News | ITN - Israel Travel News

German airline Lufthansa, which is celebrating 50 years of operations in Israel, is expanding its activity to another destination in Israel: Eilat. Read more >

The airline will start flying from Dulles International Airport to Tel Aviv three times a week beginning May 22, 2019. Read more >

Wizz Air is launching two new winter routes connecting Eilat with Budapest and Sofia. Read more >

This new connection allows every area of London to be very well connected to the Holy Land! Read more >

The duration of the flight from Chengdu to Tel Aviv will be eight hours and twenty minutes. Read more >

The Georgian airline joins many other airlines that have recognized the value of launching routes to Israel. Read more >

The new route, which will commence on 14 July with two weekly frequencies, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, is the sixth direct WIZZ route from Romania into Israel. Read more >

TAP nonstop flights from Lisbon, Portugal to Tel Aviv, Israel will start in April 2019. Read more >

Israel's incoming tourism industry continues to grow as more airlines understand the importance of creating easily accessible routes to the Holy Land. Read more >

Israel is a top tourist destination and will continue to grow and become recognized as such in the years ahead. Read more >

As the global travel industry learns that Israel is a top tourist destination, more airlines will add routes to Tel Aviv and Eilat. Read more >

For the first time, and with cooperation with the Tourism Ministry, Edelweiss, Switzerland's leading leisure travel airline and a member of the Lufthansa group, is to open a new direct route from Zurich to Eilat from October 28, 2018. Read more >

The airline announced it has launched a new mobile app and will begin using the Dreamliner for the route to Tel Aviv. Read more >

As Europe discovers Israel as among the top destinations in the Middle East, more airlines are opening routes to accommodate demand. Read more >

Israel continues to rise as a top destination for foreign tourists. Read more >

These destinations join the list of new routes launched by Israir in recent months, including Genoa in Italy, Baku, Azerbaijan, Sochi in Russia and Pafos. Read more >

Air India as announced it may launch a direct route between Delhi and Ben-Gurion Airport this March

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Israel is a major market for Transavia. Read more >

Israeli airline Arkia has been authorized to operate regular flights from Tel Aviv, Israel, to Bangkok, Thailand Read more >

The airline will start flying the route three times a week from March 22. Read more >

French airline ASL is launching a new direct route between Paris and Tel Aviv. Read more >

Ben Gurion Airport, which is currently categorized as a medium-sized airport will now be included among the world's largest airports. Read more >

Cathay Pacific announced on Sunday that it will expand its operations in Israel to six weekly flights between Tel Aviv and Hong Kong. Read more >

Israel's tourism industry is growing exponentially as evidenced by more airlines that are adding routes to Israel. Read more >

Budget-airline Wizz Air will increase its offering of flights from London Luton to Tel Aviv. Read more >

Chilean-based airline LATAM Airlines will commence flights between the region and Israel in 2018. Read more >

Air Transat, which operated two weekly direct flights from Montreal to Tel Aviv between June and October of this year, is adding a third flight to its 2018 summer schedule. Read more >

French airline XL Airways has introduced flights between four US States: New York, Miami, Los Angeles and San Francisco, to Tel Aviv, via Paris-Charles de Gaulle International Airport. Read more >

Around six months after launching its Hong Kong to Tel Aviv flights, Cathay Pacific has announced an increase in flight frequency Read more >

From the end of January 2018, passengers flying on Delta's New York to Tel Aviv flight will be able to purchase a Delta Comfort ticket. Passengers previously had to buy an economy ticket and separate supplement to receive added benefits of Delta Comfort. Read more >

The new connections are offered to satisfy Israel’s growing popularity among Polish tourists. Read more >

According to statistics from the Israel Airports Authority (IAA), August 2017 saw over 2.5 million people passing through Ben Gurion Airport, reflecting an 18 percent increase on August of last year. Read more >

Air Canada is launching a new direct flight twice weekly from Montreal to Tel Aviv, from June to October. Read more >

The German carrier currently operates several daily flights to Israel’s Ben Gurion airport. Read more >

Spanish airline Air Europa is increasing its Madrid-Tel Aviv route from three to six flights a week, starting in July. Read more >

Maltese national airline Air Malta is launching direct flights to Tel Aviv, as part of its summer timetable. Read more >

Hungarian airline Wizz Air continues its expansion in Israel. Read more >

Canadian airline Air Transat will be operating direct flights from Montreal to Tel Aviv between June and October 2017, providing two afternoon departures a week from Montreal and two morning return flights from Tel Aviv. Read more >

