FACTS ABOUT ISRAEL

The following is useful information about the country.

Capital City:        Jerusalem

Official Language:           Hebrew and Arabic. English and Russian are widely spoken.

Population:        8.3 Million

Currency:             New Israeli Shekel (NIS)

International Calling Code:  +972

International Airport Code:

• TLV (Ben Gurion International Airport)
• VDA (Ovda International Airport)

Vaccinations:     Visitors are not required to undergo any vaccinations prior to their arrival.

Car Rental:          The driver must be over 21 years old, must have a valid international drivers license and an international credit card.

Electricity:            220 volt AC, single phase, 50 Hertz.

Currency Exchange:        Currency can be exchanged in all major banks and post offices as well as licensed exchange posts all over the country. Some do not charge commissions.

Shabbat Observance:    All public offices, schools and universities are closed on Shabbat (Friday afternoon to Saturday), as are most private businesses. In most cities, public transportation does not operate, and most, but not all, restaurants are closed. Radio and TV broadcasts operate as usual.

Tipping:                                It is customary to tip waiters adding 10% to 15% to the bill.

Climate:               Israel enjoys temperate weather throughout the year. The country is virtually rainless from early spring through late autumn. In winter, rainy spells alternate with many fine, sunny days, and little rain falls in Eilat or Dead Sea regions.  Summers are hot and sunny, with higher levels of humidity along the Mediterranean, in the valleys and around the Sea of Galilee.

Dress Code:        Most religious sites require a modest dress code for both men and women: Covered shoulders and no shorts.  During the regular tour and travel, comfortable apparel is acceptable, although it is recommend to carry the appropriate accessories in order to enter the sites.