If you’re looking for an exciting getaway to a one of a kind small mediterranean country packed with history and some of the most prominent religious sites in the world, then Israel is the country that should be on the top of your travel lists.
Let’s explore everything you will need to know before you visit one of the most historically and religiously significant areas in the entire world. Read on to discover the top places to visit, along with other important information about the country and culture that all tourists should have in the back of their minds before visiting.
Many people don’t know that Israel has an impressive economy compared to other countries in the region. What’s more, there are many companies that operate out of Israel. For example, NFX is a venture firm that focuses on investing in startups, and they operate out of both California and Israel. They also have a platform called Signal NFX where founders and investors can find each other. Check out this venture capitalist’s profile on Signal NFX, for example.
Here’s what you should know before traveling to Israel in 2023:
- Social Etiquette
While Israel is located in the Middle East, it shares many cultural and political similarities with Western countries, such as the United States or European nations. Some things to keep in mind about local customs and traditions, however:
- Dress Modestly. Especially when visiting religious sites, it is customary to cover your shoulders and knees. A long-sleeve shirt and pants will do the job just fine.
- Shabbat. In Israel, Shabbat is a Jewish day of rest, beginning on Friday evening and ending the following evening on Saturday. During this period, it is common for many businesses to be closed, including restaurants, cafes, and stores. We recommend planning ahead accordingly and making sure the business is open if you are going to go on Friday or Saturday.
- Tipping. Whether or not tipping is appreciated or not is often a common question when traveling to any country. In the United States, tipping is all but mandatory, while in Japan it is actually considered rude to tip. In Israel however, like the United States, it is customary to tip 10-15% in restaurants, and to tip hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides.
- Where to visit
Deciding where to go in Israel is very challenging because there are so many historically significant and fascinating sites to explore. However, there are some sites that take the cake when it comes to their prominence around the world.
For starters, The Old City of Jerusalem is a must-see for anyone touring the country. The city of Jerusalem is over 5,000 years old, and has been the holy city for Jews, Christians, and Muslims for over thousands of years. The Western Wall is a holy site in Jerusalem, and is believed to be the only remaining remnant of the Second Temple, a site destroyed by the Roman Empire in the year 70 CE.
If you’re looking for something a bit more modern, Tel Aviv is Israel’s capital city located on the Mediterranean coast of the country. From sunny beaches to the bustling nightlife of Tel Aviv, there is a ton to do and explore in the city. We recommend checking out the Carmel Market, which is a go-to spot for tourists looking to try local cuisines and buy souvenirs.
Now that you know a bit more about Israel, its customs, and places to visit, we hope you feel ready to plan a trip there and discover the wonders of the country for yourself.
