Israel is one of the most beautiful, and culturally and historically important countries in all of the world. The land has many religious affiliations and is believed to be the birthplace and death place of Jesus Christ. He is said to have traversed this country to the likes of Jerusalem and Bethlehem. An estimated 3.5 million visitors make their way to Israel each year, with many coming to enjoy the healing and transforming powers thought to lay within the land. Once you’re set on traveling to Israel, it’s advisable to learn more about the custom, culture, and particulars that are going to affect you.
Religious Significance
Tour to the holy land as a Christian and fulfill one of the most significant rites of passage for those who wish to pay their respects, renew their faith, and bring the scripture to life. Although there doesn’t often seem like a convenient time to leave your busy life behind for a week or two, many Christians recommend making the journey to The Holy Land at least once in your lifetime and sooner rather than later. Remember to take your camera along with you, as you’ll want to catch images of the setting to later reflect back upon.
Ready For The Weekend
The Israeli working week commences on a Sunday and breaks for the weekend on Thursdays after sunset. This will impact how you travel around Israel, especially if you want to get somewhere at the weekend. In some secular cities, restaurants and other establishments stay open during the weekend. However, places in more religious areas will cease to operate during the Jewish Sabbath. So, play it safe wherever you can and either check to see whether certain places and transport systems are going to be closed, or what time they’re expected to shut. Avoid traveling on the days that you cannot be 100% sure of how you’re going to reach your destination safely and smoothly.
Getting Around
Israel enjoys efficient and reliable public transport systems, and none more so than the trains, inter-city buses and the intra-city ones, as well as shared taxis, and the shared bike system too. Before you depart headed for Israel, make sure that you’ve downloaded the necessary apps for making your way from A to B.. Again, remember to plan your route taking into account the weekend period, as otherwise, you could find yourself a little stuck.
Temperatures
The Middle East boasts some of the warmest climates in the world, and Israel is believed to teeter around the average high temperature of 79ºF (26ºC) during July. If you’re coming to Israel in the height of summer, then it’s wise to pack sensibly and appropriately. Pack your bags with heat, comfort, and modesty in mind. Both men and women are expected to cover parts of their body during important dates in the religious calendar, so don’t forget to pack a long garment of clothing – long enough to cover your shoulders and your legs. With this said, the dress code in Israel is largely relaxed and laidback, and shorts and t-shirts are more than acceptable.