Israel: First impressions

To understand Israel, you have to know its history. It's political history as well its religious history. Only by knowing its past can you truly comprehend the country's present. 

Like most Indians, Israel was not even on my list, probably because it has not been promoted as a tourist destination in India as yet, but mostly because news about Israel in mainstream media was mainly as a nation constantly in conflict.

The promenade in Tel Aviv

I didn't know what to expect before i left for Israel. To be honest though, i had no idea of Israel in my head. I was a clean slate - and that i think is how one should really start before travelling to a new destination.

Like Turkey, Israel too divides its time between Asia and Europe. So it does have a European feel to it. But not all of it. Tel Aviv - its financial capital - in particular is very modern, and from my perspective very livable. It has quaint little cafes with glass walls, dedicated cycling lanes, car drivers that stop for pedestrians, great weather that varies from cool to cold, and extremely pretty people in general. 

Israel, and Tel Aviv in particular, sees a lot of immigrant movement from surrounding countries, specially Europe. Tel Aviv - roughly translated to 'the old new land' from Hebrew - has made it to the top 5 cities that i'd love to live in. Someday. 

One of many beautiful cafes in Tel Aviv

Jerusalem is its political capital and houses all government head offices. It is also the religious capital with an extremely fascinating history. It will awe you even if, like me, you are not much into history. But i'll come to that and much more in my next blog post.

Till then, I want to share a video that will give you a sharp perspective of Israel that started from nothing to becoming a modern, economically-sound country. Talking about his book is Dan Senor who has co-written 'Start-Up Nation' with Saul Singer. It will make you think, for sure! 

Flight options
You can fly directly from Mumbai to Tel Aviv on El Al. Alternately, you can also fly via Istanbul on Turkish Airlines. Ethiopian Airlines has just started flights connecting Mumbai to Tel Aviv via Addis Ababa.

Visa details
It is advisable to get paper visas for Israel rather than on the passport. The Israeli Ministry of Interior is considering making the visa process simpler and easier for Indians. 

For more details on Israel, visit goIsrael.