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Tel Aviv   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Ilan Shacham | Getty Images

Why Go To Tel Aviv

Don't get confused, Tel Aviv is definitely not Jerusalem . Although they're less than 50 miles apart, Tel Aviv lacks the historic significance of the Holy City. In place of religious sites and ancient ruins, Tel Aviv features world-class beaches and rip-roaring nightlife. Tradition in Tel Aviv consists of Friday night revelry rather than quiet reflecting, and kosher cuisine is overshadowed by a wealth of international culinary delights.

Tel Aviv's love of the arts and culture shines through it's fantastic (albeit few) museums. If you've come to see the sights though, you won't need more than a couple of days here. The purpose of your visit shouldn't be to just see Tel Aviv, it should be to fully experience it. Once you've had your fill of museum hopping, let yourself fall into the rhythm of this modern Mediterranean metropolis. Devote your days to lounging on its beaches or meandering through the streets of Jaffa . And when night falls, allow yourself to be swept up by the luring hum of club music and the nonstop flow of cocktails.

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Best of Tel Aviv

Best hotels in tel aviv.

• in Crowne Plaza Tel Aviv City Center
• in Dan Tel Aviv
• in West All Suite Boutique Tel Aviv

Best Things to Do in Tel Aviv

• # 1 in The Tayelet
• # 2 in Neve Tzedek
• # 3 in Jaffa

Popular Tours

Masada and the Dead Sea Day Trip from Tel Aviv

(1003 reviews)

from $ 120.00

Travel To Bethlehem, Jericho & Jordan River - Group Guided Tour from Jerusalem

(127 reviews)

from $ 89.00

Day Tour to Jerusalem and Bethlehem from Tel Aviv

(717 reviews)

from $ 121.00

Tel Aviv Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Tel Aviv are March through April and September through November. Spring and fall mark this city's "sweet" tourism spots, boasting pleasant temperatures and affordable prices. Despite the intense heat, most travelers head to Tel Aviv during the summer months, determined to hit the beaches and return home with a tan. Between May and August, expect inflated prices. The winter months also see a spike in tourism as travelers from northern countries (particularly in Europe) come to thaw.

Weather in Tel Aviv

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• You'll feel welcome Israelis and Arabs live side-by-side here, only parting ways to let an American beach-bum or European backpacker pass. The streets echo with Hebrew and Arabic, but English-speakers aren't hard to come by.
• Avoid talking politics Tel Aviv is a very safe city, and you're unlikely to witness any of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. That doesn't mean you should talk about it though, keep strong opinions to yourself.
• Stand your ground Israelis are notorious line-cutters. You're bound to witness locals pushing their way past you. Don't hesitate to speak up if someone cuts you off; assertiveness is completely acceptable here.

How to Save Money in Tel Aviv

• Opt for two wheels rather than four Tel Aviv is a fairly flat city and many of its roads sport new bike lanes, which makes for perfect biking conditions. You can help pad your budget by renting a bike from Tel-O-Fun , the city’s short-term bike rental service, rather than splurging on taxis or a rental car.
• Don't hire a guide There's no reason to pay someone to show you around when you can simply tag along on one of the free guided neighborhood tours offered by Tel Aviv Global & Tourism .
• Stick to regional cuisine While you can find fantastic fare from all around the globe, you'll save money by sticking to regional specialties like falafel and kebabs. Some of the best (and cheapest) eats can be found along Etzel Street in southern Tel Aviv's HaTikva District.

Culture & Customs

Tel Aviv is a laid-back city where people from all walks of life come to share a beach umbrella or a cafe table. Here, the Sabbath is more commonly celebrated with a night out on the town rather than an evening of prayer.

This freewheeling debauchery wasn't necessarily the ambition of the Tel Aviv's founders. The city came to life in the early 1900s when a small group of Jewish people migrated north from the cramped living conditions of Jaffa , which was a predominantly Arab town at the time. In 1921, riots in Jaffa drove roughly 40,000 inhabitants to the tiny settlement, while the outbreak of World War II caused another large influx of residents. To accommodate the rapidly growing population, Tel Aviv underwent an extreme expansion, both outward and upward. Today, the city is characterized by modern skyscrapers and wide boulevards.

This is a very diverse city because its residents come from all corners of the globe. Strolling down the street, you'll come across a variety of people and cultures, which range from Orthodox Jews to Arabs to European expats. Hebrew and Arabic are the dominant languages here, but the majority of people you'll interact with here speak English as well.

The Israeli new shekel (commonly referred to as the Israeli shekel) is Tel Aviv's official currency. One shekel is divided into 100 agorot (singular is agora). Money can be changed in small exchange bureaus, banks or hotels. (Most banks are only open Sunday through Friday until noon, then again from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.) One shekel is equal to approximately $0.30, but the shekel to dollar rate often fluctuates, so check the latest exchange rate before you go. Major credit cards are also accepted in most transactions (excluding taxis).

What to Eat

As a city of immigrants, Tel Aviv's diversity has led to an extremely eclectic culinary scene. You'll find crowded cafes rubbing elbows with restaurants that serve everything from Mediterranean specialties to sushi. Must-try delicacies include hummus masabacha (hummus with whole chickpeas, paprika and tahini), kanafeh (Palestinian dessert pastry of cheese that is soaked in syrup) and sabich (eggplant sandwich with tons of toppings).

For an eclectic Mediterranean menu, head to Night Kitchen , beloved by visitors for its fun ambiance and shareable plates. Plus, Sunday through Thursday the restaurant offers a happy hour special in which everything on the menu is 50 percent off. If you're looking for seafood-focused dishes, travelers suggest you visit Shila – Sharon Cohen’s Kitchen & Bar . For Middle Eastern fare, the trendy Santa Katarina earns favorable reviews for its ever-changing menu and intimate courtyard setting across from a synagogue.

Kosher options are slightly harder to find in Tel Aviv in comparison to other cities in Israel, but there are several popular options. Falafel Hakosem receives rave reviews from locals and tourists alike thanks to its hummus, falafel, shawarma and sabich. Expect crowds, especially around lunch, for this fast-casual spot. The House of Hummus , which specializes in hummus dishes, is another popular lunch outpost, as is the unassuming Abu Hassan . For a wide variety of cafes, head to the Neve Tzedek neighborhood ( Dallal Bakery is a favorite).

The dress code is casual at most Tel Aviv establishments, and all of the city’s restaurants accept Israeli shekels.

Tel Aviv's varied religious and political affiliations may raise some safety concerns. But while the Israeli-Palestinian conflict may be the subject of heated debates, the city has not been a target of political violence since the 1990s. While visiting Tel Aviv, you should feel completely safe in public areas. However, remember that this is a big city: Keep an eye on your valuables and avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.

Getting Around Tel Aviv

The best way to get around Tel Aviv is by bike. The city is relatively flat, and many of the top attractions are located fairly close to one another, making it easy to navigate on two wheels. Buses run frequently (although less so on Fridays and Saturdays during the Sabbath) and offer an affordable way to get from downtown Tel Aviv to neighborhoods like Jaffa . For cheap (albeit slow) transportation to Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), located about 11 miles southeast of downtown, you should rely on the train. You can also take a taxi or bus from the airport; you'll get into town more quickly in a taxi, but you'll pay much more than you would for the bus. Ride-hailing services, such as Uber, also service the city, but they only call licensed taxi drivers.

Entry & Exit Requirements

The Israeli government does not require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your arrival, but many airlines do. You will also need to show a return or onward ticket and sufficient proof of funds to enter the country. Expect heightened security screenings at the airport; the Israeli government has been known to deny travelers entry based on background checks. The government will also deny entry to anyone looking to travel to the West Bank or Gaza. You can learn more by visiting the U.S. State Department website .

Set on a grid, Tel Aviv's wide, relatively uncongested streets, ample bike lanes, and (of course) the scenic Tayelet  

Make sure you're by the water at sunset to catch a spectacular scene like this.

Explore More of Tel Aviv

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Tel Aviv (meaning 'Hill of Spring' in Hebrew) has an air of perpetual renewal: flowers bloom, new restaurants open and there's always a party somewhere.

Your next trip starts here

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tel Aviv Museum of Art

The modern ‘envelope’ building by American architect Preston Scott Cohen is one of many reasons to visit this impressive gallery located on the eastern…

Park HaYarkon

Park HaYarkon is Tel Aviv's answer to Central Park. Joggers, cyclists, skaters, footballers and frisbee-throwers should head for this 3.5-sq-km stretch of…

Jaffa Flea Market

In recent years, lots of energy has gone into giving Jaffa's Old City a tourism-triggered makeover, and the results are undeniably attractive. However,…

Gordon Beach

South from Hilton Beach, this is Tel Aviv's main beach. Well equipped with sunloungers, ice-cream shops, an outdoor gym and beach restaurants, it's…

Carmel Market

Nestled between the tranquil streets of the Yemenite Quarter and the creative corridor of Nahalat Binyamin St, Tel Aviv's busiest street market is, in…

Tel Aviv Boardwalk

No visit to Tel Aviv is complete without a seaside stroll, and after recent renovations to the city’s boardwalk (tayelet in Hebrew), it is an absolute…

Beit Hatfutsot

Once known as the Diaspora Museum and recently revamped as the Museum of the Jewish People, Beit Hatfutsot is located on the leafy campus of Tel Aviv…

Safari Ramat Gan

Offering a fascinating glimpse of fantastic beasts, this is close as you'll get to the Serengeti plains in Israel. It's both a drive-through safari and a…

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Tel Aviv Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Latest update: July 13, 2023

In this guest post, Naomi shares everything you need to know when planning your trip to Tel Aviv, the best restaurants and accommodation, things to do, and spending your time there like a local.

My name is Naomi Bubis and I’ve lived in Tel Aviv for twenty years. I grew up in Frankfurt, studied in Paris, and worked as a journalist for German television.

I got to know Israel during my summer vacations and fell in love with Tel Aviv at first sight. The metropolis on the Mediterranean is fun-loving, cosmopolitan, and lively. A bit like New York, but fun-sized and right by the sea.

It takes some insider knowledge to really get the most out of a trip to ever-changing Tel Aviv.

I write about life in Tel Aviv on my blog Telavivnotes. You can also download a free guide there with the best areas for Airbnb accommodation.

Tel Avivians live for the moment, day in and day out. In this guest post, I’ll show you how to spend your time there like a local.

Ten interesting facts about Tel Aviv

• Tel Aviv has at least 300 days of sun per year.
• Tel Aviv is also known as the City That Never Sleeps.
• The old town of Tel Aviv is called Jaffa.
• With over 200,000 attendees, Tel Aviv boasts the largest gay pride parade in Asia.
• National Geographic lists Tel Aviv as one of the top 10 beach cities in the world.
• 30,000 dogs live in Tel Aviv, and the city is considered the world’s most dog-friendly metropolis.
• Tel Aviv is a paradise for vegans.
• The culinary scene in Tel Aviv is considered one of the most creative in the world.
• There are over 100 sushi restaurants in Tel Aviv.
• The Meier-on-Rothschild Tower is the tallest residential building in the city at 155 meters.

Travel tips for Tel Aviv

The best time to travel to tel aviv.

No question, the off-season. In July and August, Tel Aviv is overrun with tourists. Plus it gets really hot in the summer months. Temperatures rise to 31-34 degrees, and the humidity reaches over 80 percent. That means you’ll be sweating. A lot.

If you like hot weather, then you’ll really enjoy yourself here because the heat shows no mercy, not even at night.

The positive thing about these months is the general mood in the city. The people live outside. Even at night. Eating a watermelon at a beach café at three o’clock in the morning has a lot of charm.

But the best time to travel is in spring or fall. In September, October, and November, when it starts getting cold in Europe, you can still swim in the sea in Tel Aviv at temperatures of around 30 degrees. And unlike in August, you can go for a walk without having to cool off in air-conditioned stores.

April, May, and June are also good months for traveling. Tel Aviv literally means “Spring Hill”, and the season sees the city coming out in full bloom.

25 degrees in the shade is just the right temperature to explore the city. And no one will step on your towel at the beach.

How much time should you plan for Tel Aviv?

You should schedule at least one week. But in order to really immerse yourself in the vibe of Tel Aviv, you’ll need even longer. Fast-forwarding through city life would be a real shame.

Tel Aviv is a young city and was founded in 1909. It has almost 450,000 inhabitants, but many Israelis work in the economic and cultural center, so upwards of three million people fill the streets during the day.

The best way to get around Tel Aviv is on foot. The distances aren’t that great and there’s plenty to see.

How to find cheap flights to Tel Aviv

All major airlines fly to Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv. Several Lufthansa and ELAL flights arrive daily from Frankfurt and Munich; and EasyJet and Airberlin fly here from Berlin. The latter two are the cheaper options. It’s a four-hour flight from Central Europe to Tel Aviv.

You’d be well-advised to book early as tickets aren’t cheap and flights are often fully booked. If you want to buy a last-minute ticket, you’ll be quoted horrendous fares of 800 euros and upwards. Ideally, you should to compare flights on Skyscanner and book six months in advance.

The best way to get through security at the airport

Flights to Israel are subject to special security precautions – not unlike flights to the US, but even stricter. You should make sure to be at the airport three hours before departure. If you’re flying with the Israeli airline ELAL, the security check is even more thorough.

Try to remember that you’re being questioned for your own safety. Stay calm. If you have visas from Arab countries in your passport, you may want to think about applying for a second passport from your passport office before your trip.

Stamps from Arab countries won’t bar you from entry per se , but the questioning will be a lot more rigorous.

Answer the officials’ questions as politely and calmly as possible. Questioning upon departure is even more meticulous. You may be asked where you stayed and whom you met during your time in Israel. It helps to keep a phone number for your hotel or an Israeli friend in your pocket just in case.

Tel Aviv: Getting from the airport to the city

Ben Gurion Airport is located between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. You can get from the airport to the city center by taxi in 20 minutes. The taxi rank is on level G of Terminal 3. Prices for long-distance trips are fixed, so you should ask the driver for the current rate.

Normally, the fare should come to around 140 shekels, which is about 35 euros. Taxis are much cheaper than in Germany. In Terminal 3, you’ll find ATMs and bureaux de change.

Buses are the most common means of transport in Israel. But to get to Tel Aviv by bus, you first have to take the shuttle bus to the Airport City. The shuttle bus stops are located on the second floor, at gates 21 and 23.

From the Airport City, take Egged bus number 475 to the central bus station in Tel Aviv. You can buy your ticket directly from the driver.

Alternatively, you can also take the train to the city straight from Terminal 3, on level S, for just 16 shekels. In fact, that’s probably the best option.

If you’d like your trip to be a bit more comfortable, you can also book a private airport transfer ahead of time. You can find more information here: Private airport transfer Tel Aviv .

Important : There’s no public transport on Shabbat (Friday afternoon to Saturday evening).

What to pack for Tel Aviv

Flip flops, shorts, swimming trunks, bikini, bath towel, sunglasses, sunscreen with a high sun protection factor, headgear, T-shirts, jeans, sweatshirt, sneakers, summer dress.

