GENERAL INFORMATION
CLIMATE
Israel enjoys dry, warm, sunny summers (April-October) and generally mild winters (November-March)
with pleasant breezes cooling the hilly regions such as Jerusalem and Safed. The Dead Sea and Eilat have virtually, warm, sunny weather all year round.
WHAT TO PACK
During the summer months, lightweight informal clothing is required and in the evenings perhaps a sweater or jacket. During the winter months, heavier clothing is required and in the evenings a heavy jacket or coat. Eilat’s climate is desert like with hot days and cooler nights.
SHOPPING
Most shops are open daily Sunday – Thursday from 9am to 7pm although some close for a midday break between 1pm and 4pm but department stores, restaurants and many tourist shops stay open all day. On Fridays and before Jewish holidays, shops are only open until 1pm.
BANKS
Banking hours are 8.30am-12pm and 4pm-5.30pm. Banks are usually closed Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons and all day Saturday.
CURRENCY
The Israel currency is known as the Shekel. Sterling or Dollars are widely accepted throughout the country as well as all leading credit cards.
ELECTRICITY
220 volts AC, 50 cycles. An adaptor is required, usually 3-pronged.
TIPPING
A 10% tip is the norm for restaurants. It is customary and appreciated to tip guides, drivers and hotel staff. (Tipping in US dollars is always appreciated).
LANGUAGE
Hebrew is the main language of Israel. However, English is widely spoken.
PASSPORTS
A full 10 year passport with at least 6 months validity remaining from the date of return is required for Israel for all British, EU and EEA nationals and a visa is not generally required.
LOCAL CUSTOMS
When visiting holy sights, such as synagogues and mosques, you may be required to observe customs by covering your head, shoulders and legs.
TELEPHONES
Most public telephones are operated by phone cards which can be bought from post offices and some convenience stores.
HOTEL GRADINGS
There is no official grading system in Israel. In order to give some guidance, we have used our own grading system based on personal inspection of hotel facilities.
SWIMMING POOLS
Hotel swimming pools are usually open from April – October (Eilat all year round). Please check when booking.
ORGANISED TOURS
Organised tours are a relaxing and informative way of seeing the best of Israel in a short time. All tours are in air-conditioned coaches, accompanied by experienced, licensed and multi-lingual guides.
OUR REPRESENTATIVES IN ISRAEL
Our representatives in Israel are available to assist you and will be able to offer advice and help with any concerns that you may have during your stay.
