Useful Tips

1. PRE-FLIGHT: There are several things we recommend:
   • Don't forget to bring your Bible, a digital camera, and a pen to write in your journal (BibleInteract will provide the journal)
   • Leave your Israel travel information with a family member or friend. Include a copy of your passport, your flight itinerary, travel itinerary, hotel names and phone numbers.
   • Make sure your luggage is clearly tagged on the inside as well as the outside.
   • You might consider travel sized necessities such as a sewing kit, tissues, travel clock. batteries and toiletries.
   • Place all valuable items in your carry-on bag, NOT in the luggage that you check through at the airport. This includes camera equipment.
2. IT'S A LONG FLIGHT: You will undoubtedly be excited and sleep will be the last thing in your mind. But it's a long overnight flight so dress comfortably, bring a good book to help you relax, and consider eye shades and an inflatable travel neck rest (these are U-shaped). During the flight be sure and get up to stretch periodically. Upon arrival in Israel it is important to re-set your body's time clock by getting outside in the sun and resisting that tempting nap. You will undoubtedly sleep well that night, your first night in Israel , but remember that alcohol and caffeine can interrupt the sleep cycle.
3. TRAVEL INSURANCE: BibleInteract STRONGLY encourages each participant to acquire trip insurance.
4. SOCIAL CONVENTIONS: Israelis are typically quite informal but in keeping with the European style of hospitality. The common greeting is shalom (“peace”), which is used for both “hello” and “goodbye.” Most Israelis respond well to polite questions and are happy to discuss their traditions, religious beliefs and political views. However, overt proselytizing is neither welcomed nor appropriate.
5. WHAT TO WEAR: Dress in Israel is typically casual. For example, shorts and sandals are commonly worn by both men and women. The temperature in June can be rather hot (80-86 degrees F) but Jerusalem evenings can be somewhat cool (64-68 degrees F). Normally it does not rain in June (the dry season). Bring lightweight clothing and a light sweater or jacket for cool evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must as well as a hat for sun protection and sun screen lotion. Certain religious sites will require covering your shoulders and legs above the knees (a wrap-around skirt works well for the ladies). You may wish to dress a little less casually for dinner, but formal wear is not appropriate. Consider drip-dry clothing, no more than two pairs of shoes, but formal wear is not appropriate.
6. NUMBER OF SUITCASES: We strongly encourage you to limit your baggage to one moderate size suitcase and a smaller carry-on bag. You might also consider a knapsack as your carry-on bag or some other comfortable over-the-shoulder bag, which would be convenient on the trans-Atlantic flight and would be practical as a day-bag in Israel .
7. SECURITY: As with any travel abroad, it is important to protect your passport, money, camera and other valuables. We suggest a money pouch for passport and money (these are typically worn either around the waist or neck). An alternative would be an inside compartment in your knapsack. Avoid placing a wallet in your pants pocket, and purses can be merely another item to remember. Always follow the directions and guidance of your tour leaders.
8. HOW MUCH MONEY TO BRING: We do not recommend taking large amounts of cash. We do recommend taking $100-200 in small bills (ones, fives and tens) that are in good condition (bills that are badly worn may not be as readily accepted). Travelers checks may be hard to cash and often require a large fee. If you do use travelers checks, it is best to cash them at the airport and/or your hotel. Credit cards work in most cases but alert your credit card company that you will be traveling abroad (some companies prevent activity in foreign countries for security purposes unless you have first notified them). Withdrawing money from ATM machines may give you the best rate of exchange.
9. TIPPING: It is customary to tip the Israel guide and bus driver and we will pool our tips at the end of the trip to present to them with our thanks. The suggested amount is $4 per working day for the guide and $2.50 per working day for the driver. You may also wish to tip the hotel staff and the suggested amount is $3.50 per working day. The tour leaders and instructors do not expect tips but suggest instead a donation to the work of BibleInteract, which is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
10. MEDICATIONS: Keep all of your medications in their original bottles or packaging, and do not place them in luggage that you check-in at the airport but keep them in your carry-on bag. Before you travel to Israel , ask your doctor to write a prescription for any medications you may be taking with you in the event they are lost.
11. ELECTRIC CURRENT: If you plan to use a hair dryer or battery charger, you will need an adapter. The current in Israel is 220V. Most luggage stores have Middle East adapter kits with converters.
12. PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT: We expect all participants to bring a digital camera in order to take advantage of the post-tour activities of making a travel journal, slide show and/or PowerPoint presentation. Buy your batteries before the tour begins and take special note of the electric current information above for battery and equipment chargers. Don't forget extra memory devices for your digital camera. And if you bring a disposable camera, keep the film speed at 400 ASA or lower to avoid scanning at airport security that might damage your photos. If you wish, you may video and record any of the instructional sessions.
13. SHOPPING: There are wonderful things to purchase in Israel including hand-carved olivewood, antiquities, artistic jewelry, beauty products from the Dead Sea , hand blown glass, educational resources, silver and much more. You will have an opportunity to shop during the tour and perhaps to visit some of these crafts people and artists. Your leaders will be available to make suggestions. You will be able to bring back into the United States up to $800 worth of purchases that will be duty-free. And don't forget, leave room in your suitcase for these purchases.
14. VAT REFUND: The Value Added Tax Law in Israel allows refunds to tourists on the purchase of certain items (especially large purchases), which is currently 17%. Look for the VAT refund shopping logo for shops that qualify. When making a purchase be sure to ask for the VAT refund invoice. You will need to fill in your name, address & passport number and sign at the bottom. You will be able to claim your VAT refund when you arrive at Tel Aviv airport for your departure.