When you go to Tel Aviv, you can pack light. Only during the winter months from December to February do you need to take a rainproof jacket and a thick sweater.

Tel Aviv is a laid-back city. The New York Times crowned TLV the ‘capital of cool’. You can walk around dressed any way you like without people giving you weird looks.

It’s totally normal to walk your dog in your pajamas and slippers in the morning or to sit on a park bench with curlers in your hair. Tel Aviv has an urban hippie flair.

You’ll hardly see any men in suits or women in pantsuits. Eight months a year, the dress code primarily consists of: flip-flops, sleeveless T-shirts, shorts, airy dresses.

In the winter, Tel Avivians exchange their flip-flops for boots and put on layers upon layers of sweaters because 15 degrees are already considered freezing cold.

You’ll also need a power adapter for Israel, such as this universal adapter .

Is Tel Aviv expensive? Tips on saving money

Tel Aviv is definitely an expensive destination. The cost of living is high. Rents have reached New York or Paris levels.

You’ll be shocked by the prices at the supermarket. Sometimes, they’re as much as double that in Germany.

Tip #1 : Buy fruits and vegetables in the markets.

Tip #2 : Tel Aviv has a free WiFi network. This means you can surf the Internet for free on a park bench or at the beach.

Tip #3 : Get your coffee at Cofix. Everything only costs five shekels here (about 1.20 euros): cakes, cookies, beverages, and coffee. Cofix also operates six supermarkets in Tel Aviv where all products cost five shekels.

Tip #4 : Eat street food such as falafel, hummus, and sabich. One portion costs around 5 euros.

Tip #5 : Keep your eyes peeled for business lunch deals and happy hours at restaurants.

Getting around in Tel Aviv

This mostly flat city is great to explore on foot or by bicycle. In recent years, 40 kilometers of cycle paths have been paved. So go ahead and grab a green Tel-O-Fun Citybike . The 150 rental stations are scattered throughout the city. You have the following options:

• A day ticket for 17 shekels
• A 3-day ticket for 48 shekels
• A 1-week ticket for 70 shekels

You can just cycle from A to B and park your bike at any station. Riding into the sunset down the beach promenade to the old town of Jaffa: now that’s something you have to try.

Tel Avivians love their e-bikes. The street scene has completely changed over the past few years. Nowadays, pedestrians need to watch out that they don’t get run over by e-bike-riding teenagers.

If you’d like to experience Tel Aviv with the wind in your back, then hire a battery-powered bike. An e-bike costs 100 shekels a day. Pole Position is a decent rental service – you can book a guide for a city tour by bike here too. They also provide city maps with bike paths drawn in.

Another popular rental service is O-Fun – e-bikes here cost 120 shekels a day.

Tip : Take shared taxis. The yellow and red minibuses stop at the wave of a hand and are a quick and reliable way to get through the city.

Is Tel Aviv safe?

Israel is always in the headlines, and perhaps you’re one of those people who are concerned about traveling to Tel Aviv because of the security situation. But since terror attacks have gone global these days, a trip to the Mediterranean metropolis is no more dangerous than a trip to any other major city.

You can feel safe in Tel Aviv. Before you enter shopping centers, cinemas, hotels, and clubs, a guard will search your bag. Be nice to him – after all, he’s being paid (poorly) to ensure your safety.

Don’t be frightened when you see soldiers with machine guns eating a falafel at lunchtime. The guns aren’t loaded. You can walk through the city without fear.

Just never leave your backpack out of sight. Not because of thieves. But because Israelis have a short fuse when it comes to abandoned bags. Suspicious items are blown up by special units.

Tel Aviv is a safe place for women traveling alone. The city is alive at all hours. So you don’t have to worry about walking through the city after dark as a woman.

Even in Hayarkon Park, the Central Park of Tel Aviv, you’ll see women going for a solo run late at night. Still, use some common sense – don’t go through dark alleyways on your own.

The best Tel Aviv city tours: My tips

Tip #1: book a bauhaus tour.

Tel Aviv is also known as the White City because around 4000 houses here were built in the Bauhaus style. UNESCO has registered the White City as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Every Friday, there’s a group tour in English. The meeting point is the Bauhaus Center on centrally located Dizengoff Street where you can buy high-quality books and souvenirs.

More infos on the Bauhaus Center Tel Aviv

Tip #2: Book Florentin street art tour

The tour guide will take you on a stroll through the trendy southern quarter of Florentin. The tour is in English and takes 2 hours.

The experienced guide knows all the stories behind the countless graffiti that adorn the walls of Florentine. Explore the hidden gems of the underground art scene.

More infos on the Florentin street art tour

Tip #3: Book the TLVEG tour

TLVEG organizes vegan culinary tours through Tel Aviv. The metropolis is a mecca for anyone who’s chosen to forgo animal products. The tour will take you to the vegan hot spots of Tel Aviv. And there are lots of them.

You should start the tour on an empty stomach because there’ll be plenty to eat on the way. The tour of the city’s vegan scene is a culinary adventure where you’ll get to meet cool people and try creative food.

Highly recommended, and not just for plant-eaters.

More information on the TLVEG Tour .

Tip #4: Read the alternative city guide DIY Tel Aviv

I wholeheartedly recommend the alternative city guide DIY Tel Aviv. It’s available as a paperback or an e-book.

To the travel guide

Ten Hebrew words for beginners

1. Toda – thank you 2. Bevakasha – you’re welcome 3. Café Hafuch – café latte (but milkier) 4. Yam – sea 5. Malon – hotel 6. Alaan – <em>slang for</em> hello 7. Eifo – where? 8. Kesef – money 9. Monit – taxi 10. Shalom – hello, bye, see ya, peace

Where to stay in Tel Aviv

Cheap hotels in tel aviv.

Abraham Hostel Tel Aviv is the coolest guest house in town. Lots of digital nomads hang out here. It’s got it’s finger on the pulse of Tel Aviv’s nightlife: just two minutes from Rothschild Boulevard and right next to the legendary Levontin 7, the best live music club in Tel Aviv.

The hostel has 350 beds, a great roof terrace, and a bar where locals like to relax with a cool beer. You can book a dorm bed (for around the 100 shekels) or a private room (for 300 shekels).

Another option is The Spot Hostel . Here you’ll find tastefully decorated rooms, a sun terrace, and stylish lounges where you can play pool, for example.

The hostel is a stone’s throw from Hilton Beach, Hayarkon Park, and the Gordon Swimming Pool at the marina, with its 50-meter saltwater pool.

Hotels in Tel Aviv for mid-range budgets

A cool hotel right on the beach is the Embassy Hotel . It’s located in the heart of Tel Aviv, just a 15-minute walk from Carmel Market. The colorful rooms, decorated in 1950s style, are particularly striking.

The funky Yam Hotel is located in the quieter north of Tel Aviv. From there, it’s just five minutes to the sea and the Namal. The renovated warehouses along the wooden deck boast cafés, restaurants, and shops with a view of the sea.

The rooms at the Yam (Hebrew for sea) have a surfer flair. They’re small, but cool. The perfect choice for beach lovers.

Boutique hotels in Tel Aviv

Besides all the major hotel chains by the beach, Tel Aviv also has a variety of tasteful boutique hotels. There’s a lot to choose from. Here are my favorites:

The classic is the elegant Norman Hotel in a side street off Rothschild Boulevard. The Norman resides in two renovated historic buildings from the 1920s. The 50 rooms and exclusive suites each have a unique individual design. The highlight is the infinity pool and the Japanese restaurant on the roof. If you really want to pamper yourself, then this is the place for you.

The Shenkin Boutique Hotel is located on Brenner Street, Off-Sheinkin. Sheinkin Street’s glory days as Tel Aviv’s answer to Soho have faded somewhat in recent years, but the area still has its charm.

The location is central and the hotel is a perfect retreat from the hectic hustle and bustle on the streets. The 30 rooms have been furnished with great attention to detail, and on the roof terrace, you can relax in a hammock after a massage in the mini-spa.

The Dizengoff Avenue Boutique Hotel is located in the very center of Tel Aviv, on the lively Dizengoff Street. It couldn’t be closer to the pulse of the city! It’s also close to several great beaches.

In the unique rooms of the hotel you will find details of the famous sights of the city. Here you will get a taste of Tel Aviv’s attractions, which are located right outside the door.

The Market House Tel Aviv Jaffa is located in the old town of Jaffa, right next to the flea market. The hotel runs the Milk Bakery, one of the best bakeries in the city. So it’s no surprise that breakfast here is a veritable feast for palate.

In the lobby, the remains of a Byzantine church are preserved under the glass floor. Boutique hotels generally know how to pamper their guests and this one is no exception.

The Lily & Bloom is yet another of Tel Aviv’s hidden gems. The hotel is a declaration of love to the Bauhaus style of the city. It’s centrally located on Lilienblum Street with its cool bars and restaurants.

The boutique hotel serves a delicious breakfast, and boasts a terrace and a bar with a happy hour. If you’re looking for a stylish intimate hotel, then this is the place for you.

More great places to stay in Tel Aviv

Mendeli Street Hotel with the award-winning Mashya Restaurant Cucu Hotel – colorful, young, urban The Poli House Hotel – a brand new hotel by star architect Karim Rashid

Tel Aviv experiences you have to try

TIP #1 : Browsing the ‘Shuk Ha’Pishpishim’ flea market in Jaffa TIP #2 : Strolling along the wooden deck of the renovated harbor, the Namal TIP #3 : Drinking a cup of coffee at a kiosk on Rothschild Boulevard TIP #4 : Eating a bowl of ramen soup at the delicatessen market in the Sarona district TIP #5: Taking a break from it all in Hayarkon Park by the river

My food guide for Tel Aviv

If you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat in Tel Aviv. You’d have to be spectacularly clueless to have a bad dining experience here. Creative chefs characterize the restaurant scene.

The food in Tel Aviv is among the best in the world. The ethnic influences in this melting pot of over 70 nationalities are particularly pronounced in the culinary world.

Tel Aviv has a wealth of sensational restaurants, making it difficult to pick out a handful of favorites. But I’ve given it my best shot.

Tip : Make reservations as soon as possible.

Tel Aviv restaurant tips

Star chef Yossi Shitrit runs three restaurants in Tel Aviv, all of which are among the top ten: Mashya, Kitchen Market, and Onza.

Mashya was recognized as the best restaurant in town in 2016: modern cuisine with a Moroccan touch, sensory ecstasy for the eyes and the palate. Perfect for a romantic evening.

Kitchen Market is on the first floor right above the Farmers’ Market at the Namal Tel Aviv. In the evening, you’ll feel the full vibe of the city, as the locals end their day feasting on brick oven pizzas, tapas, and gourmet fish dishes.

Onza boasts the coolest location in the middle of the flea market in Jaffa. The old town with its Jewish-Arabic inhabitants is home to many a trendy restaurant.

Onza’s motto is “Food & Vibe”. Two young talented chefs cook Ottoman dishes here with a modern twist. The food is sensual, the music loud, and the audience exuberant.

The Thai at Har Sinai is located in a nightlife hot spot. Scattered around the Great Synagogue on Allenby Street are some of the best bars and restaurants of Tel Aviv. The Thai at Har Sinai is located right next to the legendary Port Said and serves authentic Thai dishes every night of the week. The atmosphere is young, with live DJs and lots of alcohol.

Santa Katarina right next door is also pretty great. Mediterranean cuisine doesn’t get any better than this. Sitting outside in the summer, surrounded by crowds of people in the bars and restaurants nearby, the magical energy of Tel Aviv is almost palpable.

When Taizu opened, it was like a revelation to the spoiled foodies of Tel Aviv. Rarely was a new restaurant received with such unanimous praise. Taizu combines Asian street food from different parts of the continent to create high-end dishes. The ultimate culinary experience.

Every Sunday, the Taizu celebrates Indian cuisine. The confectioner Ana Shapiro was recognized as the best in Tel Aviv in 2016. You know what that means: You’d better leave room for dessert!

More great dining experiences in Tel Aviv

Brasserie : An institution in Tel Aviv, open all hours. Yaffo-Tel Aviv : The flagship of Israeli cuisine by chef Haim Cohen. Romano TLV : Lounge restaurant with a live DJ by crazy cook Eyal Shani. Ramesses : Mediterranean hipster bistro bar in Jaffa with live DJ. LaShuk : Open kitchen with local delicacies. HaBasta : Located in a side street of Shuk Ha’Carmel. Daily changing menu inspired by seasonal produce at the weekly market.

Tel Aviv street food – My tips

Miznon : Gourmet fast food by star cook Eyal Shani. All the dishes are served in pita bread. The all-time classic: pita with roasted cauliflower. The Miznon has branches in Paris and Vienna. Hakosem :  The best falafel in Tel Aviv. Right around the corner from the Dizengoff Center, a popular shopping mall. Pasta Basta : The cheap pasta bar has several branches all over town. The pasta is homemade, the service quick, the customers young. Sabich Frishman : This unassuming snack bar has the best sabich in Tel Aviv. Sabich is the sister of falafel: pita bread stuffed with hummus, tehina, roasted eggplant, hard-boiled egg, tomato and cucumber salad, and pickles.

The best cafés in Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is teeming with coffee shops. That’s because Tel Avivians are communicative people, love good coffee, and appreciate their local barista.

Bucke has two cafés in Tel Aviv: uptown in the north and midtown near the Habima Theater. Its breakfast buffets with colorful salads, dips, and vegetable creations are renowned throughout Tel Aviv. Bucke only serves vegetarian dishes.

Loveat  has the best organic coffee in town. The cafés of the Loveat chain, scattered all over the city, have delicious sandwiches and lunch deals with lots of vegetables, tehina, quinoa, wild rice, tomatoes, and chillies.

Nahat Cafe is just the place for coffee lovers. It smells of freshly ground beans and panini. A great place to open up your laptop and take a seat next to the locals.

Café Xoho is an international meeting place for students and tourists. You’ll hear a great many languages ​​spoken here. Enjoy gluten-free chocolate cakes, matcha tea, and kale salad.

Cafelix is another coffee bean paradise. The coolest branch is located in lively Levinsky Market, nestled in between spice merchants and hipster bars.

Tel Aviv’s hidden gems : The best vegan restaurants in Tel Aviv

Fact: Tel Aviv is among the top five vegan destinations in the world. You can find vegetarian options on the menu in almost every café. And no, not just a side salad, I’m talking full-blown dishes. Cappuccino with almond or soy milk is available everywhere.

Here are my recommendations for 100% vegan restaurants:

Herzog on lively Ivn Gvirol has a daily changing menu featuring dishes that chef Roey Herzog calls ‘mountains’: rice mountains, quinoa mountains, lettuce mountains, buckwheat mountains, topped with vegetables, tehina, chilli.

Roey knows how to conjure up delicious food with vegetables. The best (but rather pricey) place for a quick lunch. Recommended: zoodles with tehina spirulina dressing.

