Israelsafe https://israelsafe.com/ Travel blog about Israel in the midst of a coronavirus pandemic Fri, 03 May 2024 14:35:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://israelsafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/cropped-graphic-4101834_640-32x32.png Israelsafe https://israelsafe.com/ 32 32 Interesting hotels in Israel https://israelsafe.com/interesting-hotels-in-israel/ Wed, 17 Apr 2024 14:31:00 +0000 https://israelsafe.com/?p=60 Israel has a variety of accommodation options for tourists. You can find a hotel to suit every taste, whether it's one with views of the Mediterranean Sea in Tel Aviv or boutique hotels overlooking Jerusalem's Old City.

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Israel has a variety of accommodation options for tourists. You can find a hotel to suit every taste, whether it’s one with views of the Mediterranean Sea in Tel Aviv or boutique hotels overlooking Jerusalem’s Old City.

The Efendi Hotel Akko

Located on a picturesque street in the Old City of Akko in northwestern Israel, this boutique hotel has 12 rooms with views of the Crusader Walls and the Mediterranean Sea. The hotel consists of two connected and already restored houses built on the site of ancient buildings from the 6th to 12th century, which were once palaces of Ottoman rulers in the 19th century. Although the rooms in this hotel are modern, they retain the charm and features of the original ancient cultures. Rooms feature king-size beds, marble bathrooms and fine linens. There’s also a wine bar in the building’s basement, and a restored 400-year-old Turkish bath and spa.

Elma Hotel & Art Complex

This complex, located in the picturesque town of Zichron Ya’akov in northern Israel. The hotel was originally designed by Israeli architect Yaacov Rechter in 1968 as a sanatorium. But in 2005, it was converted into an arts center and boutique hotel. It has a gallery that sits on 750 square meters (8,073 square feet), a spa, a restaurant, and indoor and outdoor pools. Hotel Elma has 95 modern rooms (cottages are also available) overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, each decorated with original artwork and natural oak furniture. This luxurious resort will suit those who are very fond of cultural events, as opera performances, concerts and plays are organized here every day.

Mitzpe Hayamim Spa Hotel

The Mitzpe Hayamim Hotel is located in the city of Galilee, between the Rosh Pina artist colony and the holy city of Safed. The hotel offers 97 elegant regular rooms and suites, a wide range of spa treatments, a swimming pool, an organic dairy and vegetable farm, stores, gardens and two restaurants. Most rooms have a balcony or access to the garden, and some have views of Lake Kinneret and the Golan Heights. The decor is classic, with wooden floors and comfortable upholstery. The restaurants (one of which is vegetarian) use fresh produce straight from the farm.

The Setai, Sea of Galilee

This spa hotel is located on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee (Lake Kinneret) in northern Israel. The hotel offers 110 luxury villas and suites. Some rooms are equipped with a swimming pool or hot tub. Almost every room offers spectacular views of the lake, Tiberias and the Golan. The hotel has Israel’s largest spa complex with an indoor pool, Turkish bath, several treatment rooms and a fitness center. The Setai Hotel has hot thermal springs and parks. The Golan Heights are easily accessible from here.

The Norman Hotel Tel Aviv

Since its opening in 2014, The Norman has been a leader in luxury vacations in Tel Aviv. All 50 rooms are housed in two restored buildings dating back to the 1920s. The view from the hotel overlooks King Albert Square, which is close to Rothschild Boulevard. The interior of the hotel is reminiscent of ancient times, with decorative mosaics, warm wall colors and flowing lines in the design. Guests can visit the citrus orchard, the plant-filled courtyard, or grab a drink at The Library bar. The Norman has two restaurants, Alena (which serves Mediterranean cuisine and a buffet for breakfast) and Dinings (a Japanese restaurant serving izakaya-style tapas and modern European fare).

Montefiore Hotel

This boutique hotel is located in a restored Bauhaus building, built in 1922, near Rothschild Boulevard, in the heart of Tel Aviv. It is a display of luxury and Art Deco style. The 12 elegant rooms occupy two floors. Each room has dark wood floors, white walls and a marble bathroom. All books are neatly arranged on bookshelves and each guest has fresh flowers in their room. The hotel’s restaurant is considered one of the best restaurants in the city and the bar serves fine classic cocktails.

