Tel Aviv Couple Prioritize Quality of Life Over Work Amid Economic Pressures
The Tzuryali family from Tel Aviv, consisting of Mai (36), Asaf (40), and their dog Nana, share candid insights about their life before and during the ongoing war. They live in a three-room rented apartment in Tel Aviv, paying 6,700 shekels monthly, where they have resided for four years. Mai grew up in the city’s Shinkin Street area, with her father part of a large Haredi community in central Tel Aviv, while her mother has lived in Thailand for 12 years. Mai and Asaf met while working at a pizzeria on Bogroshov Street, where Asaf was a cook and Mai a waitress. After six years together, they took their first honeymoon trip to the US and planned a larger trip to India, which required significant savings and lifestyle adjustments, including cutting back on dining out for over a year.
Asaf, originally from Kibbutz Re’im, transitioned from working in kitchens to becoming a carpenter, seeking a balanced work schedule and meaningful manual labor. However, he eventually returned to cooking, now working morning shifts four days a week at a pizzeria called Brooklyn, avoiding weekend shifts to maintain quality of life. Mai emphasizes their choice to work for present enjoyment rather than future gain, prioritizing time together over financial accumulation. They manage their budget carefully, saving about 3,000 shekels monthly and hunting for deals, with Mai splitting grocery shopping between stores to save money.
Mai teaches English online across Israel and acts in children’s theater, balancing income with her passion for acting. The couple enjoys cultural outings like theater, stand-up comedy, and beach sunsets, reserving restaurant visits for special occasions. They also visit Mai’s family in Thailand, which feels like visiting relatives in a relaxed environment. Despite their love for Tel Aviv, Asaf expresses concern about Israel’s political, security, and economic challenges, noting the constant pressure they face. The couple’s story reflects a deliberate choice to live intentionally and avoid the relentless work grind, focusing on present happiness amid difficult times.
