GETTING THERE
Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv is the best hub to enter the country. There are nonstop flights from New York (JFK) and Newark (EWR). Major airlines that fly to Israel from the U.S. are Delta Air Lines, US Airways, United Airlines and El Al Israel Airlines.
GET THE FACTS
CLIMATE
The summers are generally warm and dry (April-October), while winters (November-March) are mild with drier, cooler temperatures in the hilly regions. Rainfall is relatively heavy in the north and center of the country compared to the southern areas.
CURRENCY
The New Israeli Shekel (NIS) or shekel. It is recommended for U.S. visitors to carry a small amount of U.S. dollars since certain tourist sites accept it as legal tender.
ELECTRICITY
220 Volts 50 HZ
BEST TIME TO VISIT
After the winter rains, Israel turns green during the months of February and March when flowers are in bloom all over the country. The landscape is parched in May, and expect the heat to rise in July and August, although the mountain regions are quite cooler during the summer months before the temperature drops off a bit come September.
LANGUAGES
Hebrew
Arabic
English
SHABBAT
The holy day of Shabbat starts on Friday afternoon and ends on Saturday evening. During Shabbat all public offices are closed, as well as most private businesses, public transportation, and restaurants. In Tel Aviv, and other secular areas of Israel, many restaurants and cafes remain open, but it’s best to check in advance before making plans.