At peak times, you’ll have to join a long line if you want to eat at Marketlv on Dizengoff Street. It serves different stews and soups every day: Indian, Mexican, Moroccan, and more. The food is cheap and tastes great.

The Dosa Bar is a wonderful place to go for lunch. The South Indian street food is vegan, gluten-free, and, most of all, delicious. Dosas are a kind of pancake, which are varied with spicy fillings.

Zakaim , a self-styled vegan boutique, plays in the culinary big leagues. The restaurant is run by the Zakaim siblings. The menu is Persian-Israeli-vegan. This very hip and stylishly furnished restaurant is located right in the middle of the nightlife district surrounding the Great Synagogue on Allenby Street. Essential eating: the potato wedges.

Tel Aviv’s beaches: The most beautiful beaches

Gordon Beach has everything a beach-lover’s heart desires. A laid-back beach café called LalaLand, volleyball nets, fitness equipment, and lots of sun worshipers. Right next door is the Olympic-grade Gordon Pool and the Topsea Surfing Center.

Mezizim Beach is located at the northern tip of the beach promenade. A bay bordered by the religious beach (yes, that exists too) and the harbor (Namal). The 9Beach lounge café is located on Mezizim Beach. It’s especially lively in the evenings. And if live football matches are being broadcast live on the big screen anywhere in town, it’s sure to be here. A nice hangout for a beer with your feet in the sand.

Hilton Beach is located in a bay right next to the dog beach and the gay beach. This is the place to be for water sports enthusiasts. You can hire SUP boards, kayaks, or surfboards at the Sea Center Club. Lots of kids and teenagers come here every Saturday morning to learn how to surf.

Banana Beach is located closer to the old town of Jaffa and stands out with its characteristic yellow beach chairs. A beach without an attitude, laid-back, fewer tourists. It also has a surfing school.

Tip : On Friday afternoons, Banana Beach morphs into Drum Beach. Standing on the cliffs, the drummers get out their bongos and congas to welcome Shabbat with a drum session.

Do you have some great tips for a city trip to Tel Aviv?

Have you ever been to Tel Aviv want to share a tip of your own? Then leave us a comment and tell us all about it.

Also read our other posts: 

Amsterdam Travel Tips + Best Sights & hidden gems What to see in Tallinn! Our favorite sights + travel tips What to do in Hamburg! 7 Fun Things you need to try

MonaCorona.com | A Millennial-Luxury Travel Blog

A Millennial-Luxury Travel Blog.

The Ultimate Tel Aviv Travel Guide – Where to Go, Eat, and Stay in Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv is the one destination I find myself returning to over and over again. It is one of, if not the most diverse, inclusive, and cosmopolitan city in the Middle East. Not only that, some of the greatest advancements in technology, health, and agriculture have come out of Israel and are headquartered in Tel Aviv. This complete and ultimate Tel Aviv travel guide will show you everything you need to know to make the most out of your trip.

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The ultimate tel aviv travel guide.

I remember the first time I visited Tel Aviv as an adult. I remember seeing the little silhouettes of surfers in the Mediterranean Sea, as I took awe over the sunsets that would make Santorini cower. I remember being amused by the way the streets spilled out with young Tel Avivians on sidewalk cafes every Friday afternoon, sipping coffee or Gold Star beers with their baby carriages blocking the walkways. I remember smelling the aromas of the shuk, how it’s somehow always perfectly equal parts spicy and sweet; and the unforgettable energy that could only come from a city that is so unlike its neighbors, in a country that is so unlike its neighbors.

Tel Aviv quickly became my comfort destination. The only place in the world where I didn’t feel the need to explain myself or my identity as an eclectic, Middle Eastern, Jewish woman — and I never stopped coming back.

Over the years I’ve collected my experiences and put them in this guide for you to have the ultimate trip to Tel Aviv. I hope you love this city as much as I do.

…the unforgettable energy that could only come from a city that is so unlike its neighbors, in a country that is so unlike its neighbors. Tel Aviv quickly became my comfort destination…and I never stopped coming back.

Top Things to do in Tel Aviv

You’ll never run out of fun things to do in Tel Aviv. By day, you’ll be wandering the shuks, spending time on Tel Aviv’s best beaches, and eating the city’s most amazing food; and by night, you’ll get to experience the famous Tel Aviv nightlife which comes alive until the early morning hours. Rinse and repeat as you wake up to a lavish spread of an Israeli breakfast, recover on the beach with a arak-spiked limonana (mint lemonade with anise liquor), and then do it all over again. Here are the top things to do, see, and eat in Tel Aviv.

Best Beaches in Tel Aviv

As a coastal destination that enjoys plenty of sunshine, beach culture in Tel Aviv is eminent. Weekends are spent lounging on the warm golden sand, playing volleyball or matkot (Israeli beach tennis), or simply taking a stroll down the boardwalk. Sunsets in Tel Aviv are especially not to be missed! Here are some of Tel Aviv’s best beaches:

Gordon, Frishman, and Bograshav are the most popular beaches lined up along the main pedestrian walkway of beachfront hotels. You’ll find travelers and locals at these beaches and the famous Ben Gurion hand-stand statue.

Hilton Beach is known as the “Gay Beach” (and was named Best Gay Beach in the World) however this LGBTQ+ friendly beach is a beautiful one in its own right that peoople of all kind enjoy and is also a popular surf spot. The stylish beach club that sits above it, Beluga Beach Bar , is a great place to have a sundowner.

For a more laidback beach away from the crowds, Metsitsim beach is perfect.

I should note that while the beach is lined with restaurants, the best food in Tel Aviv is typically found elsewhere as many of these establishments err on the side of tourist trap. That said, if you’d like to grab a drink or a snack, I’d recommend the locally-frequented LaLa Land .

Enjoying a hookah/shisha on the beach may also be a treat, so for that, I recommend Banana Beach for a toes-in-the-sand experience.

The Shuks & Best Markets, Tel Aviv

The shuks of Tel Aviv (outdoor markets/bazaars) are the epicenter of Israeli culture. These Tel Aviv street markets are where you’ll find a hodgepodge of souvenirs, fresh produce, sweets, fresh-squeezed juices, and the best street food in Tel Aviv. The following are the top shuks and marketplaces you need to know.

Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel) – The most famous outdoor market in Tel Aviv. It should be one of your first stops when visiting! Whether eating, shopping, or simply just browsing you’ll get a feel for authentic Israeli culture as Shuk HaCarmel is a Tel Aviv must see. Some foodie highlights at Carmel Market include a spot simply called Shakshuka if you’re there for breakfast, HaBurika Shuk HaCarmel for a hearty kosher burika, and for a kosher schnitzel on challah sandwich from Ishtabah . (You’ll see this type of sandwich all over the shuk, but make sure to get it from Ishtabah!) If you prefer a sit-down meal of trendy Mediterranean dishes, Habasta , is located just outside the shuk and is one of Tel Aviv’s greatest restaurants. Lastly, a fresh fruit smoothie from Etrog Man is a very welcomed refreshing treat!

Nahalat Binyamin – Just outside of Carmel Market, every Tuesday and Friday is an outdoor craft fair. You’ll find the most unique and one-of-a-kind hand-made items here which are perfect for souvenirs and directly support the local artists.

Sarona Market – Israel’s largest indoor contemporary culinary and shopping market selling gourmet and consumer products as well as housing some wonderful eateries.

Lavinsky Market – A gourmet food market with many imported and local goods near the hip Floretin neighborhood. This market is especially great for Mizrahi/Middle Eastern goods and probably my favorite shuk. Arrive on a Friday afternoon and make sure to enjoy a Gazoz at Cafe Lavinsky , a bubbly probiotic drink made from herbs and fermented fruit.

Namal Food Market – A fully-covered shuk and farmers market near the port which turns into a happening nightlife spot when the sun goes down.

Jaffa Flea Market (Shuk HaPishpeshim) – is where you’ll find antiques, art, handmade crafts, and secondhand furniture, as well as trendy bars, restaruants, and cafes.

More Shopping in Tel Aviv

Outside of the shuks, Tel Aviv is home to some amazing local designers and boutique shops. Not to mention, some of the top wedding dress design houses are from Tel Aviv such as Galia Lahav and Inbal Dror . I like to shop for clothes any chance I get in Tel Aviv because I always leave with unique pieces that can’t be found at home. Some of my favorite places to go shopping in Tel Aviv include:

Neve Tzedek – This trendy neighborhood is known as the “Soho of Tel Aviv.” You’ll find tons of trendy boutiques here with a mix of local and international designers.

Malls in Tel Aviv – Dizengoff Center is one of Israel’s largest and most popular shopping malls offering over 400 stores. TLV Fashion Mall is Tel Aviv’s newest mall with over 200 stores of international and local name brands.

Top Restaurants / Best Food, Tel Aviv

If food isn’t a significant part of your trip to Tel Aviv, you’re doing it wrong! Tel Aviv has some of the best food in the world. It is no wonder why restaurants across the globe are incorporating these Israeli and Mediterranean-inspired dishes onto their menus. If you are looking for kosher restaurants only, I have indicated them with an asterisk (*). It is also helpful to know even if you are not kosher, as kosher restaurants are not open on Shabbat (Jewish Sabbath, Friday night – Saturday night).

Best Israeli/Middle Eastern – Israeli restaurants are naturally some of the best and most popular restaurants in Tel Aviv! Top eateries include Miznon by celebrity top chef Eyal Shani, which serves street food specializing in Israeli pita sandwiches. Another popular spot also by Eyal Shani, Port Sa’id , offers a daily-changing menu of Middle Eastern dishes meant to be shared. When in Jaffa, Old Man and the Sea is the place to go, serving fresh seafood and meat dishes. Lastly, Itzik Hagadol also in Jaffa is one of the most loved Israeli steakhouses in Tel Aviv, where you’ll be served millions of salatim (small side dishes/salads/dips) — the true Israeli way! Best Hummus – Abu Hassan . Not only is it the best hummus in Tel Aviv, but it’s also probably the best hummus in the world — you’ll definitely want to prioritize eating here. (Not certified kosher but not open on Shabbat.)

Best Falafel – Hakosem * without a doubt has the best falafel in Tel Aviv.

Best Shawarma – The best shawarma in Tel Aviv is always up for debate. Do you like your shwarma made with chicken? lamb? turkey? beef? veal? These are all things to take into consideration. Turkish style shawarma is having a moment in Israel currently, and for the best, you can find it at Turk Lahmajoun *.

Best Vegan – Tel Aviv is one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world, and the best and most popular vegan spot in Tel Aviv is Anastasia . Even non-vegan eaters love it too.

Best Italian – The best italian restaurants in Tel Aviv for pasta dishes include Pankina * and Rustico . For the best pizza in Tel Aviv, Papi Chulo is most loved, along with the Napolian-style pizza at HaPizza *. Lastly, I personally also love Cena for their awesome Southern Italian menu and great drinks.

Best Burger – The Best Burgers in Tel Aviv can be found at Bodega American Kitchen * which serves kosher American-style burgers (think kosher bacon cheeseburgers.) The non-kosher crowd favors Vitrina , citing it as the best burger in Israel.

Best Asian – Ca Phe Hanoi * a Vietnamese and Asian-fusion restaurant with a fun atmosphere; and FU Sushi for some of the best sushi in Tel Aviv.

Best Kosher Restaurants – In Tel Aviv, it is not hard to find great kosher-certified restaurants of all cuisines, from Asian, to Italian, and beyond, as you can gather from this list. Aside from what I have already starred(*), Some of the best kosher restaurants include West Side , Darya, and Whiskey Bar & Museum for high-end dining. For sushi lovers, Kanki Sushi is the best kosher option in Tel Aviv. For something a bit more relaxed, Azura is an acclaimed restaurant born out of Jerusalem serving home cooked Middle Eastern comfort food.

One of my personal favorites is Malka , an incredible restaurant serving modern Israeli cuisine by Israeli Top Chef Eyal Shani, and their little sister restaurant Dvora is also a hit. (Any restaurant by Eyal Shani is bound to be good!)

Best Breakfast – The best breakfast in Tel Aviv can be found at the Hotel Montifoire, which offers a lavish breakfast and brunch in a luxury setting. For another great Israeli breakfast, Bucke Cafe is a must. For something a little more casual, Cafe Xoho is loved by locals and expats alike and serves breakfast all day.

Best Brunch – For the weekend, The best brunch in Tel Aviv includes The Norman , which is one of Tel Aviv’s top boutique hotels, and for more local options, The brunch at The Jaffa is another great hotel option. Mashya , Ha’achim , and Bellboy do fantastic brunches as well.

Best Shakshuka – There are so many different options when looking for the best shakshuka in Tel Aviv. Some of the most loved spots include Shakshuka in Carmel Market , Shakshukia on Ben Yehuda or Dr Shakshuka in Jaffa.

Best Upscale – Topolopompo  is an Asian-fusion upscale restaurant. It is omakase-style, meaning the chef chooses the dishes for you! Another gastronomic experience can be found at OCD Restaurant , which offers a tasting menu served in front of an open kitchen.

Best Coffee Shops – In Tel Aviv, there is no shortage of coffee shops and cafes. The best cafes in Tel Aviv for a strong cup of coffee include Nahat , Cafelix , Origem , HOC House of Coffee , and Mae . Of course, you also shouldn’t visit Tel Aviv without enjoying this classic treat — an iced (blended) coffee from Aroma! (Kind of like what Starbucks is to the US.)

Best Dessert – You can’t visit Tel Aviv without a stop at Yaffa Knafeh in Jaffa. This Middle Eastern dessert is super unique is sweet yet slightly salty and best served with ice cream on top. For a proper Ice cream shop, stop by Golda, Israel’s favorite Gelato chain. Lastly, Alexander Bakery is the best pastry shop you’ll find in Tel Aviv!

More restaurants to check out: Dalida for Middle Eastern fusion, Mapu * for elevated Mediterranean, Sabich Frishman * or Sabich Tchernikhovski * for the best sabich sandwiches, Ewa Safi * for Moroccan, and Saluf & Sons * for Yeminite.

* Indicates kosher however please confirm certificates before dining as information may change.

Nightlife & bars in tel aviv.

Of the best things to do in Tel Aviv at night, going out is definitely it. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back bar with live music, a swanky lounge, or a nightclub to go dancing, Tel Aviv has endless options for night owls.

Where to go Bar-Hopping in Tel Aviv:

Rothschild Boulevardx and Allenby are the two most popular streets in Tel Aviv, lined with bars, clubs and restaurants. Just taking a stroll down the streets at night will ensure you’ll find something fun and lively to do.

Kuli Alma near Allenby is one of Tel Aviv’s most loved bars. There’s 3 different rooms to enjoy, including one with live music as well as an outdoor patio.

Another local favorite is Sputnik , found in an alley off Allenby close to Rothschild. This bar gets packed early, so book a table in advance or be prepared to wait in line.

Dizengoff is another popular street that comes to life every night with several options for bars on every block.

