Adventure World

Israel

A journey to Israel is an enchanting experience, offering both the past and present to travellers. With a host of ancient relics, religious contrasts, natural wonders and stunning beaches, there really is something for everyone to explore and uncover. The locals also provide additional highlights as you engage with them in the street, markets or journeying across the land.

Top Highlights

Regarded by many as the Holy Land, Israel is a remarkable, fascinating and controversial country. The history of Israel may be traced back to 2000 BC, though the earliest recorded event derives from the era of Moses (around 1300 BC) when elements of the tribes of Israel escaped to Palestine from serfdom in the eastern Nile Delta.

Although visitors are advised to check official government advice before travelling to the Palestinian National Authority Region or to Jerusalem, owing to political tension, Israel is a world-class destination which offers numerous cultural and religious attractions, spas and renowned sea resorts - all within an atmosphere that combines the very ancient with the ultra high-tech.

The Dead Sea is a very popular attraction. An inland lake lying in the lower Jordan Valley, flanked by the Judean and Moab Mountains, it has minerals and high salt content renowned worldwide for their health-giving properties. Jewish religious holidays do cause the country to fill up with pilgrims, accommodation prices to double and public transport to grind to a halt, they are usually mercifully brief.

Jerusalem: For Christians, Jerusalem is the site of the Crucifixion and Resurrection; for Jews, the site of the First and Second Temples; and for Muslims it is where Mohammed ascended to Heaven, thus making the city probably one of the holiest on earth.

The city is divided into three parts: the Old City with the Western Wall, Dome of the Rock and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre; East Jerusalem which is the Arab town and the New City with the Israeli Parliament. Also of note are Mount Scorpus, the Valleys of Kidron and Jehosaphat and the Mount of Olives.

The Dead Sea: An hour's drive from Jerusalem the Dead Sea is the lowest point on the earth at -400m below sea level. The waters are renowned for being so rich in minerals that you can float on the water and read a newspaper. Also famous is the mud which is reputably good for the complexion. Nearby is Masada, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found.

Bethlehem: The birthplace of Jesus and King David. The town's first Christian Church was dedicated on the site of the Church of the Nativity and Bethlehem remains a largely Christian community.

Fact Sheet

• Country Dialling Code: + 972
• When to Go: Climatic conditions vary considerably from region to region; In general, Israel's climate is temperate, with two seasons: the cold and rainy winter, and the hot and dry summer.
• Clothing: In early summer and autumn, natural fibre clothing is most comfortable. In summer, only pure cotton clothing is recommended. From December through March it can get quite cool, so a jacket, warm pullover and scarf may be required. A sunhat and sunscreen are recommended for the whole country throughout the year.
• Food & Water: Israeli cuisine is essentially a combination of Oriental and Western cuisine, plus an additional distinct flavour brought by the many and varied nationalities which make up the Israelis. Restaurants, bars and cafes catering for tourists usually have menus in two languages (Hebrew plus French or English).
• Things to know: 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.
• National specialities:
  • Falafel, deep fried mashed chickpeas.
  • Humus, ground chickpea dip.
  • Tahiti, sesame seed paste.
  • Shishlik, charcoal grilled meet on a skewer.
  • Kebabs, meat usually served in pita bread.
  • Gefilte fish, a traditional Jewish white fish dish.
  • Chopped liver and chicken soup.
• Currency: The national currency is the new Israeli shekel (NIS). Most Israelis talk in terms of US dollars, not shekels.
• Tipping: In general, wages are very low and tipping is therefore a way of life. We would suggest a tip for every service performed satisfactorily i.e. 10% in restaurants.
• Language: Israel's national language is Hebrew. It is the most spoken language, followed by Arabic. English is also widely spoken and you will almost always be able to find someone who understands it.
• Electricity: Israel uses 220V, 50 cycles, alternating current. Wall plugs are the round, two prong type. Bring an adapter if required as it is cheaper than buying one locally.
• Shopping Hints: To find bargains and quality items you will need time to shop around and patience to haggle. Particularly good value are ceramics, copper and brassware, woodwork, glassware, chinaware and basket-ware and jewellery.