The Setai Tel Aviv

In 2017, popular hotel chain The Setai opened its new hotel in Tel Aviv, which was the beginning of the development of luxury vacations in the city. The five-star Setai urban resort is located on the site of an old fortress and an Ottoman prison. Next to the hotel is the famous Jaffa’s Clock Tower overlooking the city’s ancient port. The hotel has 120 rooms and a rooftop pool overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Mamilla Hotel, Jerusalem

The Mamilla Hotel is a modern luxury hotel located five minutes from the Old City. The chic rooms with light wooden floors, snow-white linens and large windows are sure to appeal to connoisseurs of luxury vacations. Guests can enjoy several restaurants, including a fish restaurant overlooking the Mamilla shopping avenue, as well as a rooftop area and bar with magnificent views of Jerusalem’s Old City. The hotel has an Akasha Wellness Center with a Turkish bath and a swimming pool.

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The brightest places in Israel https://israelsafe.com/the-brightest-places-in-israel/ Mon, 15 Apr 2024 14:28:00 +0000 https://israelsafe.com/?p=57 The Wailing Wall, Western Wall or Ha-Kotel ha-Maarawi is part of the ancient wall around the western slope of the Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem

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Although Israel is quite a small country, it is rich in a lot of attractions. When you visit Israel, you will definitely notice incredibly stylish cities, stunning landscapes and beautiful people.

Wailing Wall, Jerusalem

The Wailing Wall, Western Wall or Ha-Kotel ha-Maarawi is part of the ancient wall around the western slope of the Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem, which survived the destruction of the Second Temple by the Romans in 70 A.D. The Western Wall in Jerusalem is one of the holiest sites for Jews, where history is perfectly intertwined with religion.

The Old City of Jaffa

Jaffa is one of the oldest ports in the country, located where Tel Aviv is now. Tourists love taking pictures of the old city along the shoreline, near the old port, the clock tower and the nearby flea market.

Red Canyon, Eilat

In the mountainous desert near Eilat, Israel’s southernmost city, stretches Red Canyon. It is a beautiful canyon with red sandstone cliffs rising to a height of 30 meters on both sides.

Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is one of Israel’s most famous attractions, as it is the lowest place on earth and the deepest salt sea in the world. People from all over the world come to swim in the Dead Sea.

Masada National Park

Masada National Park is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can reach the top of the cliffs overlooking the Dead Sea by cable car or on foot. Believe me, the effort spent is worth the stunning view of the Dead Sea at the top.

Bahai Gardens, Haifa

The Bahai Gardens, also known as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa, are not only the holiest sites in the city of Haifa, but also the most visited. The gardens are honored to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Caesarea Harbor

The city and port of Caesarea were built by Herod the Great from the 22nd to the 10th centuries B.C. The harbor is famous for its incredible views from the coast.

Rothschild Boulevard, Tel Aviv

Rothschild Boulevard is the oldest and one of the most famous streets in Tel Aviv and is always packed with musicians and strolling tourists. There are enough restaurants, bars and cafes to suit all tastes.

Golan Heights

The north of Israel is sheltered by green hills and valleys The Golan Heights is a place of beautiful landscapes, hidden lakes, rivers and waterfalls.

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Gastronomic tourism in Israel https://israelsafe.com/gastronomic-tourism-in-israel/ Sat, 23 Mar 2024 14:23:00 +0000 https://israelsafe.com/?p=53 Every country in the world has its own unique cuisine that has been shaped over centuries. But what if a state has existed for only a few decades, and its citizens come from all over the world?

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Every country in the world has its own unique cuisine that has been shaped over centuries. But what if a state has existed for only a few decades, and its citizens come from all over the world? Then you get a unique and sometimes incredible combination of flavors and recipes, which is called Israeli cuisine, not to be confused with Jewish cuisine.

Most people associate the phrase “Jewish cuisine” with stuffed fish, challah, forshmak. These dishes are familiar on the menu of Ashkenazi Jews, that is, European Jews. By the way, many Israelis consider these dishes not Israeli at all. Israeli cuisine is a fusion of culinary traditions brought here by Jews from around the world – traditions that complement and enrich each other.

The notion of “Israeli cuisine” is relatively new, as is the state of Israel itself, to which repatriates from more than 100 countries have arrived. Today Israeli cuisine is a multicolored palette of tastes and aromas, which includes both traditional European and Oriental dishes and new developments of leading Israeli chefs, combining local color and the influence of culinary traditions of many countries and peoples.

