On a hot, sunny day in Tel Aviv, I like to escape into Meir Park (or “Gan Meir” as it’s called locally). 

It’s a charming public park in the centre of the city. While it’s rather compact in size, it’s a lovely and welcoming recreational spot, the perfect place to get away from Tel Aviv’s busy city life.

Tel Aviv was originally designed as a garden city, with green and shaded areas scattered between the residential streets and office buildings. 

Known for its dog park and sporting facilities, the park is always full of dog walkers and fitness enthusiasts who are into outdoor exercise. Others just go there to chill on the grass, grab a coffee or a cold drink at the park’s cafe and simply enjoy the big trees that provide much-needed shade on summer days.

My favourite thing about Gan Meir is the water lily pond – it’s the most beautiful part of this little park and a real gem.