyone’s permission to look surrounded by beautiful
for love outside the home. people. The good life.
That’s why even poisonous Indeed, why not?
18 Crowne Magazine

8. Presidential When you want to feel treated Every prestigious hotel, in pampering stall shower. Crowne Plaza Dead Sea: other pampering extras,
Aspirations
Israel and everywhere else Security services and CCTV to feel in heaven at the help make for an ideal stay.
like royalty - and if you can in the world, features a are available upon request. lowest point on Earth. The
afford it - there is only one Presidential Suite, designed Presidential Suite, on the Crowne Plaza Jerusalem
choice:The Presidential Suite to meet the needs of VIPs, Crowne Plaza City Center 12th floor and setting new The pampering Royal Suite,
and for anyone else willing Tel Aviv international standards for on the 20th floor, offers regal
to pay for the pleasure. The Presidential Suite, beauty and comfort, has hospitality in an exclusive
Crowne Plaza Tel Aviv Crowne Plaza Dead Sea These super-luxurious looking out over Tel Aviv’s been designed in shades of ambience.The salon features
accommodations are exciting urban landscape grey and blue, which blend a sitting area and a dining
quite spacious, as you can from the height of the 21st harmoniously into the sea table for 8.The commodious
well imagine, and they set floor, is a very large suite and desert landscape as seen bedroom features a king-size
new standards for design, and includes two spacious from the its large windows. bed, work area, TV area and
décor and hospitality. They bedrooms and a salon, all The elegant, modern design, elegant wood furnishings.
usually are situated on the furnished with an exclusive highlighted by high-quality The large bathroom has
upper floor of the hotel, Italian décor. Each bedroom Italian wood furniture, been outfitted with marble
rewarding guests with truly features an adjustable bed completes the picture. flooring reminiscent of the
breathtaking views. with a thick and coddling The salon offers a luxurious ambience of a prestigious
mattress to ensure the sitting area, dining table spa, and it also offers a sauna
Crowne Plaza Tel Aviv maximum in sleep comfort, for 8, work desk and an and a Jacuzzi. The salon has
A paradise of comfort and a large and pampering informal lounging area. been decorated in light
and beauty in the heart washroom. Guests are also The expansive bedroom colors that blend perfectly
of Tel Aviv. The Executive treated to a bar stocked features a king-size bed, into the landscape as seen
Presidential Suite, with alcohol and soft drinks. work desk, and large-screen from the large windows
located on the 13th Presidential Suite guests TV, while the washroom’s - the Old City, Mt. Herzl
floor and overlooking enjoy the services of a bathtub and separate stall and the Knesset building.
the Mediterranean Sea concierge 24 hours a day, shower along with all the
and its blue vistas, has and are eligible to use the
been designed to afford hotel’s Executive Lounge
prestigious hospitality on free of charge.
Crowne Plaza City Center Tel Aviv Crowne Plaza Eilat an international level. The Crowne Plaza Jerusalem
salon, featuring marble Crowne Plaza Eilat
flooring, includes a modern The Presidential Suite,
Italian-style sitting area and located on the eighth floor
home cinema system, along of the hotel, opposite the
with a dining table for 8, a amazing scenery of the Eilat
work area outfitted with lagoon and the Bay of Eilat,
computer and fax, and a features a salon with elegant
kitchenette equipped with a parquet flooring, a sitting
coffee machine, wine cooler, area furnished in leather, a
dishwasher and ceramic TV area and a dining table
sink. for 6.The separate bedroom
is especially spacious, and
The bedroom features a the washroom has been
comfortable, adjustable king- outfitted with both a Jacuzzi
size bed and large-screen bathtub and a stall shower,
TV, while the expansive along with bathrobes,
washroom offers both a slippers and other indulgent
Jacuzzi bathtub and separate extras.
20 Crowne Magazine Crowne Magazine 21

9. To 120
When you want to wish
Tips for a better
and longer life
are also essential for its anti- Thales proclaimed, and so its amazing rehabilitative
11. Throw out Your Can
Opener and Eat Fresh Food
Only.
