Ep 7. Israel

Conan Without Borders is a travel show featuring comedian Conan O'Brien as he travels the world and immerses himself in different cultures. In season 1 episode 7, titled "Israel," Conan travels to the Middle Eastern country to explore its rich history, culture, and political landscape.

The episode begins with Conan's arrival in Israel, which he describes as a "country with a lot of history and a lot of conflict." He meets with a variety of locals, from politicians to religious leaders to everyday citizens, to get a better understanding of the country's complex identity.

One of the highlights of the episode is Conan's visit to the Western Wall, one of the holiest sites in Judaism. He dons a traditional yarmulke and prayer shawl and tries his hand at praying at the wall, but struggles with the Hebrew language. Undeterred, he jokes with the locals and observes the rituals and ceremonies taking place around him.

Conan also visits the city of Jerusalem, where he explores its ancient holy sites, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Dome of the Rock. He marvels at the history and significance of these sites, but also notes the tensions that exist between the different religious groups that call the city home.

Throughout the episode, Conan also takes time to sample some of Israel's famous cuisine. He visits a falafel stand and tries shakshuka, a popular breakfast dish consisting of eggs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce. He even learns how to make his own hummus, with the help of a local chef.

But it's not all fun and games in Israel. Conan also takes a somber tour of Yad Vashem, the country's Holocaust museum. He listens to survivor testimonies and reflects on the horrors of the genocide that took place during World War II.

The episode also touches on Israel's ongoing conflict with Palestine. Conan visits the West Bank and speaks with both Israeli settlers and Palestinian activists. He observes the stark differences between the two communities and notes the challenges of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Overall, "Israel" is a fascinating and thought-provoking episode of Conan Without Borders. Conan's trademark humor and wit are on full display, but he also takes the time to delve into the serious issues facing the country. Through his travels and conversations with locals, he provides viewers with a unique glimpse into the complex identity of Israel.