Along with an impressive variety of dishes, you will encounter an unfamiliar and sometimes incomprehensible variety of restrictions and rules. For example, the code of a thousand rules – kashrut. It determines what Jews can and cannot eat, what is allowed to eat on Saturdays and what on holidays, what food is kosher and what is not. The main law of kashrut is not to mix meat and dairy. Even utensils for dairy and meat products are kept in separate lockers, washed in separate sinks, or even cooked in different kitchens. It is forbidden to eat pork, hare meat, camel meat, and wild bird meat. Traditional food is usually divided into everyday and festive. And the food prepared before Shabbat (starts from the moment of sunset on Friday and ends at sunset on Saturday) is also included in the festive food. On this day, as it is known, Jews are forbidden to do any work, including cooking, as well as it is forbidden to light fire, turn on or off electricity. Accordingly, food for this day is prepared well in advance. Hot dishes are slowly stewed “by themselves” over low heat throughout the Shabbat.

Food in Israel has a rich, bright flavor. Products here are very fresh: fish is caught in Israeli waters, vegetables are grown here, and in restaurants with the season changes and menu. So there is always something to try in this country. To better understand the culinary preferences of Israelis, it is best to start with street food, especially since in Israel it is not only tasty, but also healthy.

One of the most popular and well-known dishes of Israeli cuisine is delicious freshly made hummus. Warm pita bread served in a paper bag goes well with this dish. Hummus is prepared from chickpea puree with the addition of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and spices. Chickpeas are also called “mutton peas.” Not only the traditional chickpea appetizer is found in Israeli cuisine. Try masabacha hummus – served with chicken pieces, paprika and spiced lemon. Also try kawarma hummus – with minced lamb, onions and parsley. Many countries claim to be the birthplace of falafel. The roots of this dish go far back in time. Undoubtedly, now it is one of the main dishes of Israeli cuisine. It can be found on the menu of any restaurant. Made from chickpeas and other legumes, traditional falafel is served with the aforementioned hummus, pink pickled turnips, pita bread, pickles and traditional Israeli salad.

Shakshuka is one of the most popular breakfasts in Israel. The main ingredients are eggs and tomatoes, but shakshuka is more than just scrambled eggs. Tomatoes play the main role in shakshuka, with about 5-7 tomatoes required per serving. Tomatoes, onions, garlic and spices are used to make a thick sauce, into which raw eggs are then carefully beaten. The dish turns out very beautiful: white-yellow rounds of scrambled eggs look very picturesque on a red tomato background.

In Israel they love fish, but not any kind of fish: only fish with fins and scales are considered kosher. In addition, the “right” fish must throw eggs, and it must also have a bony skeleton, so eel and sturgeon, for example, are not suitable. But trout, pike, salmon, tuna and many other (no less tasty) fish are welcome. Fish lovers should definitely visit the north of Israel, in the ancient city of Acre (or Akra), where there is a fishing port.

Israel is one of the world leaders in goat cheese production. Visit Goats With the Wind, an organic farm located in the Galilee, an area in the north of the country. It is home to the cutest goats that are sure to charm you. The farm has an eco-restaurant where you can taste not only cheeses, but also other traditional dishes in a homemade version. By the way, if you travel on the wine route, you should start from the northern Galilee. Private wineries are concentrated here, where wine tours and tastings are organized. Small family-run wineries also open their doors to tourists. There you can learn about the ancient recipes of winemaking traditions, while appreciating the flavors of the ancient drink.

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Travel tips and advice during a pandemic https://israelsafe.com/travel-tips-and-advice-during-a-pandemic/ Thu, 21 Mar 2024 14:00:00 +0000 https://israelsafe.com/?p=44 In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, travel is becoming more difficult, but that doesn't mean travel should be completely canceled.

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In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, travel is becoming more difficult, but that doesn’t mean travel should be completely canceled. Israel, with its unique cultural heritage, rich history and diverse natural beauty, is still an attractive place to visit. However, to make your trip to Israel safe and enjoyable, it is important to follow certain travel tips and guidelines:

Learn official health recommendations: Before traveling to Israel, make sure you read the latest recommendations and guidelines from local and international health organizations, such as the Israeli Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization.

Wear a mask and maintain social distance: In public places, including transportation, museums, restaurants and beaches, remember to wear a mask and maintain social distance.

Avoid crowds: Try to avoid large crowds and events, especially in enclosed areas.

