Israel is a country at war with its self at the moment, as you all know lots of internal politics involved. Behind this there is such a wonderful country with really nice passionate people.
Israelis are genuinely friendly people what ever religion they are, they will help you if they can. On a recent visit an Israeli soldier was most helpful in recommending somewhere to eat and gave concise instructions in near perfect English.
Jerusalem is at the centre of Israel and is a wonderful city, surrounded by an ancient wall. There are 4 ways in to old Jerusalem through four gates, which are all worth a visit particularly the Damascus gate overlooking the Church of Gethsemane just outside the city. I have to mention the Wailing Wall where every one comes to pray from tourists to the locals, you are provided with a carpel to cover your head while praying a local custom.
The Dead Sea is about 1 hour drive from Jerusalem just next to the Syrian border, which is well worth a visit. Dead Sea mud supposedly has healing properties because of all the minerals. I think it is worth going just to sit and float.
There are various ways of visiting Israel typically people visit on 3 daycruises from the Greek islands and turkey usually costing £200 per person. If you get the change I would go, don’t forget these companies know the black spots so will not be as risky as you think.
Students wanting to visit Israel should look into working on a Kibbutz a very common destination for people taking a gap year, a friend of mine went and she had a brilliant time. It is basically a self-sufficient community that runs its self.
My final advice on the matter is go, you only live once but be sensible and go with an organised group for the time being until things settle hopefully soon!
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Some good points, but as interested in a trip could do with more info. Good job with what you have written though. Also, nice point about Jerusalem being in the centre of Israel!
anneyo 23.01.2001 11:47
We went in September last year, just before the current violence erupted. It is indeed a fascinating and beautiful country and I would recommend anyone to go. Unfortunately a lot of the 'holy sites' have been affected by the violence so anyone wanting a 'Holy Land tour' might be a bit disappointed at not being able to visit some areas. Still worth a visit, though!
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Advantages: many sights to visit, great scenery Disadvantages: aparthied society without the international condemnation, Israelis are very rude, prices becoming similar to UK ones
blinderben 15.12.2000 ·
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful
Review of Israel: General
Advantages: many sights to visit, great scenery Disadvantages: aparthied society without the international condemnation, Israelis are very rude, prices becoming similar to UK ones
blinderben 15.12.2000 ·
Read review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful
Review of Israel: General
Jan 23rd, 2001
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helpful by (30%):