The new route from Madrid Barajas to Eilat Ovdah will open on October 30, flying weekly through to March 26, 2019. Read more >

Italian airline Alitalia is to launch direct Athens to Tel Aviv flights, which a tentative schedule set from May and offering a daily flight year round. Read more >

British Airways flights between London and Tel Aviv have increased by five further weekly flights, bringing its total to 19 a week. Read more >

The Knesset (Israeli Parliament) has passed a bill to continue the operation of Tel Aviv’s Dov Airfield until 2019, at which time the military airport is to cease function. Read more >

Air India is the first airline to fly over Saudi Arabia to Israel, reducing flight time to just six hours. Read more >

Cyprus-based airline Charlie Airlines has commenced direct flights from Larnaca to Tel Aviv, with three weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays. Read more >

Hainan Airlines will launch a new direct route with three weekly flights between Guangzhou and Tel Aviv from August 2. Read more >

The Israel Airports Authority has reported a 665 percent increase in passenger traffic recorded at Haifa Airport, which operates international flights to and from destinations in Greece - Athens, Larnaca, Rhodes and Kos, and well as flights between Haifa and paphos (Cyorus), and domestic flights. Read more >

A joint code share agreement has been signed at the Argentine Embassy in Tel Aviv between El Al and Aerolineas Argentinas, to expand cooperation between both airlines. Read more >

El Al has signed a number of code share agreements with Aeroméxico, Australian airline Qantas and Portuguese airline TAP, in addition to expanding its agreement with Thai Airways, during the recent International Air Transport Association (IATA) conference in Mexico. Read more >

El Al has launched the first direct flight between Malaga in Spain and Tel Aviv, operating on Thursdays and Sundays until the end of October. Read more >

El Al has partnered with Leonardo by Fattal Hotels to offer spring vacation packages from New York to Israel via JFK and Newark airports. Read more >

The airline is increasing its weekly flights to 19 flights between Tel Aviv and London. Read more >

The new extension in Terminal 3, Wing E, will accommodate up to 1,800 more passengers per hour, allowing for dozens of additional incoming and outgoing flights daily. Read more >

El Al is updating its fleet of airplanes as part of an effort to replace old planes and to meet the demands of the market. Read more >

The Italian airline plans to add flights to Israel this summer. Read more >

easyJet has launched flights from Berlin's Tegel Airport to Tel Aviv. Read more >

It has been 85 years since British Airways launched its first flight from London to Israel, which was operated in 1932 by Imperial Airways. Read more >

Low-cost Hungarian airline Wizz Air has reported an 82 percent increase in the number of routes offered into Israel since it began operating in the country during 2012. Read more >

Hainan Airlines is to launch a direct flight from Shanghai to Tel Aviv starting September 12 and operating three days a week. Read more >

The Incoming Tour Operators Association in Israel has established a Bureau of Aviation Committee to address changes in the field and create updated business models to market Israel abroad, including aviation matters. Read more >

Chinese airline Hainan has added a fifth weekly flight to Tel Aviv, with a Saturday frequency. Read more >

Air India is launching new direct flights from New Delhi to Tel Aviv, starting from May. Read more >

Chinese airline Hainan has launched a direct flight between Guangzhou and Tel Aviv. Read more >

Talks are in progress to create a “hub” in Tel Aviv for foreign carriers to operate onward flights to Eilat. Read more >

Low cost airline easyJet has announced two new routes to Tel Aviv, from Venice and Naples. Read more >

Ryanair is launching a direct daily flight from Paphos, Cyprus to Tel Aviv, which will operate from March until October 2017, with 100,000 passengers expected to travel annually on this route. Read more >

Ryanair’s Chief Commercial Director, David O’Brien, announced the budget airline’s winter 2017 schedule last month at a press conference in Tel Aviv. Read more >

Ben Gurion Airport Terminal 1 has reopened following four months of upgrades, including advanced check-in, baggage-drop service, security checks and passport control. Read more >

Cypriot airline Tus Airways, which began operations in early 2016, has introduced direct flights between Athens, Rhodes and the Greek Island of Kos and Haifa Airport. Read more >

United Airlines is integrating its new Boeing 777-300ER model into its daily Newark flight to Tel Aviv, from May. Read more >

