Jerusalem, Israel - Jan. 6, 2022 -The sun came out, the dark grey clouds cleared and the sky turned bright blue over Jerusalem, Israel, as the first week of January 2022 was nearing an end and the month of Shevat began.

Reports gleaned from Israel's Central Bureau of Statistics ranked Jerusalem last in quality of life out of the country’s 16 largest cities. Out of 51 indices available for Jerusalem, 33 indices were considered poorer than the national average according to the report.

Jerusalem fared poorer than the national average in the long-term unemployment rate. Yes, in Jerusalem the economy is extremely dependent on tourism. The closings of the borders in the past year have cut the number of tourists from millions to a few thousand of those able to enter Israel. Hotels and restaurants are just two of the industries hit hard with the closures. Small businesses dependant on visitors also struggled to stay open the past two years.

Satisfaction with living space and with the economic situation indeed are serious concerns. Construction and building make travel in Jerusalem difficult with roads changing and closing. 

However, with the sun shining BJL went from Mamilla Mall to Safra Municipal Square and along Jaffa Road. In Mamilla Mall the signs were for end-of-season sales, and to wear a mask and have green passes ready to enter stores. People were shopping and eating, inside and outside area. When one store closes, another opens in the vacated rental space. 

By Jaffa Gate, once again today, without the tourists, many more birds than people filled the plaza area. 

At Safra Square, a new art exhibit is on display posted on the pillars around the plaza area. Thirteen illustrators were asked to do designs on the 39 melchos of Shabbos. The colorful and clever posters of "Get to Work" were curated by Dov Abramson. 

Along Jaffa Road and Ben Yehudah Mall people were out enjoying the relief from winter weather, walking, sitting and eating, and talking. 

Buildings are rising and changing the Jerusalem skyline. Hopefully, with the opening of the skies, all those who want to travel will be able to come and see Jerusalem for themselves. Meanwhile, the photo essay includes scenes mentioned above to enjoy from afar.