- Stay in a central location. If you’re planning your first visit to Jerusalem, choose a hotel in close proximity to the city’s main cultural venues. The Inbal Jerusalem Hotel is one of the deluxe hotels in the capital that are in walking distance to many of Jerusalem’s sites, allowing visitors to take full advantage of everything the city has to offer.
- Take the guided tour. Whether it’s a trip to the Israel Museum or a hike farther afield, get the most out of each site you visit. You can’t compare the experience of visiting a historic or religious site on your own, to what you gain if you go with a guide. This does not necessarily involve an added expense. Research the options ahead of time, as many sites offer free guided tours several times a week and provide registration information online.
- Don’t rush. Especially if this is for your first trip to Jerusalem, don’t try to cram it all in. Some visitors to Jerusalem attempt to fit everything into a short trip and spend their time rushing from one site to the next. Ironically, if you try to do too much, you end up missing out. Take it easy, relax and enjoy. Take time to explore Jerusalem’s neighborhoods, experience local cuisine, shop at Machaneh Yehuda’s open air market − but resist the temptation to do too much.
- Meet the locals. It’s all too easy to spend a trip exclusively with other tourists, but part of the charm of Jerusalem is its residents. Jerusalemites are generally more casual than many of their Western counterparts, the culture here is warm and friendly, and local residents are frequently open to meeting visitors. If you can get yourself off the beaten track and explore places that are less touristy, you’ll find it well worth the effort.
- Pack comfortable shoes. Visitors to Jerusalem typically do a lot of walking as they explore the city. Wear shoes that allow you to experience the beauty and magic of Jerusalem in comfort. The Old City, in particular, has cobblestoned streets, and these are practically impossible to navigate in formal or flimsy footwear.
- Wear layers. For much of the year, Jerusalem mornings and evenings are cool. The weather heats up during the day. The wide range in temperature can make it hard to decide what to wear, especially for a full-day outing. Pack clothing that is maximally flexible and allows you to remove layers throughout the day.
- Drink. In the hot summer months, it is essential to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Drink more than you instinctively feel you need, since your body has not adjusted to the Middle Eastern heat. Whenever you leave the hotel, it’s wise to take a bottle of water with you. You might also want to pack some light snacks, to tide you through the day.
- Bring 220V appliances. Israeli electricity is 220V. If you’re bringing electrical appliances and devices with you, check that they work with this voltage. At the Inbal Jerusalem Hotel, we provide you with plug adapters to fit Israeli outlets.
- Let your kids set the pace. If you’re visiting Jerusalem with children, choose activities that are kid friendly. Most children do not enjoy lengthy explanations of archeological sites and full-day tours of museums. For a successful day out, combine a visit to a historic or religious site with a more energetic, outdoor activity. Jerusalem offers a wide range of nature trails and parks.
- Don’t forget – you are in a different country. Be aware that your own cultural expectations are likely to differ significantly from those of the people who live here. Be open-minded and ready for new experiences, and show respect for your host country.
Ask our advice! At the Inbal Jerusalem Hotel, our dedicated, professional staff members provide the personal care and service that can make a real difference to your trip. For a first-time visitor to the city, this means having someone available to guide you throughout your stay. Our experienced team helps you decide where to go and what to do, providing the valuable, up-to-date information that you need for a successful and pleasurable vacation.