Clothing: Clothing needs are about the same as for the American southwest. Low heeled, thick soled walking shoes are best suited for most tourist sites. Dress at most religious sites should be appropriately modest. Most of Israel is quite warm and humid, except for December through March. Rainfall occurs regularly during winter months; occasionally it snows in Jerusalem and in the mountains.

Health: Israel requires that at least one pharmacy in a neighborhood be open or on call at all times; a list is published at least weekly in the English Language Jerusalem Post. Israel and US public health standards are about equal. Adequate medical and dental care is available, and tapwater is potable.

Telecommunications: Telephone and telegraph services, domestic and international, are efficient. Rates are higher than in the United States. Israel is seven standard time zones ahead of eastern standard time.

Transportation: Israel has a well developed transportation network. Israel's international airline , EKAL maintains regularly scheduled services to the United States, Canada, Europe, and parts of Africa and Asia. Some American carriers provide regular service to Israel. Israel has a good nationwide bus system, and taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced in the major cities. Rental cars are available at reasonable rates, and roads are fairly good and well marked. All automobiles must be covered by unlimited third party insurance.

Source: U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Public Affairs, June 1987.