Wizz Air has announced four new routes from Bucharest, Katowice, Riga and Prague to Eilat's Ovda Airport as part of its winter schedule, which runs from 29 October 2017 to 24 March 2018. Read more >

Low-cost airline Wizz Air is launching a new route from Varna, Bulgaria to Tel Aviv from July, with three weekly flights. Read more >

Low-cost airline Wizz Air has announced a new route from London Luton to Tel Aviv starting in June and operating four times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Read more >

Low cost Hungarian airline Wizz Air has announced a new direct route from Timisoara, Romania to Tel Aviv, commencing October 30 with two weekly flights on Mondays and Fridays. Read more >

Low-cost Icelandic airline Wow has announced a new direct route between Reykjavik, Iceland and Tel Aviv, commencing in June with six weekly flights. Read more >

In 2017, low-cost Irish airline Ryanair, which launched in July of 1985 with daily flights from Waterford to London Gatwick, became the first European airline to have carried 1 billion customers.

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easyJet, the low-cost British airline, launched its first route to Tel Aviv from London Luton in 2009, and has since grown to become the second largest airline operating in Israel, after El Al.

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Armenia Airlines launches flights

Armenia Airlines has started operating direct flights between Yerevan in Armenia and Tel Aviv, with a twice weekly route, Thursdays and Sundays. Read more >

Ural Airlines flying to Israel

Ural Airlines inaugurated its new route between Sochi in Russia and Tel Aviv, operating twice weekly, Thursdays and Sundays, all year round. Read more >

Wizz Air Expands Routes to Israel

Low-cost Hungarian airline Wizz Air has announced new routes to Tel Aviv from: Lublin, Poland; Craiova, Romania; and Kosice, Slovakia. Bi-weekly flights on each route will operate from June. The airline is also increasing its frequency on its Bucharest to Tel Aviv flights, from four to seven times a week, from September 18, and Budapest to Tel Aviv from seven to ten flights a week, from October 29. Read more >

SAS returning to Israel

Scandinavian airline SAS is launching direct flights from Stockholm to Eilat for the winter period, from October to March. The new route is part of the Ministry of Tourism’s “Winter Flights Directive” framework, which offers airlines a subsidy per passenger. This is the first route offered for Israel by SAS since it ceased operations to the country in March 2016. Read more >

El Al Direct Miami Flights

El Al has announced the reintroduction of its direct Miami to Tel Aviv route, which ceased operation in 2008. The flight will be offered three times a week starting from November. This is the airline’s sixth North American destination, alongside New York, Newark, Boston, Los Angeles and Toronto, with 37 weekly frequencies between continents in summer and 26 in winter. Read more >

Israel is working to increase tourism in the Dead Sea area, which enjoys the highest annual average hotel occupancy rate. Read more >

Dizengoff 99 is a famous building in Israeli folklore because of the 1979 cult movie of the same name. Read more >

Theawards.com has given a Travel and Hospitality Award to this luxurious boutique hotel. Read more >

The new hotel offers 94 rooms spread over eight floors and is strategically located close to central sites. Read more >

The Herbert Samuel is located in the urban center of Jerusalem adjacent to the city's most sought-after historical, religious and cultural destinations. Read more >

Shibli is located on the route up to the holy churches on the top of Mount Tabor and on the axis of the Gospel Trail and the Israel Trail. More than half a million tourists pass through it every year. Read more >

This one-of-a-kind hotel on the edge of the Ramon Crater is unique in many ways. Read more >

The Vera’s guiding mantra emphasizes anthology and the support of local purveyors. Read more >

The Hagag real estate group announced that the famed Hollywood star has invested in a new hotel, to be built along the coast in Herzliya, Israel. Read more >

The Pearl Hotel outside of Jaffa Gate is finally going to receive a makeover and open again for business. Read more >

The new NYX hotel is expected to open in 2021 in the heart of the Mahane Yehuda market on Jaffa Road. Read more >

Isrotel Hotels has signed an agreement to build a luxury hotel adjacent to the Royal Beach Tel Aviv. Read more >

Fattal Hotels is rebranding itself as an international chain of hotels. Read more >

Local committees have now been authorized to approve the conversion of buildings to hotels.

