Though based in New York since 1980, Nili Lotan is closely connected to her Israeli roots. Lotan, a graduate of Shenkar College of Engineering and Design in Tel Aviv, regularly travels to the city on the Mediterranean, soaking up its architecture, art, top culinary scene, and, of course, the abundant sunshine. Here, she shares some of her favorite things about Tel Aviv.

FAVORITE THINGS: The beach, the Bauhaus architecture, the restaurants and the diversity of people.

MUST DO: Go to the beach!

MUST SEE: The Bauhaus tour, the old Jaffa port, and the Tel Aviv Museum of Art.

WHERE TO EAT: Toto, Abraxas North, Montefiore Hotel.

WHERE TO CHILL: Fortuna del Mar at the Marina Tel Aviv, near the yacht docks. Have a drink and relax.

BEST STREET STYLE: Rothschild Boulevard.

ON MISSING TEL AVIV: The beach!