12. A Recipe for Improving
Aging
By Kfir Akerman
aging mechanisms. DHEA An active sex life does it all -
someone a long and it is only natural that water health properties. Western
levels peak at about age 25, psychologically and physically.
prosperous life you say: “May should be highly appreciated researchers have affirmed
and then go down steadily Remain sexually active.
you live to 120.” The World down through the ages for the efficacy of a variety of
Health Organization has with age. People in their 70s, its therapeutic benefits. treatments based on ginseng.
for example, tend to have A Happy Winter
recommended a dozen tips Centenarians all over the
for Golden Agers
to help us maintain a healthier DHEA levels about 80 percent world swear by their local 8. Fenugreek: Reawakening
The Crowne Plaza Eilat
and more vital existence. lower than those of young water and claim it as the Your Vitality
adults. Eat sweet potatoes and invites all golden agers to
source of their longevity, and Chinese medicine has known
enjoy a wonderful holiday,
1. Weekday Vegetarians; yams throughout the year and scientists agree that the local about fenugreek for a very
filled with entertainment and
Weekend Carnivores celebrate into your golden water in places like these long time as a substance to
years! cultural activities, exciting
Generally, vegetarians suffer may in fact contribute to life enhance vitality, and uses it
performances, interesting
less from degenerative extension and health. One to fight listlessness, enhance
workshops, and rich culinary
diseases and various types 3. Less Salt; Longer Life quality shared in common by recovery from serious
offerings.
of cancer than meat eaters Salt is great for preserving local sources of water is their illnesses and to treat sexual
purity: no chemicals and no A program designed with
do. Estimates are that in food, a fact well known to dysfunction.
toxins. The more clean water golden agers in mind has
about one third of patients sailors, who would use it
we drink and bathe in, the been scheduled for selected
suffering from cancer the on long voyages to keep
better off we will be. dates through March 2013,
disease developed because their food from rotting.
and features a cornucopia of
of a diet lacking sufficient Unfortunately, salt does not
attractions: guided morning
quantities of plant-based preserve health. Recent 6. Orange Peel: Peels away
walks; a lecture on Kabbalistic
whole fibers. Nevertheless, research has shown that the Cholesterol
numerology; a chef ’s
it is not necessary to abstain increases in blood pressure Traditional Chinese 9. Stop Your World
workshop; a ballroom dancing
totally from meat in order levels and the prevalence medicine has always used Less plastic, please. It is
competition; social interaction
to reach longevity; limiting of many other medical orange peel to help in convenient, cheap and
games; a production by the
the intake of meat, or eating conditions are in direct digesting rich, fatty foods, available, but it also releases
“Bustan Sfaradi” Theater;
it on weekends only, are two proportion to the intake and it is a staple in many harmful chemicals. If
a Russian cabaret show,
plausible options. of excessive quantities of Chinese beef recipes. In fact, possible, use wood, glass,
and a Mongolian circus
salt. This does not mean it is more effective than all cotton or wool instead.
performance.
2. Sweet Potatoes & Yams swearing off everything the drugs on the market in
In addition, the hotel lounge,
Much more than holiday saline, but try substituting lowering cholesterol levels. 10. Your Bedroom is Your
with newspapers, hot
side dish ingredients, these vinegar, garlic, herbs, or Castle
drinks and table games, is
two powerhouse vegetables similar products. 7. An Anti-aging Plant with It is the place for reenergizing,
open to visitors. Luncheon
contain more beta-carotene a Proven 5000-year-old and since you spend roughly
4. Sprinkle Oats on Your treats include soups, pastas,
and Vitamin C than do Track Record one third of your life sleeping,
Food salads, and breads from the
carrots, more protein than Korean ginseng may be the bedroom is the most
Oat bran, the oat’s hotel’s own bakery corner.
