Jaffa, one of the oldest and most fascinating cities in Israel, is filled with stories, intriguing characters, and little-known anecdotes. "Jaffa is not just an old city; it’s a living place that breathes through its people and their stories," says Catherine Said, a French-Israeli tour guide and Jaffa resident. Catherine has developed a personalized audio guide, accessible via a phone, to explore the ancient city at one's own pace. The self-guided tour in French follows a 2.5-kilometer route, unveiling the city’s history, culture, and customs through captivating stories and the characters that define it.
The tour consists of 12 stops, each represented by a character embodying the spirit of Jaffa. The stories are told in short episodes of about two to three minutes, offering a unique glimpse into life in Jaffa over the centuries. From historical figures to contemporary personalities, each tale adds a personal and human touch to the city's history.
"Each character has a story that resonates with Jaffa’s history itself. That’s what makes this city so special: it’s full of stories that go beyond the monuments," says Catherine Said.
The self-guided tour allows visitors to explore Jaffa in a unique and flexible way. "Alone, with a partner, or with your children, you can immerse yourself in the city's history without any constraints," explains the guide. Designed to be easily accessible, this tour is suitable for everyone, even for those who have never taken a traditional guided tour or who prefer to explore at their own pace. The concept is simple: after purchasing the tour, users receive a link, follow the interactive map, and let the audio guide them.
Although the city’s historical aspects are central to this extraordinary experience, the tour also incorporates elements of Jaffa’s modern culture and society. The narratives introduce a diverse range of characters, including influential rabbis, pioneering women in education, and even mysterious events linked to lesser-known places like the Andromeda residence—a site with surprising historical twists.
"This is a city that is constantly evolving, but there are personalities who have shaped its history and remain invisible to many visitors. This tour is a way to shed new light on these figures," explains Catherine Said.
The audio stories are accompanied by photos for an even more immersive experience. Additional texts are also available for each character, providing further fascinating details.
"The city is constantly changing, and I strive to keep this tour updated to reflect those changes," notes the guide. The dynamic and adaptable nature of the tour allows visitors to regularly discover new aspects of the city and its transformations, making it an experience worth repeating.
Expanding the Experience to Tel Aviv?
This concept could soon extend to Tel Aviv. A similar project is in preparation, featuring a 2.5-kilometer self-guided tour focused on 10 key figures of the White City.
"Tel Aviv also has its own characters and stories. I can’t wait to share them with visitors in a format that allows for a personal discovery," concludes Catherine Said.
Link to purchase the tour: Adamma
Caroline Haïat
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