While traveling to Israel is commonly associated with relaxation, a trip can bring on a lot of stress. From worrying about hotel stays to dealing with getting to your destination, it sometimes seems as though every aspect of travel is overwhelming. This article will give you advice on how to deal with those stresses and enjoy your time away.
Be respectful and patient towards security checkpoints and customs officials. In most cases, these exist for your safety. If not, being upset still won’t help you get through any faster. In fact, making a fuss at the security checkpoint is almost always a ticket to the express lane for the extra search.
If you know that you are going to have a long layover in a city, check what there is to do beforehand. A 3 hour layover in Washington D.C. can easily turn into a quick tour of the Washington Mall or a long sit in Minneapolis can become a quick shopping trip to the Mall of America!
If you plan to go shopping for clothes while abroad, research that area’s measurement system. Garment measurements vary greatly from country to country. They also vary greatly from brand to brand. However, a basic knowledge of their clothes sizes will help you get in the ballpark as far as finding a size that fits you goes.
When traveling in Israel to poorer or less-developed areas, avoid touching any of the local animals. This obviously includes farm animals, but also covers stray cats and dogs as well as draft or pack animals. You never know what diseases these animals could be carrying, and chances are you don’t have the same immunities as the locals.
When traveling to Israel by air, purchase your airline tickets as early as possible. Airlines that offer very low fares, like Southwest Airlines, have a limited number of seats available at the lowest price. By purchasing your tickets early you are assured of getting the best possible rates for air travel.
Keep your wallet in your front pocket, and wrap a rubber band around it. Both of these tactics will allow you to feel if someone is attempting to steal your wallet. Keeping it in your front pocket is a big deterrence anyway, because it is more difficult for you to be distracted.
When traveling by car there are many ways to save money. First, pack your car as lightly as possible, this will help save on gas. Next, if you are renting a car for a large group, rent one SUV and it will save on gas and the cost of renting two vehicles. Also, assure your tire pressure is adequate, as this will help to save on gas, too. Last, use your cars cruise control function as it will run the engine efficiently and is yet another way to save on gas. Be sure to factor in the price of gas in Israel, it will cost at least double than what you’d expect to pay in the United States. Also keep in mind, gas is priced by the liter (1/4 gallon).
Whether you’re traveling to Israel for business or for pleasure, you want to have the best experience you can. These tips will help circumvent possible issues, and will make every aspect of your trip more enjoyable. Soon, you’ll be looking forward to your trip, instead of worrying about what might go wrong.