RELIGIOUS AND HISTORIC SITES

  • Historic sites are open daily.
  • Religious sites are open daily except on holy days, so check with the front desk at your hotel before you go there.

PUBLIC HOLIDAY

  • Islamic holy days are national holidays; the dates change every year.
  • National days are also public holidays.

SEASONS

  • The busiest in Jerusalem and Bethlehem are the Christmas and Easter holidays.
  • Christmas: Christmas is celebrated three times a year in Bethlehem: Catholics and western denomination celebrate Christmas on December 25, Greek Orthodox followers celebrate on January6, and Armenians celebrate on January 18.

CLIMATE

  • Situated in the Mediterranean, the region has a temperate sea climate.
  • April and May bring some of the most beautiful wildflowers in the world. Wild poppies, jonquils, irises, and other vibrant species paint the hillsides with color during the short spring season.
  • The rainy season is between November and April.
  • In the summer months the night desert temperatures can get cool, so it is advisable to carry a lightweight jacket or sweater for the evenings.

TIME DIFFERENCE

  • There is a seven-hour time difference between New York and the Holy Land.
  • There is a two- hour time difference between London and the Holy Land.
  • There is a one-hour time difference between Paris and the Holy Land.

CURRENCY

  • U.S. dollars, and the Israeli shekels are accepted in the region.
  • You can also draw cash from local banks using major credit cards.
  • Tourists paying in foreign currency are exempt from VAT at their hotel.
  • Most hotels accept major international credit cards.

FORMALITIES

  • If you are traveling from the United States or Europe, only a valid passport is required for entry.
  • The passport must have been valid for at least six months.
  • Normally a visitor is authorized to remain in the region for three months.