wheat and rice, and more the world’s best-known important room in your
outer layer, offers rich The lobby piano bar will
fiber than oat bran. They medicinal herb. It is in popular house. Ideally, it should be
concentrations of soluble feature live music during the
also are rich in DHEA use to enhance energy and far away from the entrance
fiber, which help trap evening, as well as various
(dehydroepiandrosterone), strengthen immunity, and and from the street, in the
cholesterol and remove it enjoyable shows by the in-
a precursor hormone has been used medicinally quietest area of your home,
Istockphoto
quickly via the intestines. house entertainment staff.
produced by the body’s in China for more than where human traffic is
For further details and for
adrenal glands. The body uses five millennia. Ginseng is minimal. Minimalist design
booking: Tel: *3993 (from
DHEA to make androgens 5. A Liquid for Longevity worth its weight in gold in is also important, and it is
any telephone in Israel)
and estrogens, the male and “The world started from China, probably because recommended not to clutter
www.crowneplaza-il.com
female sex hormones, which water,” the Greek Philosopher the Chinese attribute to it with a TV set or computer.
24 Crowne Magazine Crowne Magazine 25

10. Holiday Inn: With 3413 properties
and more than 100 million
overnights annually,
an International
Holiday Inn is
one of the world’s
largest chains
of hotels.
Success Story
It all began when Kemmons Memphis, on 1 August 1952. four additional hotels on the
Wilson set out on a road The name was suggested by road leading to Memphis.The
trip with his family, from his architect, Eddie Bluestein, chain expanded dramatically
Memphis, Tennessee, to as a joke, in reference to the in 1957 by signing franchise
Washington D.C., and he Bing Crosby/Fred Astaire agreements with properties
found the roadside motels movie. all across the United States,
he encountered to be together with a policy of
The initial hotel was a
unacceptable. He decided strict adherence to uniform
success, and Wilson hooked
to take matters in hand, and standards of cleanliness,
up with investor Wallace
he opened his first hotel in service and access to main
Johnson in order to develop
Crowne Magazine 27

11. transportation arteries. It been placed were published Holiday Inn Ashkelon -
took no more than two on Facebook, and people a Local Vacation with an International Feel
years for the 100th hotel to using the social media to It begins with the location: just a 40-minute drive from Tel Aviv.
bear the Holiday Inn logo; leave messages about the The hotel is perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean
by 1960, it had become an competition were eligible to Sea, the promenade and the marina, and thanks to its brilliant
international brand; and in win some wonderful prizes, architectural design, unique views of the sea can be had from
1972, when Wilson was from one-night stays at a every one of its spacious guest rooms, which can sleep a family
chosen as Time magazine’s specific hotel, to weeklong with two children, easily.
Man of the Year, more than family holidays at any
1400 hotels all over the Holiday Inn destination. Everything is in place for an ideal vacation: lawns; a large swimming
world had become part pool; a nearby beach; a spa and fitness room; children’s and youth
of the chain. Nowadays, The Green Transformation club; an abundance of all types of food that kids also love, and a
Holiday Inn is part of IHG, All Holiday Inn properties all variety of attractions in the vicinity.
the world’s largest hotel over the world underwent
chain, with more than 4600 an international revolution As a member of the international Holiday Inn chain, the Holiday
properties. not long ago, and new Inn Ashkelon was rebranded not long ago, in keeping with the
parameters included a chain’s worldwide revolution. Many areas of the hotel have
Happy Birthday renewed emphasis on been upgraded, based on the chain’s strict new standards - the
To mark the celebration uniform standards. As a business lounge, guest rooms, lobby and dining room, as well as
of its 60th anniversary, result, Holiday Inn hotels the external grounds.
the Holiday Inn chain hid now bear a similar look:
$50,000 in diamonds in logo; lighting; furniture; music
hotel rooms selected at in public areas; renovated
random, and guests staying guest rooms outfitted and
at Holiday Inn properties adapted to the international
in the U.K., Spain, Germany, chain’s stringent demands.
