International media coverage of Israel often focuses on the violent conflict in Gaza and the West Bank, however, it’s important to note that these aren’t areas commonly associated with tourism. The main tourist areas including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, the Negev, Nazareth, and the Dead Sea are generally deemed safe.

Israel may be a small country but it’s bursting with must-see sights including the Western Wall and Temple Mount in Jerusalem, the Sea of Galilee and the ancient city of Masada, to name just a few. Tel Aviv is a vibrant and bustling city known for its lively beach culture and nightlife.

If the words scorching and soaring describe your ideal temperature situation, you’ll want to aim for June to September. If, however, you prefer things a little cooler (and less sweaty), aim for spring, which is from March to May, or fall, September to November.

Israel vacations are filled with unexpected adventure at every turn. Float your worries away in the Dead Sea, explore the Negev Desert from a dune buggy, stargaze from a Bedouin Camp or climb to the top of Masada National Park for sunrise. Check out the Dead Sea Scrolls and numerous other historical sites and then, when you need to rest and recharge, head to Eilat for a spot of snorkelling on the Red Sea.

It depends how much you want to see and do but as a general guide, 10-14 days would be sufficient time to check out some of the main sites including Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, and Tel Aviv.

Comfortable shoes are a must! As a significant religious centre, visitors should dress modestly including long skirts or dresses and a pashmina scarf or shawl to use as a head covering for holy sites.

For a compact country, Israel packs a punch when it comes to scenic desert landscapes, breathtaking beaches and some of the most important historic sites in the world. We could write an entire book on where to go in Israel, but for the hyper-condensed version – Tel Aviv for the beach culture and food, Jerusalem for the sites, the Dead Sea for the healing benefits and the Negev Desert for the scenery.

Life happens - we get it! Read more here.