Israel
Middle East · Hebrew · Israeli New Shekel
Directness isn't rudeness here — haggle in the shuk, expect blunt questions, and plan around everything closing for Shabbat.
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5 phrases you need in Israel
- Helloשלוםshah-LOHM
- Goodbyeלהתראותleh-hit-rah-OHT
- Pleaseבבקשהbeh-vah-kah-SHAH
- Thank youתודהtoh-DAH
- Excuse meסליחהslee-KHAH
The Trovlr app drills all 8 Israel phrases with audio, Duolingo-style. Get the app →
Know before you go
transport
Public transport stops for Shabbat — Friday sundown to Saturday night — though sherut shared taxis keep running. On weekdays the Tel Aviv-Jerusalem fast train takes about 32 minutes.
money
Cards tap everywhere, but the shuk runs better on cash — and haggling is expected at market stalls, not in regular shops.
etiquette
Dress modestly in Jerusalem's religious quarters and at the Western Wall. Airport security interviews are long and standard — arrive three hours before departure.
safety
Check current government travel advisories before booking and download the Home Front Command app on arrival — conditions can change quickly by region.
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