Heard about the magical healing features of the Dead Sea? Always wanted to pray at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre? Decided to rest or party at the great beaches of Tel-Aviv?
Travelers from all around the world have visited Israel's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. From the beautiful Golan heights to the amazing red sea, Israel is full of surprises.
However, before finding the perfect spot on the beach in Tel Aviv, read and navigate the bureaucratic requirements for entering Israel.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of more than 100 countries can enter Israel visa free for up to 90 days. The fortunate 100+ countries include the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and countries who are part of the European Union.
For travelers who require a visa, the application process involves providing documents such as a valid passport, visa application form, proof of travel itinerary, and sufficient financial means to cover your stay in Israel.
This information can change over time, so make sure to keep an eye on those ever-changing visa requirements on the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Currency and Payment Methods
When in Rome, pay as the romans pay.
When in Israel, pay with the Israeli Shekel (ILS). It's the local currency and and you need it to enjoy the local attractions and cuisine.
Regarding the constant battle between cash or credit, keep in mind that some places, though not many, still accept only cash. This is more common in markets, like Shuk Machane Yehuda in Jerusalem, and at food stands in the side of rural roads.
Don't sweat it though. Major credit cards brands such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted in most businesses.
The Shabbat
When traveling in Israel, it's important for tourists to be aware of the observance of Shabbat which begins on Friday afternoon and lasts until Saturday evening.
During this time, the country undergoes a noticeable transformation - public transportation, including buses and trains, halts operations. Therefore it's advisable to plan your travel accordingly.
Many shops and businesses also close for the duration of Shabbat. While some restaurants and tourist-oriented areas might remain open, it's wise to check in advance and make reservations as necessary. Additionally, services like banks and government offices are generally closed during Shabbat.
However, hotels, attractions, and certain tourist-focused establishments continue to operate.
Vaccinations
Ever since COVID kindly entered our lives, checking for vaccination requirements has become a regular on our "to do" list before any trip, even one to the grocery.
However, those days are gone for now. As of May 2023, there are no longer COVID restrictions on entering Israel from abroad. As for other diseases, no specific vaccinations are required to enter Israel.
Having said that, if you plan on visiting in the summer, you might want to consider to throw your favorite mosquito repellent in your suitcase. Those blood thirsty beasts thrive in July and August in the hot weather.
Tourist Health Insurance
When planning a trip, we don’t always take in consideration unexpected mishaps. Injuries and illnesses can occur anywhere, anytime in the world, and packing a first aid kit might not be the only preparation needed.
In Israel, access to quality healthcare is available to all and the Israeli healthcare services are considered some of the best in the world. However, medical expenses can be significant for international travelers.
Harel's Tour & Care tourist health insurance* covers your medical expenses, gives you access to the best medical services and allows you to explore Israel with confidence.
As the leading health insurance company in Israel, Harel uses it's expertise and wide experience with medical providers to give you the best experience in case of an event requiring medical attention.
Whether you're hiking Israel's national trail or sightseeing the beaches from the dead sea to the red sea, some preparation can never hurt. Visa requirements, local currency, and tourist health insurance should all find their place in your travel preparation checklist.
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* The full and binding conditions are detailed in the policy. In any case of a contradiction between the aforementioned and the terms of the policy, the terms of the policy will prevail. Joining the insurance is subject to the Harel's medical underwriting policy.
