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Israel Insider: 15 Things to Know Before You Go

Israel is a captivating travel destination, filled with dynamic culture, breathtaking landscapes, and legendary historic sites. From ancient Jerusalem to fast-paced Tel Aviv, a trip here offers one astounding experience after another in this storied land – whether you seek historical connections, cultural immersion, spiritual nourishment, party vibes, or the best hummus on Earth! However, to make the most of your Israeli getaway and avoid hassles, embracing some key travel insights is wise before embarking on your Middle Eastern journey.

Read on for 15 useful tips to keep top of mind when Israel-bound. Learn pointers from getting your visa to handling security, from respecting Shabbat customs to ordering sumptuous local cuisine. With handy facts around currency, clothing, tipping, connectivity and more, arrive informed, respectful and ready to revel in this vibrant country of dynamic contrasts.

1.  Check the Visa Requirements before Traveling to Israel

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Before traveling to Israel, be sure to thoroughly check the visa requirements for your nationality. Visitor visas may be required for some travelers depending on the purpose and length of stay. Certain nationalities can enter visa-free as a tourist for up to 90 days. If you plan to work, study, participate in a program, or stay longer than 90 days then additional visas or permits may be necessary. Application processes and fees can vary widely, so verify all the specifics early in your travel planning. Unexpected visa issues can derail a trip, so do your homework to understand the policies and proper documentation to enter Israel smoothly.

2. Be Prepared for Security Checks Everywhere

It’s no secret that Israel has a strong security presence with procedures that may seem unusual to visitors. At airports, hotels, famous sites, malls, tourist attractions, and transportation hubs you should expect to go through metal detectors, have bags scanned, be questioned by security personnel, etc. Multi-layered security checks are commonplace. While vigilance is warranted, don’t be alarmed. Just be prepared for frequent security screenings as you go about your travels. Have identification handy, allow extra time in your schedule, and comply fully with all checks鈥攖hey are there for safety. With some cultural awareness and patience, the prevalence of security can be managed.

3.  The Official Currency is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS)

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The official currency in Israel is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS) which is available in bills of 20, 50, 100 and 200. New Shekels come in coins of 10 and 50 agorot as well as 1, 2, 5 and 10. Many vendors and businesses accept major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard, especially in cities and popular tourist destinations.

That said, having a supply of Shekels in cash is still a good idea for smaller shops, markets, taxis etc. Banks with ATMs and licensed money changers make exchanging foreign currency pretty simple in most Israeli cities but it pays to shop around for the best exchange rate. Though credit card use continues growing, cash remains king in Israel, so be sure to get your Shekels early on.

4.  Hebrew and Arabic are the Official Languages

The languages used in Israel officially are Hebrew and Arabic. But while English is not an officially designated language, it is so extensively spoken that most travelers will get by just fine with only English. Thanks to the large waves of immigration over the years, Israeli society is generally very bilingual. In cities, tourist areas, hotels, transportation centers you can expect English speakers.

That said, venturing to rural areas and interacting with older folks may require some Hebrew or Arabic skills. Learning a few key Hebrew or Arabic travel phrases can help in terms of courtesy and cultural exchange. But overall Israel boasts one of the highest English literacy rates globally – higher than Canada, Australia and the UK – so language barriers are easily surmounted by English-only visitors.

5. Pack Accordingly for Israel鈥檚 Mediterranean Climate

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Israel enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Summer lasts from May-September with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s Fahrenheit to over 100F, low humidity and little rain. Locals often escape to higher, cooler northern elevations. Winters are November-March with average temperatures of 57-68F, more humidity and somewhat wetter weather. Spring and Fall offer ideal weather for most travelers – warm afternoons around 70-80F and cool evenings.

Packing appropriate seasonal attire is key for Israel. Breathable summer clothes, hats, sunscreen and sandals are essential for the summer heat. For winter bring warm layers, long sleeves/pants rain jacket and an umbrella. Dress in layers for spring and fall. If visiting multiple regions, pack for variances in altitude and conditions between places like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and the Negev.

