The official language of Israel is Hebrew, but most locals also speak English. Try your hand at some of the local language:

• Hello: Shalom
• My name is: Shmi
• How much is this?: Kama ze ole?
• Yes: Ken
• No: Lo
• Thank you: Toda
• Where is the bathroom?: Eeifo Hanokhiyut?

• The weekend starts on Fridays and Saturdays in Israel because of the Sabbath. This means that businesses and public transportation close from Friday at sundown until Saturday at sundown, except in more secular areas.
• When visiting religious areas, such as Jerusalem and orthodox neighborhoods, it is important to have your elbows, shoulders and knees covered.
• Israel is one of the few countries that require military service for both men and women after they turn 18 years old, so do not be surprised when you see soldiers with guns roaming the streets. This is normal!
• Israel is both conservative and liberal; Tel Aviv is modern, liberal, and carefree with a large LGBTQ+ community and relaxed approached to partying/dress. Jerusalem, on the other hand, is very different. Modest dress is important and the city is conservative in nature, especially at places like the Western Wall.

You’ll sample a variety of other local dishes on your trip, but read on for all the tips, tricks, and delicacies you must try.

• Falafel: a combination of ground chickpeas, mixed with a variety of spices, then deep fried into mini patty like shapes, is one of the most common street food snacks or light meals in Israel.
• Hummus: need we say more?
• Shawarma: layers of thin meat (lamb, beer or chicken) stacked and revolving either vertically or horizontally over a source of heat. Usually wrapped in bread with tahini and pickled vegetables.
• Sfenj: made from unsweetened dough that is left to rise before being shaped into rings, deep fried and dusted with sugar. A must have sweet treat in Israel!
• Khachapuri: one of Israel's most popular dishes for breakfast or brunch on the go. A pastry stuffed with cheese and topped with a fried egg.
• Shakshuka: a popular dish in Israel, especially at night, which is made with eggs poached directly into a tomato sauce, seasoned with chillies, peppers, onion and cumin. Dip with bread and enjoy!
• Burika: some describe this as Israel's best kept foodie secret. A savory crêpe filled with mashed potato and egg, which is deep fried until crisp.