Central Bus Station, Jerusalem

When you arrive at the Central Bus Station, you will see a huge sculpture made by Calatrava like the picture you see above. Although it is, for many persons, an amazing piece of artwork, I, personally, do not find it at all attractive! It reminds me the “remodeled Soldier’s Field structure” in Chicago. Something very weird! Modern and old in the same place.


I was told that this represents a bridge that holds the light rail systems. The residents of Jerusalem are expecting the advent of light rail systems three years from now consequently, you see constructions everywhere you go in the city. Yafo Road is really a pain for the cars and the buses that need to transit there. Wherever you try to drive or walk, you are greeted by dust and holes.
Finally, after you arrive at the bus station, you feel better!!!


As is the case with any place you go in Israel, you need to open your purse or take out any metal that you may have in your pockets to be inspected. After few times, you just do it automatically.


Arriving nearer to the doors, you will see two different entrances: if you are carrying either a purse or a small bag, you go through the first entrance; if you have a larger bag or luggage, you need to go through the second entrance. If you are a soldier, you can enter either. Wherever you go in, you need to open your belongings and show them to the police or soldier, who will check that you are not carrying anything dangerous!!


Inside of the Central Bus Station, you will find many little restaurants and shops, with their attendant cashiers and information desks. Do not ask one of the cashiers at what time the bus leaves or what bus you need to take in order to go to your destination. It is better you go and ask the person at the information desk, unless you want to hear a “nasty answer” if the person whom you ask is not in a good mood. :)


I do not remember seeing many buses leaving "on time" from the bus station. Depending where you go, the buses leave every 10, 20 or 30 minutes. They cannot be delayed. If there is a bus that has any mechanical or technical problem, that bus is exchanged almost right away for another. WOW! That’s really reassuring! Therefore, you can actually tell at what time you will arrive at your destination!! Thus, unless, of course, something happens on the road.

See you on my next post and have a wonderful day!