The State of Israel is a country in the Middle East with profound historical, cultural, and religious significance. It is home to sacred sites for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, including Jerusalem’s Old City and the Sea of Galilee. Alongside its deep historical roots, Israel is also a modern, technologically advanced nation with vibrant cities, stunning beaches, desert landscapes, and a rich culinary scene.

**Key Regions:**
- **Jerusalem:** Spiritual center for three major religions, featuring the Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Al-Aqsa Mosque.
- **Tel Aviv:** A modern, cosmopolitan city on the Mediterranean, known for its nightlife, beaches, and Bauhaus architecture.
- **Galilee:** Lush region with historic towns like Nazareth and Safed, and natural attractions including the Sea of Galilee.
- **Dead Sea:** A unique salt lake at the Earth’s lowest point, famous for therapeutic mud and buoyant waters.
- **Negev Desert & Eilat:** Arid southern region with desert landscapes, hiking opportunities, and the Red Sea resort city of Eilat.

Israel features a varied climate:
- **Mediterranean (Tel Aviv, Haifa):** Hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
- **Desert (Negev, Eilat):** Extremely hot and dry in summer, cooler in winter.
- **Temperatures:** Summer highs often exceed 30°C; winter averages range from 10°C to 20°C depending on region.

- **Visa-Free Access:** Citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
- **Entry Stamp:** Since 2013, Israeli border control issues entry slips instead of passport stamps, which helps avoid complications with travel to certain countries.
- **Customs:** Standard regulations apply. Declaring valuable items is required; restrictions exist on bringing in fresh foods and large sums of cash.

- **Air Travel:** Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) near Tel Aviv is the main international gateway.
- **Land Borders:** Entry is possible via Jordan (Allenby/King Hussein, Sheikh Hussein, and Wadi Araba crossings) and Egypt (Taba Crossing), though land entry regulations vary.
- **Sea:** Limited cruise access at Haifa and Ashdod ports.

**Public Transport:**
- **Trains:** Israel Railways connects major cities like Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem.
- **Buses:** Extensive intercity and local service (Egged and other companies). Note: Limited or no service on Shabbat (Friday sunset to Saturday sunset).
- **Taxis:** Widely available; shared taxis (sherut) operate even on Shabbat.
- **Ride-Sharing:** Apps like Gett and Yango are used instead of Uber.

- **Requirements:** Valid driver’s license (plus IDP for some nationalities), minimum age typically 21–25.
- **Driving:** Right-hand traffic. Roads are generally good, with clear signage.
- **Tips:** Use navigation apps with real-time traffic info (e.g., Waze, which was developed in Israel).

- **SIM Cards:** Widely available at the airport and city shops from providers like Cellcom, Partner, and Pelephone.
- **Wi-Fi:** Free and fast in most urban areas, including cafés, malls, and public transport.
- **Coverage:** Strong nationwide, including most rural areas.

**Accommodation Options:**
- **Urban Hotels:** Ranging from budget hostels to luxury 5-star resorts, especially in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
- **Kibbutz Stays:** Rural accommodations offering authentic Israeli experiences.
- **Resorts:** Found in Eilat (Red Sea), the Dead Sea, and Tiberias (Sea of Galilee).

- **Currency:** Israeli Shekel (ILS).
- **Cards:** Credit/debit cards widely accepted.
- **ATMs:** Easily found and multilingual.
- **Tipping:** Common in restaurants (10–15%), not expected in taxis.
- **Costs:** Israel is relatively expensive; meals, accommodation, and transport are priced at European levels.

- **Emergency Services (Police, Medical, Fire):** 100 / 101 / 102
- **Tourist Police:** +972 2 539 1288
- **Ben Gurion Airport Info:** +972 3 972 3333

Israel’s Mediterranean coast features popular beaches such as Gordon Beach in Tel Aviv and Banana Beach in Herzliya. Eilat’s Red Sea beaches are ideal for snorkeling and water sports. The Dead Sea offers a unique floating experience, though it’s more therapeutic than recreational.

Eilat is a renowned diving destination with coral reefs, warm waters, and excellent visibility. Dive shops and guided tours are plentiful. Other diving options include underwater archaeological sites near Caesarea.

**What to Buy:**
- Dead Sea products, Israeli wines, Judaica, local fashion, olive oil, spices.
- **Markets:** Carmel Market (Tel Aviv), Mahane Yehuda (Jerusalem), and local artisan fairs.
- **Malls:** Modern shopping centers like Azrieli Mall (Tel Aviv) and Mamilla Mall (Jerusalem).
- **VAT Refunds:** Available at the airport for non-Israeli tourists on certain purchases.

**Cuisine:**
- Fusion of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Jewish culinary traditions.
- **Popular Dishes:** Falafel, hummus, shakshuka, sabich, grilled meats, fresh seafood.
- **Kosher Options:** Widely available and marked.
- **Dining:** Wide range of choices from street food to fine dining, especially in Tel Aviv.
- **Drinks:** Israeli wines and craft beers are gaining international acclaim.