Israeli eco tourism welcomes Central Asian portable dwelling

By Karen Chernick and Green Prophet February 18, 2011, 3:55 pm 0 Edit

If you don’t know what a yurt is, have no fear. Most people don’t (including yours truly). But yurts, with their portability, suitability for nature trips, and simple low-tech structures are highly suitable for eco-tourism – so they definitely deserve our attention. And it certainly is exciting that yurts are entering the Israeli tourism scene.
So what is a yurt? A yurt is a portable fabric covered dwelling with an underlying wooden structure that was first used by nomads in central Asia.
What do yurts have to do with Israeli eco tourism? Thanks to the Indian village at Moshav Avnei Eitan in the Galilee, plenty.
Located at the end of the Nahal El Al trail (which is a flowery, rocky, watery feast for the eyes of an eco tourist), the yurt campsite — though environmentally friendly in that is does not leave a permanent effect on the site and offers low impact housing — is a pampering version of your normal camping experience. Meaning, for all those ladies out there who are a little squeamish about spending a romantic weekend in a tent, this is the perfect compromise.
Some of the yurts (like the one pictured above) even go so far as to include jacuzzis, and all of the couple yurts include small kitchenettes, air conditioning, and other little extras. Pair that up with the beautiful scenery, the fresh outdoor breakfast that is included with a stay in the yurt, and the optional personal masseurs, and you’ve got an eco tourism option that is close to nature, but a pampering treat as well.
The site includes three small, couple sized yurts and a few larger teepees that can house large groups. So whether you’re going away on a weekend vacation with your partner or having more of an experience with the family — the Indian Village is ready for you.

(Stories from The Green Prophet appear here by agreement with its editor, Karin Kloosterman. For more Green news from the Middle East, visit The Green Prophet at greenprophet.com. Contact the Green Prophet at karin.kloosterman@gmail.com.)