Spicehaus (The East Jaffa Perfume Company) on Dizengoff is one of the most unique concept bar experiences. It’s also one of the largest! The venue is a self-proclaimed “bar pharmacy” where bartenders are dressed in lab coats and cocktails are served in beakers.

Floretin is another one of the areas of Tel Aviv to know. This hipster neighborhood is not only filled with restaurants and cafes, but offers an eclectic mix of alternative and underground nightlife options compared to the mainstream areas mentioned above.

Hoodna is one of the preferred local watering holes in Floretin, with live music in a laidback atmosphere.

Jaffa Old Port / Flea Market – The old city of Jaffa comes to life at night with bars flooded with people as string lights hang from above.

Best Clubs in Tel Aviv

The Block is one of Tel Aviv’s largest, most popular nightclubs. With 3 different rooms of sound, parties here go on late into the morning.

Another late-night and after-hours favorite is Breakfast Club . EDM DJs (usually house and techno) are there to keep the dancing going all night long.

A third for top clubs is Alphabet , which has a dark and intimate vibe with a great rotation of DJs.

Best Rooftop Bars in Tel Aviv

For sunset, a pregame, or summer nights with great weather, a drink on one of Tel Aviv’s best rooftop bars is always a pleasant time.

Haiku Skybar on top of the LightHouse hotel offers some of the best city views in Tel Aviv.

Another nice spot for views and cocktails is Surame , a trendy rooftop with great pizza.

Speakeasy on Rothschild can be rather exclusive (book a table in advance), but if you get in you’ll get to enjoy their delicious cocktails and small bites.

Best Area to Stay in Tel Aviv & The Best 4 and 5 Star Hotels in Tel Aviv

I have 3 main areas for the best places to stay in Tel Aviv. They are as follows:

• By the beach – If you are a beach person, undoubtedly this should be your first choice for areas to stay in Tel Aviv. The closer, the better! There is a stretch of hotels along the coast to choose from. Below are the best hotels in tel aviv near beach.

Best Beach Hotels in Tel Aviv:

The Sheraton Tel Aviv – I like to stay at Marriott-Bonvoy hotels whenever possible (to book with points) and the Sheraton Tel Aviv is the nicest option available. It is a great hotel in general, just steps away from the beach with great views, and as far as location goes, it’s perfectly situated next to some of the best beaches. I also got the best massage in Tel Aviv at their spa! Moreover, if you’re looking for kosher hotels in Tel Aviv, The Sheraton is perfect.

David Intercontinental – Another hotel I enjoy, located on the south end of the beach strip right next to Neve Tzedek, which is a more upscale neighborhood with great shopping. Some may even refer to Neve Tzedek as the best neighborhood in Tel Aviv! If you’re looking for Tel Aviv beach hotels, 5 Stars, with kosher dining, and a great location, the Intercontinental is a fabulous choice.

2. Jaffa / Yafo – If you are looking for something a little more laidback, with beautiful historic architecture and a vibrant and unique mix of Israeli, Arab, and Christian culture, Jaffa (Yafo in Hebrew) is where you need to be. Jaffa is known to be one of the oldest working ports in the world, dating back to Biblical times. Compared to modernized Tel Aviv, you’ll experience the Old City feel in Jaffa.

Best Hotels in Jaffa:

The Jaffa, a Luxury Collection Hotel – One of my favorite hotels in all of Israel and one of the best 5-star hotels in Tel Aviv – Yafo. It is also part of Marriott Bonvoy. This luxury property seamlessly blends historic with contemporary design, has a beautiful outdoor pool, and incredible food. Their eggplant shakshuka is probably the best I’ve ever had. If you don’t plan to spend a lot of time at the beach or if visiting in cooler months, The Jaffa is my number one choice of hotel. (Photos of The Jaffa above.)

Soho House Jaffa is another incredible hotel set in a historic castle-like building built in 1883, however, it is only open to members or guests of members.

3. In the city / Downtown – Staying in the heart of the city of Tel Aviv ensures you will have a lively and exciting time. You’ll be within arms reach of the best dining and nightlife, and feel the essence of the vibrant city.

Best Tel Aviv City Hotels:

The Norman – Located in the historic Bauhaus district known as “The White City”, The Norman is one of the chicest and best boutique hotels in Tel Aviv. Stylish rooms, amazing food, and a gorgeous infinity pool are what you can expect from staying at the Norman. As far as Tel Aviv luxury hotels go, The Norman is top tier. The White City is also deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being one of the world’s most architecturally distinct urban areas.

Hotel Bobo – This hotel is a great affordable-luxury option, with stylish, artful, and modern decor and a fun rooftop pool and bar called Meli Melo. The hotel is just steps away from Rothschild Boulevard, so if you’re the type to go out at night and wish to crawl back to your hotel room, Hotel Bobo is especially perfect for you!

Best Day Trips From Tel Aviv

The country of Israel is small — basically the size of New Jersey. This means that taking day trips to other cities is a breeze. To take day trips, you can either rent a car, take the train, or a “share-route” which is a shared taxi. You can also choose to join an organized tour. Here are the top Tel Aviv Day Trips:

Wine Tasting – There are over 300 wineries in Israel spanning from the upper Galilee down to the Negev desert. There are so many different great wineries to choose from, and Wine on the Vine offers unique winery tours all over the country. One of the most note-worthy experiences is their winery tour in the Negev Desert. To see the expansive vineyards growing in the backdrop of a desert landscape while tasting their incredible wines grown straight from desert soil is a rare experience one can only find in Israel.

Two standout wineries in the Negev are Nana Winery , a picturesque estate with unique offerings like their Cloudy Pet Nat, and Ramat Negev Winery , a charming family-run operation with some stand-out reds.

Images taken at Nana Winery

Another one of my favorites is Tishbi Winery in the Mount Carmel region, which offers wine and chocolate tastings, a great on-site kosher dairy restaurant, as well as the most incredible BBQ offered only on Fridays.

Looking for an overnight. in the Negev Desert? Six Senses Shaharut is one of Israel’s top hotels and an experience that shouldn’t be missed!

Dead Sea & Masada – No trip to Israel would be complete without visiting the Dead Sea to float in its salty waters. It is one of the most unique experiences you can have! The Unesco World Heritage Site, Masada, is also nearby, so if you’re up for a sunrise hike you can combine the two (or you can take a cable car to the top.) Approximately 2 – 2.5 hours from Tel Aviv.

Bahá’í Gardens – This Unesco World Heritage Site located in the city of Haifa is the beautiful “Hanging Garden” terraces built on Mount Carmel belonging to the Bahai faith. There are 9 terraces and over 1,500 steps ascending the mountain. Approximately 1 hour from Tel Aviv.

Jerusalem – Israel’s capital and #1 destination. A visit to Jerusalem should entail visits to holy sites such as the Western Wall in the Old City and eating your heart out at the Shuk, Machane Yehuda, and watch it turn into a party destination at night. Approximately 1 hour from Tel Aviv.

Rosh Hanikra Grottoes – Near the border of Lebanon, where the off-the-beaten-track Rosh Hanikra kibbutz lies is where the grottoes of Rosh Hanikra are found. These beautiful cavernous rock formations are the result of thousands of years of the power of the sea. Take the cable car down and witness the beauty of these grottoes of the western Galilee. Approximately 1.5 hours from Tel Aviv.

The Salad Trail – Another off-the-tourist-track activity, The Salad Trail is a hands-on farm-to-table experience unlike any other. Despite Israel being a desert, agriculture thrives. Visitors have a chance to tour and learn about this farm in the Habsor region of the northern Negev while getting to pick and sample plenty of seasonal veggies.

As the most dynamic city in the Middle East, with the most tolerance, diversity and advancements, there is truly something for everyone here. A beach paradise, a buzzing city, and a culinary delight are all what make Tel Aviv in my eyes, the perfect place to be.

A special thank you to the Tel Aviv Institute who sponsored my trip to Tel Aviv. The Tel Aviv Institute is a non-profit and multidisciplinary laboratory focused on uplifting and defending Jews and other marginalized communities on and offline. As always, all opinions and experiences expressed in this post are strictly my own.

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Share this:, 6 thoughts on “ the ultimate tel aviv travel guide – where to go, eat, and stay in tel aviv, israel ”.

Thanks for giving me an insight into Tel Aviv. A great guide.

Thanks for stopping by!

I love Tel Aviv and cannot wait to return, thanks for sharing such an informative guide!

So glad to hear you also love it! Hope you get to return soon!!

Tel Aviv looks like it has so much to offer! I’m also in awe of the day trip options, especially those amazing hanging gardens!

It sure is a dynamic city and the Baha’i Gardens in Haifa are one of Israel’s top sites 🙂

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Tel aviv travel blog — the fullest tel aviv travel guide for first-timers.

When it comes to Tel Aviv, people will immediately think of an expensive city with all night parties. Tel Aviv is like a rose growing in the desert, symbolizing the will of the Jewish people to return to the Promised Land. For me, Tel Aviv is not the most beautiful, most livable city or want to return to in the future. But I really must write about this special city with my full respect. Tel Aviv really has created its own identity, both young, hybrid, and grumpy. I would like to share my guide to Tel Aviv for young people who love to travel. So, is Tel Aviv worth visiting, what to do in Tel Aviv and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Tel Aviv for the first-time? Let’s check out our Tel Aviv travel blog (Tel Aviv blog) with the fullest Tel Aviv travel guide (Tel Aviv guide, Tel Aviv tourist guide) from how to get to Tel Aviv, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and top things to do in Tel Aviv to find out the answer!

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Located along the sparkling blue Mediterranean coast, Tel Aviv is a bustling and free city by the sea that promises to give visitors a great trip. Clearly secular with proud hedonism, the pride of Tel Aviv’s thriving cultural scene is the art galleries, gorgeous boutiques and fine restaurants adjacent to street food stalls. You can party to your heart’s content and then relax on any of the great white sand beaches on the west side of the city.

Tel Aviv travel blog: Overview of Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is away 70 km northwest of the capital Jerusalem. North of Tel Aviv is the Yarkon River, which flows in the Saron region, followed by the Judée plains south of the city. It is an important industrial and commercial center, including textiles, metallurgy, chemicals, mechatronics, leather and footwear, and diamond processing. Ten Aviv is also the economic and financial center of the country, with the second largest economy in the Middle East after Dubai, and is the largest cultural and educational center of Israel with two leading universities, one national museum of art and many theaters, opera houses…

Tel Aviv is located in the western part of Israel, on the shores of the blue Mediterranean Sea. Thanks to its vantage point, Tel Aviv was once a vibrant port for the Arabs during the Ottoman period. Contrary to popular belief, Tel Aviv is neither the capital nor the second most populous city of Israel after Jerusalem. However, the capital Jerusalem is currently not recognized by the international community, so Tel Aviv is the headquarters of many international diplomatic missions and embassies of other countries.

Tel Aviv-Jaffa like the version of Barcelona in Spain or San Francisco in the US, is famous as a “city that never sleeps”, with bars, cafes, restaurants, beaches, parks, shopping centers… And the skyscrapers facing the sea front, combined with vibrant entertainment venues, green parks, clubs, upscale shopping malls. This place is really the perfect entertainment world for visitors.

Tel Aviv-Jaffa is also an Israel’s largest cultural hub with a wide range of museums, galleries, theaters and concert halls. In 2005, the city was recognized as a strong contender for the global city title.

Having a history of more than 4,000 years, Tel Aviv was originally a port for trade in the area around the Mediterranean with the eastern region. The earliest traders here were the Egyptians, then the Babylonians, Phoenix from 2000 BC. Then came the Sumerians, the Canaanites, then about 1000 BC were the Jews. The Jews called this port Yafo, now Jaffa, the name of one of the sons of Noah in their legend (whose legend and name are of older Babylonian origin).

Tel Aviv is a popular place for young people who love swimming, surfing, and partying at night. Or simply walk along the coast, watch the sunset at Jaffa port by the ancient walls. Israeli families often come here on weekends or holidays. It is one of the world’s leading modern, developed cities, and is Israel’s second most populous city, after Jerusalem.

Tel Aviv travel blog: What is Tel Aviv – Yafo?

When you come to Tel Aviv first, you will wonder why Tel Aviv is often attached with the name Yafo on the signs. In fact, Tel Aviv is just the name of a land built by the Jewish immigrants after 1909. Yafo is another pronunciation of the port of Jaffa. The ancient city of Yafo is like the old quarter of Hanoi, and Tel Aviv is the districts like Dong Da, Hai Ba Trung. Tel Aviv was once a desert, swamp, now it’s full of new buildings and Yafo was inhabited by the majority of the Arab population. The calling Tel Aviv – Yafo aims to separate the geographical and historical aspects of this multi-ethnic administrative area.

Why should you travel to Tel Aviv once in a lifetime?

The Middle East has a lot of modern, bustling and thriving cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi but Tel Aviv is more different thanks to its openness to LGBTQ gender equality and ethnic equality. As a home to Jews from all over the world flocking to, along with Arabs, African immigrants create an atmosphere of openness unmatched anywhere in the Middle East.

Tel Aviv is also a city with historical and cultural layers second only to Jerusalem. The port city of Jaffa with Byzantine, Ottoman architecture and the cheerful colors of the Mediterranean port.

The white city of Tel Aviv is a World Cultural Heritage site with the famous Bauhaus architectural style of the early 20th century. Along the Tel Aviv coast are dazzling skyscrapers. Not to mention, each district of Tel Aviv is home to ethnic groups with different cultures. Due to the hot and dry climate most of the year, Tel Aviv beaches are famous for its vibrant nightlife.

Is Tel Aviv safe?

Tel Aviv is a safe city for tourists because it is located quite far from the disputed lands between Israel and Palestine. Tel Aviv is also the city with the most stringent security checks in the world, security checks everywhere. So far Israel is the only country in the world where since its re-establishment everyone is required to join the army, regardless of male or female.

Everywhere male soldiers go, they carry weapons… if you come to Israel, it is normal to encounter dozens of gunmen on the road or in the parking lot.

The security system here is extremely strict. Passengers, regardless of nationality, are thoroughly interrogated. All luggage is checked to the smallest detail. Security staff use machines to check suitcases, bags, cameras, laptops, etc. However, everyone sympathizes because Israel is still a hot spot in the Middle East.

What is quite special is that passengers are stamped entry on a separate sheet, which is customary to stamp on the passport. The guide explained that in order to avoid Muslim countries like Iran, Arabs… not knowing you went to Israel because if they knew, they would interrogate you and cause trouble for you when you travel to their country.

Is Tel Aviv an expensive city?

Exactly. Because Israel is located in an area with many conflicts, taxes on goods and people’s living are quite high to maintain the army. Not to mention, in addition to the agricultural industry, Israel has to import a lot of raw materials such as crude oil, household appliances, even laborers. All the above reasons make the living costs are very expensive in Tel Aviv, on par with the central districts in Paris, New York or London.

Tel Aviv travel blog: When to visit?