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Nestled among Tel Aviv’s historic buildings and buzzing neighborhoods, the hotel is just steps away from the city’s most sought-after attractions. Read more >

This may be seen as further proof that there is much confidence in Israel's incoming tourism industry in the coming years, Read more >

With a fresh, new color palette, the hotel's 50 rooms have been transformed with a new stylish design. Read more >

The prestigious boutique hotel has recently made a number of changes and upgrades to enhance the hospitality experience and the well-being of its guests. Read more >

The Fattal hotel chain will be issued at a value of NIS 3.4 billion. Read more >

The chain currently owns 28 hotels throughout Israel. Read more >

"The Leading Hotels of the World" luxury hotel organization selected The Drisco and The Setai among its most anticipated hotel openings this year. Read more >

The Rimonim Hotels chain, which has nine properties across Israel, has signed an agreement to manage the Hod Hotel (formerly the Arcadia Hotel) in Tiberias. Read more >

International hotel chain Six Senses is opening its first hotel in Israel, Six Senses Shaharut, at the end of the year on a hill overlooking the Edom Mountains, around 60 kilometers north of Eilat. Read more >

The Moshava Gardens hotel, owned by entrepreneur Shalom Shitrit of real estate company Shitrit Ltd., is being built in the German Colony of Haifa on Ben Gurion Blvd., opposite the Baha'i Gardens. Read more >

A new boutique hotel, The Vera, is opening on Tel Aviv's Lilienblum St. in early 2018. Read more >

In line with strategic urban planning in Eilat, a plan has been approved for the Dead Sea Pools project, which will add a new quarter to the region, including 1,150 hotel rooms as well as housing units. Read more >

Tal by the Beach, one of 15 properties from Atlas Hotels, reopened in August after a three year renovation. Read more >

The Orchid Tel Aviv, part of the Orchid Hotel chain owned by Nakash Israel Group, has undergone a 10 ILS million ($2.85 million) renovation to upgrade its 202 guest rooms and suites, and public areas. Read more >

Dan Hotels Israel is opening a new business property at the start of 2018 on Sha'ul HaMelech Blvd. in Tel Aviv, at an investment of 40 ILS million (approximately $11.45 million). Read more >

Fabric is located in a building that was formally a sewing factory and has now been transformed into the 43-room hotel. Read more >

The Dave is the first hotel to open in a new line of urban properties from Brown Hotels. Read more >

The Olive hotel chain is opening a new property - Olive Mount Gilboa Hotel, in January, replacing what was previously a dry slopes ski area. Read more >

The A23 Hotel Boutique Hotel Tel Aviv opened four months ago on Arlozorov St., after a one year construction project to the building, which previously housed apartment suites. Read more >

Renovations are in various stages of completion at the Jerusalem Gate Hotel, located on Yermiyahu St. at the entrance to Jerusalem. Read more >

New boutique hotel the Jacob Samuel, located on the crossroads of Dizengoff and Arlozorov Streets, is to open in December. Read more >

Kfar Hanokdim is a desert hospitality site, located in the Kana'im Valleybetween Arad and Masada; an oasis of discovery in the Judean desert. Read more >

Colonia Resort opened in 2016, featuring a 1500m² compound, located close to the Taba border in Eilat, which offers a complex of camping, diving, dining and events. Read more >

The Leonardo Boutique Jerusalem, the newest property in the Fattal Hotels chain, has opened. Located on Neviim St., in close proximity to the city center, the hotel has been constructed in a building which once housed a selection of bars. Read more >

Following the recent acquisition by the Dayan Family of four Africa Israel Hotels for a reported $147 million, a further deal has been signed by the family to purchase full ownership of the company for a further $115 million. Read more >

The Israel Airports Authority (IAA) has released information on the establishment of a hotel at Ben Gurion Airport, which will be included as a priority area in the Encouragement of Capital Investments Law, in accordance with the decision of Israel's Ministry of Finance last October to build the ho Read more >

The David Citadel Hotel, Jerusalem has been accepted by Virtuoso, a luxury 'invitation only' travel network comprising over 1,700 partners in more than 40 countries across the globe. Read more >

The Alpaca Farm was inaugurated in Mitzpe Ramon by a young couple who came across alpacas and llamas in the Andes Mountains during a trip to South America. In the 1970s they decided to transport 180 of the animals to Israel via a specially equipped airplane Read more >

The Atlas Hotels chain, which operates 15 boutique hotels

across Israel, has updated its cancellation policy. Read more >

The first southern located hotel from the TravelHotels chain is set to open in spring 2018, joining five other hotels in the portfolio, all of which are located in the Galilee, in Israel’s North. Read more >

