The state of Israel is a bridge between the West and the Middle East. It's full of contrasts and you never quite know what will be around the next corner. You can visit Jerusalem, bathe in the Red Sea, or float happily in the Dead Sea.

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About Israel

Israel has a rich history, although the State was only founded in 1948. It was populated by European Jews who had escaped the Holocaust. Muslims, Christians and Jews share Jerusalem, which is a city full of history. When you walk through the Old Town, you are walking in the footsteps of the Old Testament prophets, kings and Caliphs.

There are diverse cultures in Israel, as people come from different countries to settle there. However, the people love to eat, drink and be merry. They'll get up and dance in a restaurant at the drop of a hat.

The food is varied, but you really must try hummus and the street food, falafel and shwarma. Try Jachnun with a tomato dip but beware, that can be very hot! Shakshuka is another favorite tomato-based dish. Vegetarians can eat well in Israel!

Israel is vibrant, interesting and exciting. There's always something new to see and experience.

What to do in Israel

A visit to the Mehane Yehuda Market in Jerusalem is a must. You can buy fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts, dried fruit and olives, as well as a whole host of other Israeli produce. At night the area comes to life as it has many bars and restaurants.

Of course, you should visit Jerusalem's Old City and see the Dome of the Rock shrine and the Western Wall, the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

When you can tear yourself away from Jerusalem, visit the Sea of Galilee, or Kinneret, as it is called by Israelis. It really is beautiful.

If you like Bauhaus architecture you really must go to Tel Aviv. There's plenty to explore there.

Of course, many tourists visit Bethlehem and Nazareth to witness the sites where Jesus was born and grew up. A guided tour is a particularly interesting way to discover these two locations.

If you love a beach vacation, you should definitely head to Eilat, a resort town in the south. You won't be disappointed!

Top travel tips for Israel

The easiest way of getting around Israel is by bus.

You can take a train or bus from Jerusalem to Tel Aviv, or of course, you could rent a car. You should be aware that the bus station in Jerusalem isn't very convenient, as it isn't centrally located, but in a suburb.

As a general rule, you tip waiters between 10 and 15 per cent. If you take a tour, then expect to give the guide a 5 per cent tip. It's usual to tip the driver between 120-150 shekels a day. Don't tip taxi drivers.

Israel is a far cry from an ordinary vacation destination. If you want to be immersed in history and a different culture, it's the place to go. Alternatively, if you enjoy vacations near beaches, you'll love the ones in Israel!

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