Due to its low altitude, close to the coast, Tel Aviv is hot and dry from April to September. The temperature can reach 40 degrees Celsius in mid-summer. However, the winter is cold at 10 degrees Celsius, cloudy with rain. You should visit Tel Aviv in the summer.

Spring (late February to May) and autumn (late September to November), when the weather is mild but still not scorching hot which is also a good time to come.

If you traveling to Tel Aviv in July and August, the temperature and humidity are very high, and so crowded.

Room rates skyrocket during Jewish festival months such as Pesach (around April) and Sukkot (a week in early October), although there are many shows and exhibitions for children at these times.

Tel Aviv travel guide: How to get to Tel Aviv?

From other countries, you can land at Ben Gurion airport, the customs here stamp on a separate sheet as mentioned above (removable stamps), so it’s okay for you to go to the Arab countries later. Security is very strict, everyone has to go through 2 security rounds at the transit airport and Tel Aviv airport, so the air ticket is very very expensive.

Ben Gurion Airport is located between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, so you can go to one of these two cities first and then move to the city you want. From the airport you take a taxi is the most convenient way. If going from Jerusalem, take the train for about 2 hours and bus 405 or 408 for about 1 hour from Jerusalem Central Station. Note that each bus by the number will stop at a different station, so you should pay attention to which station is close to your hotel, then get off at that station for convenience.

Bus or train

If you come from Arava desert region of southern Israel like me, you can go to Highway 90 to catch a bus, the bus stops at Central Bus, there are many trips a day up there, then take the Dan bus to the center city, ticket 5.9 shekels ($1.75)/person.

If you come from Northern Israel, you can take Egged bus or train that departs every day from Haifa.

If you start from Central Israel, let hitchhiking for a ride to the train station, Central Bus in Beer Sheva, then buy a ticket to Tel Aviv.

Tel Aviv is a hub for road and rail. Road lead to the northern city of Haifa and rail links to Jerusalem, Beersheba, and Gaza. Lod (Ben Gurion) International Airport is about 15 km from the center of Tel Aviv.

Getting around Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is probably the city with the best inner city bus system I have ever known. Modern vehicles, many trips, diverse routes and especially almost every street has a bus passing through. You can use Google map, or go to this website to look up the route.

To use the bus, you have to buy a magnetic card on the bus and then top up at some convenience stores. With one ride, you have to swipe one when get on and one when get off to deduct the card. From 12am on Friday to late Saturday evening is the Jewish Shabbat (a Judaism’s day), so all services and activities are stopped. If you still want to go around at this time, you have to catch a dedicated bus here. This bus is currently free for people.

Currently, the subway in Tel Aviv is under construction, but it has to stop construction because the Chinese contractor cannot come because of the Covid-19 pandemic. But it will be completed in near future.

Bike or on foot

The best way to get around in Tel Aviv is on foot or by bike. Its wide boulevards (like Ben Gurion, Rothschild or Nordau), the park and the main beach promenade are great for baby strollers and have a dedicated bike path. Most city buses have a trolley zone.

Tel Aviv is notorious for its lack of parking, so renting a car in the city is stressful. If necessary, choose to take a taxi for about 30-50 NIS for a short trip. It is a “comfortable” price if you care about the air conditioning and have a place for the children to rest.

Tel Aviv travel guide: Where to stay?

For international tourists who are exempt from 17% VAT, the cheapest dorm price is also 70sk / bed, and other hotels with various prices depending on your budget. Before, I rented a room at Overstay TLV backpackers Hostel , location near Old Jaffa port, a good place to stay, light breakfast, self-cooking, tea, coffee… You can take a bus from Central Bus to come here, walk 4km takes a lot of time.

You can choose the White City or Jaffa area to rent a hotel. I really like this B&B in Jaffa, both spacious and very close to the old town of Jaffa. Nice view to the old town. For LGBT friends, you can refer to Inta Hotel ( Agoda , Booking ), a gay friendly hotel that I accidentally booked but really liked. At first, I didn’t know it was a LGBT-friendly hotel, but when I arrived, I saw that the staff were all male and the room decor was full of beautiful men photos, so I figured it out. However, the quality of this hotel is very good.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Royal Beach Tel – Aviv Isrotel Exclusive ( Agoda , Booking )
• The Vera ( Agoda , Booking )
• 65 Hotel – an Atlas Boutique Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
• Shalom Hotel & Relax – an Atlas Boutique Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
• The Poli House by Brown Hotels ( Agoda , Booking )
• Carlton Tel Aviv ( Agoda , Booking )
• Embassy Hotel Tel Aviv ( Agoda , Booking )
• Abraham Hostel Tel-Aviv ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Metropolitan ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Tel Aviv on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Tel Aviv blog: Where to go, what to do in Tel Aviv?

To fully enjoy its old-world charm, visit the Port and Old City of Jaffa. Stroll around trendy Neve Tzedek to discover interesting shops, cafes and art galleries. To see more of the beauty of Israel, take a trip on a day tour to the Dead Sea, Bethlehem, and Jerusalem from Tel Aviv.

White City is the pride of Tel Aviv. Nowhere in the world is the density of Bauhaus-style buildings and houses as dense as Tel Aviv. Bauhaus is an art style including architecture and interior born in Germany in the 30s. The characteristics of Bauhaus art are minimalist, utilitarian but extremely elegant lines. The Bauhaus-style buildings in Tel Aviv were built by Jews returning from Germany with distinctive white paint and soft curved lines. Combined with Arabic garden style and the subtle balcony window that catch Mediterranean breeze, the Bauhaus Tel Aviv’s identity is created. Today Bauhaus architecture is concentrated in Carmel Market, Dizengoff Square and Rothschild Street.

The city’s name says it all: The White City is a unique collection of 4,000 all-white buildings. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, built by German-Jewish architects in the 1930s. The city has the largest number of Bauhaus-style buildings in the world and is a prominent contributor for the modernist movement. You can stop by the Bauhaus Center and go on a two-hour professional walking tour to see some of the city’s most striking architectures.

The mile-long stretch of Tel Aviv’s coastline adds to the popularity of this exciting and sandy city. But among so many beaches, which one is the best? The beach, known as the ‘gay beach’, can be easily recognized thanks to the numerous rainbow-colored umbrellas. This is a relaxing stretch of sand well-equipped for muscular copper-skinned men in tight swimsuits.

Gordon Beach is loved by both locals and visitors, with its ideal location close to dozens of restaurants and bars. Or if you’re into extravagance, Hilton Beach next to TopSea surf club is a promising spot with beautiful people, beachside service and sometimes you can meet celebrities.

Yemenite Quarter

Located behind Carmel Market, Yemenite is a quarter of spice merchants, hipster cafes and small eateries that have been around for generations. Guests can visit Shlomo & Doron, which has the best hummus, or Anat’s Kitchen for a taste of local cuisine made by a charming Israeli grandmother.

Jaffa Port and Old Town

Jaffa is the oldest part of Tel Aviv city as introduced above, with bustling shopping streets, mosques, churches, museums, galleries, cafes, bars, walkways along the old port… This is a must-see attraction for visitors when coming to the Israeli city of Tel Aviv.

Jaffa, after many historical ups and downs today, is a mysterious and beautiful Arabic-style city on the shores of the Mediterranean. Viewed from the sea, Jaffa undulates the bell towers of the mosques, the ancient lighthouse, the bell tower of the Christian churches and even the typical shadows of the oil palm trees of the desert. Jaffa gives you an idea of ​​the cities of the Thousand and One Nights, with their hundred-year-old tiled alleyways, restaurants overlooking the Mediterranean, and Tel Aviv’s famous lemonade fish.

One of the reasons why you should visit Tel Aviv is the opportunity to visit the ancient port of Jaffa – one of the oldest port cities in the world that still exists today.

Besides such a rich history, Jaffa is also a young and culturally diverse city. Here you can meet a lot of people from different countries, cultures and religions living together happily.

After shopping, you can head to the seaport for the freshest fish dishes or visit the traditional restaurant Abu Hassan on HaDolfin Street for the best local hummus.

Tel Aviv’s vibrant cultural scene is most impressively displayed at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art (Address: The Golda Meir Cultural and Art Center, Sderot Sha’ul HaMelech 27, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel/Hours: 10AM-6PM, Closed on Sundays). Founded in 1932 by Tel Aviv’s first mayor, the museum now includes the Herta and Paul Amir building and landmark, an outstanding work of modern design. Inside the museum displays Israeli artworks along with international works.

Tel Aviv Museum of Art is a place to store and display local and international artworks. The museum is located in a shopping district with impressive and modern cubic architecture, in stark contrast to the city’s traditional culture.

Visitors with a deeper interest in design should head to the Holon Design Museum (Address: Pinkhas Eilon St 8, Holon, 5845400, Israel). This is a very unusual space, designed by a celebrated Jewish architect named Ron Arad. The terracotta walls with curved arcs reminiscent of orange peels are the first indication that this is no ordinary museum. The unique designs on display will clear all doubts.

Hayarkon Park

Address: Rokach Blvd, Tel Aviv-Yafo, 6902045, Israel

Located north of Tel Aviv, HaYarkon Park offers the largest green space extending from east to west of the Yarkon River. There is also a small zoo in the park and an ideal space for picnics, cycling or boating on the river.

Rothschild Boulevard

Rothschild Boulevard was the first street built in the city of Tel Aviv. On the corner of Herzl Street, the first coffee kiosk was born in 1910, which is also a favorite spot for tourists. Along the same street, you can also visit Levin House at No. 46 Eclectic architecture from 1920 and Engel House at No. 84. The buildings and structures on Rothschild Boulevard mostly have a history of decades and carry a unique character. unique local architecture.

What to do in Tel Aviv: What to eat in Tel Aviv?

Because the prices in Tel Aviv are expensive, in my opinion you should enjoy street food in popular restaurants, take away or eat in Carmel market for cheap. Normally, food safety and hygiene issues in developed countries are very strict, so street food is still as safe and delicious as restaurants. As I said, Israelis are very strict vegetarians, so meat dishes, especially pork, are rare. Finding food in Tel Aviv is also a headache for me, if in Jerusalem I can find pizza everywhere for only 8sk / piece, in this expensive city, the food is both rare and too expensive.

Hummus, vegetable sandwiches with bean sauces, are daily dishes in Israel. In addition, to change your taste, you can have Falafel, a deep-fried ball or doughnut dish, made from chickpeas or peas.

Drinks, try Sahlev or Sachlav, a traditional drink made from ground orchid bulbs and milk, often flavored with rose or orange blossom, and topped with nuts, dried fruit and cinnamon. Today, many versions are thickened with cornstarch, with toppings, including vanilla, caramel, and banana. Don’t forget to try fruits and juices, the pride of Israel.

In the US, fast food makes people think of cheese sandwiches, salted hot dogs. But in Tel Aviv, it’s easy to eat healthy even when you’re hungry on the road. The street food in Tel Aviv, as in many cities near the Mediterranean Sea, is full of fresh fruit, beans and olive oil. If you come here, you can’t help but try Falafel or sabich. This is a sandwich with a filling made from chickpeas (chickpeas) or eggplant with cabbage, beets, and sesame oil. Israel is famous for its delicious chickpeas and fried bean balls.

Below we recommend some restaurants you should try

The norman and bar.

Address: Nachmani St 25, Tel Aviv-Yafo, 6579442, Israel Hours: 7AM–10:30PM

A small refurbished hotel in the heart of Tel Aviv, The Norman is renowned for its lavish facilities and impeccable service. It is therefore not surprising that the hotel’s restaurant of the same name is considered one of the best restaurants in the city. Inspired by the culinary traditions of Italy, The Norman restaurant designed the floor with sophisticated textures and neutral decor with the liberal style of a French restaurant, in harmony with the elegance of the menu of Mediterranean style. The outdoor lounge is where diners can enjoy Israel’s mild climate while indulging in an extensive wine menu. You should make a reservation if you want to have a seat here.

Yaffo Tel Aviv

Address: Yigal Alon St 98, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel Hours: 12–3PM, 6–10PM/Friday, Sunday: 6–11PM

Renowned Israeli chef Haim Cohen has made a splash with Yaffo Tel Aviv, a relaxed high-ceiling restaurant that combines familiar local flavors with fine dining in the European culinary arts. Pay special attention to the wine menu, carefully curated to inspire diners with less well-known tempting wines.

Address: Yigal Alon St 98, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel Hours: 12–4PM, 5:30–11:30PM/Friday, Saturday: 9AM–4PM, 5:30–11:30PM

Under the brilliant hands of veteran chef Ran Schmeli, it should come as no surprise that Claro is one of Tel Aviv’s most loved dining venues. From a distillery with honeycomb limestone walls, Schmeli has built a bustling restaurant serving the culinary needs of discerning young people. The bill is expensive but it’s well worth it for the local dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients and the exceptionally creative cocktails.

Address: Nahalat Binyamin St 66, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel Hours: 7PM–1AM/Monday, Sunday: Closed

Housed in a large old building near Rothschild Boulevard, Aria’s historic look is completely different from the vibrant bar and restaurant inside. The short menu, which combines seafood and animal dishes, is inspired by the views of the surrounding area, like Greek sashimi with tzatziki sauce, mashed tomatoes, red onions and Spanish mint. Diners who want to try everything can explore the buffet menu with ten main courses and two desserts. Guests can then head downstairs to the cocktail lounge with the DJ and enjoy outstanding drinks.

The best rooftop bars

From the attic floor of the Brown TLV Urban Hotel , you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city, making it a favorite bar for yellow-skinned people. Plaid deck chairs, extendable sun loungers, outdoor Jacuzzi tubs and a well-stocked bar will encourage guests to enjoy the two best pleasures in life, sunbathing and cocktails. Guests also have access to the sleek and sophisticated “B on top” Rooftop Lounge and Pool with beautiful fountains. Guests can enjoy the breathtaking view of the infinity pool during the day, then drop to the beats of Tel Aviv’s top DJs as night falls.

Although located on the 10th floor of an office building, the rooftop bar SuraMare with a glass wall surrounded is a completely different world from the office environment. With a splendid skyline all around, this restaurant serves fresh food and creative cocktails.

If you want to explore the nightlife in a city steeped in traditional culture when traveling to Tel Aviv, visit the famous bar Teder. Teder is a pop-up bar held in a small courtyard inside the Beit Romano shopping complex. Downstairs is a dance floor area and a pizza workshop.

What to buy as gifts in Tel Aviv?

After walking along Mediterranean coast early in the morning, I checked out and went to Flea Market near Jaffa port to look for antiques and find something strange as souvenirs. This market has many old and interesting things such as antique coins, old bowls, multi-branched lamps, things from Iran, China… or old books, bibles… if you look carefully, you will find them. The price, the guys here look at your face and then quote the price, you consider the value of the items before you bid. You can take a bus from Jaffa to Carmel market, I don’t have time to go to this market, but my friend said there’s a lot of food there.