Caesar Premier Hotels, which owns and manages properties in Jerusalem, Tiberias and Eilat, is to invest NIS 15 million over the next 2.5 to three years in upgrading its three hotels, reports the chain’s General Manager Israel Hayat. Read more >

From August 1, the Holiday Inn Ashkelon Hotel will rebrand

to the Harlington Hotel. Read more >

Following renovations across Club InterContinental rooms and the 25th floor Presidential Suite last year Read more >

Located on Moshav Liman in the Western Galilee, a short ride north of Nahayria, sits Maskit Boutique, an intimate hotel set within a private estate. The owners, husband and wife duo Avi and Sarit Maskit, opened the hotel in 2006 on a perfectly manicured plot of land, surrounded by landscaped gardens and two lively horses. Read more >

Medi Terre Hotel is a recently opened upscale property located on the shorefront of Netanya. The owners of the privately owned hotel spent three years on a renovation project to transform seven of 30 floors in an apartment block into a 60-room property. Read more >

Orchid Hotels has added Milos Dead Sea to its expanding portfolio of accommodations in Israel. In development this year, and slated to open in November, the new hotel is described by Director for Orchid Hotels and Jordache Group, Israel Ran Balbus as a “resort by the beach.” Read more >

Located on the Mediterranean Sea front at the foot of Mount Carmel, 20km north of Caesarea, sits a vacation retreat void of rowdy crowds and disturbances. Read more >

Last June, the Carlton Tel Aviv completed a series of ongoing renovations Read more >

The owners of the Inbal Hotel Jerusalem, which opened 35 years ago, have invested 20 million dollars into extending and renovating the property. Read more >

The Herbert Samuel Hotel, a property of Nakash Group Israel, opened its doors in the summer of 2016. The building, previously a hotel which had lain abandoned for eight years, underwent a two year renovation to re-open as a luxury hotel encompassing a European Style. Read more >

Built in 1866 in the grand Ottoman style, the property is part of the Leading Hotels of the World collection. Read more >

The Daniel Hotel Herzliya, one of six properties in the Tamares Hotels Israel chain, has completed an 18-month project to inaugurate 38 newly constructed rooms built onto the back of the existing hotel. Read more >

The Nordoy, the second hotel in a collection that also includes the Cucu Hotel in central Tel Aviv, has reopened its doors under new management. Read more >

Prima Millennium, the 14th property to join the Prima Hotels portfolio, has opened in Ra’anana, south of Israel’s Sharon Plain district. The hotel has 140 rooms across five categories of Classic, Executive, Deluxe, Premium and Premium Room with Balcony. Read more >

The hotel joins a unique class of properties in Israel designated as members of the Leading Hotels of the World organization. Read more >

Malka Hotel Opens

A new 22 room hotel has opened in Jerusalem on Heleni-ha Malka St. “It was a place once frequented by Russian pilgrims around 130 years ago, in search of gifts,” says its owner, hotel General Manager Yoram Malka, who purchased the property four years ago. Read more >

One of 14 hotels in the Prima Hotels chain, the Prima Tel Aviv Hotel, located close to Frishman Beach, has completed a one-year renovation project. Read more >

Renovations have taken place across 204 rooms and suites, to the luxury floors in the Queen of Sheba Hotel, Eilat. Read more >

The Seven Arches Hotel in Jerusalem has been awarded a 4-Star rating from the Israel Ministry of Tourism. Read more >

Hamat Gader, a recreation and spa site located in the north of Israel and overlooking the Sea of Galilee, has completed the construction of its tent village, which features 60 white tents that can each accommodate up to five people. Read more >

The Herbert Samuel Hotel Jerusalem received a 5 Star rating from the Israel Ministry of Tourism's hotel rankings. Read more >

Following four years of planning and construction, The Vista Tiberias, a Four-Star Deluxe hotel at the Sea of Galilee, is set to open next year. Read more >

La Capella, the third property in the Urban Collection Haifa portfolio of hotels alongside The Schumacher and G38, has opened. Read more >

The Sheraton Tel Aviv has completed renovations across a selection of rooms, public areas, and meeting spaces. Two floors containing Club rooms recently underwent an overhaul to introduce new furniture, furnishings and bathrooms. Read more >

Villa Brown Jerusalem, the fourth property in Israel to join the Brown Hotels portfolio, has opened. Located a short distance from Jerusalem’s Old City, the boutique hotel offers 24 rooms across classic (15-18m²), deluxe and deluxe terrace (22m²), and terrace (35m²) categories. Two connectable attic rooms are available on the top floor, in addition to a suite with a Jacuzzi. Read more >

