Welcome to Israel 😊
Israel is a country in the Middle East, bordered by Lebanon to the north, Syria to the northeast, Jordan to the east, and Egypt to the southwest. Despite its small size, Israel is home to a rich history and culture, with some of the world's most significant religious sites located in Jerusalem and the surrounding area.
Quick Facts About Israel
- Currency: Israeli shekel
- Population: 9.3 million
- Languages: Hebrew,Arabic
Money and Finances
The currency in Israel is the Israeli new shekel (ILS). Coins come in denominations of 10 agorot, 50 agorot, 1 shekel, 2 shekels, 5 shekels, and 10 shekels. Notes come in denominations of 20 shekels, 50 shekels, 100 shekels, and 200 shekels.
ATM Network
ATMs are widely available in Israel, especially in urban areas. Most accept international debit and credit cards, but it's best to check with your bank before traveling to ensure your card will work.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted in Israel, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. Visa, Mastercard, and AMEX are accepted at most establishments. However, smaller businesses may only accept cash, so it's best to carry some shekels with you just in case.
Internet and Phones
Israel has a quite good internet infrastructure with average broadband speed of 100 Mbps. There is no government interference in internet use in Israel.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
In Israel, there are several telco companies offering mobile phone plans with 4G and 5G network coverage. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around 100 ILS (30 USD) per month. There are no known sim compatibility issues in Israel.
Dialling to Israel
To call Israel from another country, dial +972 followed by the relevant area code and phone number. The area codes used within Israel are 02 for Jerusalem and central Israel, 03 for Tel Aviv and its suburbs, 04 for Haifa and the surrounding area, and so on.
Transport Around Israel
Air Travel
Israel has one major airport, Ben Gurion Airport located in Tel Aviv. There are also smaller airports in Haifa and Eilat.
Train Travel
Israel has an inter-city train network known as Israel Railways. Popular routes include Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, with a journey time of around an hour, and Haifa to Tel Aviv, with a journey time of around 45 minutes. Ticket prices vary depending on the route, but a one-way ticket from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem costs around 23.60 ILS (6.75 USD).
Metro / Local Trains
Israel does not have a metro system.
Buses
Israel has an extensive bus network, with services operated by public companies such as Egged and Dan. Ticket prices vary depending on the route and the company, but a one-way ticket from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem costs around 16 ILS (4.55 USD) with Egged, and the journey time is around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Rideshare
Popular rideshare companies in Israel include Uber and Gett. Average prices for a trip within Tel Aviv range between 20-50 ILS (5.70-14.25 USD), depending on the time of day and the distance traveled.
Driving by Car
Driving in Israel can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow roads in some areas. The speed limit on highways is 120 km/h (75 mph), and in urban areas, it ranges from 50-70 km/h (30-45 mph). Israel uses right-hand drive.
Local Customs
In Israel, tipping is common in service industries such as restaurants and hair salons. It is usually expected to leave a 10-15% tip. Locals greet each other with a handshake or a kiss on each cheek. It is common to speak openly with strangers, but keep in mind that Israel is a conservative country. Men and women often address each other using their first names, but it is polite to use titles for people in positions of authority.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
Israel has a universal healthcare system, and all citizens and legal residents are entitled to basic health insurance. Private health insurance is also available, which covers additional medical costs. The approximate cost for a visit to the doctor without insurance is around 100-200 shekels ($30-60 USD).
COVID Situation
Israel has taken an aggressive approach to handling the COVID-19 pandemic, and has implemented strict lockdown measures and a successful vaccination campaign. As of September 2021, the daily case rate is around 500-600 new cases per day, and vaccinations are widely available.
Common Health Risks
While Israel is generally a safe country with a low risk of infectious disease, visitors should take precautions against food poisoning and dehydration, particularly during the hot summer months. Visitors may also be at risk for sunburn and heat stroke, so it's important to wear protective clothing and stay hydrated when traveling in Israel.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
In Israel, the legal age for drinking alcohol is 18. Alcohol is banned in some areas during holidays, and there are also restrictions on selling and consuming alcohol in public places.
Recreational Drugs
The use and possession of illegal drugs in Israel is a criminal offense and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
Pre-Marital Relationships
There are no laws restricting pre-marital relationships in Israel.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
Same-sex marriages are not yet legally recognized in Israel, but same-sex couples are eligible for certain legal rights and protections. Discrimination against LGBTQ individuals is prohibited by law.
Firearms / Guns
Firearms are highly regulated in Israel, and individuals must obtain a license to own and carry a firearm. The use of firearms by civilians is generally restricted to self-defense purposes.