Israel Guide
| You should also read our Holiday Information, which provides general holiday information and constitutes part of our booking conditions. | ||||
| See Airport Security Guidance >> | ||||
| Language | Hebrew. English is widely spoken. | |||
Currency |
Israeli Shekels (US Dollars generally accepted). |
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Electricity |
220 volts AC, 50 cycles. An adaptor is necessary (usually 3
pronged). |
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Costs
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Food and drink are generally a little more expensive than other similar countries, depending on where you eat/drink. Gourmet restaurants can be quite costly. Falafel and Houmous (staple snack food in Israel) are quite cheap.
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Tipping |
A 10% tip is the norm for restaurants. It is customary and
appreciated to tip guides, drivers and hotel staff. (Tipping in US Dollars is
always appreciated). |
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Shopping |
Shops are generally open from 8.30am to 1pm and then again
from 4pm to 7pm, but department stores, restaurants and many tourist
shops stay open all day. Many do not open on Friday afternoons and
Saturdays. Eilat enjoys Duty Free status. |
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Banks |
Banking hours are 8.30am to 1pm and 4pm to 7pm. Banks are
usually closed Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons and all day
Saturday. |
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Local |
When visiting holy sites, such as synagogues and
mosques, you may be required to observe customs such as covering your
head, shoulders and legs. Please respect these local customs. |
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Clothing
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During summer, lightweight clothing is recommended. In the evenings a light jacket/cardigan is advisable. From late autumn to early spring dressing in layers is suggested. Eilat's climate is desert-like, with hot days but cooler nights. Suitable clothing such as walking boots and a windproof jacket is recommended for touring itineraries and excursions. |
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Passports
and visas |
A full ten-year passport with at least 6 months
validity remaining from the date of return is required for travel to Israel,
for all British, EU and EEA nationals. A visa is not generally required for
travel to Israel by British, EU or EEA nationals (except German nationals if
born before 01/01/28), although you are strongly recommended to contact
the Israeli Embassy prior to making your booking on 020 7957 9500. |
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General
information |
Many hotels operate a non-smoking policy in restaurants/main dining rooms and indoor public areas.
Restaurants in hotels are Kosher, unless otherwise stated. This means that no pork products or shellfish (such as prawns, shrimps and lobster) will be served, and meat and milk dishes will not be served together.
Eilat is a popular destination amongst Israeli Arabs, who often celebrate Muslim festivals in the Resort. At these times, many facilities can become busy.
For more information, contact the Israel Government Tourist Office www.thinkisrael.com |
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Festivals and Holidays |
The following festivals and
associated holidays are celebrated in Israel. During these times,
resorts may be busier than usual and services may be reduced.
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