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Getting to Palestine
You can arrive in Palestine from different entry points, depending on your preferences. We can either book your tickets to Tel-Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport and from there begin your trip across Palestine. Another option is to cross the border from Jordan into Israel, either at the Allenby Bridge or the Sheikh Hussein Bridge, both of which cross the legendary Jordan River.
Traveler’s Safety and Health
Though you may encounter checkpoints and red signs on your way into Palestinian cities, let this be of no concern: even though Palestine is usually (and unjustly) depicted as unstable, it has always been safe for tourists to visit and tour the country. Tourists are welcomed by all the citizens who love to share their country and traditions with people from all over the world. And there is no need to worry about crossing between Palestine and Israel, as hundreds of tourists make the crossing everyday safely. Note that you should carry your passport in order to pass through the checkpoints. There is no need to take vaccinations prior to arrival. Drinking tap water is safe in Palestine and mineral water is available everywhere.
Visa, Passport and Embassy Information
All visitors to Palestine must hold a passport valid for at least 6 months prior to the date of arrival in Palestine. Nationals of Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, the European Union, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, and the United States do not require a prearranged visa prior to arrival. However they must hold a machine-readable or biometric passport at the port of entry. Otherwise, a prearranged visa is required, which we will help you with. It is important to note that tourists wishing to continue their visits to other Arab countries except Egypt and Jordan should ask that an Israeli stamp does not appear on their passport upon entry.
ATMS & Money
Currency in Palestine is as international as any other major world destination. Legal currencies include the New Israel Shekel (NIS) or Shekel for short, the Jordanian Dinar and the US Dollar. Euros are also widely accepted. Foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport, borders, banks and licensed currency exchange agencies all over Palestine. Holders of international credit cards can withdraw local or foreign currency from banks or Automated Teller Machines (ATM’s) as well.
Weather
The Mediterranean climate dominates Palestine which is known for long, warm, dry summers and mild winters. In summer, the temperature may reach up to 35° C while in winter it may fall to zero. However, since Palestine is known for variations in its geography between mountains, valleys and seaside the temperatures may vary depending on the area. Tourists are generally advised to wear light clothes in summer and sweaters in the evening, and in winter they should be equipped with warm clothes.
Proper Dress
It is important to follow traditional dress code when traveling in the Middle East. We suggest dressing modestly. For women a scarf and long dress will be needed to enter several holy sites like the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock.
Transportation
There’s really no better way to get a feel for the full scope of a city than by taking public transportation. Buses especially help you grasp neighborhoods. Just be sure to keep your eyes peeled, bring a map, and be aware of your personal belongings at all times. You many also engage the services of a taxi cab, though at a much higher rate. In our tours, all transportation will be provided.