6. Many Businesses and Services may be Closed during the Jewish Sabbath

In Israel, Shabbat is the weekly Jewish day of rest, lasting from Friday evening until Saturday night. Observed by a majority Jewish population, Israel鈥檚 public life, transportation schedules and business operations reflect Shabbat customs. Essentially the country shuts down – no public transit, most stores/restaurants closed, reduced healthcare staff, attractions on limited hours etc.

However, amenities remain available at Arab, Christian and luxury hotel establishments. While disruptive to a visitor鈥檚 plans initially, embracing Shabbat offers cultural insight. Enjoy festive family meals, services at a synagogue, or quiet contemplation free of commercialism. Locals celebrate Shabbat communally with cherished rituals. To adjust, review schedules in advance, respect restrictions, and appreciate this solemn yet refreshing tradition. 

7.  Israel Operates on Israel Standard Time (IST)

As a standard time zone Israel follows Israel Standard Time (IST) year round, which is two hours later than Coordinated Universal Time, making it 7 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Standard Time. Currently Israel does not observe daylight saving time, unlike Europe and the U.S. So travelers crossing time zones should be mindful of jet lag.

During a visit, setting devices and body clocks to IST prevents confusion – especially critical for activities, tours or meetings planned in advance. Having phone, computer and watch all synchronized makes navigating Israel’s unique Shabbat schedule easier as well. Regardless of when you depart from home or return there, remembering the +7 hour time difference while in Israel saves hassle.

8. Check if any Vaccinations are Required before Traveling

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Checking up on necessary or recommended vaccinations well before a trip should be top priority when planning travel to Israel. Medical services meet western standards but taking proper health precautions for this subtropical region is vital. No vaccinations are officially required except if coming from certain yellow fever prone areas in Africa or South America. However, immunization against Hepatitis A & B, tetanus, diphtheria, polio and rabies is often advised by doctors.

Prescription medicine should be kept in original packaging. Mosquito protection may seasonally be needed too. In terms of water, tap water is safe everywhere except some rural streams. Finally, when it comes to healthcare, every hospital has an emergency room open 24/7, ambulance services are quick, pharmacies stock common drugs, and most doctors speak English.

9. Israel has a Well-Developed Transportation System

Modern infrastructure makes getting around Israel efficient and accessible between cities and within metropolitan areas. Shared taxis called 鈥渟heruts鈥� offer affordable inter-city routes with convenient pick-up points. Regular taxis run on meters with initial fares around $3-5 USD. For rail transport, the national carrier Israel Railways links major destinations like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa and more via an expanding network. Urban transit consists of buses, light rail, the Carmelit underground funicular in Haifa and more.

The Dan Bus Company provides connections within Tel Aviv and surrounding towns. Most buses don鈥檛 run Friday afternoon to Saturday evening during Shabbat. Visitors can get reloadable Rav-Kav transit cards for convenience. Drivers should know that road signs feature Hebrew, Arabic and English, but sometimes only Hebrew and Arabic in disputed zones. International Driver鈥檚 Licenses or Permits are recommended for renting cars.

10.  Israeli Cuisine is Diverse and Influenced by Various Cultures.

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Dining in Israel means sampling eclectic cuisine drawing global influences both old and new – from the Mediterranean, Middle East and beyond. Local staples like hummus, falafel, sabich, shakshuka, labneh and bourekas will satisfy alongside levantine s

pecialties like mujadara or shish barak, plus unique fusion cuisine. Kosher dining, vegan fare, street food, high-end gourmet, and everything between keep visitors鈥� palates pleasantly surprised.

Be sure to try juicy citrus fruits, local wines, sweet halva, honeyed malabi pudding and strong Turkish coffee or mint tea. Tel Aviv is Israel’s culinary capital with trendy restaurants and a thriving food scene. But don’t overlook home cooking too! Sharing Shabbat or Eid meals with Israeli families offers memorable cultural exchange. Overall the diversity of Israeli food culture mirrors the diversity of this society at the crossroads of ancient civilizations and modern innovation. 

