Israel

Types of trips: Adventure, Culture, Diversity, Religious, Historical

Best known for: Jerusalem, Important religious sites for Christians, Muslims and Jews, High life expectancy

Why Go?: Israel is a country of extravagance. From the lavish churches and ancient religious sites to dramatic landscapes and massively varied culture and nature, it's full of wonder - only marred by the political conflicts that the country has suffered from for many years. While some areas are no-go zones, there are still plenty of places full of wonder and interesting things to do - this will be a memorable trip to say the least!

Fact File

Population: 8,200,000

Capital: Jerusalem

Language(s): Hebrew, Arabic

Ties to the UK?: Fairly good political relationship

Landscape: Varied geography despite small size - southern desert, many mountain ranges, fertile valleys, wide plateaus in the north and a long coastline. 

Climate/Seasons: The climate varies quite a lot throughout Israel - the higher mountainous regions can be quite cold with snowfall likely at least once a year, while the coastal areas have long, hot summers with cooler, rainy winters. The deserts are very hot and dry with mild winters, with the dry season country-wide falling between May - September.

When to Go: The best time visit in regards to the weather is in the spring months of of April and May or autumnal months September and October. It's best to avoid any major religious holidays as many business close and public transport can be limited - be sure to check out the local calendar!

Reasons to Visit: Religious/historical education, local culture

How to Get There: Air travel is the best way to get to Israel from the UK - you can fly direct from London. 

Places to Go: Israel Museum, Masada, Yad Vashem, Tel Aviv Museum of Art

Famous People: Reuven Rivlin, Shahar Pe'er

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Sea of Galilee, Beit She'an National Park, Hula Nature Reserve

History: Israel has many sites of historical and religious importance, with the city of Jerusalem one of the oldest in the world. Some periods of conflict throughout history with various groups over land ownership. 

Architecture: Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Dome of the Rock, Caesarea Maritima

Culture: A very diverse culture coming from the diverse population - strong Jewish culture with Arabian influences in music and food. Also the only country in the world that uses the Hebrew calendar  

Sport: Football, Basketball, Tennis, Chess

Events: Ein Gev Music Festival, Stone in the Galilee Sculpture Festival, Docaviv Festival, Jacob's Ladder Festival

Watch Out For: Israel has quickly changing local atmospheres and unrest - see the linked FCO page below for up to date information. While you do not currently need a visa to enter Israel as a tourist, it's best to check out what exact current status of entry requirements (especially when dealing with groups) beforehand - details can be found on the FCO page below also. 

Medical Issues: Some vaccines and boosters are advised for travel to Israel - see here for a general overview, and always consult with a doctor!