Frequently Asked Questions
So many times we hear so much information before traveling on vacation. It can get so confusing to sort it out. Frequently asked questions need to be answered. Sometimes they feel like silly questions, but in no way are they! They are quite important. Here are some answers to some frequently asked questions about what it means to come to Israel, what to pack and more.
Let’s start these frequently asked questions!
How’s the weather?
The weather in Israel, like in most countries, depends on the season. The summer is very hot and dry, while in the winter it is much like spring in much of the United States–nice in the day, cool in the night, with some rain. There are some periods where it is quite rainy. And the summer is not just hot, but very, very, VERY hot. So it’s important to consider the weather when planning your trip. I find that this is a good site when checking the weather.
Is it safe?
Absolutely. While it may seem scary on the News sometimes because of political tensions, the country is very safe. You may be surprised at how safe you will feel during your time in Israel. There are security guards at major malls and venters of transportation. And it is the job of the News to make is seem worse than it is in reality… in all places. Israel is no exception. But, I am also prepared to make changes and take alternative routes and tours if the case may be. In addition, it is always good to know the details of the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv. Whether it for passport issues or security issues. It’s website is here. But again it is 100% safe to come and visit. In fact, many tourists can testify to how comfortable and safe they feel once they are in the country.
What should I bring?
This is a terrific question. But this also depends on when you come. However, attached below is a recommended packing list of some of the things you will want to bring with you. If you’re coming to Israel in the winter, it’s worthwhile to bring a raincoat or umbrella due to the rain. In the summer with the heat, a raincoat isn’t really necessary. One note, however, Israel is a highly developed country. If you forget something, like proper shoes, or run out of something, like shampoo, it is quite easy to buy these products.But in short, it is important to know how to pack correctly. This may even save you some room in your luggage!
For a recommended Packing List.
Do I need a passport?
Yes. Passports are required for entering and departing from Israel. However, no visa is required for traveling to the State of Israel. You will not need a visa for a trip less than three months. If you are coming for a study abroad program, or other longer programs, you will want to have a visa. But more information will be given by the program. This being said, please make sure that your passport is valid for the dates you are abroad. In fact, you will want the passport to be valid six months after you returned home.This will ensure that going through airports both coming and returning go smoothly.
Do I need medical insurance?
This should be decided on with your doctors at home, but at the end of the day it is recommended to have travel medical insurance in the case of an accident. It is best to have all your bases covered. Like I mentioned it is very safe in Israel, but it’s best to have insurance in the event you sprain your ankle or something along those lines. Also please make sure you have enough of any necessary medication for the entire trip to prevent running out and having to refill it in Israel. If you run out while you’re in Israel, it’ll be difficult to get a referral or refill of the medicine. It is best just to have enough. All of this will make the trip smoother and easier, not to mention with more time to focus on the fun stuff.
Why Me?
This is a great question. As a tour guide, I work to not only simply show you the sites of Israel, but to make your trip meaningful. That may mean to have a specific focus, or address a certain period of history. It may mean that you want go to specific sites, balance formal guiding with discussions and meditations. Whatever it means, we will sit and discuss your goals for the trip before you come so I can fine tune an itinerary and trip, just for you and your group. During my trips it is also important for me to not just talk about the sites as if I am in a classroom, but to make memorable and relevant through discussions and thought.
I want you to go home and remember the names of the places we went to, to remember why they matter. Furthermore, I want to have discussions about why the places we visit are relevant today and to you personally. I don’t want to guide a trip with surface level meaning; I want to go in- depth and explore Israel’s meaning with you. Check out my Facebook page to see some of my groups and trips with people from around the world.
There can be many more frequently asked questions I haven’t answered. There may be questions that aren’t so frequently asked that you may have. I am here to answer them all. Free free to contact me with ANY questions you may have.