Entry Regulations:

Visitors must hold a passport that is valid for 6 months beyond the date of departure from Israel. Visas are NOT required for American citizens.

Please check with your country’s Foreign Affairs office to find out about entry requirements for non-Americans.

Climate:

The climate in Israel is considered to be Mediterranean.  Although most of the year is hot and sunny, winter can be cold, especially in the mountains and at night.  Winter is also the rainy season, so make sure to bring rain gear.   Eilat has a nice climate all year round.

Currency:

The local currency is the New Shekel (ILS). The New Shekel is valued to the American dollar at a rate of 3.63 ILS to US$1.  As exchange rates fluctuate many times every day, this rate might not accurately reflect the rate during your trip. Please check exchange rates closer to your date of travel.

Electricity:

230V AC, 50Hz

Tip: This system may differ from the one you use at home. If it is different, please purchase an adaptor from a travel store near you, to take advantage of the power ports in your hotel room.

Language:

Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages. English is widely spoken.

Health Requirement:

No vaccination certificates are required unless coming from an infected area. For all health requirements and recommendations, travellers should check with their doctors for change in requirements.

Airport Facilities and Tax:

Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv is the main airport in Israel. Eilat Central Airport also handles some international traffic. No departure tax is imposed.

Shopping:

There is a wide variety of shops in Israel.  Bargaining is common only in the markets.  Sh0opping areas range from malls to small markets.  Tourists can receive a refund on the VAT tax they paid at certain stores.  Shops are usually open from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., Sunday through Thursday.  Some shops close for an afternoon siesta from 1 (or 2) until 4 in the afternoon.  On Friday shops usually close for the day between 2:00 – 3:30 p.m., and most places of business in Jewish areas do not open on Saturdays.

Cuisine:

Israeli cuisine has been fused with cuisines from all over the world. Some Israeli favourites include gefilte fish, chopped salads, and falafel.  Western food is widely available in Tel Aviv and other major cities.

For more information please visit:

http://www.worldtravelguide.net/country/128/country_guide/Middle-East/Israel.html