During the winter times when the beach is too cold, or the rain is coming down, "What do I do today?" can be a common question.

I sat in a circle with my friends as we contemplated this very matter

"We could eat," said one.
"We just ate," said the other.
"Let's just watch tv," said the third.
"Wait!" I chime in, "Let's go ice skating!"

"There's ice skating in Israel??" Many are astonished to hear it, as you don't usually associate the ice-and-snow sport with hot beach-y Tel Aviv. But sure enough, in North Tel Aviv in Luna Park at gate 8 lies iSkate; an indoor ice skating rink over 500 square meters big, complete with skates, lockers, helmets, snacks, and knee, elbow, and hand padding for those of us who are not so good at staying vertical on ice.

The atmosphere is lovely and inviting with many snowman and cold-themed decorations to really make you feel like you've stepped into a winter wonderland. The music is usually top 40 songs, and I found it really helped me get into the groove of skating. The rink is big enough so that you can have your own space and not feel crowded as you (I) cling to the wall and try to stay upright. The staff speaks English and is very friendly, and willing to show you some helpful pointers on how to use the skates. By the end of my skating session I had actually improved greatly, and was even straying effortlessly from my safe spot on the wall. There are always a couple professionals practicing on the ice, so for those moments when you want to sit out for a bit, it's entertaining to watch them glide around and do tricks. For those of us amused by more physical humor, there are lots of falling people as well. ;-)

A session is 76 shekels per person and lasts for an hour. A second hour can be purchased for 35 shekels, and can be used for up to a month after purchase. So if you come and decide you'd like to come back again later, this is a good investment towards a future discount. Private lessons are offered as well, for those who want to improve their skating skills.

For families who enjoy skating often, family subscriptions can be bought at a discounted price. There are two kinds of subscriptions offered; one includes equipment rental and is good for 8 sessions for the whole family, and the other, for families that own their own equipment, can be used for 10 sessions.

iSkate is also a great location for kids birthday parties! They host parties often, and offer deals for those parties of 20+ people. For 80 shekels per person (only 4 shekels more than the usual entrance fee) a party can get food included with their skating! Food options consist of pizza, hot dogs, candy, cotton candy, and various drinks and snacks.

iSkate

Location: Gate 8 on the eastern side of Luna Park, off of Ayalon North highway in Ganei HaTa'arucha

Phone: 03-6418418

Hours: Monday-Thursday: 3:00pm-10:00pm

Friday: 4:00pm-10:00pm

Saturday: 10:00am-10:00pm

English speaking: YES

But don't forget to note, the facility is only for people over the age of 6 and taller than 3'7"