Visa, Flights and Tours

How long is the flight to Israel?
From most West European airports the flight time is between 4-5 hours.

Transfer from airport to hotel

How long is the transfer between Tel Aviv airport and the Ein Gedi Country Hotel?
Transfer time is about one and a half hours.

How do I arrange a transfer?
There are several transfer options. The cheapest is The Dead Sea Hotel shuttle (€38 per person one way). The shuttle serves other hotels in the Dead Sea area, so you may have to wait a short while for passengers arriving on other flights. To arrange a transfer, please contact Seshir, the shuttle company and book with them directly (+972-3-975 4033, http://www.seshir.co.il/). Seshir are based at the Ben Gurion International airport in Tel Aviv, first floor, next to the car hire desks. On arrival go to their desk, arrange payment and a driver will be waiting for you.

Private taxi drivers will get you there faster as there will be no waiting time. The price will be higher and will largely depend on the number of people sharing. For pick-ups at night a night tariff applies. The following drivers provide reliable service and charge the official government tariffs:

Yossi Czechanover, Dead Sea Taxi Service (www.deadsea-taxi.com; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; tel: +972-8-6594850; mobile: +972-50-408 5000).

Yakir Zakken ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; tel: +972-2-6784369; mobile: +972-50-341 8191).

Gabi Limousine Service (+972-52-3477 323; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ).

Taxi prices

The following is an indication of taxi prices to several popular destinations. Prices may vary according to the day and time of travel (Saturdays and night-time are more expensive). Use the following prices as a guidance.

Currency and credit cards

What currency should I take with me to Israel?
Euros, dollars and all other major Western currencies are widely accepted in Israel. A cash point is available at the hotel.

What credit cards can I use in Israel?
All major credit cards are widely accepted in Israel. The Ein Gedi Country Hotel also accepts all major credit cards, including American Express.

Safety

How safe is it to travel in Israel?
A lot safer than the media would have you believe it. If you're heading straight for the retreat and take a direct transfer from the modern and efficient Tel Aviv Ben Gurion airport to the Ein Gedi Country Hotel, you will have nothing to worry about. You won't need guards or protection of any kind.

If you intend to travel in Israel before or after the retreat, then some caution is advisable in certain parts of the country. Your travel agent will be able to advise you on that. Over three million tourists visit Israel every year and go back home safe and happy.

What about personal safety - mugging, theft etc.?
While in the Ein Gedi Country Hotel, do as you would in any other hotel and keep your valuables in the safe.

In the large cities you'll need to be as cautious as you would be in any other large city in the world. Hold on tight to your belongings and keep your eyes open.

When taking a transfer or a cab, make sure you use a reputable company/driver arranged by the hotel or as recommended above.

General Information