Regular cocktail attire. Men can wear suits, but definitely don't have to. Most men who aren't family will not be wearing suits. Sarah will be wearing a white wedding dress. Bring flat shoes to change into for dancing. Definitely bring a sweater because the evening may be cool. There is no need to cover up at the wedding for religious reasons or anything like that.
We will be having a cocktail hour followed by a traditional Jewish ceremony under the chupa, a fantastic dinner, then a big party! Israeli weddings are just the best- they're loud, loving, exciting, and full of incredible energy. Get ready to dance all night long.
Our venue is known for some of the best food in the country- you won't be disappointed! The cuisine will be an incredible Israeli fusion style meal. There will be options for meat as well as vegan and vegetarian. Come hungry!
Everything at our wedding will be in English and Hebrew so all guests can feel comfortable. In Israel, the main language is Hebrew, but many people speak amazing English. If you get stuck with the language, Aviel will be available for help translating for you.
March is the transition from Winter to Spring, but it's certainly not a Winter that Americans are used to (our Winters are a bit more like Spring in New York). The weather during the day (if it doesn't rain) will be warm, with a slight chill potentially. The evenings can get cool so bring a jacket or sweater. It's probably the beginning of shorts weather, but still pants weather, so bring some options.
Israelis are the warmest and most authentic people you will ever meet. They say what they mean! If someone invites you to dinner- they really mean it, and you'll probably get a call in a few days with an invite. On the other side of that coin, they can be pretty direct! Don't be afraid if someone asks you right away about your view on American politics, or what your points-of-view are on the war. Our recommendation- go with it! Nothing is off limits here. You can also ask Israelis anything- they love chatting and are very open people. Talk to your waiters, people on the street, cab drivers. It's the best way to get an idea of the Israeli culture.
In Tel Aviv, there's an extensive bus system, and a new light-rail system. The buses here are doable, but can be a bit slow, so we recommend the light-rail or cabs if you're short on time. If you do take a bus (locals take them all the time), just make sure you allocate enough time in advance incase there's traffic. Sometimes the light-rail can be even faster than cabs, so we recommend giving it a try. The light-rail, however, has very limited locations, so check Google Maps carefully when trying to get around. You pay for buses and the light-rail in Israel with the app MOOVIT or HOP ON. They're both in English. Download one of them, put in your credit card information, and when you're on the bus, you just scan the QR code. When you're on the light-rail, you either scan your phone at the gate, or just tab a button on your phone to verify your ride. It sounds confusing, but it's simple! If you get confused, just ask someone for help and they'll be happy to help you. When you arrive in Israel, download the application GETT. This is the taxi app here. We don't have any others such as Uber or Lyft. If you use Gett to get a taxi, your credit card will be charged through the app and it's very safe. To take a taxi from the airport to where you're staying, use the Gett app and then get on the cab line. Again, if you have issues, call us, or ask someone in the airport. As far as getting to different cities in Israel, we have a very reliable train system, and of course people drive. We'll be happy to help you organize transportation to wherever you want to go.
Israelis absolutely love tourists and love practicing their English with tourists. When people hear you speak English they'll ask a lot of questions! Everyone is harmless and simply curious. However, some vendors do try to rip tourists off. At the market, for example, there's not all that much you can do about it, except perhaps ask an Israeli near you if this is a fair price. This is very common for cab drivers to rip tourists off, which is why you shouldn't take a cab without using the Gett app.
Yes! As an American as of the last few years, you need a VISA to enter Israel. Follow the direction in the email you received when you booked your ticket. It will show up instantly after you pay. It's important you do it before you get to the airport
Despite the news, we have lived here for 9 years (and Aviel his whole life!) and feel completely safe. There is very little street crime here. You can feel completely safe to walk around at night. Women walk alone here at night without a second thought. The biggest crime in Tel Aviv is bike theft (both of us sadly have gotten bikes stolen, and pretty much everyone we know), but other than that, you don't have to feel unsafe about street crime in general.