Israel is a long-contested land that was born of political compromise
after the end of World War II, but its roots go back as far as the
biblical state of Zion. Jerusalem at its heart attracts millions in
pilgrimage every year, yet Israel is far from a backwater theocracy but a
pulsing modern nation with a highly developed economy, which remains a
world leader in the fields of water conservation and geothermal energy.
There’s
more here for visitors than biblical voyeurism, too – though the lively
cultural chaos of the holy city is well worth the trouble. There’s a
dense microcosm of natural delights, from green, forested mountains in
the north to the eerie dust-desert of the south, and the sandy
Mediterranean beaches to the great river flowing through the Jordan Rift
Valley. The diverse city culture borrows from across the globe and
there are urban highlights for history buffs, theatre lovers and wild
party animals alike. The music scene is a lively infusion of
contemporary and traditional, world and folk, while the Red Sea Jazz
Festival has international renown.
Business itself is a
pleasurable experience; meetings are often held at home or in
restaurants and a great deal of time is given over to socialising. A
casual, friendly atmosphere prevails for most dealings. There are a
number of topics that should be avoided – the political situation, for
example – but watch your manners and keep your conversation
light-hearted and you’ll find there are few friendlier places on earth.
Getting there
Ben-Gurion, 20km
southeast of Tel Aviv, is the main international gateway, with a handful
of flights going to Ovda Airport outside Eilat. Land crossings are to
Egypt and Jordan are straightforward, but other borders are closed to
civilians.
Getting around
Trains
connect the main cities and buses fill in the gaps; both are efficient
and inexpensive. Tel Aviv, Eilat and Haifa are connected by domestic
flights.
Local information
Language: Hebrew, Arabic
Time: UTC+2
Climate: Mediterranean. Hot, dry
summers and cool, wet winters. Temperature: Max 31°C (July), Min 5°C
(January). Rainfall: Max 130mm (January), Min 0mm (July-August).
Currency: Shekel (ILS)
Business etiquette: Wear a suit to
initial meeting, though subsequent dress may be casual. Business
meetings are often quite informal and may take place out of the office.
Relationships are not necessary to do business, though much time is
often given to socialising.
Tipping:
10-15 percent if no service is added.
Duty free: 250 cigarettes; 1l spirits; 2l wine; 250ml eau
de cologne or perfume; gifts up to the value of US$200.
Safety: The political situation is
unstable, with risk of military action, and areas around the Gaza Strip
and West bank should be avoided. Check government advice before
travelling.
Laws:
Identification must be carried at all times. The death penalty may be
imposed for serious offences. It is illegal to photograph military
buildings or personnel. One week mandatory jail sentences for public
drunkenness in the Gaza Strip and West Bank.
Healthcare: Vaccinations required for
hepatitis A and tetanus. There are excellent medical facilities
throughout Israel but treatment can be expensive. Health insurance is
recommended.
Socket type: Type
H, Type C
