‘It’s beyond tourism, everyone who boards a plane to the Jewish state is helping us heal’

Getting muddy at the Dead Sea Photo: Itamar Grinberg[Missing Credit]

t is also true to say that your visit helps economic life here.  Economically, small business owners, communities dependent on tourism, tour guides, hotel staff, taxi drivers and all communities dependent on tourism feel the support immediately.

And for British Jews, it’s also an opportunity to discover new places in Israel, like the Negev, perhaps, which makes up 60 per cent of Israel’s land mass and which is filled with amazing hiking trails, nature reserves, wineries, unique agriculture, and small creative businesses. It also includes sites such as Ramon Crater in Mitzpe Ramon, the Dead Sea, Masada, Timna Park and the town of Eilat, of course. Come and connect with the people here, learn their stories. 

The Red Canyon, north of Eilat Photo: Dafna Tal[Missing Credit]

Having said all this, please know that I am aware of the practical challenges people may face. Some might find it difficult to obtain travel insurance. One possible solution is to obtain it from Israeli companies that offer coverage specifically within Israel.  We are working closely with local insurance companies on this. 

What’s more, the airline Israir has this week launched a new daily flight route from Luton to Israel, a move that will hopefully reduce overall ticket prices down the line. And we hope, of course, that other airlines will resume flights to Israel in April. Here at the tourism office we will certainly be doing all we can to encourage this.

And if you’re debating whether now is the right time to visit Israel, well, yes, we understand that we are in a dynamic situation and you need to feel safe. And when you do come, we’ll be here, waiting with open arms, eager to share everything Israel has to offer.