Languages: Hebrew and Arabic (official); English; and French, Spanish, German, Yiddish, Russian, Polish and Hungarian are widely spoken. All street and most commercial signs are in Hebrew and English and often in Arabic

Religion: Jewish (76%); Christian (2%); Muslim (16%)

Currency: New Israeli Shekel; tourists can exchange currency or cash travelers’ checks at any post office (there are no fees for these services)

Best time to visit: From November to March, Israel has cool temperatures and some rain; from June to August, it’s very warm, and there is practically no rain from April to October. Lower off-season rates are available from November to March (except during Christmas)