Israel health and safety
Israel is subject to indiscriminate bombings targeting civilians on buses and in restaurants and nightclubs. However, general crime is low, as is theft targeting foreigners. Medical facilities are excellent in the major cities but the quality diminishes somewhat in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
There are no required vaccinations for people travelling to Israel, and the health and hygiene standards are generally very high. The Israeli medical system is modern and efficient and able to deal with most emergencies. English is widely spoken.
Incidences of crime are relatively low in Israel and foreign visitors are made to feel warm and welcome. However, theft of passports, credit cards and valuables from public beaches is commonplace. There are certain areas you should steer clear of, such as the border areas, which remain volatile. You should check for government travel warnings regularly, as the political situation can change at any time.
Current advisory warnings about health and safety in Israel
British foreign office – Israel webpage
Up-to-date and reliable advice on health and security issues in Israel.
www.fco.gov.uk
MD Travel Health - Israel advice
Comprehensive medical advice on disease and health risks, precautions and remedies.
http://www.mdtravelhealth.com
Smartraveller
Australian Government sponsored site with detailed and current information on travel risks in Israel.
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au
More topics on this site…
Israel travel information
Israel travel tips
Israel maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: Stays of up to 90 days are visa-free for most nationalities
Season: Year round
Money: Shekel – most major currencies accepted widely, especially US dollars
Language: Hebrew – English widely spoken
Emergency #: Fire / Police - 100; Ambulance - 101