1.) When is the best time to travel?

The most common question we get ordered is: “When is the best time to come?” That’s a good question. Because, even though it’s the Middle East, there are seasons here and not just heat, as many assume. Israel is green and blooming in spring. Extensive hikes and trail tours are possible. The period from the end of January to the end of April is ideal. However, it is chilly in Israel in January and February. Temperatures are in the single digits at night. Towards midday they are between 17-22 degrees.

Most visitors come in March or April, the peak travel season in Israel. However, you should bear in mind that travel and flight costs are highest around Pesach/Easter. During this period, the Red Sea (South/Eilat) and Dead Sea are good for swimming. The Sea of Galilee and the Mediterranean Sea have temperatures between 16-19 degrees.

Both air and water temperatures rise over the course of April. Spring is slowly coming to an end and with it the full bloom and lush greenery. Temperatures are between 20-27 degrees at the beginning of May. It gets hot in summer. With good planning and an early start, sightseeing tours and excursions are no problem. In addition, European temperatures are now as high as in Israel. Here it is hot but not as humid. (July-September are our most favorable months). From October onwards, the period of temperatures below 30 degrees begins. Swimming, hiking and excursions are no problem. The landscape is rather yellow-brownish from the dry summer. November is similar, a little fresher and occasionally rainy. The “rainy season” begins in mid-December.

2) Is it safe?

“Is it safe?” is a question we are also often asked. Unfortunately, the media often gives us a false impression of the security situation in Israel. Security is more important in Israel than in almost any other country. Nobody is interested in harming tourists. We avoid regions that could be unsafe and are not close to us. However, as in any country, it is important not to leave any valuables in your hotel room or car.

A good tip: In Israel, metal detectors and identity checks are part of everyday life, so avoid metal objects in your trouser pockets or have them ready to hand.

3) What should I look at?

What you would like to see! Our top travel destinations:

• Jerusalem
• Sea of Galilee
• Dead Sea
• Acre
• Masada
• Tel Aviv
• Haifa
• Negev
• Nazareth
• Gan HaShlosha
• Carmel Mountains
• Mount Tabor and of course the Gilboa Mountains

4) Israel much more than falafel and hummus.

Food, a great and exciting topic. Because Israeli cuisine is on trend. That’s why you shouldn’t just focus on hummus and falafel, but try the many small and large delicacies.
Hygiene is also important in Israel. We advise you to always eat where many locals eat.

A special feature: In Israel, kosher food is generally served: meat and dairy products are only eaten/drunk separately and at least six hours apart. Kosher animals are, for example: Cattle, sheep, goats, chickens. Pork and seafood, on the other hand, are not kosher and are less common. If you are interested in the dietary laws, here is the link: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/J%C3%BCdische_Speisegesetze

5) How much will the flight cost me?

In the low season, you can easily get to Tel Aviv (TLV) for 250 euros (open jaw flight). Some choose the even cheaper option to the south, in which case the journey time to the north is up to five hours instead of 1.5 hours from TLV. If you want to get by without a car, you should avoid landing in Tel Aviv or traveling in the country between Friday afternoon and Saturday evening. There is no public transportation at this time, neither bus nor train.

One more note: As already described in another point, security is a key issue in Israel. You should therefore be patient and understanding when you are thoroughly questioned and checked on entering and leaving the country. It is also for your own safety.

6) The matter of money

Money and vacations are always an issue. We advise our guests in Israel to withdraw money from a bank. This is no problem with credit cards and most bank cards that also work in Germany. You should ask your bank about the fees before you travel. There are several ATMs with low fees in the reception hall of the airport. One floor up you can change money at Bank Hapoalim. A sum of around 800-1000 shekels (approx. 205 euros – 256 euros / exchange rate 3.9) is advisable to start with. Please do not forget to include tips for hotels and restaurants. Often the service is not included in the price and the waiters are dependent on the “tip”.

Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, making payment far more common than in Europe.

7) Clothing and respect

Many people of different faiths live in Israel. This only works because respectful interaction is practiced and taught. In Israel, respect is also shown through the way you dress. Even when it is very hot, you should stick to the following rules.

Places such as synagogues, churches or mosques are entered with shoulders covered and with trousers or skirts that are longer than the knees. This also applies to men. The situation is different on beaches or in public places. In a synagogue, you put on a head covering, hat, cap or kippah, whereas in a church you take off your head covering.

8) Costs

Israel is not exactly a bargain country for Europeans. You pay between 1.50 and 1.65 euros for a liter of petrol, which is bearable. Food prices are a different story.
A simple lunch in a restaurant/snack bar including a drink costs from 12 euros upwards. A large coffee to go costs between 4-5 euros and pastries are available from 3 euros. A large beer can easily cost between 6.50 and 9.50 euros in a restaurant.

If you like it cheap, pick up some hummus and pita at the supermarket or a minimarket.

9) Internet and cell phone

Free Wi-Fi is available almost everywhere, including on buses and trains. At the airport in the reception hall, you can get a SIM card quite cheaply from Steimatzky (books and magazines). On the Tourist-Israel website you can rent a card before your trip, which will be given to you in the reception hall (24-hour service!), the prices are fair.

10) This should be avoided …

… take unsolicited photos and films of military, police or security areas! Under no circumstances!

… Go on hikes and tours with insufficient water and sun protection. The heat is often underestimated. On some tours, 3-5 liters of water are mandatory.

… Haggle over the price where it is not appropriate.

… In the bazaar, you want to refuse an offer in an overly friendly manner. If you don’t want something, say in a friendly but firm manner that you won’t take it. Otherwise, the other person will interpret it as indecision.