The city of Tel Aviv in Israel has a history dating back only 100 years. Attracting a younger crowd, the city is full of beaches and museums and features an incredible art scene and gay community as well.

The city has a few well known museums and historic attractions but is, for the most part, free of the same type of religious underpinning you’ll find in so many of Israel’s other major cities. With a series of charming yet distinct neighborhoods, you’ll find Tel Aviv an incredible city to explore.

When to Visit Tel Aviv

You can realistically visit Tel Aviv during any time of the year but if you aren’t a fan of hot weather you’ll want to avoid visiting during the summer months when temperatures can soar to 95 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Because the city is located on the coast, the temperatures here are cooler than in other areas of the country.

The temperatures during the winter months are absolutely gorgeous, usually ranging between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day followed by chilly or cold evenings. No matter when you visit you’ll want to carry water with you at all times so that you can stay healthy and hydrated as you travel in the warm climate.

The summer months, as well as the holidays, are usually very busy, with groups of thousands at a time flocking to the city on their way to or from pilgrimage to Jerusalem. If you’re not a fan of crowds you may want to avoid visiting during these times as well.

Transportation throughout Tel Aviv

It’s pretty easy to find your way around Tel Aviv. The city was designed with a good transportation system and the only areas in which you may have trouble finding your way are in the older sections. Even then you can find your way around if you have a good map with you.

Most people find that walking through Tel Aviv is sufficient when it comes to travel. If you tire of walking you’ll find taxis to be an acceptable and affordable mode of transportation. Make sure you have enough local currency to pay for your ride, though, as most taxi drivers will not accept any form of non-Israeli money. There are several different bus and train services and even though they don’t run along every route you might expect you will find that they’re faster than trying to fight your way through traffic on the streets.

Safety Concerns in Tel Aviv

There have, in the past, been serious conflicts between the Israeli’s and Palestinians. Some travelers fear that because of these conflicts Tel Aviv is not a safe place to visit. Nothing could be further from the truth. The last incident happened in a disco several years ago and since then the city has been carefully monitored. You will notice police officers and soldiers patrolling the city but they are there for your protection and for no other reason.

Fortunately, most of the international Embassies in Israel are located in Tel Aviv. If you have any problems or concerns you should get in touch with your local embassy. It is not uncommon for travelers and locals alike to be asked to open their bags for inspection before entering a public location, even in restaurants and bars. This is normal as well.

Communicating with Ease in Tel Aviv

Before you head towards Tel Aviv, or any city in Israel, you should take a little bit of time to learn a few local words and phrases. While you are likely to find someone who understands English on your journeys, it is always helpful to know a few words of your own to show your respect for the culture and to show your hosts you’re trying to adapt. Here are a few to get you started:

• Shalom (Hello, goodbye, peace)
• Boker tov (Good morning)
• Todah (Thank you)
• Eyfoh hasherutim (Where are the toilets?)
• Kama ze oleh? (How much does it cost?)
• Ayfo tachanat autobus? (Where is the bus stop?)
• Bevakasha (Please, or you’re welcome if someone says Todah first)

Proper Etiquette in Tel Aviv

Israel is a westernized country, particularly in Tel Aviv, but if you walk into any sort of religious establishment you’ll find old traditions are held closely. You should show bare arms and women should always wear long dresses or skirts instead of shorts or pants. Otherwise, traditional casual attire is encouraged – especially during the summer months.

If you visit a local restaurant you’ll find that the standard tip is between 10 and 12%. You are not expected to tip your taxi driver (the locals don’t) but are welcome to if you’d like. If you are driving on your own you will find that drivers in Tel Aviv are relatively aggressive so make sure you proceed with caution, even when you think you have the right of way.

Your trip to Tel Aviv will be full of mystery, excitement, and culture. In a city so young, you’ll be surprised at just how much there really is to explore.