11.  Dress Modestly when Visiting Religious Sites

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When visiting Israel as a tourist, casual summer or winter attire using common sense is generally fine while sightseeing, dining, relaxing and participating in most activities. Pack breathable fabrics for hot days, modest layers for sacred spaces, formal wear for fancy dining, active wear for adventures etc. However, at religious sites like churches, mosques and the Wailing Wall, knees and shoulders should be covered. Some traditional neighborhoods frown on excessive skin exposure.

At hotels or beaches, bathing suits are fine, but cover up with shorts, dresses, sarongs in public areas. There are no absolute rules, but conservative dress demonstrating cultural awareness is most respectful. The diversity within Israeli society means expectations vary greatly in different settings. But overall, casual, modest, non-revealing clothing works for most visitors doing regular tourist activities under normal circumstances.

12.  Tipping is Customary in Israel

Showing some Israeli hospitality back to locals via tipping is encouraged for good service. At sit-down restaurants, bars, cafes and some food stalls, tips add around 10-15% of the bill or tab. Bartenders expect an extra shekel or two per drink. At hotels, a few shekels each for bellhops and housekeeping builds goodwill. Tour guides and drivers appreciate 10-15 shekels per traveler when they鈥檝e performed well.

Note that better restaurants or hotels may include service charges but small cash tips still apply. There鈥檚 some leeway with tipping, but being relatively generous shows respect. Keep small change handy to tip on the spot rather than rounding tabs using cards. Hand cash directly instead of just leaving money on tables. Following local tipping customs enhances connections during a visit.

13.  For Emergency Services while in Israel鈥�.

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Should an emergency arise in Israel, fast professional responders speaking English are only a quick call away. The national police hotline is 100. Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency medical response and blood bank service, can be summoned by dialing 101. And Israel Fire and Rescue Services reachable at 102 provide advanced life support and transport services. These hotlines connect travelers to Hebrew and Arabic speakers in central dispatch centers always staffed to deploy appropriate assets and translate.

In addition, cities have numerous well-equipped hospitals like Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Jerusalem’s Hadassah Medical Center boasting 24/7 accident and emergency care facilities. So while visiting Israel is very safe, that remote chance of needing law enforcement, medical response teams or firefighters is covered through their integrated emergency management infrastructure.

14.  To get the Best Currency Exchange rates do it at Authorized Locations

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 Shekels can be obtained from ATMs, banks or licensed currency exchange offices in Israeli cities which offer the best Shekel exchange rates over airports or hotels. Travelex has multiple Israeli branches trading major global currencies for local cash. Compare rates since they fluctuate regularly. Exchanging larger sums saves on commissions versus breaking transactions into multiple smaller exchanges.

Many exchange spots located downtown make finding these businesses fairly convenient as well. Requests for specific denominations can be accommodated too. Overall carrying some Shekels facilitates tipping, taxis, quick purchases and more even if credit cards are widely usable at Israeli businesses catering to tourists. Just be sure to exchange currency only with authorized, reputable dealers like banks or established exchanges.

15.  Prepare for Israeli Electricity

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Standard electrical current in Israel flows at 230 volts, 50 Hertz, utilizing 鈥淭ype H鈥� power outlets accepting plugs with three slender parallel prongs. Visitors plugging devices like phones, laptops, shavers etc. designed for other voltages risk frying their electronics. Using socket adapters does not resolve the underlying voltage difference either. Investing in step-down converters and plug adapters suited for Type H sockets ensures safe charging and operation. Some hotels provide universal adapters too. Dual voltage appliances like cameras and hairdryers may work with plug adapters alone by switching their settings. Checking devices鈥� voltage tolerances before Israeli travel prevents both fires and fried circuits!

From securing important documents to exchanging money, packing wisely and getting around easily, knowledge truly empowers an Israeli adventure. Making cultural considerations and well-prepared plans sets you up for smooth travels sure to build understanding. Whether discovering ancient faiths or avant-garde Tel Aviv galleries, embarking on a pilgrimage or party-hopping escapade, a journey across captivating Israel leaves visitors forever transformed. But with these travel hacks, you can now dive into this transformative experience confidently and comfortably equipped for all that awaits in this land of stunning diversity. So go discover why Israel has drawn many for millennia, why so many faiths call it holy, and why even today, it makes an unforgettable travel destination.