France, Belgium, Holland, That is why guests, no
Turkey and Russia won the matter which Holiday Inn
right to discover diamonds hotel they visit, in Vienna,
weighing two carats and San Francisco or Ashkelon,
more under their pillows. feel they have returned to
Clues and riddles as to the very same home.
where the diamonds had
28 Crowne Magazine

12. Happiness, with a capital J
Kim Kardashian
Kylie Minogue Britney Spears
Rounding Out Kate Winslet
By Natalie Silver
After having denied they’re
an item, claimed they were
no more than friends, and
were inseparable, Kim
Kardashian and Kanye
West are expecting. West
broke the news at one
of his concerts, when he
yelled out to the crowd
to congratulate his “baby
mom” and brought Kim
out on stage. Could be
that Penelope and Mason,
the two young scions of
Third Time’s a Charm
the Kardashian clan, put
British actress Kate Winslet (37), tied the knot for the third time,
her in the right mood.
and the groom was Ned Rocknroll, her partner these past 18
months. It took place in New York, at a private, unannounced
ceremony, with only a few close friends in attendance, along
with Winslet’s two children from her two previous marriages.
And who gave her away? Close friend Leonardo DiCaprio, her Oops. Did it Again
“Titanic” co-star. Singer Britney Spears just
finished shooting “X-Factor”
with Simon Cowell, where
Gossip Girl
she served as a judge on
the panel, only to start
something new… with
rumors flying that the father
of her eldest son was not
the man who had been her
partner and husband when
The Heir Adi Ezra
the child was born, but his
Adi Ezra, a charming and
brother, with whom she
rich businessman, can add
had been carrying on at the
Crowne Plaza Jerusalem invites you Angelina Jolie
one more feather to his
cap - boyfriend to Israeli
same time. Confused? So are
we. By the way, according to
to enjoy top class hospitality and a Getting Tattooed
supermodel Bar Refaeli.
reports, life in general is not
Quite an accomplishment,
magnificent view to one of the world's Angelina Jolie was married
some time ago to Billy
filling the very large shoes of
smiling down on Spears. Not
only is it uncertain that she
most prized metropolitan jewels. Bob Thornton, and they
her ex, Leonardo DiCaprio.
will continue with X-Factor
even made twin tattoos. for another season, she may
Free shuttle to the city center She plans to repeat it with also begin the new year
current husband and long- without her partner Jason
at Crowne Plaza Jerusalem time partner Brad Pitt: a Trawick, who has been heard
tattooed ring immortalizing talking about separation.
Crowne Plaza Israel: Tel Aviv City Center Tel Aviv Jerusalem Haifa Eilat Dead Sea Holiday Inn Ashkelon their love.
Look us up at
Contact your travel agent for more details, or call: Crowne Magazine 31
Tel: +972-3-5390808 Fax: +972-3-7602035 www.crowneplaza-il.com

13. Miley Cyrus
Jessica Simpson Jennifer Aniston
Expecting Again Having Fun
Only seven months have At the same time her ex
passed since actress/singer was planning a wedding with
Jessica Simpson gave birth to another woman, Jennifer
her first daughter, Maxwell Aniston (43) packed up her
Drew Johnson, and she is fiancé, actor Justin Theroux,
already tweeting photos of to spend some warm quality
Tom Cruise
herself in early pregnancy time together this Christmas
- bare midriff and without and New Year in Mexico.
Going Wild
make-up - to the whole
Actor Tom Cruise (50) must really like being single. It’s a fact: he has
world.
been spotted enjoying himself at all types of events and clubs, and
on dates, and one report speaks of a new girlfriend by the name of
Cynthia George. They have been seen together on the streets of
New York and at a city nightclub, where they danced together wildly
and sensually. Wonder whether ex Katie Holmes knows about any
of this.
Rihanna Baby Boom
“Homeland” star, actress
Claire Danes (33), and her
partner, the actor Hugh
Dancy, have received the
ideal New Year’s present.
