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Bookmark & shareMore than just a powder-keg or a promised land, Israel is unforgettable.
Everyone has their own perception of what Israel is about: it's a travel-agency package of beaches and sun; it's the Promised Land of the Jews; it's a ticking time bomb. And while it is all of these things, it's much more besides. So be sure to look beyond the larger-than-life figures of the past.
Israel is a bustling, noisy, modern country. It's best not to arrive with preconceptions of spiritual epiphany. If you do, you'll almost certainly have them confirmed, but in doing so you run the risk of missing the best this fascinating place has to offer.
Travel Warning: Regional Conflict
The security situation in Israel remains tense and unpredictable, particularly in the northern border regions and areas surrounding the West Bank and Gaza. These areas, as well as those near the Lebanese border are still very dangerous and should be avoided. Palestinian rockets launched from Gaza frequently hit the southern Israeli town of Sderot - the latest attack occurred on August 11. Travellers should exercise extreme caution, especially in Jerusalem, avoid any demonstrations and heed any local advice regarding safety.
Check travel advisories and news services before travelling. See Safe Travel for updated government warnings.
severity: High-level alert
Fast Facts
Country Full Name
State of Israel
Population
6,801,000
Currency
Name: New Israeli Shekel
Code: ILS
Symbol: ₪
Electrical Plugs
230V 50Hz
Languages Spoken
Official: Hebrew, Arabic
Time Zones
GMT/UTC +2
Country Dialing Code
+972
Weights & Measures
Metric
Israel & the Palestinian Territories - Free Guidebook Chapter
Download the free Getting Started chapter or buy individual chapters from our Israel & the Palestinian Territories guide, in our online Shop.
› Go to the Israel & the Palestinian Territories download page.
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Tags: Israel
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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
