LOCAL CULTURE
What to wear
Don't worry about a dress code. Most of Israel is Westernized and in Tel Aviv, you are more likely to be overdressed than underdressed. Orthodox Judaism requires both men and women to substantially cover their bodies. Orthodox men wear a kippah (head cover) and orthodox women have their collar bones, elbows, legs and knees covered. If a woman is married, her hair is covered too (by a scarf, a hat, and/or a wig). Visitors to some synagogues, most churches, and all mosques should be aware that entry will normally not be permitted to those with exposed legs (i.e. wearing shorts or short skirts) or women with exposed upper arms. Women may be denied entry or ordered to wear a robe before entering mosques or synagogues. Carry a wrap or bring a change of clothes. Mosques will also require you to take off your shoes before entry. Men should cover their heads in a synagogue.
Kashrut: Jewish Dietary Laws
There is nothing in flavor or style that distinguishes kosher food from any other. Kosher food is simply any food which complies with Jewish dietary laws, which prohibit the consumption of foods such as pork, shellfish and mixtures of meat and dairy.These laws are observed by Israel's hotels and some restaurants. The David InterContinental holds a Certificate as a kosher hotel, issued and supervised by the Rabbinate of Tel Aviv. What is certain is that our talented chefs serve up delicious meals and substitutes that are created for dairy products that assure nothing is lacking from any menu. The hotel's breakfast buffet is dairy, and during lunch and dinner at one of our restaurants serving meat, you will not be able to get milk for your coffee or butter for your bread.
LIBERALISM
Tel Aviv is known for its liberal spirit since it is the cultural and intellectual capital of the country. People here are very open-minded towards new trends and ideas.
TAXI METRES
When traveling by taxi on local rides always ask the driver to operate the metre. Also, always ask for a receipt. It's handy to have in case you leave something in the taxi.
Tipping
In restaurants it is recommended to tip around 10-20 percent of the bill (in cash only). No need to tip taxi drivers for local rides, only for long distance journeys that take you outside the city you may tip the driver about 10 percent of the bill.
DID YOU KNOW ?
Declaration of Independence
On the 14th of May 1948, David Ben Gurion, the first Prime Minister, announced Israel's Declaration of Independence. The hall at 16 Rothschild Boulevard, where it was declared, has been preserved and is open to the public.
Diamond Industry
Israel is the world leader in diamond polishing and the centre of the industry is located in Ramat Gan, a suburb of Tel Aviv.
Foreign Embassies
Although Jerusalem is the capital of Israel, all the foreign embassies are located in Tel Aviv.
Neve Tzedek
The Neve Tzedek neighbourhood in Tel Aviv was the first only Jewish neighbourhood to be built outside Jaffa. It was built in 1887, 22 years before the establishment of the city.
The White City
In July 2003, UNESCO, proclaimed 'The White City', the unique urban and historical fabric of the center of Tel Aviv, as a World Cultural Heritage site.
WHAT TO PACK
Immigration form
Make sure you keep the white immigration form that you are given on the airplane as it is needed for your hotel check-in and for when you depart Israel.
Local currency
Make sure you change some money at the airport as the taxi drivers there don't accept foreign currency nor credit cards.
Summer Clothes
Israel is known for its warm and sunny climate, even during the European winter season. It is always recommended to check the climate prior to your arrival and to pack accordingly.