5 Must See Places in Israel

The best laid travel plans can often go astray, that’s why it’s best to have an adequate travel insurance package arranged before you start your journey. In the Middle East, especially Israel, this is more the case than many other countries on earth. The old adage of hoping for the best but planning for the worst is the best advice you can receive.
This is not to say that you should exclude anywhere in the Middle East from your travel plans. Quite the contrary. There are so many places to see in Israel that will strike wonder into your heart that you will have no regrets whatsoever. In fact, many visitors discover that the ancient lands of the Middle East strangely draw them back for repeat visits that can last the rest of your life.

It is nearly impossible to single out individual destinations when planning a trip to Israel but here are five of the best to include on your itinerary.

• Jerusalem is a natural starting point for any visit to Israel and it is a stunning city which many regard as the most fascinating in the world. Not only is it a destination with huge religious significance, but you will also find stark and intricate beauty at almost every turn. It is one of the ultimate pleasures of travel in the Middle East to simply wander the narrow walkways of the Old City where you are sure to discover sights you never dreamt of.
• The Dead Sea is one of the more popular destinations and is worth a visit simply to go for a swim to see whether you can sink below the surface! The Dead Sea scrolls were discovered at the town of Qumran and you can see some wonderful displays at the Israel Museum.
• Upper Galilee. In the north of the country adjacent to the Golan Heights you will find some spectacular national parks where you can enjoy long walks in stunning surroundings. Whilst you are in the area be sure to visit Nazareth, the childhood home of Jesus. You will find some wonderful remnants of the past as you wander through the streets, but don’t forget to visit the colourful market and try out some of the famous curd cheese pastries that will keep you going for many hours.
• Akko or Acre, is a world Heritage rated city on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a small stone walled fortress which you can wander through without being bombarded by the usual tourist oriented paraphernalia. The beautiful stone houses still remain and you will find them still inhabited by artists and fishermen rather than having been converted into trendy cafes.
• Haifa is located on the slopes of Mount Carmel, and you will enjoy a couple of days wandering around, especially around Christmas time when the famous Christmas festival occurs. This is Israel’s third-largest city and was once a trendy German colony but is now a home of the Baha’i Faith. You can visit the Shrine of the Bab, the tomb of the Baha’i prophet.

This short list should whet your appetite to extend your stay in Israel, or at the least stimulate you to think about including it in your next holiday plan. Don’t forget to organise a good travel insurance package before you start.