6 things to know before your trip to Israel

1. Israel is full of people as warm as an afternoon in the sun

The locals are so happy you're visiting that all they want is for you to feel right at home. They know Israel's reputation abroad, so they'll aim to prove you wrong. And let me tell you: they've got it covered .

People you meet on the street will invite you to sit at their table surrounded by their family. They'll be sad when you have to decline because you're already a guest at another table. You'll be approached as you sip your first coffee of the day, eyes glazed and face still imprinted with the ink of your pillowcase. Omnan is a perfect example when he invites you onto his unique boat to chat about the weather. All you have to do is smile and enjoy the interactions between travelers and locals!

Omnan invites you onto his treasure boat in Jaffa, Tel Aviv

2. The vegetarian food is exquisite.

Of all the places I've visited, nothing compares to Israeli cuisine. Meat lovers will certainly find plenty to enjoy, but vegetarian options abound on every corner. Your plate might even include divine falafel that will leave you smiling with your mouth full. Or perhaps you'd prefer hummus eaten on red plastic chairs perched on the sidewalk. Hummus may seem unassuming, but once you taste it, it's better than a Céline Dion concert on the Plains of Abraham.

If you're feeling festive, dare to add Shakshuka on top of your chickpea dip.

Finally, you'll also want to share the famous Salatim with your sweetheart, a collection of 12 small vegetarian salads to eat with pita bread. Twelve salads means that every bite becomes a verdict in the court of appetite.

Shakshuka dish, to be eaten as is or placed on top of hummus dip

3. Tel Aviv, a gay-friendly city

Light years away from the lifestyle of its little sister, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv bursts with originality and openness. It has even earned the nickname "Bubble City," as it seems to live in its own little world, separate from all its neighbors. This is one of the reasons why the city has become known as the "capital of homosexuality." Even though same-sex relations were only decriminalized in 1988 by the Knesset (the Parliament of the State of Israel), the homosexual community has since acquired numerous rights. The result? It only makes even more people happy in bars and on beaches alike. Hooray!

4. Shabbat day, day of rest

According to Jewish tradition, Saturday is the ^seventh day of the week, meaning that a work week begins on Sunday and ends on Thursday. Saturday is therefore a day of rest, a time to completely disconnect from work and recharge with a hearty family meal. Practices vary from person to person, but according to tradition, one avoids dealing with money, work, the telephone, and cooking. Hats off to those who follow this tradition! This day begins on Friday at sunset and ends with nightfall on Saturday. Shops and public transportation are also closed, so a word of advice: plan your travel accordingly.

5. Spend a few days in beach mode

Despite its small size, Israel has plenty to offer, boasting three seas bordering its shores: the Mediterranean, the Dead Sea, and the Red Sea. So be sure to set aside a few days for complete relaxation to enjoy its white sand beaches. Tel Aviv already has several just a stone's throw from its city center. Alternatively, near the border with Lebanon, you'll find the magnificent turquoise waters of Banana Beach. Finally, you won't want to miss the unique experience of the Dead Sea, where your bottom floats so comfortably you'll feel like you're sitting in a pool chair at your sister-in-law Francine's house. Pair this dip with your favorite book of the moment!

Tel Aviv and the Mediterranean Sea

6. Learn some vocabulary before your trip

Those who know me are aware of the importance I place on learning a few words in the language of the host country. The reason is simple: it's not only very useful but also a great way to elicit smiles from the locals. In Israel, please them by trying out a few words of Hebrew with a questionable accent:

Hello! – Shalom!

How are you? – Ma Nishma

Please – Bevakasha

Pardon – Slih'a

Thank you! – Toda!

Alright, have a good trip!

Stéphanie Bureau

Winner of the 4 destinations, 1 blogger contest.

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