Israel Ministry of Tourism Q & A

We at LeSEA Tours are gearing up to escort another group to Israel this February! 35+ people are excited to see what God has in store for them and we are axious to watch God at work in their lives. Many of you have had questions about traveling to Israel at this time, especially if you've never been there before. Let me tell you, traveling to Israel is safe. Here is what the Israel Ministry of Tourism has to say about the current situation. Feel free to call us with any questions you have. We are here to help you make this life changing journey possible. We believe with all our hearts that your life will be changed by walking in the footsteps of Jesus.

Kim

WHAT'S HAPPENING WHERE?

The Israel Defense Forces' action to put an end to the firing from Gaza is taking place entirely within what is known as the Gaza Strip. This is an area under Palestinian control that is customarily not visited by visitors to Israel.

YES, BUT WHAT'S HAPPENING IN ISRAEL?

Rockets fired from Gaza have landed in several areas of southern Israel – places that are far from tourist routes.

HOW DOES THIS AFFECT MY TRAVEL PLANS?

It doesn't. Conditions in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, Netanya, the Galilee, the Negev, Eilat and the Dead Sea are completely normal. The only possible adjustments would be perhaps to bypass Beersheba, Ashdod and Ashkelon – cities that are anyway not usually priorities for most visitors. The tens of thousands of tourists who came to Israel for Chanukah and to celebrate Christmas in Bethlehem stayed on and their travel plans continued unchanged.

YES BUT SURELY...?

Shops, restaurants, beaches, clubs, schools, hotels are open throughout Israel and are operating entirely normally. There is no sense of anxiety or crisis – life goes on unchanged.

YES, BUT SURELY...?

As hard as it may seem to comprehend from thousands of miles away, the current action has no affect on life in most of Israel. More than 70 airlines are operating their normal schedules to and from Israel, and today, as every day, close to 20 flights are operating nonstop between the United States and Canada and Israel, and vice versa.

SO WHAT DO I DO?

Absolutely nothing.

YES... BUT...

Tourists and tourism are very important to the State of Israel so it would be foolish and reckless of us to endanger you. If we felt there was the slightest risk, or that it was inappropriate for you to come now, we would ask you not to.

If you're already in Israel you know there's nothing to be concerned about. And if you're on your way, "Bon Voyage." We look forward to greeting you.

Israel Ministry of Toursim