FAQ
Do I need a Visa to visit Israel?
- U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need a visa to visit Israel - just a valid passport(valid for at least 6 months). Visitors from most European countries, Mexico, Latin America, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and many other countries also do not need visas. To check the requirements for other nationalities click on http://www.newyork.israel.org/consulate/co.frame.htm
Transportation in Israel
- Transportation tip: It is best to consult with your tour guide regarding transportation in Israel. Buses and taxis dominate the modes of transport in Israel. The largest bus company, Egged, operates all over the country, but not inside Tel-Aviv. Bus fares are quite cheap, and the service is excellent. In Jerusalem, for example, a one price bus ticket costs a little over a dollar.
Can I use American Dollars in Israel?
- Some places accept American currency, but it is best to exchange your money for Israeli shekels.
- Currency exchange information
http://www.bankisrael.gov.il/heb.shearim/
- Click here to find currency exchange rates
- Money exchange tip: Do not exchange your money in a bank! The commission charged is astronomical! The solution is to go to "Change" shops scattered around most city centers. They take no commission and equal the bank rates.
- Furthermore, don't change your money in the first place you find. Ask how much you get for your currency, then move on to the next place. Upon hearing the first quote, you will undoubtedly be offered a higher exchange rate. Continue until you know you've reached their top limit.
How to call Israel?
- To call Israel from North America, dial 011-972 and then the number in Israel (omitting the initial zero).
Calling home from Israel?
- It's easy: AT&T, MCI and Sprint all have toll-free access numbers in Israel. Ask your hotel operator how to dial directly from your room. From a public phone, check the instruction card (which will tell you to dial 012, 013 or 014 for overseas) then continue with 1 for the United States, the area code and phone number.
- International calling tip: Up until a couple of years ago, Bezek was the only telephone company exploiting its monopolistic position to the maximum. Fortunately, this has changed, and two new companies, Barak and Golden Lines have entered the market, and have drastically cut the price of international calls.
Calling Cards
- Public phones in Israel operate with calling cards purchaseable from your hotel, post office, kiosks and newsstands throughout the country.
Cell Phones
- It's easy to rent a cell-phone anywhere in Israel. Most convenient is to rent a phone when you arrive at Ben Gurion International Airport and return it upon departure (advance reservations aren't necessary). If your U.S. cell-phone is a Tri-Band model, it will work in Israel.
Internet in Israel?
- Travelers can get on the net in their hotel's Business Center, or, with your own laptop, from the comfort of your hotel room. And you'll find Internet Cafes and public Internet outlets all over Israel.
- Find an Internet cafe
Postal service in Israel?
- You can buy stamps at your hotel, at kiosks and at post offices. The Post Office will sell calling cards and will help you with money transfer.
What is the food like?
- Restaurants in Israel offer a combination of Oriental and Western cuisine, in addition to the local dishes. Some restaurants are expensive, though a high price does not necessarily mean a high standard. Table service is usual. There are many snack bars. Restaurants, bars and cafes catering to tourists usually have menus in two languages (Hebrew plus French or English). Israeli cuisine is essentially a combination of Oriental and Western cuisine, plus an additional distinct flavor brought by the many and varied nationalities which make up the Israelis.
- Dishes such as Hungarian goulash, Russian bortsch, Viennese schnitzel or German braten are found next to Middle Eastern items such as falafel, humus, tahini, shishlik, kebabs and Turkish coffee, as well as traditional Jewish dishes such as gefilte fish, chopped liver and chicken soup.
- The best places to buy food and vegetables are outdoor food markets or in Hebrew "shuk".The produce is both the cheapest and the freshest. The atmosphere in most shuks is also something to be savored.
- Kosher food: The Hebrew word kosher means food conforming to Jewish religious dietary laws. Milk, cream or cheese may not be served together with meat in the same meal. Pork and shellfish are officially prohibited, but it is possible to find them on many menus in non-kosher restaurants.
Is the fresh food and water safe?
- The water is safe to drink throughout Israel, and Israel's fresh fruits and vegetables are world-class. Bottled water is available everywhere too.
Electricity in Israel
- Israel's voltage is 220 volts, like Europe. Most luxury hotels provide hair dryers, and virtually all hotel rooms have 110/220 electric shaver sockets. Our electricity outlets usually confirm to European adapters, but hotels and electrical stores can easily supply you with the right adapter if necessary.
Do I need vaccinations?
- No vaccinations or shots are required for U.S. or Canadian visitors to Israel. (If you've visited a country prior to coming to Israel where cholera, typhoid or yellow fever is endemic, you will need a vaccination certificate.)
Where can I buy personal items like toothpaste and razors?
- Personal items can be found in various shops and stores depending on your location. In the large, urban centers one can buy items at a mall, a store, a small family-run shop, or at the hotel gift store. In the rural areas you are more likely to find personal supplies in small family-owned shops. It is best to come prepared and do most of your shopping in the cities.
Where can I find an ATM?
- There are ATM machines all over Israel, compatible with the Maestro, Cirrus, NYCE, Mastercard, VISA, American Express and other ATM machines you use at home. You insert your card, enter your PIN and receive Shekels debited to your account at the best possible rate to dollars. You can exchange money and travelers' checks at banks or at your hotel.
- Find ATM Locations
What is the Weather like in Israel?
- Israel's climate is characterized by much sunshine, with a rainy season from November to April. Regional climatic conditions vary considerably:
- hot, humid summers and mild, wet winters on the coastal plain;
- dry, warm summers and moderately cold winters, with rain and occasional light snow, in the hill regions;
- hot, dry summers and pleasant winters in the Jordan Valley; and
- semi-arid conditions, with warm to hot days and cool nights, in the south.
- Click here for the current weather in Israel
What are some sources for news in Israel?
What are some airlines that travel to Israel?
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