Does anyone have Bono’s phone number? If so, could they give it to Merav Ayalon because she’d like a word. Ayalon leans back, pats her dog and draws languidly on a cigarette. I’m sitting with her near the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, 400m below sea level.

Cicadas chirrup and a lustrous full Moon illuminates the cacti and baobab trees in the middle distance, making them seem like old men frozen in time. Even at 10pm on a November evening, it’s warm enough to sit out in shorts and a T-shirt. My drinking companion is wistful, and so am I, but for different reasons.

Most hotels at the Dead Sea are in a resort called Ein Bokek, near the southern end. They aren’t ultra-cool and mostly cater to coach tours and Israelis taking a few days break. There are, however, some fantastic Zimmers, B&B’s and smaller hotels around.

From rural Bed and Breakfasts, Zimmers, to international chain hotels, all are available in the Galilee. We havent been able to sleep in every hotel in the Galilee, but this selection is based on traveller reviews, coolness, and our own experiences (where we have them).

We havent been able to sleep in every hotel in the city, but this selection is based on traveller reviews, coolness, and our own experiences (where we have them).

From resort hotels, to small boutique hotels, Tel Aviv has a great range of hotels to suit all budgets, tastes, and trips.