Israel flights and travel guide

Language

Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages of Israel. Most of the population also speak English.

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Communications

The international access code for Israel is +972. The outgoing code is 00 (not from public phones) followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). There are other outgoing codes depending on which network is used to dial out on. City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)2 for Jerusalem. Public phones are card operated and are readily available, and instruction cardsstate whether to dial 012, 013 or 014 for overseas. The local cell phone operators use GSM networks and have roaming agreements with most international operators, otherwise cell phones can easily be rented. Internet cafes are available in the main towns and tourist areas all over Israel.

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Tipping

Tipping, according to level of service, is expected unless a service charge is added to the bill.

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Safety

Travellers should maintain a high level of vigilance and keep up to date with developments. The security situation in the West Bank and Gaza Strip remains unstable and visitors are advised to avoid all travel to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, and to within at least 3km (two miles) from the Lebanese border; care should also be taken crossing between Israel and Jordan.

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Health

There are no special precautions required for travel to Israel. Travellers are advised to avoid drinking tap water. Bird flu has been discovered in Gaza as well as in a number of towns in Israel. The risk to travellers is very low, but close contact with live birds should be avoided, and all egg and poultry dishes should bewell cooked as a precaution. Medical facilities are excellent but treatment can be very expensive so it is essential that travellers take out full insurance.

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Electricity

220 volts, 50Hz; European-style two-pin and round three-pin plugs are used.

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