Israel - Useful information for your trip

Israel is a country located in Asia and facing the Mediterranean Sea.

Its territory is mainly arid and desertic and its ground is poor and without mineral and energetical resources. HaShefela is the most fertile plain within the national borders, it is also rich in water. This is why it hosts the larger percentage of population. The central part boasts hills and uplands, while the western sides run down to the Mediterranean Sea.

Weather conditions change from region to region. The coast has a Mediterranean climate with long and warm summers and cool rainy winters. On the other hand, the mountain regions have a cooler and more humid climate.

The population in Israel is composed by a large number of ethnic groups because of massive immigration from continental Europe after the Second World War. This resulted in the formation of a heterogeneous culture. In fact, music shows influences coming from every corner of the world. For example, the klezmer is a musical genre with melodical and rythmical structures belonging to the cultural heritage of Balkans, Poles and Russians. This type of music accompanies important life events, such as weddings and funerals, but also daily situations.

Due to the important past history of the nation, Israel boasts several points of cultural and artistical interest. In fact, it hosts several archaeological sites, among which are Masada, Megiddo, Hazor and Be'er Sheva: all of them have been declared World Heritage Sites by Unesco. Moreover, it owns many relevant museums, such as the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, which holds the Tools of Dead Sea, important historical and religious manuscripts.

There are also several majestic and amazing mosques located in Israel, among which are the beautiful Al-Aqsa Mosque. It is the biggest one in Jerusalem and provides colourful mosaics, golden domes and well-finished courtyards.

Beyond these artistical, architectonical and cultural wonders, Israel also offers many and many relaxing places, such as breath-taking beaches. The beach of Tel Aviv is undoubtedly the more eclectic one. During the day it is possible to enjoy beach parties, while nightlife events all take place in the clubs. On the other hand, Drums Beach is calmer and more intimate, here it is possible to enjoy the sunset and live music performaces on the beach.