Be aware of rules and restrictions: Before visiting museums, restaurants, stores, and other places, learn about current COVID-19 rules and restrictions.

Be prepared for changes in plans: Given the rapidly changing situation, be prepared for possible changes in your travel plan. This may include changes in flight schedules, closure of attractions, or changes in security regulations.

Book accommodation in advance: As some hotels and inns may have limited capacity due to security measures, it is recommended to book accommodation in advance.

Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use antiseptic gel. Avoid touching your face, especially after contact with public surfaces.

Seek medical attention if you develop symptoms: If you develop symptoms of COVID-19 during your stay in Israel, seek medical attention and follow the instructions of local authorities.

By following these guidelines and staying informed of the latest news and developments, you can enjoy your trip to Israel while minimizing risks to your health and safety.

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Israel – the pearl in the desert or the cradle of three religions https://israelsafe.com/israel-the-pearl-in-the-desert-or-the-cradle-of-three-religions/ Wed, 20 Mar 2024 14:18:00 +0000 https://israelsafe.com/?p=50 This country attracts not only believers but also lovers of a good vacation at sea, especially in the fall. Israel is a pearl in the desert.

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This country attracts not only believers but also lovers of a good vacation at sea, especially in the fall. Israel is a pearl in the desert. The country has managed to create the best conditions for its citizens, and Israeli doctors have become popular all over the world thanks to their approach to treatment and level of education.

It is impossible to describe how much Israel surprises its guests from the very first minutes of their stay in this country. If you are ready for new experiences, then travel with Extravaganza to Israel.

Netanya is a picturesque resort city, a city of boulevards and parks and, of course, well-groomed beaches. It is an ideal place for a family vacation on the Mediterranean.

But it is the Dead Sea that attracts many tourists to Israel. Which is essentially a salt lake located on the territory of two countries – Israel and Jordan. The composition of the water in the Dead Sea is unique, not typical of other seas, which is why this place attracts tourists with its healing and miraculous properties.

Another interesting city in Israel is Haifa, which is called the pearl of northern Israel. When you come here, you will hear a funny saying more than once: “Tel Aviv is resting, Jerusalem is praying, and Haifa is working.”

This picturesque Mediterranean city is the third largest city in the country after Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. It is located on the coast and slopes of the majestic Mount Carmel. Haifa is the largest seaport in Israel, and the entire history of the city is inextricably linked to the Mediterranean Sea.

Acre is a city in the Western Galilee (Israel), located 18 km north of the city of Haifa, on the Mediterranean Sea. It is considered one of the world’s monuments and is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Cities.

Acre is one of the cities in Israel whose history has lasted almost without interruption for over 4000 years. The city was located at the crossroads of international trade routes and therefore has always been a center of history, a meeting point for many different cultures and a strategic location for military campaigns.

When people say “Caesarea”, some people, mostly Israelis, mean a small town on the Mediterranean coast with excellent infrastructure, where leading Israeli companies operate. The other part of people, mostly visitors and tourists, have in mind a large National Park full of archaeological finds. It is practically an entire ancient city. And what is remarkable is that both the former and the latter are right. There are remnants of Roman and Byzantine streets, gutters, houses with mosaic floors and Greek inscriptions.

So here we are in the capital! For most tourists in Tel Aviv, the first attraction is the clean sandy beaches along the Mediterranean coast and the long, well-equipped promenade for walking. But it is worth remembering that it is not the beaches that made this city the economic and cultural capital of Israel.

The Tel Aviv Museum of Art is the largest art museum in Israel. It exhibits works by Picasso, Cézanne, Monet, Renoir, Chagall, Rodin, Dalí, Klimt, Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, as well as Flemish and Italian masters from Rubens to Conoletto, the most famous Impressionists – Matisse, Braque, Mondrian and others. There is everything here – photography, design, sculpture.

In Tel Aviv, be sure to take a walk along Rothschild Boulevard. This beautiful boulevard is lined with classic Bauhaus buildings, European-style houses and several skyscrapers. Along Rothschild there are numerous cafes, bars and restaurants that are crowded on any day of the week.

If you’ve heard of Neve Tzedek, it’s the main street of the most picturesque neighborhood of the city, located on the border with Jaffa. Neve Tzedek is a kind of oasis in the center of the metropolis. There is no public transportation and no high-rise buildings here, it is a place for relaxation or a comfortable quiet life. Along the street there are shops of Israeli designers, exquisite interior items, souvenirs and jewelry, restaurants, cafes and wine bars.