Danes gave birth to their
first child, Cyril Michael
Christopher, just before
Christmas, and the parents
have been seen strolling
with the new addition
Comeback to their family along the Matthew McConaughey
It seems that she is incapable streets of Manhattan,
dressed for winter from Third on the List
of learning from her mistakes,
top to toe. Mazal Tov to actor Matthew
or maybe it’s just that love is
McConaughey and wife
too fierce and strong. There
Camila Alves. The parents
are no other ways to explain
of Levi (4) and Vida (2)
Rihanna’s tete-a-tete trysts
have announced the birth
with Chris Brown. The two
this past September of their
were seen closer than ever
third child, Livingstone Elvis.
this Christmas as they took in
a Los Angeles Lakers game.
Claire Danes
32 Crowne Magazine Crowne Magazine 33

14. Eilat on Ice
Close your eyes for a moment and imagine an ice cool
holiday in Eilat, Israel’s eternal summer destination:
an Olympic-size ice-skating rink complemented by an
By Meirav Levi Deyamant
igloo, covered amusement park for the children, seven-
dimension movie theater, a gallery featuring Oriental
works of art and - if this weren’t enough - a huge
shopping compound. Now open your eyes and go visit the
Ice Park & Mall, the city’s new entertainment, fun and
attractions center, the only one of its kind in Israel and
the entire Middle East.There’s something original and
exciting in Eilat; no wonder Dubai is showing interest!
It’s quite out of the ordinary, family and every budget.
developing an ice skating rink Well-designed shops selling
in the hottest city in Israel. brand-name fashion, toy
Introducing the Ice Park & stores, food counters, shoe
Mall, a cool and sparkling shops, and even opticians can
gem of an attraction in the be found, along with chains
heart of the desert. offering goods at appealingly
discounted prices. And this is
The ideal combination of aside from all the enjoyable
entertainment, attractions and entertaining attractions,
and shopping draws people guaranteed not to leave you
of all ages to the new indifferent.
rink and mall, a unique
architectural masterpiece. The 18,000 m² Olympic- the Ice Rink & Mall will The seven-dimension movie handicrafts, and Oriental Future plans call for the park
size ice skating rink, situated bring this image to life for theater, which works on all taste delights. It’s a great place to be open evenings as well,
There’s no missing the in the compound’s center, both adults and children. the bodily senses, has been to spend a few hours. with pubs, and clubs that will
immense landmark dome of is the perfect place to fulfill Babylon Park, yet another designed for people of every “Eilat is crying out for new remain open until the wee
the mall, which offers a mix an ice skating fantasy. Mall fun area, is Israel’s largest age. A movie is screened in attractions,” explains Haim hours. So if you happen to
of the joy of shopping and visitors are invited to enjoy covered and air-conditioned 3-D, to the accompaniment Accad-Cohen, general be in Eilat, don’t miss Israel’s
the attractions themselves, a professional ice skating amusement park, covering of moving seats, winds manager of the Ice Park & most talked-about attraction
some of which cannot be show every day at a set about 1200 m², with 100 of blowing, the senses of flying Mall. “Our compound offers a - a fun experience from
seen anywhere else in the time, performed by a 16- the world’s most innovative and falling, spraying water, complex of attractions never another dimension.
country. There are 150 man skating ensemble that game machines, simulators, aromas, and many surprises. before seen in our region,
shops and stalls on the was brought especially to amusement park rides, a Adults are sure to have fun at all under a single roof, in this Special benefit for Crowne
premises. The main shopping Eilat from abroad. huge maze and a range of the Ice Park & Mall’s Oriental amazing building.” And when Plaza Eilat guests: 50%
boulevard, with more than new bumper cars. A games Art Gallery - 49 small shops Haim, a veteran hotelier, discount on ice skating,
10,000 m² of commercial Another Snow Attraction area for very young children that invite you to enter a speaks of his new “baby,” his valid to mid March 2013.
space, is the longest in Israel, If you have fond memories features especially innovative world of ethnic culture and eyes gleam, and no wonder.
offering a variety of shopping of snowflake crystal balls, activities. art.Take in the rich mixture of Such attractions do not open
options suitable for the entire the Igloo attraction at aromas, tastes, spices, jewelry, up in Eilat every day.
