Israel Travel for First Timers

If you're visiting Israel for the first time, it's normal to feel some trepidation given unrest in the region, but from the moment you land, you'll feel reassured by myriad security measures all around you. From uniformed Israeli Defense Force members strolling Jerusalem streets to metal detectors at entertainment venues in Jaffa, expect a trouble-free trip, as most are, and for heaven's sake, don't let fear stop you from enjoying this remarkable country.

Advice on Flying to Israel

Get the full Israeli travel experience by booking with El Al, the nation's official airline, but if you live on the west coast, consider flying out of New York rather than Los Angeles because the flight will be even longer if you depart from California. "I flew El Al from L.A. and ended up traveling for a tortuous 23 hours," wrote a reporter for the Jewish Star publication.

Advice on Israeli Money

Israel's currency is the shekel. Verify exchange rates before leaving home and it's a good idea to change money at any Ben Gurion Airport bank when you arrive. Banks offer the best exchange rate. Avoid folks willing to help you exchange your money-no matter how helpful-to avoid being cheated.

Advice on Registering with US Authorities

As soon as you've caught your breath, register with the US Embassy in Tel Aviv or Consulate General in Jerusalem so the State Department knows you're in Israel should you need assistance or there's an emergency requiring officials to contact you. The Embassy is located at 71 Hayarkon Street, Tel Aviv. Jot down the general phone number--(972) (3) 519-7575--and emergency number (972) (3) 519-7551 and keep it with you.

Advice on Speaking Hebrew

English is spoken in most areas of Israel, but you won't be able to avoid interacting with Israelis if your trip includes visits to small towns. Before leaving home, practice saying todah (thank you), b'vakashah (please), slichah (excuse me), b'seder (yes/OK), medaber Anglit? (speak English?) and, importantly, Eyfo ha-sherutim? (where is the bathroom?).

General Advice on Visiting Israel

The local equivalent to the "911" emergency line in Israel is 100. Check with your mobile phone provider to make certain your plan covers calls made in Israel. If you plan to make local calls, buy a public phone card. Israel maintains the right to refuse entry to HIV/AIDS sufferers, so advise the Israeli Embassy of your state of health at the time you apply for your visa. Dress conservatively on the Sabbath (Friday sundown to Saturday sundown) and at religious sites.

Advice on Security

Prolonged questioning and searches are commonplace in Israel. Cultural sensitivity is all but absent in a country that relies on racial profiling to keep citizens safe. Gaza and West Bank crossings may be prohibited. Rocket fire is most frequent 24 miles out from the Israeli/Gaza border, thus trips to Sderot, Netivot, Ashkelon, Ashdod and Be'er Sheva can be risky, as is travel to Lebanese border towns like Sheba'a Farms, Ghajjar, Azhhziv and Nahariya.