Hello everyone,
I want to travel to Israel at the end of the week. With the latest news on Gaza, I am a bit worried about going there. I wanted to travel down to Eilat after a short visit to Jerusalem. Apparently, Qassam-rockets shot from Gaza can go as far as Beer Sheva, which would be right on the road down to Eilat. Is it still advisable to go to Israel these days? Recommendations? Suggestions? I find the latest development very scary.
Thanks
Mary
Hi there
Israel is perfectly safe - you are about twice as safe anywhere in Israel as in the average US city!
One bus crash doesnt make a country unsafe, and the rockets from Gaza dont go to Beer Sheva but really generally within a few mile radius of the Gaza Strip and generally affect the town of Sderot. This area is not really on the tourist trail anyway.
I say go! Enjoy! Be cautious and aware as you are anywhere, and if it makes you more comfortable, keep up to date with developments although there hopefully wont be any.
The road to Eilat is pretty safe though, remember its used all day and night and a rocket hasnt ever hit it, and there was one bus crash there last week.
Hope this helps
Hi Mary!
There is no reason to worry about going to Israel.
As usual, things look much more scary on the news than they are in practice. That is what news is for...
I completely agree with #1.
The chance of anything happening to you are rediculously small.
There is a much higher chance of being involved in car accident on your way to the airport.
Being in Jerusalem and especially in Eilat, you would wonder what was every one talking about as you will see life going on as if nothing is happening.
Enjoy!
Yoni
I agree with the others. And in any case, if you go from Jerusalem to Eilat you don't need to go via Be'er Sheva, if that's bothering you - although really it shouldn't! The fact that Kassams from Gaza can+ (or are said to be able to) go as far as Be'er Sheva doesn't mean that they +are doing so, or even that they are likely to do so.