Israel Tips

Question

Any traveling tips?

Answer

- Israel is 7 hours ahead of EST. - Flying to Tel Aviv comes with extra layers of security (so it’s super safe!). Don’t be surprised if the airport staff asks you questions about your trip or has an additional screening before you board the plane. - When you land, you’ll see biometric passport stations where you can scan your passport — make sure to do this and get a blue slip so you don’t need to wait in line at customs. There may be an instance where the machine doesn't take your passport — simply try another one or ask the staff for help. - When entering or leaving Israel your passport isn't stamped. Instead, you are given entry/exit slips of paper. Please don't throw away these slips - keep them inside your passport while you are in Israel in case your hotel or the airport requests to see it. - After landing in Israel, we suggest getting a taxi to travel to Tel Aviv. You can either download the Gett app (Uber for Israel) to pay by card, or grab a taxi from the taxi stand to pay by cash (shekels only). If you call a Gett, you'll need to take the elevator to reach your taxi.

Question

Any Tel Aviv tips?

Answer

- Please download WhatsApp if you haven't already! We'll open a group chat for our family and guests in case of any questions or announcements. We'll add you to the group using your American phone number! - The best way to get around in Tel Aviv is ordering a taxi on an app called Gett. - Other transportation alternatives across Tel Aviv include walking (the city is super walkable!), scooters (download the Bird or Lime), or bikes (there are green bikes around the city you can rent). - To get your hair done before the wedding, I suggest Highlights Salon in North TLV. I recommend you book in advance! - The tap water is safe to drink. - We suggest tipping 12-15%. When you're dining out, Israelis don't accept tips written on dinner receipts. Instead, tell your server what you'd like to tip when handing them your card. - If you'd like to order food delivery, download the Wolt app. - It's hot here, so we recommend wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and taking a water bottle with you when you explore the city. Peak heat is typically between 12-4pm. - Israelis have a relaxed approach to punctuality that Americans call "Israeli time." So if things don't kick off exactly on schedule, just go with the flow – it's all part of the Israeli experience :) - Israeli weekends are Fridays and Saturdays (Sunday is a work day). On Saturdays (Shabbat), many shops, banks, and public offices will be closed. Trains and buses tend not to operate, and only non- kosher restaurants will be open. Shops in Jaffa and the Port are open! - If you have any questions about Tel Aviv throughout your stay, feel free to reach out to Jill Golub (Silvi's BFF and Israel extraordinaire) at 914.924.1779

Question

Any packing tips?

Answer

- Clothing for events: Tuesday's beach event will be a white party. The suggested attire is Festive, Beachy Casual Chic (think: What you'd wear to a Labor Day party in Greece). Thursday's wedding will be Summery, Festive Cocktail attire. Friday night's Shabbat Dinner will be Smart Casual. - Day-to-day clothing: The weather will likely be between 75-90 degrees. Tel Aviv is a casual beachside city, so typical summerwear is perfect. If you plan to travel to Jerusalem, bring clothing that covers your shoulders and knees out of respect. - Other suggested items to pack: Power adapters, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes - Currency Exchange: We suggest exchanging dollars to shekels so you have cash for taxi rides, shopping at the markets, etc. You can exchange cash at the airport or in the many currency exchange centers in the city.