A beautiful country on the Mediterranean Sea, Israel is known for its holy sites, stunning beaches, and Bauhaus architecture. This country in the Middle East is the biblical holy land for Jews, Christians and Muslims. While you can have amazing and unique experiences, there are some things you can’t do in Israel if you want to keep trouble at bay. Israel is a traditional country because of its sacred significance and it also has a difficult history. Therefore, you better enjoy knowing your limits well.
Things to do in Israel
Bookmark these tips somewhere to help you plan a safe and hassle-free vacation in Israel. These will keep you out of trouble here
1. Don’t go exploring
2. Don’t just eat hummus and pita
3. Don’t forget to stay hydrated
4. Don’t dress modestly
5. Don’t compromise
6. Don’t talk about politics
7. Don’t carry these things
8. Don’t hitchhike
9. Don’t miss Tel Aviv at night
10. You don’t mind sharing your food
11. Don’t miss the lowest point on Earth
12. Don’t go out on Yom Kippur
1. Don’t go exploring
image source
If you are a hiker who likes to take the path less traveled and go offbeat, don’t do it in Israel. One of the things that is not done in Israel is meandering in remote villages or areas. Israel is a war stricken country. Therefore, there are chances that there are active minefields in the area. Please lock your wanderlust nature in the locker while you are on holiday in Israel if you do not want to die.
Must read: 10 modern and historical hostels in Israel that are ideal for exploring its cities
2. Don’t just eat hummus and pita
image source
In case you didn’t know, Middle Eastern cuisine goes way beyond hummus and pita. So, you don’t have to just survive. Whether you are a non-vegetarian or a vegetarian, the options for Israeli food are unlimited. From Falafel, Shawarma, Sabish, Salads, try it all. Jerusalem and Tel Aviv have the best restaurants where you can enjoy fine Israeli cuisine. And did you know that samosa originated in the Middle East? So, you can have variety of samosas as well.
3. Don’t forget to stay hydrated
image source
Israel gets hotter during the day because most of the country is desert. So, not carrying water is one of the things not to do in Israel. Staying hydrated is key. Always carry a water bottle and make sure it is filled. Consume water regularly while sightseeing to avoid fainting or dehydration. Not drinking enough water can negatively affect your health.
Suggested reading: Top 10 places to visit in Israel for an extended tour of the Holy Land
4. Don’t dress modestly
image source
One of the things you shouldn’t do in Israel is to dress vulgarly. There are a number of holy places in Israel that you may want to check out. If you are visiting any mosque or museum in Israel, make sure to dress modestly. Avoid wearing short or short clothes. No part of your skin should be bare. Wear a headscarf or cover your head when visiting a mosque. Failure to do so could land you in trouble which you would want to avoid at all costs.
Suggested reading: Diving in Israel: 6 Best Spots to Meet the Wonders of the Sea in 2022
5. Don’t no compromise
image source
If you think you can’t beat the prices while shopping in Israel, you are wrong. Haggle all you want and haggle over prices when buying things at local markets. Just do not immediately pay the first price that sellers in Israel ask you. Shopping in Israel can be a fun and cheap experience. Since there is so much to buy, your negotiation skills will come in handy.
Suggested reading: 15 scenic Israeli beaches you must visit in 2022!
6. Don’t talk about politics
image source
Even if it is the last thing you want to do on your vacation in Israel. Everyone knows about the ongoing conflicts and the complexity of Israel’s history. Talking about politics in Israel with the locals or even between one another is like waking up a hornet’s nest. So, one of the things not to do in Israel is discuss politics. Besides, you didn’t come to this beautiful country to talk about politics. So, instead, focus on exploring the surroundings.
Planning your vacation but confused where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
True travel stories. Real stay. Helpful tips to help you make the right choice.
7. Don’t carry these things
image source
Instead of what to pack on your trip, you should focus more on what not to bring to Israel. Do not carry the Qur’an or any book in Arabic. Your clothes should not contain religious or political imprints. Refrain from playing weapons or anything that might arouse suspicion against you. Absolute no drug! Even bananas and pineapples are prohibited. Strange, but true!
Suggested reading: 10 Things To Do In Israel: Find out why it’s on every hiker’s bucket list
8. Don’t hitchhike
image source
If it were any other country in Europe or somewhere, hiking would be fine although we still wouldn’t suggest you get into a stranger’s car unless you have no other choice. But when you are in Israel, one of the things that you should not do in Israel is to get turned on by strangers. This is something that even the Israeli locals advise you to do. Safety is paramount when traveling in Israel. So be careful at all times.
9. Don’t miss Tel Aviv at night
image source
Some may not find Tel Aviv stunning on first impression. But if you visit it at night, it will surely make you change your judgment about this happening city in Israel. The city really comes alive at night giving you the best chances to enjoy the vibrant nightlife. You have an unlimited number of bars and clubs to choose from. So, bar hopping might be a fun thing to do in Tel Aviv during your trip to Israel.
Suggested reading: 12 Perfect Wedding Halls in Israel for Happily Ever After in 2022!
10. You don’t mind sharing your food
image source
Sharing food is in the culture of Israel. When you go to any restaurant in Israel or you are invited in a local’s house, you will see tons of food loaded on the table. People have a habit of sitting down, ordering a variety of foods, and enjoying them together. There is no concept of ordering a main course for yourself in Israel. Honestly, there is no better way than this to try every dish in Israel.
11. Don’t miss the lowest point on earth
image source
Did you know that Dead Beach is the lowest point on earth? One of the things not to do in Israel is to miss out on visiting the salt lake. Did you also know that you can never drown in the Dead Sea? A lot of the salt in the lake provides buoyancy to your body which makes you float on the water. Moreover, the mineral-rich mud is therapeutic for your skin. Also discover the enchanting oasis, historical sites and picturesque surroundings of the nearby desert.
12. Don’t go out on Yom Kippur
image source
In case you didn’t know, Yom Kippur is the most important holiday of the Jewish people. Known as the Day of Atonement, it is a 25-hour fast. Israel may not have a large Jewish population, but no one goes out on the road during the holiday. From local shops and markets to public spaces, everything is closed on Yom Kippur. Therefore, if you are planning a trip to Israel, you may want to check that your dates do not clash with the festival.
read more: Honeymoon in Israel: The Beginning of a Lifetime Romance
Swear by these commandments on your international trip to Israel. Israel is a beautiful country and its people are more beautiful at heart. However be safe given the country conditions. Do not do anything reckless as it may lead to danger. But don’t let it get in your way of having fun.
Looking to book a vacation package?
Book unforgettable holidays on TravelTriangle with over 650 verified travel agents for more than 65 domestic and international destinations.
