Originally Posted by
M60_to_LGA
Ah, ok - that gives me a better idea of what you're asking.
East Jerusalem is definitely not where you go if you want late-night activity. It's very much a traditional Arab place. You'll probably find restaurants and hookah bars open later, but if you're looking for a place where you can stroll around at 8-9pm, pop into some shops, grab a drink or an ice cream or whatever - then stay downtown or elsewhere in West Jerusalem.
Also, keep in mind that Jerusalem could not be more different than Tel Aviv. I just got back from Israel after having not been there for several years, and I was stunned how Jerusalem has become more religious than I remembered it. It increasingly resembles a shtetl in a lot of places. It's also a lot poorer than Tel Aviv (which is related).
Its all a matter of perspective. Yes jslm is more religious than TA..and there are religious areas. There are also more cars on Shabbat, open movie theaters and restaurants ..and places like the train station which has kosher and non kosher restaurants. I have walked alone in Jerusalem late at night and early in the am..through the old city and around west Jerusalem neighborhoods and felt perfectly safe. Like any city be aware of your surroundings. As to the topic of the post you will get more value from the airbnb and get a taste of local life..4 and 5 star hotels will be very expensive for the holidays and all you will see is tourists. Enjoy your time..jerusalem at sukkot time is the best!