Many travelers ask us logistics questions when coming to Israel, especially on business. In this blog post, we provide valuable advice to business travelers visiting Israel, to make the most of their trip and ensure a successful and productive experience.
Prepare your trip
Before embarking on your business trip to Israel,planning is essential. Become familiar with local customs, business etiquette, and cultural nuances. Most people in Israel speak a good level of English, you should not have any problem to communicate. Israelis are helpful, they will assist you if you struggle to find your way or need information. Business dress in Israel is informal, mostly business casual (long sleeve shirt and pants, no tie). Be aware when you meet people, that religious Jews will usually avoid shaking hands with people of the opposite sex. Let them come to you instead of giving your hand first. Also, weekend times in Israel are Fridays and Saturdays, people go back to work on Sundays. Jewish Holidays are typically a period when businesses are off, so it would be unwise to plan your trip at this time of the year, as you could have a hard time getting hold of people. Check online the dates of Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Passover and Shavuot holidays and try to schedule outside of these time windows.
Choose a proper place to stay
The main accommodation options in Israel are hotels and apartment rentals such as Airbnb. Hotels are well located, on the front beach or close to business areas, but they will be expensive and sometimes less business-friendly.
You could consider an apartment or villa rental, such as the ones we propose at ID Real Estate, which includes everything you need; high-speed, reliable internet connection, Wi-Fi printing, grocery shopping before arrival and our reactive assistance for any questions. Check here for more information.
Stay Connected
Having reliable connectivity is crucial for business travelers. Make sure your mobile phone is compatible with local networks or consider purchasing a local SIM card, at the Airport for instance. Most hotels, cafes, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi, enabling you to stay connected and communicate effectively.
Use Transportations Wisely
Israel has a well-connected transportation system, making it easy to navigate. Consider using public transportation like trains, buses, which provide convenient access to major cities. Taking the train from the Ben-Gurion airport to Tel Aviv or Jerusalem is convenient and cheap. It will take you to Tel-Aviv city center in about 15 minutes. Directions are in English and you can even check them online on the National Rail website.
From city to city, the best option is to order a taxi, but take into account the heavy traffic at peak hours (7am-10am/4pm-7pm), so you arrive on time for your meetings. When taking a taxi, they will usually propose you to put the counter on or pay a fixed fee. Make sure to ask and agree before the beginning of your trip.
Explore Beyond Business
While your primary purpose may be business-related, take the opportunity to explore Israel's rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Plan some downtime to visit iconic landmarks such as Jerusalem's Old City, the Dead Sea, or the cosmopolitan city of Tel Aviv with its colorful Carmel market. Immerse yourself in the local cuisine, experience the vibrant nightlife, and gaze at the beauty of the Mediterranean coastline, especially sunsets.
Stay Safe
Israel is a safe country, despite the dramatic and often inflated coverage by local and international media. Make sure to stay in the areas which are under Israeli authority, such as all the major cities and use proper taxis or public transportation for your trips.
In summary
Traveling to Israel for business offers an exciting and rewarding experience. By planning ahead, aware of the local customs, available accommodation and transportation, you can navigate the business landscape effectively. Remember to make time for personal exploration and enjoy the diverse and captivating aspects of Israeli life. By combining business and leisure, you'll leave Israel with not only a successful trip but also vivid memories of this fascinating country.
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