By the way, it is in Tel Aviv that the Diamond Exchange is located – it is the most famous exchange in Israel and around the world. It is a union of well-known diamond manufacturers and an association of businessmen working in this industry.

The old city of Jaffa is one of the oldest port cities on the planet. There is a legend that it was here that Noah created his ark. There are many interesting sights to see here: the underground archaeological museum, the Franciscan Church of St. Peter, the Andromeda Stone, the remains of ancient Egyptian and Turkish fortifications, the Bridge of Wishes, Abrasha Park, and many others.

The old city of Jaffa takes on amazing colors, especially in the pre-sunset hours, when the uneven ancient stone walls and sidewalks turn a warm reddish-orange hue in the sunlight. It offers a magnificent view of the Tel Aviv waterfront.

Jaffa’s old town descends to the port, where hundreds of fishing boats sway on the waves, bringing fresh fish and seafood to local restaurants every day.

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Dead Sea: top tips for your first visit https://israelsafe.com/dead-sea-top-tips-for-your-first-visit/ Mon, 11 Mar 2024 14:14:00 +0000 https://israelsafe.com/?p=47 The Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth at 434 meters below sea level, attracts visitors with healing mineral waters, air so oxygenated it protects you from sunburn

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The Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth at 434 meters below sea level, attracts visitors with healing mineral waters, air so oxygenated it protects you from sunburn, oases full of rare animals, and world-class historical sites that (almost) bring the Roman Empire to life.

Prepare to plunge into soothing water so salty it becomes slimy, see wild ibex in spring oases, and climb the Masada, where ancient Jews fought a dramatic last stand against the legions of Rome.

Beaches and resorts of the Dead Sea

The most important point of visiting the Dead Sea is the cobalt-blue lake itself, in whose waters – in the territory of Israel and the Palestinian Territories in the west and Jordan in the east – the salt concentration is 34%, which is 10 times higher than in the ocean. The lake, which is part of the Great Rift Valley, is fed by the Jordan River but has no outlet.

On the Israeli shore, the best place to swim is Ein Bokek Beach, along the southern depression of the turquoise-colored sea. Completely reconstructed several years ago, this wide public beach, sandy and clean, has lifeguards and offers a variety of free amenities, including shade canopies, changing cabins, outdoor showers, toilets, a paved promenade and night lighting.

A few hours of pampering in a mineral spa is a great complement to a soothing swim. Spas in Ein Bokek hotels offer freshwater pools, saunas, mineral baths, and health and beauty treatments; most have day rates for non-guests. In some places, such as the Ein Gedi Spa, you can cover yourself in invigorating black mineral mud, which is drawn from the bottom of the Dead Sea.

Attention: sinkholes

In recent years, the land around the northern Dead Sea basin has been affected by sinkholes, formed when fresh water dissolves underground salt deposits. Since they can open without warning and have been known to swallow unsuspecting passersby, it is safe to visit only a few places on the coast. In Israel, the only accessible beach along the northern basin, where the water level drops by about a meter a year, is in the Ein Gedi spa; its shuttle service will take you to the shoreline.

The Arc de Triomphe in Paris was inspired by the monumental Arch of Titus in Rome, built to commemorate the victory of the Roman legions against the Jewish revolt that swept through Judea in 66 AD and was finally completed seven years later near the Dead Sea. Masada, a mountain overlooking the northern Dead Sea basin, served as a place of refuge for about a thousand Jews after the destruction of Jerusalem. When a Roman battering ram stood to breach the walls of their redoubt, ending a months-long siege, the defenders of Masada famously chose suicide over enslavement.

Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, one of the most enchanting desert oases in the region, encompasses two spring canyons, Wadi David and Wadi Arugot, which run from the Judean Desert to the shores of the Dead Sea. Short walks along the river will lead you to year-round waterfalls and freshwater pools (swimming is allowed) surrounded by lush vegetation. Animals you are likely to spot include the Nubian goat and the boulder-dwelling daman (dassie). Nearby are the ruins of an ancient synagogue, known for its outstanding mosaic floor from the 5th century.

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The first “green tourism islands” https://israelsafe.com/the-first-green-tourism-islands/ Wed, 14 Feb 2024 13:32:00 +0000 https://israelsafe.com/?p=39 The resort city of Eilat and the Dead Sea region in Israel were the first in the country to receive the status of "green tourism islands".

