What will the weather be like?
March is a cooler month to visit Israel with partly cloudy to clear skies and very little rainfall. Daytime high temperatures along the coast average 70° and lows average in the 50°s. It’s a bit cooler inland (Jerusalem) with highs in the low 60°s and lows in mid to upper 40°s.
What should I wear?
Layers is the operative word! Since temperatures can vary throughout the day and throughout the country, be sure to bring plenty of layers. Comfortable shoes are also a must. There is a general dress code for women, which usually entails covering one’s knees (long pants or longer skirts/shorts), shoulders (sleeved shirts are best), and maybe even hair – if it is a religious site. Men may be required to cover their legs at a religious site, as well.
Do I need to get any vaccinations?
Nothing specific is required, but you should be up-to-date with all routine vaccinations. Consult the Center for Disease Control website for current recommendations: For travel to Israel. Check with your physician at least 30-60 days prior to travel.
Are there any special precautions for COVID-19?
Currently, all passengers traveling to Israel are not required to present a negative Covid test or proof of vaccination. Also, it is not currently necessary to present a negative COVID test when returning to the United States from Israel. You are, however, required (by the Israeli government) to hold health insurance with coverage for the treatment of COVID-19 for the duration of your trip.
What about airfare?
International airfare is not included in the package. We can assist with reservations for a service fee of $75 per person. (Service fee is waived for WOW! Travel Club alumni.)
Will I need an adaptor to plug in my appliances and chargers?
For Israel there are three associated plug types, C, H and M. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins, plug type H has three pins in a triangular shape and type M has three round pins. Israel operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Please note: even with an adapter, a US hairdryer should not be used. All hotels will have hairdryers available.
Can I use my cell phone in Israel?
With most providers, it’s best to activate an international data and telephone plan. We suggest that you contact your carrier to discuss potential costs for data and voice communications.
What is the currency?
The State of Israel’s currency is the New Israel Shekel (NIS or ILS) or shekel for short (pluralized as shkalim in Hebrew or shekels in English). There are 100 agorot (agora in singular) in each shekel. Bank notes are in denominations of 20, 50, 100, and 200; coins are in denominations of 10, 5, 2 1 and 50 and 10 agorot. Currently (April 2023), the exchange rate is 33.39 bhat for every US Dollar. For reference, a bottle of Coca Cola at a cafe is 9.55 NIS or $2.65. A great way to figure out prices while you travel is to install an exchange app on your phone – we recommend My Currency Converter (it’s free to install). For a current exchange rate calculation: X-Rate.
In addition to using your credit cards (many merchants do not accept Amex), you can also use your debit card at ATMs or banks. U.S. dollars are not accepted in Israel.
What about travel insurance?
We recommend insurance to cover financial penalties if you need to cancel your trip. Information will be provided upon receipt of deposit. Here are links to two travel insurance providers: Travel Guard and MedJet. More detailed information is available on the “Fine Print” tab.
The Jaffa Hotel
