BEFORE YOU PACK
Here are a few basic things to keep in mind as you prepare for your trip with LIONSGATE TRAVEL.
Passport
Be sure that your passport will not expire during your stay in Israel.
Visa
Most countries automatically get a three month (90 day) visa at the airport, the application will be given to you on your flight before you land. If your country requires a pre-approved visa we will help you in the process. However, if you are a Green card holder traveling abroad with a layover in Europe please check the relevant countries policy vis a vis transit or tours visa requirements.
Luggage
Please check with your airline for amount and weight of luggage you are allowed. These days the airlines a very strict regarding luggage size and weight. By following their respective allowance, you will avoid paying high penalties on over weight fees.
Electricity
The electrical current in Israel is 220. If your home country is 110 you will need to bring with you an electrical converter to convert the voltage and an adapter that your appliance can plug into. Be sure your adapter is for the Middle East and not Europe. Though they look similar, they are different.
Currency
Your home currency may be exchanged at the airport, your hotel, one of the local money changers, or at one of the many ATMs throughout Israel that will give you shekels for your transaction. Exchange rates vary depending on what you use in the exchange: cash, check, travelers check or credit card. Be sure to check with your hotel for the exchange rates as it can fluctuate daily. At all larger stores and restaurants you may use either your credit card or debit card.
Packing
Dress in Israel is casual, but be prepared at tour sites to cover your shoulders and arms. Some sites will require those wearing shorts to cover their legs. -No matter the season you are in Jerusalem, the evenings can be cool due to the elevation so a light jacket is always advisable. -Be sure to include: good walking shoes, water shoes for swimming, small flashlight, travel packages of tissues, sleeping mask, earplugs, and washcloths. -The only time of year that you need to be prepared for rain is during the winter months, usually November to early March. -Though Israel is a small country, it has a widely diverse climate from one section to another. Once your itinerary and dates are set we will give to you the exact clothing needs for your trip.
Staying in touch
Communication with your home country is easy from Israel. If you would like to rent a cell phone during your stay you may do so at the airport on arrival. International calling cards are also a convenient way of staying in touch and can be purchased in many locations throughout Israel. If you want to check with family, friends, or business associates via the internet you may do so from your own laptop, or most hotels offer their guests internet service. You will also find many local internet cafes scattered throughout the country.
VAT Tax
Israel has a standard VAT (Value Added Tax) tax on all purchases. You may receive a refund on Israel’s VAT tax if your purchase is made at a shop authorized by the Israel Tax Authority and the Ministry of Tourism to participate in the refunding arrangement (a sticker noting the shop's participation should be placed on the door or window of the shop), and you receive a special VAT invoice ("Refund Invoice"). The price of the purchase, including VAT, (per tax invoice) must exceed $100 US. The goods purchased must be intended for your personal use only and are in non-commercial quantities. The goods purchased do not include: food, drink, or tobacco products (VAT will not be refunded for those goods). When departing from Ben Gurion Airport, you must go to the VAT refund counter and present both your tax form and the item(s) purchased along with your passport and airline ticket. Refund requests are only accepted in Israel, prior to your departure as refunds will not be sent to you abroad.