Israel is a Mediterranean country with a history of religious significance dating back thousands of years.Millions of tourists visit each year to explore the ancient landmarks, enjoy the breathtaking vistas, and experience the lively culture.The guide below will help you prepare for your trip to Israel.
Step 1: Determine the best time to leave.
Israel's climate varies greatly from season to season.Summer is hot, sunny and dry, while winter is cool and rainy.The rest of the year is usually mild with on-and-off rain.While most of the time it is very safe, there are occasional periods of potentially dangerous instability and turmoil with its Middle Eastern neighbors due to the ongoing Israel-Palestinian conflict, so keep an eye on the news.
Step 2: Find out what you need to do to enter.
If your passport is due to expire within six months of your arrival in Israel, you should get a passport immediately.While citizens of most countries can enter Israel without a visa for up to 3 months, you should still check if there is any visa requirements, as Israel has some of the strictest policies in the world.Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia prohibit their citizens from entering Israel and may consider the act of doing so to be a crime.If you are a citizen of one of these countries or any other with restrictions on visiting Israel, you may experience difficulties entering, and at the very least should have the Israeli immigration official who process you stamp a blank page in your passport that can be removed.
Step 3: Do you want to explore on your own or with a tour guide?
It can be difficult to arrange tours and transportation if you're not familiar with the rest of the land.There are hundreds of agencies to choose from, and a tour guide can help you with all of that.A local guide who is proficient in Hebrew, English and possibly other languages can drive you or your group from Point A to Point B and is knowledgeable in what places they are showing off to you.
Step 4: You can plan your itinerary.
Unless you're the impulsive type of traveler, it's a good idea to have a plan of where you want to go.Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Galilee, the Negev desert, and the Dead Sea are some of the major attractions that you can't miss.
Step 5: You can choose your accommodations.
Israel has a wide range of lodging options, from five-star luxury resorts to mid-range chain hotels to Bedouin-style tent camps in the Negev desert for a truly authentic experience.Don't be afraid to ask for a better price than the initial one.
Step 6: You can book a flight.
El Al is the flagship airline of Israel and has one of the safest fleets in the world with dozens of international destinations.If you don't mind taking connecting flights, you are likely to find cheaper fares on other airlines.Most of the commercial air traffic into Israel comes in and out of Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv, so you may need to drive a distance if your final destination is elsewhere in the country.
Step 7: Invest in an international calling plan.
If you do your homework and keep in touch with friends and family, you can avoid expensive cellular roaming fees.
Step 8: Put your Hebrew on the paper.
Even though English is widely understood throughout Israel, it is important to know basic Hebrew words and phrases when interacting with locals.Russian and Arabic are widely understood in the country.
Step 9: There is a pack.
Pack a lot of modest dress and make your first priority packing for the season of your visit.There are many religious sites that require special dress codes to enter or even approach.Women should wear skirts, non open-toed shoes, and a head covering, as well as long pants, while men need to wear a headscarf.Check with your tour guide, a local, or a religious representative if you have any questions.
Step 10: In general, be prepared.
You will have a meaningful and unforgettable trip if you use common sense, pack thoughtfully, plan well in advance, and expect the unexpected.