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The resort city of Eilat and the Dead Sea region in Israel were the first in the country to receive the status of “green tourism islands”.

The designation of ‘green islands’ is a significant step for the tens of thousands of people who make their living in the tourism industry, as well as an important milestone for the economy and well-being of Eilat and the Dead Sea region.

The Israeli Ministry of Tourism has decided to clarify the most pressing issues about the possibility of staying on the “tourism islands”.

What kind of analysis should be done and what is the validity period of its results?

Hotel guests are required to have the results of a standard (not rapid) PCR test taken 72 hours before arrival at the Dead Sea and Eilat. It should be emphasized that only residents and employees of the districts, as well as those who fall under the exceptions established by law, can take the rapid test upon entry.

Where are the laboratories for the rapid test located?

In the Dead Sea region, the checkpoint is located at the entrance to the hotel area. In Eilat, there are three laboratories: next to the Neot Smadar restaurant, in the Yotvata Kibbutz, and near Ramon Airport.

How long are the test results valid for?

For residents and employees of the regions, the results are valid for 7 days. For hotel guests – within 72 hours of the test.

In what other places do I need to present the test result?

In addition to providing test results upon entering tourist areas, hotel guests will need to show the test results at the reception desk upon check-in. Hotels are prohibited from accepting guests without documents confirming a negative test.

Are children also required to take tests to get to the “tourism islands”?

Children of a certain age living in the Eilat and Dead Sea regions, as well as those children who fall under the exceptions to the rules, will be able to avoid taking the test. The ages of children exempted from the tests will be known later. Children entering for tourist purposes will be required to provide a negative test, regardless of age.

Can people who have recovered from coronavirus travel to these areas?

Those who have a document of recovery will be able to enter these regions after presenting it at checkpoints and hotels. Currently, the validity of the document is not limited, but the Ministry of Health may impose restrictions at any time.
How many hotels will be open for guests? About 70% of hotel rooms (about 2,800 rooms) will be open on the Dead Sea. In Eilat, it is expected that most hotels will open by the end of the week, and the rest will open the following week.

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Sightseeing via virtual tours https://israelsafe.com/sightseeing-via-virtual-tours/ Tue, 09 Jan 2024 13:16:00 +0000 https://israelsafe.com/?p=35 In the wake of the popularity of virtual tours, tours of Israel's most iconic places have appeared online.

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In the wake of the popularity of virtual tours, tours of Israel’s most iconic places have appeared online.

Now you can walk through the Old City of Jerusalem. Holy for Jews, Christians and Muslims, the direction is considered one of the main places of pilgrimage in the world. And a virtual walk through it will not leave anyone indifferent.

The Israeli museum is now closed, but thanks to modern technology, you can see its exhibits online. For children online, they even organize entertaining activities. In the children’s app of the museum there are many printable coloring books with samples of some of the most famous masterpieces.

The Tel Aviv Museum of Art runs several virtual tours at once and has recorded a video about some of its coolest exhibits. The online tours are narrated by a guide.

Another virtual tour of Israel includes panoramic videos filmed on the best beaches of Tel Aviv, near the Dead Sea, the Tower of David in Jerusalem, Independence Hall and other places.

The 3D Israel Travel Guide recorded highly detailed panoramas of Israeli hotels, cities, landmarks and holy sites to help viewers better understand the country and plan future vacations.

YouTube features virtual tours of the Western Wall tunnels, Via Dolorosa, the Sea of Galilee and even a recording of the Tel Aviv Pride Parade.

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Safe places to visit https://israelsafe.com/safe-places-to-visit/ Mon, 18 Dec 2023 13:10:00 +0000 https://israelsafe.com/?p=32 Open markets and street fairs: Visiting street markets such as the Mahane Yehuda Market in Jerusalem and the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv will provide an opportunity to experience local culture and buy fresh produce and souvenirs in the open air.

Nature Reserves and Parks: Israel has a rich variety of natural landscapes that can be explored in a safe environment. National parks such as Yezer Tzion, Matzada and Mount Hermon offer stunning views and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Remember to follow the recommendations of local authorities and health organizations, and to observe safety precautions such as wearing masks, washing your hands frequently, and keeping a social distance. Enjoy your trip to Israel and stay safe!

