Why Traveling In Israel Is Different Than Traveling Anywhere Else

Israel is a place like no other. The young 67-year-old country boasts many unique and world-renowned historical sites, such as Caesarea and The Western Wall. The population concentrated in Israel, after many years of being spread throughout the world, lends Israel its distinctive culture. This diverse culture makes traveling in Israel an experience like no other.

Living by the Beach

The most important thing you need to pack if you’re going to Israel is a bathing suit. With Israel’s beaches stretching almost uninterrupted from the most northern to most southern point, you can never be far from the coast. It’s not uncommon for locals to head down to the beach after, or even before work to swim. The beach is also a great place to work out: go for a movie-style run along the water as the sun sets. But if you’re just going to hang out and have some fun, the beach is still a wonderful option. For those who are more socially-oriented, grab a towel, some watermelon and sunscreen and head to any of Tel Aviv’s great beaches, such as Hof Metzizim or Hof Hatzuk. If you’re just looking to get some rest and relaxation, head to Hof Dado in Haifa in the early morning or late evening with a book and yet again, some sunscreen. The sun shines brightly no matter where you are.

Getting to know someone over a cup of coffee is classic in many places, but in Israel everything you do is done over a cup of coffee. The coffee is great, even in chains such as the archetypal, yet always-delicious Aroma Café you’ll never be disappointed. It’s more than just a quick coffee and a pastry; in Israel breakfast lunch and dinner can all be had over a cup of coffee. Coffee is part of the social scene, with so many coffee shops in the country it’s hard to point to just one. However, if you’re in Jerusalem, don’t miss out on Haba in Jerusalem right next to Mahane Yehuda Market.
Haba Yaffo, 119 (Machane Yehuda), Jerusalem, Israel, +972 2-623-3379

Meeting the People

Israel is a diverse nation. When the State was founded in 1948, there was an influx of people from Poland, Russia, Spain, North Africa and more. The culture has developed into an interesting amalgamation of European, Middle Eastern and Jewish commonalities. Anywhere you go, you’ll meet people who are proud of their country and ready to talk about it! The people in Israel are a certainly a forward bunch. They’ll tell you exactly how they feel if you ask and will always be honest with you even if you’re just a tourist. This honesty also comes with great hospitality, so never fear asking for directions or striking up conversations with strangers.

Eating the Food

With a large diversity of people comes a large diversity of food. Israeli food is a broad term that’s hard to define and includes so many delicious delicacies and meals. One of the characteristic cuisines is the indulgent Israeli breakfast. Ditch the New York bagel and try this amazing breakfast, which usually includes eggs, Israeli salad, fresh bread and an array of great spreads. For a relaxing and fulfilling meal go to Beit Café Turkiz in the Sharon. It not only serves breakfast, but also sells beautiful and unique home decorations, jewelry and more. Another classic food is falafel; a great place to go is Falafel Hazkenim in Haifa. If you’re still hungry don’t miss out on shakshuka, a delectable egg dish cooked in red sauce. If you’re already hanging out at the Tel Aviv beach go over to Dr. Shakshuka for a heart-warming lunch and be ready to continue your travels with a full stomach!
Beit Café Turkiz, Derech Hefer 19, Beit Yitzhak-Sha’ar Hefer, Israel, +972 09-8845560
Falafel Hazkenim, 18 Wadi Street, Haifa, Israel
Dr. Shakshuka, Beit Eshel St 3, Tel Aviv, Israel, +972 3-682-2842

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.