34 Crowne Magazine Crowne Magazine 35

15. Warm Eilat Winter: Enjoying the Best of All Worlds
Winter never stays long while adults are sure to
in Eilat - if at all, and the take pleasure in the evening
winter weather in Israel’s shows staged by the in-
southernmost city is just house entertainment team.
perfect for a relaxing and The food is delicious and
tranquil hotel vacation varied, the fitness room
enhanced by all the features the latest in
attractions outside. workout equipment, the
pool is wonderful, and
The Crowne Plaza Eilat Internet connectivity is free
is situated in a wonderful of charge.
location - on the promenade,
opposite the magnificent An hour-long massage at
lagoon landscape, and a the hotel’s Prana Spa will
short walk away from the Ice complete your enjoyable
Park & Mall and all of Eilat’s holiday experience. The
other attractions. The hotel, professional staff will show
with 266 spacious rooms, is you the spa’s rich menu of
especially suited for family treatments, carried out in
holidays, and two children coddling rooms. The hotel
can be accommodated in staff will be pleased to offer
their parents’ room. The wholehearted personal,
Freckles Club, designed professional service and will
for children, offers a wide direct you to all the tourist
range of exciting activities, attractions and touring
workshops, and movies, routes in and around Eilat.
36 Crowne Magazine

16. A Palace of a Hotel
Nature is the star player reaches a small nature
at the hotel, located in reserve where rare horsetail
the “Land of Streams.” plants bloom.
The blue of the sky, the
trickling water and greenery The open spaces of the
all around, serve as the hotel enable children to
ideal background for the wander freely throughout
Emir Faour, the Ottoman ruler of the Northern Hula Valley and the hotel’s rooms. Some of the the property, and even visit
Golan Heights, owned a magnificent winter palace with views to accommodation units are the petting zoo adjacent
the snow-covered Golan Hills and Mt. Hermon. Many years passed, situated along a tributary to Nahal Dan. A sports
of Nahal (river) Koren; the complex also is located
and its frame served as the basis for the development of the Hagoshrim snow-covered Golan Hills there with two swimming
Kibbutz & Resort Hotel, one of Israel’s most pastoral properties. and Mt. Hermon are visible pools - one heated and
from others, while the covered, the other outdoors
Naphtali Hills plateau and - a well-equipped fitness
the Hula Valley can be seen room, sauna, and a spa
from some of the rooms. compound offering a menu
of diverse treatments.
Small streams and
picturesque brooks traverse A number of Israel’s loveliest
the grounds of the hotel tourism sites are just a short Nature in Room Service
and the kibbutz on which drive from the hotel - Lake The Hagoshrim Hotel
it stands, enhancing the Hula, Mt. Hermon, and the features 206 rooms
ambience of this enchanting Banias Nature Reserve - separated into three wings.
natural gem. Just step out and x-treme aficionados will The Country wing comprises
of your room and you enjoy a variety of activities one-storey rustic country
will be in the “Valley of in the area, including jeep units for the most part; the
the Disappearing River,” tours, ATVs and cycling Classic wing consists of well-
where you can set out on a routes, as well as kayak equipped, pampering hotel
circular pastoral hiking tour rafting (where guests receive rooms; the new Boutique
suitable for the entire family, a set discount). wing is for adults only and
which follows the route includes amazingly designed
of Nahal Koren, passing “Muse in Nature” programs spacious romantic rooms.
among bulrushes and poplar take place weekends at Guests in this wing enjoy
trees, through magical the hotel throughout the free access to the upgraded
waterfalls and along small year, with the added value business lounge featuring
wooden bridges. A turbine of activities, workshops, unhampered vistas from its
to generate electricity and lectures and tours of local windows, as well as a free
an early flourmill stand sites, all at no extra charge. open buffet, quality coffee,
alongside the path, which magazines, newspapers and
a pleasant atmosphere.
Special offer for our
readers: 10% reduction on
room rate and 2 glasses of
wine, when booking dinner
for two.
38 Crowne Magazine Crowne Magazine 39