Israel

Israel is a multifaceted country located in the Middle East. It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea; the Syrian Arab Republic to the North; the Palestine National Authority and Jordan to the East; and by Egypt to the South. Israel, although small, is visited by many tourists every year and has many popular destinations. It is also visited by millions of pilgrims every year because of its many pilgrimage spots for the Christian and Muslim community.

Among the many tourist attractions are the city of Nazareth, which is home to the Synagogue, the Church of Annunciation, and the Grotto of the Annunciation. Other fun activities to try while in Israel include shopping at the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv, visiting the Negev Desert, underwater sightseeing at Eilat, indulging in the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, and enjoying the national parks. There are also many sandy beaches where you can sail, surf, swim, water ski and sunbathe.

Accommodations in Israel range from big hotels, which meet international standards and provide various amenities, to apartment hotels, country lodges, bed and breakfast inns, and several small hostels. To get around Israel travelers can utilize the trains, buses or service taxis.

Jerusalem

Jerusalem, the capital of Israel, is one of the oldest cities in the world and holy land for the Jewish, Muslims, Armenians and Christians. It is located in the Judean Mountains between the Mediterranean Sea and the northern tip of the Dead Sea. It houses the Dome of the Rock, Domitian Abbey, the Great Synagogue, and the old wall, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yad Vashem, Western Wall Tunnel, Mount of Olives, Christ Church, Belz Great Synagogue, Chagall Windows and Hezekiah's Tunnels are some of the other places you can visit in the holy city.

Bethlehem

The town of Bethlehem is the birth place of Jesus Christ and is revered as a very holy place. The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is considered the holiest church in the world and is home to beautiful paintings and art collections. Rachel's Tomb, which is located at the entrance of Bethlehem, is a very important Jewish holy site. David's Well, Market Square, Manger Square and the Milk Grotto are other interesting places you can visit in the city. To learn the history of Bethlehem, visit the Museum of Old Bethlehem. This historical museum exhibits fabrics, textiles and furniture used in the distant past.

Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is considered to be a major cultural center. It is the second biggest city in Israel and its commercial and economic center. It is stretched along the Mediterranean coast and enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with cool and rainy winters and warm and dry summers. Tel Aviv has several interesting places to visit including Bograshov Beach, Cameri Theatre, Carmel Market, Dubnov Park and Etzel Museum. Tel Aviv's beaches, bars, cafes, upscale shopping, great weather and cosmopolitan lifestyle make it a popular tourist destination in Israel.