Jerusalem Travel and Safety Tips! No trip to Israel would be complete without a visit to Jerusalem–the Holy City for Christians, Muslims and Jews. While it’s a place of divineness and piety for many, for others it’s a place to see beautiful ancient buildings mixed with modern houses, magnificent landscapes, and colorful markets.
By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist
Located between the Dead Sea and the Mediterranean, Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world and one of the most controversial. Both Israel and Palestine want the city as their capital because it has religious and historical significance to Islam and Judaism. That said, there has been public clashes between Israelis and Palestinians, sometimes leading to violence, which has many travelers wondering if Jerusalem is safe.
As someone who has been three times now to the Holy City without incident, I can tell you from my experiences that I have never felt in danger at any moment and never feared for my safety. It’s a regular city like LA or NYC, but it has a deep spirituality, mystic and charm, which makes Jerusalem that much more appealing.
It’s an incredible city that everyone should visit without hesitation. Jerusalem is a must see, but like any other city you’re traveling to, stay on top of the news and be informed about what’s happening there. Here’s a few things to keep in mind.
1. Bargain with the vendors in the Old City and Jerusalem markets, but be fair. This is their livelihood.
2. Parking is difficult around the Old City, and traffic is insane. So hire a driver or tour guide, or take public transportation. Don’t rent a car and drive yourself. I went with Erez Yarkon Travel and had an incredible experience.
3. You should tip drivers and tour guides at least 10-15% of the total cost, same goes with tipping at restaurants.
4. The work week in Israel centers on the Jewish day of rest, Shabbat. Starting at sunset on Friday and ending at sunset on Saturday, many businesses close and services stop. This means no buses and fewer, more expensive taxis will run in Jerusalem during this time. Many shops and restaurants shut for the entire period starting as early as 2 p.m. at winter time and 4:00p.m. during the summer. Some restaurants and bars are open in some area were the locals hangout in Jerusalem.
5. Levels of observance differ between cities, with Jerusalem more observant than Tel Aviv.
6. Make sure to wear comfortable good non-slip shoes in the Old City. The pavement can be slippery in Jerusalem.
7. Bring a head scarf or shawl to Jerusalem. It’s helpful when needing to meet modest dress requirements in religious buildings.
8. Wear Long trousers or skirt – shorts and miniskirts are not acceptable attire in many churches and synagogues in Jerusalem, or at the Dome of the Rock.
9. If you plan on taking a day trip from Jerusalem to Bethlehem you must pass through a checkpoint to enter, so make sure to have your passport with you. If you travel by taxi, you will need to find a driver with a non-Israeli passport to enter since the city is in Palestine. You can take a taxi to the check point cross and take local taxi , or ask your local agent to arrange for a tour guide or driver.