• Cosmetics in the Dead Sea: Premier and AHAVA are two quite famous cosmetic brands in this area, if you buy them right at the factory, it will be much cheaper.
• Dates: Date here is grown a lot, so the output is very large, buying as a gift is also very reasonable, the fruit is bigger and drier than in Vietnam but very delicious and sweet.
• Wine: Here you can choose to buy a few bottles of wine  as both delicate and meaningful gifts, some of the following wine brands you can refer to: Galilee, Negev, Judean Hills,… Israeli bracelets: This can be considered a meaningful gift because it brings the symbol of Israel on the bracelet.
• Pottery: You can choose from many pottery items such as mugs, plates, bowls, decorative objects of all kinds.
• If giving as a gift, buy arak, a 30% alcohol-based spirit made from grapes, or pomegranate wine, which has an alcohol content of 12%.
• The refrigerator magnets bearing the Israeli symbol are also very lovely.

Things to note before you traveling to Israel?

• No smoking on Saturday, according to Jewish law, if you want to smoke, you should go to a place where there are no people to avoid disturbing others.
• Leave a tip to the waiter, because the waiters here don’t have a salary, they live off the tips of the guests. So you should tip them 10% of the bill .
• Keep your distance, limit touching the body of the other gender if they show any dislike.
• Dress discreetly when visiting sanctuaries such as mosques, churches.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Tel Aviv you can refer to

• Masada, Ein Gedi and Dead Sea Day Tour from Tel Aviv
• Tel Aviv Architecture 2-Hour Walking Tour
• [Unlist] Tel Aviv Diamond Exchange Private Tour
• Tel Aviv Street Art Walking Tour
• Tel Aviv Architecture, Food, and Street Art Walking Day Tour
• Tel Aviv Carmel Market Walking Food Tour
• Jericho, Ramallah, and Bethlehem Tour from Tel Aviv
• From Tel Aviv: Masada & Dead Sea Full Day Tour with Pick Up
• From Tel Aviv: Jerusalem and Bethlehem Guided Day Trip
• Caesarea, Haifa & Akko Day Trip from Tel Aviv
• From Tel Aviv: Jerusalem Old City & Dead Sea Guided Day Tour
• Nazareth, Tiberias & Sea of Galilee Day Trip from Tel Aviv
• From Jerusalem: Nazareth and Sea of Galilee Tour
• From Tel Aviv: Masada, Ein Gedi, and Dead Sea Guided Tour
• From Jerusalem: Masada, Ein Gedi, Dead Sea Guided Tour
• Masada & Dead Sea Tour: Full-Day from Jerusalem

Read more Israel guide here .

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Update April 12, 2024

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Israel, the West Bank and Gaza Travel Advisory

Travel advisory april 11, 2024, see individual summaries.

Updated with information on travel restrictions for U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility. 

Do Not Travel To :

• Gaza due to  terrorism and  armed conflict

Reconsider Travel To :

• Israel due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest
• West Bank due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning.

Some areas have increased risk. Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Israel and the West Bank, and Gaza. 

Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.

• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Check the most recent Alerts at the  Embassy  website for the latest information on travel in all of these areas.  
• Maintain a high degree of situational awareness and exercise caution at all times, especially at checkpoints and other areas with a significant presence of security forces. 
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 
• Follow the instructions of security and emergency response officials. 
• Beware of and report suspicious activities, including unattended items, to local police. 
• Learn the location of the nearest bomb shelter or other hardened shelter. Download the Home Front Command Red Alert application for mobile devices (available on devices within Israel) to receive real time alerts for rocket attacks. 
• Obtain comprehensive travel medical insurance that includes medical evacuation prior to travel. Most travel insurance packages do not cover mental health related illnesses/care.  
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.  
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Gaza – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to  terrorism and  armed conflict .

The U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Gaza as U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling there. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are conducting large-scale military operations in Gaza against Hamas, a U.S. government-designated foreign terrorist organization, which was responsible for the October 7 attack on Israel. As a result of the armed conflict, the security environment within Gaza and on its borders is extremely dangerous and volatile. The pedestrian crossing between Gaza and Israel was damaged on October 7 and remains closed, and the pedestrian crossing between Egypt and Gaza may close without advance notice depending on the security situation. There are sporadic telecommunication and internet outages within Gaza further inhibiting the ability of residents to obtain information. 

Visit our website for  Travel to High Risk Areas .  

If you decide to travel to Gaza:

• Be prepared for an indefinite stay as the crossings between Gaza with Israel and Egypt can close without advance notice and for long periods during times of unrest and armed conflict.
• Have a plan for entering and departing Gaza that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Households with infants and young children should plan for food and supplies, such as diapers and wipes, formula or baby food, and a change of clothing.
• If you take medication, make sure to have at least five days’ worth at any given time – if you can, we encourage enough for two weeks beyond your scheduled trip and have a copy of your prescriptions handy.
• If you use assistive or medical devices that require a power supply, be sure to find backup power or other ways that will sustain your device or equipment during a power outage.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.

Please be sure to visit our website for How to Prepare for a Crisis for information that may be helpful. 

Israel – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to  terrorism and civil unrest .

The security situation remains unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire, often take place without warning.

U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from personal travel to the following locations:

• Within seven miles of the Gaza demarcation line, as well as the cities of Ashdod and Ashkelon;
• Within 2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders; and
• Within 1.5 miles of the Israel-Egypt border.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

West Bank – Reconsider Travel

U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from all personal travel to the West Bank, except:

• U.S. government employees can use Routes 1, 90, and 443 at any time. 
• U.S. government employees are permitted personal travel to Jericho. 
• U.S. government employees are permitted daylight travel to: Inn of the Good Samaritan, An-Nabi Musa, Wadi Qelt Nature Preserve, and St. George’s Monastery along Route 1; and Qumran, Kalia Beach, St. Gerasimos/Khogla Monastery, Al Auju, and Qasr al-Yaud baptismal site along Route 90. 

Over the past few months, there has been an increase in settler violence, Israeli military operations, and terrorist attacks.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Visit our website for  Travel to High Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Thomson-East Coast Line

The Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) is a fully underground and driverless MRT line that connects the Northern and Eastern regions via the Central region and the new downtown. When fully opened, the line will be about 43 km long with 32 stations, running from Woodlands North (TE1) to Sungei Bedok (TE31) via the Thomson, Stevens, Orchard, Marina Bay, Tanjong Rhu, Marine Parade and Upper East Coast. The northern terminus connects with the Singapore–Johor Bahru RTS Link .

First announced on 15 August 2014, the line was formed by the merger of the planned Thomson Line (TSL) and Eastern Region Line (ERL). It will open in stages from Year 2020 to 2026 (although originally slated to open by Year 2019). Seven interchange stations link the TEL to all five existing MRT lines, thus also strengthening the resilience of the rail network by providing alternative travel routes for commuters on other lines. When fully operational by 2026, the TEL is expected to serve approximately 500,000 commuters daily in the initial years, with the figure rising to about one million commuters in the longer term.

In the Land Transport Master Plan 2040 , a future extension, the Thomson-East Coast Line Extension, was mentioned. The extension will extend the line from the eastern Sungei Bedok terminus to Tanah Merah, via Changi Airport Terminal 5 and Expo. The existing Changi Airport Branch of the East West Line (Tanah Merah—Expo—Changi Airport) will be converted to part of the Thomson-East Coast Line by around 2040 .

The TEL is currently served by Mandai Depot , and will be joined by East Coast Integrated Depot by Year 2026. Rolling stock on the TEL is the Kawasaki Heavy Industries & CSR Qingdao Sifang T251 , operating in a four-car formation, with a total of 91 trainsets ordered (364 vehicles). Construction of the first 5 stages of the TEL is valued at more than $25 billion, according to a speech delivered at COS 2021.

Train Stations

Timeline & History

• 25 Jan 2008: Thomson Line announced; architectural and engineering consultancy packages released
• 16 Jun 2011: Announcement of Mandai Depot, interchange with NSL at Woodlands, and integration of the future RTS Link terminus with the Thomson Line’s northern terminus
• 18 Oct 2011: Announcement of Eastern Region Line
• 27 Jun 2014: Groundbreaking ceremony at Woodlands for Stages 1 to 3
• 15 Aug 2014: Merger of Thomson Line and Eastern Region Line, forming the Thomson–East Coast Line
• 21 July 2016: Groundbreaking ceremony at Marine Parade for Stages 4 and 5
• 15 Sep 2017: SMRT Trains Ltd awarded 9-year operating contract for the Thomson-East Coast Line
• 7 Jan 2019: Founders’ Memorial Station announced to be built as part of Thomson-East Coast Line Stage 4, scheduled for opening in 2025
• 25 May 2019: Extension to Tanah Merah via Changi Airport Terminal 5 announced in Land Transport Master Plan 2040 , taking over existing EWL Changi Branch Line between Tanah Merah and Changi Airport
• 19 Sep 2019: Stage 1 announced to open by end of January 2020, before Chinese New Year
• 11 Dec 2019: Stage 1 announced to open on 31 January 2020, with the Open House on 11 January 2020.
• 11 Jan 2020: TEL Stage 1 Open House
• 31 Jan 2020: Opening of TEL Stage 1
• 04 Sep 2020: Opening of TEL Stage 2 announced to be delayed till Q1 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic
• 14 Dec 2020: Opening of TEL Stage 2 announced to be delayed till Q3 2021 due to Circuit Breaker period & other COVID-19-induced factors
• Dec 2020: Opening of TEL Stage 3 mentioned to be in 2022 in the Operations Review 2020 publication by SMRT Trains Ltd
• May 2021: Opening of TEL Stages 3 – 5 mentioned to be from 2022 – 2025 by Minister for Transport Ong Ye Kung, in a written reply to Parliamentary Question
• 28 Aug 2021: Opening of TEL Stage 2
• 23 Nov 2021: Mount Pleasant & Marina South stations announced to open in tandem with the completion of public housing developments in the area
• 11 Nov 2022: TEL Stage 3 Open House
• 13 Nov 2022: Opening of TEL Stage 3, except Mount Pleasant & Marina South stations.
• 5 Mar 2024: Opening of TEL Stage 5 mentioned to be delayed to 2026 as part of the Ministry of Transport Committee of Supply Debate
• 21 Jun 2024: TEL Stage 4 Open House
• 23 Jun 2024: Opening of TEL Stage 4, except Founders’ Memorial station

Thomson stretch

The Thomson Line (TSL) was first announced on 25 January 2008 between Woodlands and Marina Bay, which would connect with to future Eastern Region Line extending to the East. In 2010, while architectural and engineering consultancy tenders were gradually released, the line had increased from 18 to 22 stations, and the length increased from 27 km to 30 km.

The TSL Depot (which would also house a bus depot) was built at Mandai on a 32 ha site and able to stable up to 90 trains, with construction beginning in end-2012. At Woodlands North, the terminus will connect with the  Johor Bahru RTS Link . Construction of the TSL began in 2014 with all station working names confirmed as final names with the exception of Sin Ming station, which was changed to Bright Hill.

Woodlands, Caldecott, Stevens, Orchard, Outram Park and Marina Bay were planned as interchange stations with existing lines. Additionally, Tagore station (between Springleaf and Lentor) is built as a station box which would be furnished and opened in the future when the area is more developed.

East Coast stretch

Originally planned as the Eastern Region Line (ERL), it was first announced in 2001 as a 40 km oblong-shaped line looping around Jalan Besar and Expo. This northern section has since been integrated into the Downtown Line Stage 3 and the southern section was retained as the ERL, planned from Marina Bay to Sungei Bedok and interchanging with the Thomson Line.

The ERL Depot was to be an Integrated Depot in Changi which also houses the East-West Line and Downtown Line.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) merged the Thomson and the Eastern Region lines to form the Thomson-East Coast Line  (TEL) on 15 August 2014.

Construction of the TEL’s East Coast stretch (formerly the ERL) began in 2016 with all station working names confirmed as final names with the exception of Amber station, which was changed to Tanjong Katong.

Johor Bahru RTS Link

In December 2016, it was announced that the Rapid Transit System (RTS) link between Woodlands North and Bukit Chagar (Johor Bahru) will adopt Singapore’s Thomson-East Coast line system, including its signalling system, rolling stock, communication system and integrated supervisory control system, to reap economies of scale.

Operator Tender Award

A nine-year contract for the operation of the TEL was awarded to SMRT Trains Ltd on 15 September 2017, in a tender called in February 2017 and participated by SBS Transit and SMRT. In the two-envelope tender, SMRT Trains received a higher quality score. In particular, its proposal featured a commitment to invest heavily in predictive and reliability-centred maintenance to enhance reliability. SMRT Trains’ proposal also included a strong staff development plan, including customer-oriented training, and tailored community engagement initiatives. SMRT Trains also undertook a set of contractual guarantees in the form of service fee deductions should key obligations not be met. The total service fee over 9 years ($1.7 billion) quoted by SMRT Trains was also about 30% lower than that quoted by SBS Transit.

Additional Station – Founders’ Memorial

On 7 January 2019, LTA announced that Founders’ Memorial MRT Station will be added to Stage 4 of the Thomson-East Coast Line, between Gardens by the Bay Station and Tanjong Rhu Station, initially scheduled for opening in 2025 in tandem with Founders’ Memorial itself. It was partially constructed as a facility building (starting in 2016), and subsequently converted to a fully-furnished MRT station.

The opening period for Founders’ Memorial was later updated to be in 2027 as per their website . In February / March 2024, the opening year for Founders’ Memorial was updated yet again to 2028.

Airport Extension

As part of the Land Transport Masterplan 2040 released on 25 May 2019, the TEL Extension (TELe) was announced, which extends from Sungei Bedok to Changi Airport Terminal 5 and Changi Airport. Following this, the Changi Branch of the EWL would be converted to become part of the Thomson-East Coast Line.

Construction Stages

Stage 1 (2020): Woodlands North – Woodlands South

Stage 1 consisting of Woodlands North, Woodlands and Woodlands South stations is scheduled for opening in End January 2020, before the Chinese New Year, along with Mandai Depot. Woodlands station will interchange with the North South Line.

Previously announced to open before Christmas 2019 by Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan during a visit to Bright Hill MRT station on 25 January 2019, the updated opening timeline was announced by him during a visit to Mandai Train Depot on 19 September 2019.

Stage 1 officially opened on 31 January 2020.

Stage 2 (2021): Springleaf – Caldecott

Stage 2 consisting of six stations between Springleaf and Caldecott was originally scheduled for opening in Year 2020. Caldecott station would interchange with the Circle Line. A station box presently referred to as Tagore station would be built between Springleaf and Lentor.

In a written answer to parliamentary questions in September 2020, Transport Minister Mr Ong Ye Kung announced the delay of TEL Stage 2 to  Q1 2021 , in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and phased re-opening since April 2020. A further delay to Q3 2021 was announced in an update by the Land Transport Authority via a Facebook Post in December 2020.

LTA announced the handover of TEL2 stations and operations to rail operator SMRT on 30 April 2021, following its testing and commissioning of the trains and systems, and integrated testing with the three TEL1 stations for seamless operation.

Stage 2 officially opened on 28 August 2021.

