DESTINATIONS>Israel

Most of the international airlines operate flights to Israel. El Al, operates many direct flights from the United States, Europe, the Far East, and Africa.

Other Israeli airlines such as Arkia and Israir operate flights from central locations in Europe. There are no direct flights to Israel from distant locations such as Australia or South Africa, or from countries that have no diplomatic relations with Israel. It is therefore a good idea to reserve a connecting flight from these places, or to arrive in Europe and then purchase a ticket to Israel.

Several shipping lines offer scheduled sailings from Europe to Haifa Port. Another option for arrival by sea is to join a Mediterranean cruise which includes Israel in its itinerary. Passengers can board in Cyprus, Greece, Turkey or Egypt and enter Israel through Haifa Port, Tel Aviv, Ashdod or Eilat. After the passengers and vessels complete border and customs clearance procedures, they can continue to any of Israel’s marinas. (Besides those mentioned, there are marinas in Jaffa, Acre, Herzliya and Ashkelon.) Arrival via private yacht is also possible and requires reservations several weeks in advance for a berth in the marina of choice.

Hotels of all types and prices are available in the large cities and in vacation cities such as Eilat and Tiberias. Reservations can be made through a travel agent or on the Internet.

Tel Aviv

Most of the hotels in Tel Aviv are located along the promenade on the beachfront. These include large hotels belonging to the international and national franchises which offer a full range of services and facilities.

Eilat has a warm, sunny climate throughout the year, making it an ideal place for vacationers to enjoy the sun and the beach.

There are dozens of hotels in Eilat–most of them within a short drive or walking distance from the beach. All the hotels have swimming pools and are located close to restaurants, clubs, bars, and entertainment centers.