ISRAEL TRAVEL TIPS

PASSPORT:

Participants with valid U.S. and Canadian passports do not require visas. If you hold a passport of a foreign country, please contact the Israeli Consulate in your area for information on whether or not you need a visa.

CLIMATE:

Not only does Israel boost warm, pleasant weather from Spring throughout Autumn, but this period is totally rainless. Rain falls only during the winter months, particularly from December through February. The average temperature in Jerusalem from June to September is 72F, and 63F in May and October.

CLOTHING:

Israel is an especially informal country. A formal affair calls for no more than a dark suit for men and the corresponding equivalent for women. During the day, particularly for touring, comfort is the guiding rule and cottons are coolest. Modest attire is required for visits to religious sites.

CURRENCY & CREDIT CARDS:

The currencies of most Western countries are recognized in Israel as legal tender. Therefore, one can make purchases in one’s own currency, with change made in Israeli Shekel. Travelers checks may be used and major international credit card are also accepted.

SHOPPING HOURS:

Most shops are open daily, Sunday through Friday, and closed for the Jewish Sabbath on Saturday (Christian owned shops close on Sunday and Moslem owned shops on Friday). Some shops close between 1pm-4pm.

TIPPING:

A 10% tip in a restaurant is considered correct. No tip is required for taxi drivers. It is convenience to tip one’s tour guide and coach driver at the end of the tour, as well as hotel chamber maids, waiters, etc.