10 Tips That Will Make Every Woman’s Trip to Israel So Much Better

September 7, 2015

10 Tips That Will Make Every Woman’s Trip to Israel So Much Better

Women, here’s everything you need to know for your upcoming trip to Israel!

1. Don’t be afraid to be rude to random guys.

There have been many times when random men approached me while I was walking through the shuk or buying groceries. We’re all women, so we know when a guy is being creepy and saying things he shouldn’t, or encroaching on our personal space. If a guy is bothering you, have some chutzpah and tell him to leave you alone.

2. But, on the other hand, have fun when new opportunities arise.

If you are at the beach with a group of friends and some Israeli guys offer you a beer and invite you to play beach soccer with them, accept the offer! Israelis are extremely friendly and they may even suggest some good local bars and restaurants. Just use caution and gauge every situation.

3. Pack your makeup and toiletries.

No matter what country you are travelling from, pack your favorite toiletries and makeup essentials. Although you may be able to find the same mascara/shampoo/blush that you use at home, it will definitely be more expensive in Israel. Just bring some with you so you don’t have to worry about buying this stuff when you land. Also, if you are visiting during the summer, don’t forget to bring deodorant; it’ll be hot and you’ll need it. And, no matter what time of year you come, bring sunscreen. Sunscreen is very expensive here, and the sun is strong.

4. Be careful at night.

Israel is very safe. I have never felt uncomfortable when walking home alone at night–even through dark pedestrian walkways. But, like anywhere, just be aware of your surroundings.

5. Shop on Shenkin.

Shenkin Street is one of my favorite spots in Tel Aviv. The street is littered with fun cafes and cool clothing/jewelry stores. It’s located right across from the Carmel Market, so you can grab some fresh veggies and fruit after your shopping spree.

6. Buy a pair of Blundstones.

Everyone in Israel has a pair of these boots, myself included. I knew I wanted to buy a pair within weeks of being here. Embarrassingly enough, I now own three pairs. But they are the most comfortable shoes I own, and are definitely worth the expensive price tag (prices range depending on store and type, but you’ll spend around 480 shekels). You’ll regret it if you don’t buy a pair.

7. Bring a shawl or a sweater when you tour Jerusalem.

Jerusalem is a very religious city and many of the famous sites there have dress codes. When I visited the Church of the Holy Sepulchre this past summer I immediately got kicked out because I was wearing shorts. You don’t want to miss out on anything; so, bring a shawl or a sweater with you to cover your shoulders or tie around your legs in order to hide any revealing skin.

8. Check out the Tel Aviv jewelry shuk.

Every Tuesday and Friday, the Nahalat Binyamin shuk is open. It’s filled with crafts, jewelry, and art that are all homemade and really good quality. It’s located right next to the Carmel Market so it’s not very hard to find. Definitely make the time to visit this jewelry shuk; you’ll find some amazing gifts for yourself and family/friends back home.

9. Use the meter in a taxi.

A taxi driver will immediately know that you are a tourist as soon as you step into the cab. He will then ask you if you want to go by the meter or a set price he’ll give you. Always go with the meter price. The driver may try to overcharge you with the fixed rate.

10. Dress casually.

Israel is very casual. I’ve been told hundreds of times that people attend weddings in jeans. So don’t worry about packing your fancy clothes. As long as you don’t walk into a restaurant wearing a mini skirt and tube top, anything you wear should be okay. (Although a mini skirt and tube top is probably acceptable at certain places). As long as you are wearing jeans or leggings with a sweater or blouse, you can’t go wrong. This applies to day-to-day activities, dinners, and going out at night.

10 Tips That Will Make Every Woman’s Trip to Israel So Much Better

Have you traveled to Israel? What were your impressions? We’d love to know if there’s any important information you recommend adding to this list. Email us at editor@pinkpangea.com for information about sharing your experience and advice with the Pink Pangea community. We can’t wait to hear from you.

10 Tips That Will Make Every Woman’s Trip to Israel So Much Better top photography credit: unsplash.

About Molly Winik

A recent college graduate who chose to live and teach English abroad in Israel for a year instead of getting a 9-5 job. Born in New York, but raised in New Jersey. I have a large blended family that left me one of six kids. And I have an unhealthy obsession with my English bulldog Bubba. I love to write and can’t wait to share my experiences and challenges abroad with other women travelers! Follow my travels here.