Israel

⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Due to a highly volatile security situation, ongoing military operations, and the risk of terrorism, government agencies (including CA, USA, UK, AU, IE, and NZ) advise travelers to reconsider or avoid all travel to Israel at this time. Risks include sudden missile attacks, civil unrest, and transport disruptions. Families are strongly urged to consult their own government's official travel advisory before considering a trip, as circumstances and risk assessments vary significantly.

Located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Israel offers a dense concentration of historical landmarks and diverse landscapes within a small geographic area. For families, the country provides a mix of educational experiences and outdoor recreation. The climate is generally Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters, though the southern desert regions remain dry year-round. While the official languages are Hebrew and Arabic, English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas, making navigation relatively straightforward.

Tel Aviv serves as the modern, coastal counterpoint to the country's ancient sites. Families often spend days on the sandy Mediterranean beaches, where shallow waters and lifeguard stations are common. The promenade connects to the ancient port city of Jaffa, where winding stone alleys lead to art galleries and views of the coastline. Visitors can rent bikes to explore Yarkon Park, a vast green space featuring rock climbing walls, paddle boats, and extensive playgrounds.

In Jerusalem, history becomes tangible. Walking the ramparts of the Old City walls offers a bird's-eye view of the quarters below. A highlight for older children is often Hezekiah’s Tunnel in the City of David, where you can wade through calm, knee-deep water in an ancient underground aqueduct. The Israel Museum houses the Dead Sea Scrolls and features an expansive outdoor sculpture garden and a dedicated youth wing with interactive exhibits.

Nature enthusiasts can head south to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. The high salt concentration allows swimmers to float effortlessly, a unique sensation for both adults and children. Nearby, families can take the cable car up to the fortress of Masada to learn about Roman history while overlooking the Judean Desert. Further south, the resort city of Eilat on the Red Sea offers the Underwater Observatory Marine Park, where visitors can view coral reefs without getting wet, or swim with dolphins at the Dolphin Reef.

Practical travel involves a reliable network of trains and buses, though families often rent cars for flexibility outside major cities. It is important to note that public transport shuts down for Shabbat from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening. The local cuisine is highly accessible for children, with staples like pita bread, hummus, chopped salads, and fresh fruit juices available at nearly every corner.