What you need to know?
It's always good to be properly informed when traveling, especially if you're traveling on your own. Here are the 10 things you need to know when visiting Israel that will definitely help you. Since my Israel trip was a school trip, I was privileged to not do all the research because everything was already organized. Nevertheless, I must say entering and leaving Israel can be complicated and can cause you inconviences without knowing the following :
2. No Entry to Israel
There are some countries like : Afghanistan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran, Syria, Somail, Sudan and other Middle-East /Arabic countries doesn't allow their citizens from entering Israel, and to some extent it can be worse like considered as a crime. Therefore it may be hard for you to enter the country. In the same way if you are from Israel or had been to Israel and you're planning to visit those Arab countries afterwards, make sure to request from the passport control window to not put a stamp in your passport, and you will be given a tourist visa like this.
3. Long Line
Expect a long line by the time you enter the Immigration of Israel, the waiting time might take an hour or two. This is due to some people having some stamps with their passports from other arabic countries and were not aware of the regulations, unfortunately some of them were denied to enter Israel. It is not advisable to make important appointments 2-3 hrs after your flight, unless you have some VIP pass in the immigration control.
Falafel in Israel
Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, Israel
8. Ignore Rude Sellers
If you are on the go for souvenir shopping, there are several market places you can go in Israel. I got excited when I saw some of those crowded market places in Jerusalem because it made me feel a little bit home. I love to shop souvenir item whenever I travel and the chance to use my negotiating skills again. Unfortunately, there were some sellers who can get too pushy or hard selling and even got upset when you don't buy anything. Well, who would like to buy when you are pressured to the highest level? If ever you are in that situation just ignore them, it might ruin your day 😉 My classmates were all terrified when they experienced being shouted at. But of course it's still important to respect each other. When you don't have plans to buy don't ask them questions that might lead them to buying expectations to stay away from trouble.
9. Weapons Everywhere. In Israel, it's normal to see soldiers walking around while carrying rifles or any weapons. Don't be scared. It's their way of having security around. You'll get used to it somehow. Talk to them they are the most welcoming, amiable and helpful people around.
Jordan River (at the back)
10. Dead Sea Never open your eyes when swimming and be careful to not put a drop of salt water in your eyes. However if you accidentally put some ( like I did), just calm down and don't open your eyes so as not to get it worse, then call a friend to walk with you to the shower area. I tell you, it was really painful that I thought I'll damage my eyes. It is advisable to not go for a swim alone, unless you're 100% sure that you won't spill water in your eyes.
