Originally an impoverished and war-ravaged area of the city, the stunning Mamilla neighborhood now houses a $150-million pedestrian shopping mall. Often compared to Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles, this modern mall with historic roots runs straight into the Old City; in its Jerusalem stone buildings, it showcases both internationally known brands and local artisans. You’ll find plenty of authenticity just across the street in the Old City’s stalls and market, as well as cafes and restaurants that range from cheap falafel to fine dining. The nearby Independence Park contains ancient sites such as the Mamilla Pool, a Herodian reservoir constructed during the 1st century BC, and the Mamilla Cemetery, where you can see Mamluk tombs and Sufi shrines. The Mamilla neighborhood is a great place to stay if you want to be in an upscale area near the heart of the city. Many consider Jerusalem the holiest city on earth; as such, many religious Jews make their home here, and you should remember that many shops and markets are closed on Saturday in order to observe the Sabbath.