A beautiful country along the Mediterranean Sea, Israel is known for its holy sites, picturesque beaches, and Bauhaus architecture. This country in the Middle East is the Biblical Holy Land of Jews, Christians and Muslims. Although you can have amazing and unique experiences, there are some things not to do in Israel if you want to avoid the hassles. Israel is a traditional country because of its sacred importance and its difficult history. Therefore, it is best to enjoy knowing your limits well.
things to do in israel
Bookmark these tips somewhere to help you plan a safe and hassle-free vacation to Israel. These will keep you away from the troubles coming here
1. Don’t search
2. Don’t just eat hummus and pita
3. Don’t forget to stay hydrated
4. Don’t dress awkwardly
5. Don’t bargain
6. Don’t talk about politics
7. Do not keep these things
8. Don’t hitchhike
9. Don’t miss Tel Aviv at night
10. Don’t mind sharing your food
11. Don’t miss the lowest point on Earth
12. Don’t go out on Yom Kippur
1. Don’t search
If you’re a traveler who likes to take the path less beaten and go off the beaten track, don’t do it in Israel. One of the things not to do in Israel is to visit villages or remote areas. Israel is a war torn country. Therefore, there is a possibility that there may be active landmines in the area. If you don’t want to die please keep your wanderlust tendencies in the closet while on vacation in Israel.
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2. Don’t just eat hummus and pita
If you don’t know, Middle Eastern cuisine goes way beyond hummus and pita. Therefore, you do not need to survive on this alone. Whether you are a non-vegetarian or a vegetarian, the options for Israeli food are limitless. Try everything from falafel, shawarma, sabich, salads. Jerusalem and Tel Aviv have the best restaurants where you can enjoy scrumptious Israeli cuisine. And, did you know that samosa originated in the Middle East? So, you can also eat different types of samosas.
3. Don’t forget to stay hydrated
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It is hot during the day in Israel because most of the country is desert. Therefore, not carrying water is one of the things that should not be done in Israel. It is important to stay hydrated. Always carry a water bottle and make sure it is full. Drink water regularly during the tour to avoid fainting or dehydration. Not drinking enough water can have a negative impact on your health.
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4. Don’t dress awkwardly
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One of the things you should not do in Israel is dress immodestly. There are many holy sites in Israel that you may want to visit. If you’re visiting a mosque or museum in Israel, make sure you dress modestly. Avoid wearing tight or short clothes. No part of your skin should be exposed. Wear a hijab or cover your head when visiting a mosque. Not doing so could get you into trouble, which you’ll want to avoid at all costs.
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5. Don’t No deal
If you think you can’t find out about prices when shopping in Israel, you are wrong. Find what you want and haggle for prices when buying things from local markets. Do not immediately pay the first price asked of you by sellers in Israel. Shopping in Israel can be a fun and affordable experience. Since there is so much to buy, your negotiation skills will come in handy.
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6. Don’t talk about politics
Even if it’s the last thing you want to do on your Israel vacation. Everyone knows about the ongoing conflicts in Israel and how complex Israel’s history is. Talking about politics in Israel with locals, or even among ourselves, is like waking up to a scorpion’s nest. So, one of the things that is not done in Israel is to discuss politics. Also, you have not come to this beautiful country to talk about politics. So, focus on exploring nearby places.
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7. Do not keep these things
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Instead of what to pack for your trip, you should focus more on what not to bring to Israel. Do not carry Quran or any Arabic language book with you. There should not be any religious or political prints on your clothes. Stay away from toy weapons or anything that might arouse suspicion against you. Absolutely no drugs! Even bananas and pineapples are prohibited. Strange, but true!
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8. Don’t hitchhike
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If this were another country in Europe or anywhere else, hitchhiking would be fine, although we still wouldn’t suggest getting into a stranger’s car unless you have no other option. But when you’re in Israel, one of the things you shouldn’t do in Israel is hitchhike from strangers. This is something that even Israeli locals will advise you to do. Safety is paramount when you are backpacking in Israel. Therefore, remain alert at all times.
9. Don’t miss Tel Aviv at night
To some people Tel Aviv may not seem amazing at first glance. But if you see it at night, it will definitely make you change your mind about this city of Israel. At night the city really comes alive and gives you the best opportunity to enjoy the vibrant nightlife. You have unlimited bars and clubs to choose from. So, bar-hopping can be a fun thing to do in Tel Aviv on your trip to Israel.
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10. Don’t mind sharing your food
Sharing food is in Israeli culture. When you go to a restaurant in Israel or are invited to a local’s home, you will see a lot of food loaded on the table. People have a habit of sitting around, ordering a variety of food and enjoying it together. There is no concept of ordering your own main dish in Israel. Honestly, there’s no better way to try every cuisine in Israel.
11. Don’t miss the lowest point on Earth
Did you know Dead Beach is the lowest point on Earth? One of the things not to do in Israel is to miss the Salt Lake. Did you also know that you can never drown in the Dead Sea? The abundance of salt in the lake provides buoyancy to your body, making you float on water. Plus, the mineral-rich mud is therapeutic for your skin. In addition, discover charming oases, historical sites, picturesque surroundings in the nearby desert.
12. Don’t go out on Yom Kippur
If you don’t know, Yom Kippur is the most important festival of the Jewish people. Known as the Day of Atonement, it is a 25-hour long fast. There may not be a large Jewish population in Israel, but no one goes out on the streets during the festival. Everything from local shops, markets to public places is closed on Yom Kippur. So, if you are planning a trip to Israel, you may want to check that your dates do not clash with the festival.
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Swear by these commandments on your international trip to Israel. Israel is a beautiful country and the people here are beautiful at heart. Still, stay safe considering the circumstances of the country. Do not be careless as it may invite danger. But don’t let this get in the way of your entertainment.
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