Useful Pre-Tour Information

May 19th 2011

Packing can be such a drag! Fear not – we at Shalom Israel Tours are here to make your life easy, so grab a cup of coffee, sit back and relax, and check out our super basic recommended packing list.

Want your clothes to fit in amongst the crowd in Israel? Casual and comfortable is the way to go. We suggest a pair of comfy broken in shoes for walking (that brand new pair of sneakers could give you major blisters!). You’ll also want a cozy sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather coat so you’ll be ready for anything! Temperatures during the summertime easily hit the whopping high 90’s (38-40c) on a regular basis, so in the heat of summer a hat, sunglasses, and sun block are essential to staying cool! In the evenings, a light jacket or cardigan is a good idea if you’re visiting in higher elevations such as Jerusalem, which can get quite chilly at night. If you are traveling in the winter, don’t forget your jacket and rain gear!

Note: Please keep in mind that you will be visiting many religious sites. For the sake of cultural sensitivity and an enjoyable experience we strongly encourage that women bring (x2) lightweight shawls to cover their shoulders and legs when required.  Men (Jewish and non-Jewish) should have a kippah/yarmulke available as well.  These precautions will show respect to local and religious custom and ensure a comfortable experience for all!

Clothing Recommendation

–  Pants for hiking, and evening wear.
–  Sweatshirt/ Sweater/ Fleece for fall, winter, and spring evenings – even for the desert!
–  Shorts and shirts for hiking, especially in the summer – so many great trails to cover!
–  Bathing suit for the Dead Sea, rafting, and Mediterranean Coast – you’ll want to cool off!
–  Button-down shirts for evenings/dinners out.
–  Sturdy sneakers or walking shoes, you will be walking A LOT!

Miscellaneous and Selected Items

–  Toiletries (deodorant, toothbrush, shampoo, razors, etc.) and copy of any prescriptions.
–  Camera – you’ll be taking TONS of pictures!
–  Baseball cap/ hats – the sun here is mighty strong!
–  Day bag (purse, backpack, money belt, etc.)
–  Sunglasses – it’s bright in Israel, protect your eyes!
–  Sunscreen – lots of it!

ELECTRICITY

The electrical current in Israel is 220 volts AC, single phase, 50 cycles.   Most hotels provide converters, and have 110 volt sockets available in the restrooms.  Your laptop probably has a converter built into its power cord and you will only need a plug adapter.  Smaller electronics such as electric shavers will require an actual power converter (220V down to 110V).

HEALTH COVERAGE:

There are no special precautions required for travel to Israel. Travelers are advised to avoid drinking tap water. Medical facilities are excellent but treatment can be very expensive so it is essential that travelers take out insurance, please contact Shalom Israel Tours for details.

PASSPORTS & VISA’S

Leave a copy of your passport and your itinerary with a contact in your home country.
Every visitor to Israel must hold a passport valid for at least six months.

CREDIT CARDS

Israeli shops, restaurants, gas stations, and other providers of services accept major credit cards, such as Visa, Master Card and American Express.

WEATHER:

Israel enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate for much of the year that is characterized by dry summers and short, cool, winters.
Summer in Israel lasts from April-October, with the peak months in July and August.
Winter, ranging from November-March, sees plenty of rain in coastal areas and even snow in the highlands, including Jerusalem.

AND REMEMBER:

If you have any questions or concerns about anything, please ask, we’re here to help!