We figured we'd give our British brethren some advice to adhere to upon arrival in the Holy Land:
1. Rain, Rain, Go Away
The rumors are true. With beautiful weather year-round, Israel is the perfect escape from the dreadful UK weather. While London is “blessed” with four seasons in a day, Israel barely experiences four seasons in a year. So pack your swimming costumes and ditch the wellies.
2. It isn’t personal
While British hospitality is a worldwide phenomenon, Israelis play by different rules. Don’t get thrown off with their tone or straightforward approach. We aren’t being rude, we’re just upfront.
3. Here’s a tip
Tipping is the most location-dependent custom when abroad. While the British bill often includes a service charge, a 10-15 percent tip on all food and drink is not only customary in Israel, it’s unofficially required. Tipping your taxi driver, however, is not.
4. I’m filthy rich!
The currency exchange from British pounds to New Israeli Shekels is 1 £ = 4.72 NIS. Though you’ll feel like you’ve quadrupled your earnings, beware! Money in non-stop cities like Tel Aviv tends to disappear in the blink of an eye.
5. Do I need a visa?
Fun fact: as a tourist, you do not need a visa to enter the country. Visitors are granted leave to enter for a period of up to three months. Give it three days though of beautiful beaches, stunning attractions and an incredible cultural scene, and you’ll never want to leave the Holy Land.