Stage 3 (2022): Mount Pleasant – Gardens by the Bay

Stage 3 consisting of thirteen stations between Mount Pleasant and Gardens by the Bay was scheduled for opening in Year 2021. Stevens station will interchange with the Downtown Line, Orchard with the North South Line, Outram Park with the East West Line and North East Line, and Marina Bay with the North South Line and Circle Line.

Originally announced to be open in the Year 2021, the opening of TEL Stage 3 was revised to 2022 in the Operations Review 2020 publication by SMRT Trains Ltd.

In a written answer to parliamentary questions in May 2021, Transport Minister Mr Ong Ye Kung mentioned that construction for rail projects were delayed by up to a year due to material supplies and manpower disruption as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, the rest of TEL will open progressively in 3 stages from 2022 to 2025.

In November 2021, a joint news release on a New Public Housing Estate at Site of Former Police Academy in the Mount Pleasant Area by HDB, URA & SLA stated that the Mount Pleasant Thomson-East Coast Line station will open in tandem with the completion of public housing developments in the area. A follow up article on The Straits Times confirms that Marina South station will also follow that of Mount Pleasant station, in a response from the Land Transport Authority.

TEL3 stations were handed over to SMRT by LTA on 17 Aug 2022. On 7 October 2022, an opening date of 13 Nov 2022 was announced.

Stage 4 (2024): Founders’ Memorial – Bayshore

Stage 4 consisting of eight stations between Founders’ Memorial and Bayshore. Seven stations between Tanjong Rhu and Bayshore were originally scheduled for opening in Year 2023. Founders’ Memorial station is scheduled for opening in tandem with the opening of Founders’ Memorial itself in 2027 (initially expected to open in 2025).

Stage 4 opening was also delayed by a year to 2024 due to the COVID-19 pandemic as mentioned above.

Acting Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat mentioned that the authorities aim to open TEL Stage 4 in the first half of 2024, in an interview with Chinese-language daily Lianhe Zaobao published on 9 January 2024. TEL Stage 4 was handed over to the rail operator by 6 February 2024.

On 5 March 2024, as part of the Ministry of Transport Committee of Supply debate, an opening date of 23 Jun 2024 was announced.

Stage 5 (2026): Bedok South – Sungei Bedok

Stage 5 consisting of Bedok South and Sungei Bedok stations, along with the East Coast Integrated Depot, was originally scheduled for opening in Year 2024.

The East Coast Integrated Depot will be a 36 ha four-in-one train and bus depot which will house trains for the TEL, East-West Line and Downtown Line in addition to buses. Sungei Bedok station will interchange with the Downtown Line.

Stage 5 opening was also delayed by a year to 2025 due to the COVID-19 pandemic as mentioned above in May 2021. In the Ministry of Transport Committee of Supply Debate 2024, the opening year for Stage 5 was updated to Year 2026 .

Thomson-East Coast Line Extension:

The TEL will be extended to Tanah Merah , via Changi Airport and Expo on the existing Changi Branch Line as announced in the Land Transport Master Plan 2040.

The Thomson-East Coast Line charges distance-based fares as set by the Public Transport Council.

Public transport journeys on buses and trains can be paid for using Mastercard, NETS & Visa contactless bank cards, Mastercard/Visa cards added to mobile wallets, SimplyGo EZ-Link cards, SimplyGo Concession cards or NETS prepaid cards.

Stored value cards such as NETS Flashpay & regular EZ-Link cards are also accepted.

Concession fares are applicable for students, senior citizens, persons with disabilities as well as adults under the Workfare Transport Concession Scheme with the respective concession cards.

In addition, monthly concession passes for adults and other concession groups are also available for unlimited travel at a flat price.

Rolling Stock

Trains manufactured by Kawasaki Heavy Industries & CSR Qingdao Sifang under Contract T251 ( T251 trainsets ) form the Thomson-East Coast Line rolling stock, operating in a four-car formation. A total of 91 trainsets were ordered, and are stabled at both Mandai and Changi depots. They are built in China by CSR Qingdao Sifang.

These trains will feature tip-up seats and five doors on each side of every carriage to facilitate smoother boarding and alighting.

SMRT Trains Ltd was awarded the limited tender to operate the Thomson-East Coast Line (Contract T200 – Operation of Thomson-East Coast Line) in August 2017, with a total service fee of about $1.7 billion over 9 years from the commencement of revenue service for the Thomson-East Coast Line in 2020.

The contract comes with an option to extend the operator license for 2 additional years.

Incentives-Disincentives (ID) Framework

The operator service fee is subjected to an Incentives-Disincentives (ID) framework which is piloted by LTA for this contract. Key Performance Indicators for this framework are:

• Service Reliability through Service Reliability Indicators
• Customer Satisfaction through customer satisfaction surveys covering various aspects of the commuter experience
• Operations and Maintenance Processes through operational and maintenance audits

The operator would receive an incentive payment if these indicators are outperformed, while conversely, a service fee deduction would be made if it does not meet expectations.

The TEL operator will continue to be subject to LTA’s licensing and regulatory requirements on service and maintenance performance, such as the Operating Performance Standards, Maintenance Performance Standards, Asset Management Requirements and Codes of Practice. The new ID framework will overlay the licence penalty framework that applies to all existing licences.

Non-Fare Operators

For the TEL, LTA piloted a framework to outsource non-fare businesses to enhance both the vibrancy of TEL stations and the financial sustainability of the TEL.

The concession period is 16 years from the commencement of revenue service on the TEL.

Advertising Operator

The tender for the TEL Advertising Operator (Contract PL219 – Thomson-East Coast Line Advertising Non-Fare Operator) was awarded to Asiaray Connect Limited in August 2019 with a concession fee of more than $140M over the concession term (16 years).

Asiaray’s bid featured a mix of digital and static media products tailored to each TEL station. Its digital media products also allow for the application of advanced technologies, such as video and data analytics, for dynamic and responsive advertisements that can adapt quickly to the fast-changing preferences of commuters.

Retail Operator

The tender for the TEL Retail Operator (Contract PL220 – Thomson-East Coast Line Retail Non-Fare Operator) was awarded to a consortium comprising SMRT Experience Pte Ltd, JR East Business Development SEA Pte Ltd and Alphaplus Investments Pte Ltd in August 2019 with a concession fee of $24M over the concession term (16 years).

The consortium’s proposal includes well-designed retail spaces with a thoughtfully curated tenant mix catering to commuters’ diverse needs (including Cheers convenience stores at several TEL stations).

• Thomson-East Coast Line – LTA
• SMRT Trains Appointed to Operate the Thomson-East Coast Line – LTA
• LTA Awards Advertising and Retail Operator Tenders for Thomson-East Coast Line – LTA
• First phase of Thomson-East Coast Line to open before Chinese New Year next year, with three stations in Woodlands – The Straits Times
• Second stage of Thomson-East Coast Line to open early 2021 after delays due to COVID-19: Ong Ye Kung – CNA
• Facebook Post regarding TEL Delay to Q3 2021 – Land Transport Authority – We Keep Your World Moving Facebook
• Operations Review 2020, SMRT Trains Ltd
• Written Reply by Minister for Transport Ong Ye Kung to Parliamentary Question on Updates on Thomson East Coast Line, Jurong Region Line and Cross Island Line – Ministry of Transport
• LTA | News Room | news-release | Factsheet: Thomson–East Coast Line 2 to Welcome Commuters from 28 August 2021 [Accessed 30 Jun 2021]
• Joint Press Release by HDB, URA & SLA – HDB Unveils Plans for a New Public Housing Estate at Site of Former Police Academy in the Mount Pleasant Area – HDB
• Mount Pleasant, Marina South MRT stations to open in tandem with housing developments – The Straits Times
• Factsheet: Thomson – East Coast Line Stage 3 to Open for Passenger Service from 13 November 2022 – LTA
• TEL Stage 4 from Tanjong Rhu to Bayshore targeted to open in first half of 2024: Chee Hong Tat – The Straits Times
• Thomson – East Coast Line 4 to Welcome Commuters from 23 June 2024 – Land Transport Authority

Bus Service Diversion for Early Closure of Jurong West Street 75 for JRL Works

Bukit panjang lrt early closure (19 – 21 apr), bus service diversion for 2xu compression run 2024, bukit panjang lrt early closure (26 – 28 apr), launch of new feeder bus service 296.

Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images

United flight cancellations stymie Passover travel plans 

Some lawmakers criticize the decisions by U.S. airlines but don’t see a role for Congress to play in restarting flight routes to Israel

In the moments after Iran fired a barrage of hundreds of missiles at Israel on Saturday night, Rabbi Marc Israel sat in his rented apartment in Jerusalem, panicking. His parents were about to board a plane at Ben Gurion Airport. Would it be safe for them? 

Their plane back to the United States departed just after midnight, one of the last planes to leave Tel Aviv before Israeli airspace was closed to allow Israel and its allies to take down the Iranian missiles. But while Ben Gurion Airport has since reopened, the sole U.S. carrier that had been operating in Israel — United Airlines — has canceled all flights until further notice. Its decision has upended travel plans for thousands of people who had flights booked to Israel ahead of Passover next week. 

Israel, a rabbi at a Conservative synagogue in Maryland who is on a month-long sabbatical volunteering in Israel, was lucky; his parents were able to leave Israel, and his in-laws, who were coming to Israel for Passover, arrived in the country just 24 hours after they were scheduled to. But they had been booked on Lufthansa, which shut down operations briefly but has since resumed service. 

“People reached out to us to say, ‘Hey, do you know of any flights?’ Or, ‘How do we get there? How do we come back?’” said Doni Schwartz, co-founder of PassoverListings.com , a platform that helps people book travel for Passover, which begins on Monday night.

It’s a familiar quandary for anyone who has traveled, or attempted to travel, from the U.S. to Israel or vice versa since the Hamas terror attacks on Oct. 7. For months afterward, the only airline flying direct flights between North America and Israel was El Al, Israel’s national carrier. Flights were empty for weeks, and prices skyrocketed. Airlines cited safety concerns and limits of their insurance policies as reasons for keeping service to Israel suspended. 

Several European airlines began servicing Israel in January and February, and United only resumed limited service last month — the sole American airline to do so. Delta Airlines has announced plans to resume flights from New York’s JFK Airport to Tel Aviv in June, which a spokesperson said is still the plan, though the airline reserves the right to change its mind depending on current events. The British budget airline EasyJet this week canceled all flights to Israel until October.

“It’s been a very difficult situation for people who want to get in or get out [of Israel], just based on the amount of supply, but from what we’re hearing, people are changing their plans,” said Doni Schwartz, co-founder of PassoverListings.com.

A United spokesperson told Jewish Insider on Tuesday that flights into Tel Aviv and Amman, Jordan, were canceled that day, but declined to share future plans. “We continue to closely monitor the situation and will make decisions on upcoming flights with a focus on the safety of our customers and crews,” a United spokesperson said. 

A search on United’s website doesn’t show any scheduled direct flights from Newark, N.J., until Monday afternoon. That flight arrives in Israel on Tuesday morning — more than 12 hours after Passover begins, meaning anyone on board who celebrates would miss the Monday night Seder. A Thursday direct one-way flight from JFK to Tel Aviv on El Al cost $5,500 as of Wednesday morning. ( eJewishPhilanthropy reporter Haley Cohen, whose United flight was canceled, said the airline did not help rebook her to Israel on another carrier.) 

“It’s been a very difficult situation for people who want to get in or get out [of Israel], just based on the amount of supply, but from what we’re hearing, people are changing their plans,” said Schwartz.

Israel’s tourism industry has been in a major slump since the Hamas attacks in October. The country’s tourism minister recently traveled to a Christian conference in Tennessee to encourage American Christians to visit Israel. 

Passover is one of the most popular times to visit Israel. Jewish day schools around the world are closed for the week, and many hotels in Israel offer kosher-for-Passover food — an appealing option for anyone who doesn’t want to clean and prepare their own homes, or cook large celebratory meals for a week. The holiday will likely bring the largest number of tourists to Israel since October. But those who have come to Israel in recent weeks and months are reconsidering their travel options, given the unreliability of non-Israeli carriers.

Sen. James Lankford (R-OK) told JI that he spoke to Americans and Israelis in recent months who switched from United to El Al as their carrier of choice over the cancellations. “Obviously, all those different executives are going to make their own decisions on it, but the passengers will as well,” Lankford said.

“When I was in Israel, it was interesting to me to talk to some folks that are multi-year, whatever level, platinum United folks or others that are now flying El Al,” Lankford continued. “They are saying that even when they [the airlines] were flying again, they [the customers] were furious that they stopped flying, and so they’ve chosen to be able to fly El Al.”

Still, lawmakers largely didn’t see a role for congressional action to push for restarting flight routes to Israel.

“There may well be [a way], but I doubt we’re gonna get cooperation,” Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) said. “Passing a bill would be the longest way home, it would be easier to get the cooperation of the Biden administration and implement some sort of executive order. But I don’t think that is likely to happen.”

“The real threat would be if they [Iran] launched another large attack salvo at an airfield that was not a military airfield, let’s say it was Tel Aviv, at the airport. You can hit an airplane on the ground,” Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ), a former Navy pilot, said of the risks U.S. airlines have to consider when sending their planes into Israel.

In 2014, during Israel’s Operation Protective Edge in Gaza, the Federal Aviation Administration banned U.S. flights into and out of Israel for 36 hours after a rocket fired by Hamas in the Gaza Strip landed one mile from Ben Gurion Airport. The move was strongly criticized by the Israeli government before it was reversed. Now, though, the FAA has not put a ban in place — it’s the airlines that have decided on their own not to fly into Israel. (An FAA spokesperson declined to comment.)   

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) said that while he wasn’t sure if the FAA could address insurance or security risks involved in conducting those flights, “You’d hate to see the ability to travel back and forth stymied or reduced in any way.”

“I think private companies and also the U.S. government have to be considering the safety of our population. And you have Americans that are flying to Tel Aviv. I think it’s a concern and it sounds like these two airlines think it’s a concern as well,” Kelly said of United and Delta. “I think it’s valid, but I also think that Israel along with our help and our allies’ help demonstrated how inept the Iranians are, so I wouldn’t jump to any conclusions.”

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) told JI that he would “do anything within reason to give them [U.S. airlines] the incentives to fly to Israel,” calling Iran’s strike on Israel over the weekend “another sign of” Tehran’s efforts to “isolate” the Jewish state.

Aside from European airlines, some Gulf carriers — most notably Emirates — continue to fly to Tel Aviv.

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Major Middle East airlines to resume flights after Iran's attack on Israel

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Israeli missiles have hit a site in Iran, ABC News reported late on Thursday, citing a U.S. official, days after Iran launched a drone strike on Israel in response to an attack at the Iranian embassy in Syria.

Moscow Metro – Part 2

Have you been to Moscow ? In all seriousness, they have the prettiest metro stations I have ever seen and I still can’t believe how immaculate and lovely every station was. There are several different stations pictured below and this is the second of several posts where I will show you the beauty of the Moscow Metro. Did you see part 1 ?  There really isn’t much to say because I think the pictures speak for themselves. I have so many more pictures to share with you!