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With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, safety is becoming a priority for all travel and travel planners. Israel, with its rich cultural heritage, historical sites and beautiful natural areas, offers many safe places to visit during this challenging period.

Here are some recommendations on where to go in Israel to enjoy your vacation and explore its amazing sights, while taking all precautions:

City Parks and Gardens: Israel is known for its beautiful parks and gardens such as Yardena Park in Jerusalem, HaYarok Park in Tel Aviv and Bahai Gardens in Haifa. Here you can spend time outdoors, strolling through the picturesque alleys and enjoying the beauty of nature.

Outdoor museums and archaeological sites: Many Israeli museums and archaeological sites offer outdoor visits. For example, Masada, Caesarea and Beth Shean are just a few of the many historical sites that can be explored with minimal risk.

Beaches: Israel’s beaches, such as those in Tel Aviv and Eilat, offer great opportunities for outdoor recreation. Keeping a social distance and wearing masks in public places will help make your visit safe and enjoyable.

Open markets and street fairs: Visiting street markets such as the Mahane Yehuda Market in Jerusalem and the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv will provide an opportunity to experience local culture and buy fresh produce and souvenirs in the open air.

Nature Reserves and Parks: Israel has a rich variety of natural landscapes that can be explored in a safe environment. National parks such as Yezer Tzion, Matzada and Mount Hermon offer stunning views and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Remember to follow the recommendations of local authorities and health organizations, and to observe safety precautions such as wearing masks, washing your hands frequently, and keeping a social distance. Enjoy your trip to Israel and stay safe!

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Tourism policy and programs https://israelsafe.com/tourism-policy-and-programs/ Sun, 08 Oct 2023 13:07:00 +0000 https://israelsafe.com/?p=29 The Ministry is developing new sub-products in rural areas, alongside wine tourism and adventure tourism, focusing on programs that will bring a more diverse and customized product.

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The Ministry of Tourism is updating its 2030 strategy in light of COVID-19. An updated set of goals for 2030 and intermediate goals for 2022-2025 is being formed.

The Ministry is developing new sub-products in rural areas, alongside wine tourism and adventure tourism, focusing on programs that will bring a more diverse and customized product. Current activities are based on the understanding that tourists are looking for more sustainable products outdoors and outside of cities.

The Ministries of Tourism, Health, Foreign Affairs and Transport have helped coordinate tourism-related policies and actions during the pandemic. After the COVID-19 outbreak, the Ministry of Tourism cooperated with the Ministry of Health to maximize the potential for the recovery and expansion of tourism activities.

In 2021, a pilot project for incoming tourist groups was launched in coordination with the airport administration and the Ministry of Health and Transport. This allowed a small number of fully vaccinated tourist groups to enter Israel and tour the country. This program was canceled after all restrictions were lifted in March 2022.

The Ministry is in constant contact with other relevant ministries and the tourism sector for contingency planning should COVID-19 or other sources of danger require the re-imposition of restrictions. The Ministry also participates in the Israeli government’s preparedness planning for future health and security threats, including earthquakes and other emergencies and response planning.

The Ministry of Tourism has now redefined its crisis management, recovery and operations goals to include:

Preservation of infrastructure and human capital: The Ministry has invested in developing public tourism infrastructure and increasing the supply of accommodation in Israel, while facilitating additional investments from other government agencies and the private sector. To minimize damage to the infrastructure and protect the tourism workforce during the pandemic, the Ministry has allocated funding to assist hotels, tour services, increase domestic tourism, assist inbound tour operators, marketing activities abroad, business support, and work to open international routes for tourists.

Preparing to overcome the crisis and return inbound tourism: The Ministry is implementing action plans to restore inbound tourism as soon as possible. The plan includes actions on three levels: 1) increasing demand among potential target audiences abroad by planning online and digital campaigns and strengthening PR operations, 2) developing marketing channels with agents and wholesalers abroad and with online travel agencies, and 3) resuming cooperation with airlines and encouraging them to open new routes. The Ministry has also introduced a joint recruitment platform, backed by a marketing plan, with the hotel sector and the Israeli airport authority. The goal is to overcome the acute shortage of human capital in airports and hotels.

Developing and improving tourism products for the well-being of the tourist: activities include developing public tourism infrastructure to increase tourist flow, encouraging new and diversified tourist accommodation, promoting improved services to tourist destinations, promoting strategic plans for tourism, and creating new and diverse tourism products.

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