Heading to Israel for the first time? Here are 15 things you should know to make planning your trip easier and ensure your stay in Israel is unforgettable!
1. There is more to Israel than Jerusalem.
While Jerusalem is a must for any first-time visit to Israel, don’t allocate all your time to the city and forego the rest of this marvelous country. If you are a city person, Tel Aviv is spectacular with its stunning beaches, vibrant food-scene and iconic architecture. For nature lovers, Israel contains a wide variety of landscapes, from dry deserts to roaring waterfalls to high mountains and vast seas.
2. Take the family.
Israel and Tel Aviv in particular, are very family friendly. On warm evenings expect to see whole families out for a stroll. Plan to navigate around strollers and children on bicycles on their way to get ice cream. Within Tel Aviv, every block seems to have a pocket park with swings, slides and colorful climbing structures perfect for the under 10 crowds.
3. Scooters and electric bikes rule in Tel Aviv.
With its great weather and bike-friendly boardwalk, Tel Aviv residents and visitors can be seen whizzing around the city on the colorful, convenient and fun bikes and scooters. Join the fun and be amazed by how quickly you can navigate around the city.
4. Brunch is no joke.
The residents in Tel Aviv know how to do brunch. On the weekend, all morning and into early afternoon, locals line up outside their favorite brunch spots. Sumptuous baked goods, fresh pressed juice, organic eggs, and gorgeous lattes make you forget the wait. (Benedict Café pictured below.)
5. Don’t be afraid to drive.
Renting a car and driving within Israel is a breeze. Roads are nicely maintained and well marked. Combined with a trusty GPS app like Google Maps or Israeli developed Waze, you’ll have no trouble navigating this beautiful country. Rent a small car as many streets are quite narrow and parking can be a challenge.
6. Save money and your skin at the Dead Sea.
The south end of the Dead Sea is the most developed, safest and by far the cleanest. Forego the expensive resorts and instead enjoy the gorgeous public beach just south of the high-rises. Featuring clean sand and water as well as showers, shade, and bathrooms, relax with the locals for the cost of parking. Drink a ton of water and slather on lotion once you are done in the water to avoid looking like a raisin after your afternoon of floatation. It is very important to keep your head out of the water. This will ensure that your hair does not turn to straw and most importantly you will not get the stinging water in your eyes. If you do end up with water in your eyes, rinse them immediately in the fountains along the beach.
7. Forget hailing a taxi and use an app.
If you need a ride, the best and most affordable option is using the ride app GETT. Similar to the Uber experience, you can request a ride, see available cars and drivers, watch as they approach and select to accept the fixed fare or metered fare. GETT cars are generally taxis and the drivers are friendly and knowledgeable. Also, cars tend to be clean and new.
8. Dress respectfully.
Although it may be exceedingly hot during the summer, outside of Tel Aviv and the Dead Sea areas it’s best to dress modestly. Shirts should cover your shoulders and shorts or skirts should be at least knee length. A light scarf is a great way to cover your shoulders and protect yourself from the sun.
9. Go beyond Jerusalem’s Old City.
Jerusalem has a number of captivating neighborhoods each with its own vibe. Check out the hipster restaurants in the tree-filled ex-pat and government enclave of Rehavia, admire the Bauhaus architecture of German Colony or visit Yemin Moshe with its quiet flower-filled streets and windmill.
10. Get up early.
If you plan to explore Old Town Jerusalem, it is best to visit in the early morning. This allows you to feel the history and experience the daily life of the local residents all hustling about the quarters before the masses of tourists overtake the small alleys. During the morning hours, you can appreciate the uniqueness of each quarter. Local shopkeepers roll up their doors and carefully arrange their colorful housewares, souvenirs or snacks in preparation for the day. Young children chase balls on their way to school and young adults stare at their phones as they navigate the well-worn alleys.
11. Speed through Security.
If you plan on visiting the Western Wall or Temple Mount during your visit to Jerusalem realize that you will need to pass through a security checkpoint including metal detectors. Leave your large bags, metal jewelry, and electronics behind to ensure a smooth process.
12. Check out the local markets.
Shop like the locals in the colorful and chaotic an open-air market or the Shuk. Admire the fresh produce, delectable baked goods, glistening olives and tiny storefronts selling household goods. Mahana Yahuda is the famous Shuk in Jerusalem. Enjoy a gourmet cup of coffee and pastry in the morning or grab a craft beer and listen to live music at night.
13. Get juiced.
Whenever possible stop and grab a fresh pressed juice available from small merchants along the street. If you are lucky enough to visit during pomegranate season, you can watch as they press surprisingly large amounts of gorgeous crimson juice out of each fruit into your awaiting glass.
14. Get outside and visit a National Park.
Israel has over 60 National Parks which celebrate the tumultuous and exciting history and spectacular natural beauty of the land. The Parks are well maintained, easily accessible and several can be visited within a single day.
15. Check the calendar.
Many businesses, including restaurants, will be closed on Shabbat. Additionally, there are quite a few Jewish holidays throughout the year, especially the spring and fall, that will impact business hours. For some tourists, it’s an opportune time to stroll and enjoy the Old City with fewer crowds. Regardless, check your dates and plan your activities accordingly.
Lastly…
Israel is a country that has something for everyone, whether history buff, nature lover, religious pilgrim or beach bum. Get off the beaten path and discover what makes the country special for you!
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