The Pool at King David Hotel

"While the sedate furnishings in neutral shades and floral prints in the 237 rooms could use a bit of a touch-up, the hotel's setting and amenities are beyond reproach: It's just a ten-minute walk from the Old City, and the outdoor pool is huge and set within elegant, manicured gardens"

"Shaded by palm trees, the landscaped pool area and tennis courts are the most beautiful in Jerusalem"

"Its Egyptian-esque Art Deco lobby still draws gawkers, as does its lushly gardened pool area, made famous in the film “Exodus” (it’s where Paul Newman romanced Eva Marie Saint)"

"The outdoor pool is heated year-round and is linked by a channel to the hotel’s interior – just drop your robe and swim into the bright blue light — it's magical, even on a chilly winter day"

"Meals are taken in a grand ballroom or out on the patio, which overlooks a lawn and pool"

") The grounds are impressive, featuring a huge outdoor pool and a tennis court, a rarity for Israel"

"The Spa and Gym, designed according to Feng Shui principals, attracts active expats and locals with its state-of-the-art gym equipment, saunas, hammams, whirlpool, 10 treatment rooms and professional instructors"

"Lodgings range from oversized rooms with patios to presidential and royal suites with TVs concealed behind mirrors, private gyms, body guard rooms, wet bars, fax machines and whirlpool tubs"