Have you ever been to Moscow? Is it someplace you have thought about visiting?

She speaks fluent English, French and Spanish, and works for a major airline. And guess what? She’s also a licensed elementary teacher and has an MBA.

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This is the train STATION?? Oh my god… So gorgeous. Moscow has never even crossed my mind as a possible travel destination but this is gorgeous…Hmmm… LOL

I know, right? We spent several hours in the metro, just marveling at the beauty of each one. Thanks for stopping by!

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The trains and stations of the Moscow Metro

2 Comments · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Cities , Travel , Video

The Moscow Metro is the third most intensive subway system in the world after Tokyo and Seoul subways. The first line was opened on May 15, 1935. Since 1955, the metro has the name of V.I. Lenin.

The system consists of 12 lines with a total length of 305.7 km. Forty four stations are recognized cultural heritage. The largest passenger traffic is in rush hours from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 19:00.

Cellular communication is available on most of the stations of the Moscow Metro. In March 2012, a free Wi-Fi appeared in the Circle Line train. The Moscow Metro is open to passengers from 5:20 to 01:00. The average interval between trains is 2.5 minutes.

The fare is paid by using contactless tickets and contactless smart cards, the passes to the stations are controlled by automatic turnstiles. Ticket offices and ticket vending machines can be found in station vestibules.

Tags:  Moscow city

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Tomás · August 27, 2012 at 11:34 pm

The Moscow metro stations are the best That I know, cars do not.

Alberto Calvo · September 25, 2016 at 8:57 pm

Great videos! Moscow Metro is just spectacular. I actually visited Moscow myself quite recently and wrote a post about my top 7 stations, please check it out and let me know what you think! :)

http://www.arwtravels.com/blog/moscow-metro-top-7-stations-you-cant-miss

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EasyJet suspends flights to Tel Aviv over Iran-Israel conflict - after attack caused travel chaos above Middle East

Flight data showed dozens of journeys that would have travelled over the Middle East turned back on Saturday after Iran fired more than 300 drones and missiles into Israel

By Dylan Donnelly, news reporter

Tuesday 16 April 2024 14:01, UK

EasyJet has suspended all flights to Tel Aviv over safety concerns for journeys to Israel - days after Iran's attack caused chaos for airlines.

Flight data showed dozens of journeys that would have travelled over the Middle East turned back on Saturday after Iran fired more than 300 drones and missiles into Israel .

Now easyJet has said that its flights to Israel are suspended for the remainder of the summer "as a result of the continued evolving situation" in the region.

The budget airline told Sky News it has grounded its flights until 27 October at the earliest and said: "Customers booked to fly on this route up this date are being offered options including a full refund."

In the UK, easyJet ran flights to Israel from Gatwick, Luton and Manchester airports. The airline also told Sky News it has no plans to suspend flights to other countries.

Meanwhile, Wizz Air told Sky News that while it cancelled flights to Tel Aviv on Sunday and Monday, they have resumed them as of Tuesday.

And a spokesman for British Airways - which operates four daily return flights per week between Heathrow and Tel Aviv - said: "Our flights are continuing to operate as planned and we continue to monitor the situation."

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Wizz Air added that passengers may experience schedule changes because of the disruption and said: "The airline is closely monitoring the situation with the relevant authorities and keeping its passengers informed of all schedule changes."

Iran's attack on Saturday was in response to a strike on an Iranian consular building in Syria earlier this month which killed two Iranian generals. That strike has been widely blamed on Israel .

The EU's Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) insisted "there was no overflight risk for civil aviation at any time" on Saturday.

However it also said "there continues to be an increased potential for miscalculation and/or misidentification at present" for flights over Iranian airspace.

Read more: World leaders call for Israeli restraint What are Iran's military capabilities? UK's worst airport for delays revealed

'The skies were closed'

Speaking to Sky News' Kay Burley, travel journalist Simon Calder said while the EASA said there was no risk on Saturday, "effectively the skies above Iran, Iraq, Syria, Jordan and Israel all closed".

He said: "Quite a lot of (the flights) just gave up and went home. So, for example British Airways was flying out to Oman, they got as far as Switzerland turned around and went back and that was repeated an awful lot.

"Lots of diversions of course, because airlines were taking on what they thought was enough fuel. Suddenly the skies are closed. You're going to have to fly an extra 500 miles. And therefore, they were having to refuel everywhere.

"We still haven't recovered from that. And on top of the problems we're seeing elsewhere, I'm afraid it's a very, very messy picture."

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The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has not yet issued any new travel guidance for countries in the Middle East, or for journeys that go over them.

Sky News has asked British Airways if they also plan to suspend flights to Tel Aviv and other locations, and has contacted the FCDO for comment.

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The Moscow Metro Museum of Art: 10 Must-See Stations

There are few times one can claim having been on the subway all afternoon and loving it, but the Moscow Metro provides just that opportunity.  While many cities boast famous public transport systems—New York’s subway, London’s underground, San Salvador’s chicken buses—few warrant hours of exploration.  Moscow is different: Take one ride on the Metro, and you’ll find out that this network of railways can be so much more than point A to B drudgery.

The Metro began operating in 1935 with just thirteen stations, covering less than seven miles, but it has since grown into the world’s third busiest transit system ( Tokyo is first ), spanning about 200 miles and offering over 180 stops along the way.  The construction of the Metro began under Joseph Stalin’s command, and being one of the USSR’s most ambitious building projects, the iron-fisted leader instructed designers to create a place full of svet (radiance) and svetloe budushchee (a radiant future), a palace for the people and a tribute to the Mother nation.

Consequently, the Metro is among the most memorable attractions in Moscow.  The stations provide a unique collection of public art, comparable to anything the city’s galleries have to offer and providing a sense of the Soviet era, which is absent from the State National History Museum.  Even better, touring the Metro delivers palpable, experiential moments, which many of us don’t get standing in front of painting or a case of coins.

Though tours are available , discovering the Moscow Metro on your own provides a much more comprehensive, truer experience, something much less sterile than following a guide.  What better place is there to see the “real” Moscow than on mass transit: A few hours will expose you to characters and caricatures you’ll be hard-pressed to find dining near the Bolshoi Theater.  You become part of the attraction, hear it in the screech of the train, feel it as hurried commuters brush by: The Metro sucks you beneath the city and churns you into the mix.

With the recommendations of our born-and-bred Muscovite students, my wife Emma and I have just taken a self-guided tour of what some locals consider the top ten stations of the Moscow Metro. What most satisfied me about our Metro tour was the sense of adventure .  I loved following our route on the maps of the wagon walls as we circled the city, plotting out the course to the subsequent stops; having the weird sensation of being underground for nearly four hours; and discovering the next cavern of treasures, playing Indiana Jones for the afternoon, piecing together fragments of Russia’s mysterious history.  It’s the ultimate interactive museum.

Top Ten Stations (In order of appearance)

Kievskaya station.

Kievskaya Station went public in March of 1937, the rails between it and Park Kultury Station being the first to cross the Moscow River.  Kievskaya is full of mosaics depicting aristocratic scenes of Russian life, with great cameo appearances by Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin.  Each work has a Cyrillic title/explanation etched in the marble beneath it; however, if your Russian is rusty, you can just appreciate seeing familiar revolutionary dates like 1905 ( the Russian Revolution ) and 1917 ( the October Revolution ).

Mayakovskaya Station

Mayakovskaya Station ranks in my top three most notable Metro stations. Mayakovskaya just feels right, done Art Deco but no sense of gaudiness or pretention.  The arches are adorned with rounded chrome piping and create feeling of being in a jukebox, but the roof’s expansive mosaics of the sky are the real showstopper.  Subjects cleverly range from looking up at a high jumper, workers atop a building, spires of Orthodox cathedrals, to nimble aircraft humming by, a fleet of prop planes spelling out CCCP in the bluest of skies.

Novoslobodskaya Station

Novoslobodskaya is the Metro’s unique stained glass station.  Each column has its own distinctive panels of colorful glass, most of them with a floral theme, some of them capturing the odd sailor, musician, artist, gardener, or stenographer in action.  The glass is framed in Art Deco metalwork, and there is the lovely aspect of discovering panels in the less frequented haunches of the hall (on the trackside, between the incoming staircases).  Novosblod is, I’ve been told, the favorite amongst out-of-town visitors.

Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya Station is one of palatial grandeur.  It seems both magnificent and obligatory, like the presidential palace of a colonial city.  The yellow ceiling has leafy, white concrete garland and a series of golden military mosaics accenting the tile mosaics of glorified Russian life.  Switching lines here, the hallway has an Alice-in-Wonderland feel, impossibly long with decorative tile walls, culminating in a very old station left in a remarkable state of disrepair, offering a really tangible glimpse behind the palace walls.

Dostoevskaya Station

Dostoevskaya is a tribute to the late, great hero of Russian literature .  The station at first glance seems bare and unimpressive, a stark marble platform without a whiff of reassembled chips of tile.  However, two columns have eerie stone inlay collages of scenes from Dostoevsky’s work, including The Idiot , The Brothers Karamazov , and Crime and Punishment.   Then, standing at the center of the platform, the marble creates a kaleidoscope of reflections.  At the entrance, there is a large, inlay portrait of the author.

Chkalovskaya Station

Chkalovskaya does space Art Deco style (yet again).  Chrome borders all.  Passageways with curvy overhangs create the illusion of walking through the belly of a chic, new-age spacecraft.  There are two (kos)mosaics, one at each end, with planetary subjects.  Transferring here brings you above ground, where some rather elaborate metalwork is on display.  By name similarity only, I’d expected Komsolskaya Station to deliver some kosmonaut décor; instead, it was Chkalovskaya that took us up to the space station.

Elektrozavodskaya Station

Elektrozavodskaya is full of marble reliefs of workers, men and women, laboring through the different stages of industry.  The superhuman figures are round with muscles, Hollywood fit, and seemingly undeterred by each Herculean task they respectively perform.  The station is chocked with brass, from hammer and sickle light fixtures to beautiful, angular framework up the innards of the columns.  The station’s art pieces are less clever or extravagant than others, but identifying the different stages of industry is entertaining.

Baumanskaya Statio

Baumanskaya Station is the only stop that wasn’t suggested by the students.  Pulling in, the network of statues was just too enticing: Out of half-circle depressions in the platform’s columns, the USSR’s proud and powerful labor force again flaunts its success.  Pilots, blacksmiths, politicians, and artists have all congregated, posing amongst more Art Deco framing.  At the far end, a massive Soviet flag dons the face of Lenin and banners for ’05, ’17, and ‘45.  Standing in front of the flag, you can play with the echoing roof.

Ploshchad Revolutsii Station

Novokuznetskaya Station

Novokuznetskaya Station finishes off this tour, more or less, where it started: beautiful mosaics.  This station recalls the skyward-facing pieces from Mayakovskaya (Station #2), only with a little larger pictures in a more cramped, very trafficked area.  Due to a line of street lamps in the center of the platform, it has the atmosphere of a bustling market.  The more inventive sky scenes include a man on a ladder, women picking fruit, and a tank-dozer being craned in.  The station’s also has a handsome black-and-white stone mural.

Here is a map and a brief description of our route:

Start at (1)Kievskaya on the “ring line” (look for the squares at the bottom of the platform signs to help you navigate—the ring line is #5, brown line) and go north to Belorusskaya, make a quick switch to the Dark Green/#2 line, and go south one stop to (2)Mayakovskaya.  Backtrack to the ring line—Brown/#5—and continue north, getting off at (3)Novosblodskaya and (4)Komsolskaya.  At Komsolskaya Station, transfer to the Red/#1 line, go south for two stops to Chistye Prudy, and get on the Light Green/#10 line going north.  Take a look at (5)Dostoevskaya Station on the northern segment of Light Green/#10 line then change directions and head south to (6)Chkalovskaya, which offers a transfer to the Dark Blue/#3 line, going west, away from the city center.  Have a look (7)Elektroskaya Station before backtracking into the center of Moscow, stopping off at (8)Baumskaya, getting off the Dark Blue/#3 line at (9)Ploschad Revolyutsii.  Change to the Dark Green/#2 line and go south one stop to see (10)Novokuznetskaya Station.

Check out our new Moscow Indie Travel Guide , book a flight to Moscow and read 10 Bars with Views Worth Blowing the Budget For

Jonathon Engels, formerly a patron saint of misadventure, has been stumbling his way across cultural borders since 2005 and is currently volunteering in the mountains outside of Antigua, Guatemala.  For more of his work, visit his website and blog .

Photo credits:   SergeyRod , all others courtesy of the author and may not be used without permission

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EasyJet and Wizz Air cancel flights to Tel Aviv after Iran attack on Israel

BA says it is flying but reviewing situation as several other global carriers ground services

• Middle East crisis – live updates

International airlines have cancelled and redirected flights to Israel after Iran’s missile and drone attack on Saturday.

EasyJet has stopped flights to and from Tel Aviv until Sunday, while Wizz Air has said it will resume on Tuesday after cancelling services from Saturday to Monday.

Iran fired 360 missiles and drones at Israeli territory in retaliation for an attack two weeks ago on the Iranian embassy in Syria – widely believed to have been carried out by Israeli jets – which killed a number of senior Iranian commanders.

EasyJet said: “Due to the evolving situation in Israel, easyJet has taken the decision to temporarily pause operations to and from Tel Aviv until 21 April. The safety and security of our passengers and crew is always easyJet’s highest priority.”

Wizz Air said passengers may experience schedule changes when flights resumed on Tuesday, adding that it was monitoring the situation.

A number of other international carriers including Air Canada, Delta, Iberia and Lufthansa also suspended flights to Tel Aviv on Sunday and Monday.

Wizz Air and easyJet had recently restarted flights to Israel , having paused them after the attacks by Hamas on 7 October.

On Sunday the European Commission and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency advised carriers to exercise caution when flying in Israeli and Iranian airspace , while recommending not to conduct flights below a certain altitude above Iraq and Syria.

British Airways confirmed it had run a service to Tel Aviv on Monday morning but said it was keeping the situation under review. The airline restarted flights to Tel Aviv this month but had reduced the service to only four flights a week, with crew changes at Larnaca in Cyprus, so staff did not have to spend the night in Israel.

Virgin Atlantic had suspended flights to Tel Aviv until September before the latest attacks, but the carrier said it had since changed some of its routes to avoid Iranian and Israeli airspace.

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It said: “We are not currently overflying Iraq, Iran or Israel, but we continue to monitor the situation for any potential impact on our operations. The safety and security of our customers and people is paramount and always will be. We apologise for any inconvenience caused to customers by slightly longer flight times.”

Qatar Airways said it had resumed flights to Iran, namely Tehran, Mashhad, Shiraz and Isfahan. “The safety and security of our passengers remains our top priority,” it added.

Lufthansa has suspended flights to Beirut and Tehran until at least Thursday.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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