Israel travel advice

Daniel Saunders, from our supplier Encounters Travel, shares his Israel travel advice:
“Brush up on your political knowledge of the region, it’s complicated and a little understanding can go a long way. With so many religious sites to visit and an inherently conservative outlook, women should cover up as much as possible, so long sleeve shirts and baggy pants are recommended. Saturday is the Jewish day of rest and it starts at sunset on Friday and finishes at sunset on Saturday. This means shops will be shut and no buses will run. And learn a few words of Hebrew, it helps break the ice.”

Anthony Horrobin from our supplier, Encounters Travel:
“If you have time whilst in Tel Aviv definitely walk along the promenade to the small town of Jaffa, perched on a headland close to central Tel Aviv. The walk might take around an hour (maybe a bit less) but the contrast to Tel Aviv is immense. There’s also a small (but high-tech) underground museum in Jaffa and a great fish market to have a wander around. And don’t miss a chance to go to the Dead Sea. It’s a completely unique place and to experience the weightless feeling you get there is like nothing else. You have to try it!”

Daniel Saunders, from our supplier Encounters Travel:
“Politely ask to get your entry stamp on a separate piece of paper and not in your passport because if you plan to visit other Arab countries in the region it will prove difficult having an Israeli stamp.

Anthony Horrobin from our supplier, Encounters Travel:
“Travel light – most people will travel to different cities and stay in a number of different hotels when visiting Israel as the tourist sites are scattered throughout the country.”

Take care swimming, as the currents can be very strong in the Mediterranean. Choose a beach with lifeguards Never leave your bags unattended – the reality is that they could be blown up using a controlled explosion, as no risks are taken. Don’t go hiking off the beaten track, especially around Golan Heights, due to landmines. There will be warning signs. They mean what they say, which is to keep well away. Take care driving in Israel, as local drivers can be fairly reckless. Also, in winter, when the rain comes, the roads can be very slippy after months of arid conditions. Even though Israel is relatively small, the desert feels as if it goes on forever. Take plenty of water if you are driving or hiking. Tell someone where you are going, and if you are hiking, go with an experienced guide. Check weather forecasts as temperatures can suddenly dip, and flash floods do happen.