As the world becomes busier and fast-paced, slowing down and recharging seems to be a luxury to most travelers today. Rest and relaxation are important to keep us going. If you’re looking for your next relaxing destination, Israel is the place for you.
Boasting religious landmarks and sites, diverse landscapes, hills, plains, and one of the saltiest lakes in the world, Israel is surely a destination you shouldn’t miss. Let loose and learn more about culture and living outside your comfort zone.
But, before you go on this life-changing trip, it’s best to know practical tips when visiting Israel. Traveling unprepared will counteract your goal to relax and rest. That’s why it’s important to equip yourself with knowledge about the country and things you need to remember when traveling to Israel.
Let’s find out below.
Religious holidays are Israel’s peak season
Religious holidays are a great time to visit Israel, where you can fully experience its culture with its people. However, tourist spots are more crowded during the holiday season. If you are not a fan of big crowds and want to take the time to explore Israel, it’s best to avoid booking a trip during this season. On the other hand, if your purpose is to join the holidays, keep yourself safe and hydrated when visiting tourist destinations. Make sure to bring more money as things can get more expensive during the holidays.
Bring local currency with you
If you’re visiting markets and food stalls, it’s best to carry local currency with you. You’ll find several currency exchange shops in large cities like Jerusalem, or you can exchange money in banks or ATMs. You’ll also find currency exchange booths in airports and hotels, but it’s best to avoid them unless there are no other options.
Establishments close early on Fridays
Most establishments in Israel close early on Friday to prepare for the Jewish Sabbath that starts at sundown on Fridays until sundown on Saturdays. Public transportation also closes early for the Jewish Sabbath. If you’re planning to tour around the country on a Friday, it’s best to rent a car. You’ll find major car rental companies in major cities and rent a car. Foreign tourists are allowed to drive in Israel as long as they have a valid driving license from their home country and an International Driving Permit Israel (also called International Driving License Israel). You don’t need to get a driving license in Israel if you’re only visiting for a few days or weeks.
English is widely spoken in the country
The tourists’ most common concern when visiting another country is the language barrier. How can you communicate with locals in a country whose language is different from yours? Luckily, you don’t have to worry about language barriers in Israel. English is widely spoken in the country, especially in touristy areas. Knowing a few Hebrew phrases would also help. Locals will most likely give you a wide smile if you take the time to communicate with them in Hebrew, even if they are just basic phrases.
Another thing to note is that the road signs in Israel are in Hebrew, Arabic, and English. So, if you’re planning to drive around the country, the roads are easy to navigate with these road signs.
Climate in Israel
The climate in Israel varies in regions. Expect a Mediterranean climate in northern and coastal regions and a dry climate in southern and eastern regions of Israel. Northern and coastal regions experience dry summers and rainy winters (from October to February.) If you’re visiting Israel in winter, make sure you pack rain gears and warm clothes. If you want a beach holiday any day of the year, it’s best to book a trip somewhere in the southern region of Israel. On the other hand, if you don’t want to visit during the summer and winter, you can visit the country around September and October when the climate is manageable and tourist spots are less crowded.
Pay respect to the culture in Jerusalem
Jerusalem has a solemn atmosphere around it than other big cities in Israel like Tel Aviv. Jerusalem is more conservative and religious than Tel Aviv, so it’s important to dress and act modestly when visiting the city.
Secure travel insurance
Traveling to another country may pose certain challenges and risks, so it’s important to get travel insurance. Getting travel insurance reduces the stress (especially financial stress) when traveling. It’s important to protect yourself from incurring unwanted costs. Make sure you get travel insurance that covers medical costs, theft, and loss of valuables. Car insurance is also crucial if you want to rent a car in Israel.
Food can be quite expensive
The costs of Mediterranean cuisine (even fast food) can be quite expensive in Israel. You might need to stretch your budget a bit if you want to try Mediterranean cuisine. Fortunately, the taste and satisfaction you get from eating Mediterranean food are worth the cost. Although it can be quite expensive, the food tastes wonderful! If you want to save on food costs, try Israeli street food. Another thing to consider is most restaurants only serve kosher food, meaning no pork and shellfish.
Buy passes that allow you to visit several national parks and reserves
National parks and reserves are some of the most visited destinations in Israel. You need tickets to enter these spots, but there are passes that allow you to visit a number of sites for a certain period of time. The passes save you money, so it’s best to get passes instead of buying separate tickets for each site.
Check your rental car before driving
Some rental cars in Israel have a few dents, so make sure to take pictures of the car before you hit the road. Doing this can help you avoid damage charges from the rental company. You must also check its condition to make sure you don’t experience breakdowns. Also, bring the necessary documents, such as your driver’s license and International Driving Permit.
These are just some of the important things you need to know when traveling to Israel. A trip to this small nation is a rewarding experience if you have a fantastic plan in place. Relax, unwind, and experience the fantastic culture and see the majestic destinations in Israel.
Follow itravelnet.com