While in Israel
STAYING CONNECTED
If you do not have a cellphone plan with reasonable international calling/data services, you can take advantage of discounted rates for mobile services at www.stayconnectedabroad.com. Options include local cellphone rentals, SIM cards, and other mobile data solutions. Pick-up is free at Ben Gurion Airport as long as you place your order at least a week in advance of your arrival (the pickup kiosk is closed Friday evening to Saturday evening).
For parents and friends who wish to contact you during the program, keep in mind that Israel is seven hours ahead of Eastern Time. Some of the hotels, kibbutzim, and guest houses will have wi-fi available, which you are welcome to use during free time, often for an additional fee. Apps like Whatsapp work well for free international texting and calling.
STAFFING
In addition to your campus staff team, the program is led by an experienced, licensed Israeli guide who is with the group on a 24/7 basis. Our travels in the Palestinian Authority territories will be led by local guides. Additionally, a security escort accompanies the group at most times in Israel, and our travel takes place on a large, comfortable, air-conditioned bus with a dedicated driver (buses in Israel do not have bathrooms). Staff names and back-up contact information will be provided by the program organizer.
MONEY MATTERS
The Israeli currency is the Shekel (NIS). The US Dollar is equal to roughly 3.50 Israeli shekels at the time of publishing. We recommend going to www.xe.com for an updated exchange rate closer to departure. Shekels come in various denominations, and it's worth noting that shekel coins come in higher values than you may be used to at home. For example, a 10 shekel coin is worth approximately US$3.00. So, watch your coins carefully!
You can exchange your home currency for shekels prior to departure, on arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, or you can use an ATM to withdraw shekels all over Israel. Exchanging your home currency during the trip itself will not be convenient or you will be subject to non-advantageous exchange rates at the hotel.
If you choose to use your personal ATM card or credit card in Israel consider this advice:
- If your ATM or Debit card has a Visa, MasterCard, Star, Cirrus, or Maestro logo imprint, there should not be a problem withdrawing money. Other ATM network cards may work, but we encourage you to check with your local bank if you have any doubts. ATM machines have instructions in several languages including English. The money withdrawn will be in shekels.
- Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are accepted throughout Israel. We advise that you contact your bank to inform them you are traveling abroad and using your cards to make purchases to ensure fraud alerts and security holds are not placed on your accounts.
- Check with your bank for exact fees charged when using ATM and credit cards. Some credit card companies, such as Capital One, do not charge foreign transaction fees.
- Bring your bank's contact information and place it in a separate, secure location in the unlikely event your wallet or purse is lost or stolen.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities for your guide, driver, hotel staff, and wait staff at group meals are already included in the cost of the program. If you are eating a restaurant separately or taking a taxi, the customary tip range in Israel is 10-15%.
ELECTRICAL CURRENT
If you plan to bring small electrical appliances, consider that Israel uses a 220-volt electrical current versus the 110-volt current used in North America. To avoid "frying" any electrical items, bring a voltage converter (this is already built into most smartphones and tablets). The outlet types are different as well, with two circular prongs, so you will also need a simple adapter to plug your items into the wall. If you are unsure of which plugs to purchase, check with your local electronics or travel store. A travel adapter can be purchased online and should be no more than $5.
DIETARY CONSIDERATIONS
The program covers meals as listed in the itinerary. Breakfast is provided daily at the hotel and will consist of a wide variety of salads, dairy products, fruits, breads and more traditional breakfast items. Since lunch is typically a quick stop, we encourage you to eat a full breakfast. One other meal is included daily.
Travelers with special dietary situations (i.e. allergies, lactose intolerance, vegetarian, etc.) should note it with your program organizer. We will notify the meal providers in advance, and make a good faith effort to ensure your considerations are accommodated.
During meals on your own, you will find that you often have a huge selection of styles to choose from, ranging from sushi to Italian and nearly everything in between. In general, you may find that restaurants are not as aware of allergens or potential reactions, so we recommend that you exercise caution when ordering or ask your staff for assistance. Finally, most restaurants accept credit card for payment, but many of the small quick-service restaurants will only accept cash.
STAYING HYDRATED
Carrying a water bottle is a must, especially during the summer months. You will require much more frequent hydration than you are probably used to, around 2-4 liters of water per day. If you do not wish to pack a water bottle or hydration pouch, you can easily recycle your plastic store-bought bottles of water by refilling them from the tap, which is safe to drink. Additionally, bottles of water are available for sale on your tour bus, and typically cost only US$1-$3 per bottle (depending on size).
ISRAEL'S TIME ZONE
When communicating with friends and family at home, remember that Israel is usually seven hours ahead of Eastern Time or ten hours ahead of Pacific Time. This means evenings in Israel are equivalent to morning/afternoon in North America. Mornings in Israel are equivalent to late night in North America.
MEDICINE & VACCINATIONS
If you are taking medication, we recommend bringing enough to last for the entire time that you expect to be in Israel. If you have a notable medical condition, inform us in advance so that we can prepare our staff accordingly. No vaccinations are required for Israel, but we do recommend coming to Israel with an up-to-date tetanus shot.
ROOM CONFIGURATIONS
Hotels are confirmed on double occupancy or triple occupancy basis. Each traveler will have their own bed, and there is a private bathroom in each room. Actual rooming decisions are at the discretion of the program organizer.