The Setai in Israel

The Setai, Sea of Galilee is due to open May 30, featuring 88 suites and 22 rooms, averaging 55m². “We are expanding the Setai brand out with The Setai Miami, a hotel known for its luxury offerings, and have invested hundreds of millions of shekels into our latest properties to introduce the brand to Israel,” says CEO of Orchid Hotels, Avi Hormaro. Setai, Sea of Galilee rooms feature a king size bed, living room, balcony, shower and bathtub, with 50 percent offering panoramic sea views and the other half mountain views of the Golan Heights. Read more >

Hotel Management Company Leshem Group, which develops properties across Israel and abroad, has opened three new hotels: Ramada Resort Hadera; Tryp Jerusalem Bat Sheva, and Ramada Olive Nazareth. Read more >

The Drisco to Open

The Drisco, a new independently managed hotel situated in Tel Aviv’s American Colony on Auerbach St, is to open in late 2017. Read more >

Kibbutz Lavi Hotel

Kibbutz Lavi Hotel, located in the Kibbutz Lavi Village close to Tiberias, has completed a full-scale renovation to 60 rooms, including a number of suites, in the Hod Wing. Read more >

Breakfast at 65 Hotel and Market House

Breakfast buffets are as synonymous to Israel as bread is to butter, with Middle Eastern salads, cheeses and spreads consumed in their abundance. Having feasted on more than a few Israeli breakfasts, I was intrigued as to why those offered at 65 Hotel and Market House Hotel, two Atlas Hotels properties, have grown to their status of acclaim. I had to get in line and taste for myself. Read more >

Kfar Maccabiah Hotel Reopens its Seminar Building

Kfar Maccabiah Hotel has reopened its Seminar Building, after a year of renovation works. Containing 13 rooms across three floors, the building is utilized for business conferences, company meetings and training events, and forms a section of the Convention & Events Center spaces within the hotel’s grounds. Each room is equipped with multi-media technology, a large television screen, surround sound and smart lighting, all operated by a central control. Read more >

The new Intercontinental hotel will be built on King George St., near downtown Jerusalem, and is expected to open in 2020. Read more >

A new Boutique Hotel, the Saul, is to open next year on Tchernichovsky St. in Tel Aviv. Read more >

The Kibbutz Hotels Chain recently transferred ownership and is now managed by Gol Tours, a company selling incoming and local vacation packages to Israel. Read more >

Fattal Hotels is in the process of opening a new national reservation center in Ashdod, Read more >

The ITSS will be held in Jerusalem on October 7-9, further details can be found at www.tourismsafety.org Read more >

Ctrip, one of the largest Chinese travel wholesalers and the largest online travel agency holds about 80 percent of China's online market. Read more >

After many travel agencies raised a number of important questions and concerns, the Association of Travel Agents approached the Authority and asked it to postpone enforcement. Read more >

China was Israel's fastest growing source of tourists in 2017 with over 113,000 Chinese traveling to Israel last year. Read more >

The 24th annual IMTM, International Tourism Exhibition, will take place during February 6-7 in Pavilion 2 at the Tel Aviv Convention Center. Read more >

The Israel Ministry of Tourism, in cooperation with regional tourism associations, the Hotels Association, and the Israel Incoming Tour Operators Association, held its annual "Where Else" convention in Israel for the seventh consecutive year Read more >

The Association’s members contribute enormously to Israel and its economy, creating jobs and improving Israel’s image. Read more >

This figure is a record for the Museum due to an increase both in Israeli and international visitors. Read more >

This exhibition illustrates how Jews yearned for the Land of Israel during and immediately following the Shoah in the years 1933-1948. Read more >

The museum presents Israel’s national treasures of nature, selected from a scientific collection of five and a half million items. Read more >

The Tower of David Museum in Jerusalem is launching a new multimedia exhibit - the "King David Night Experience." Read more >

Because of the scroll’s extreme fragility, the Israel Museum’s conservation team has mounted a unique exhibition using specially sealed construction developed in Israel, allowing total control of exposure to temperature and humidity. Read more >

A museum and visitors center, dedicated to the memory of Albert Einstein, is to open at the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, at a cost of approximately $5 million, supplied mainly from donors Read more >

Kikar Hamusica (Music Square) recently opened to visitors Yoel Salomon St. in Jerusalem. Through the combined vision of French project creator Laurent Levy and museum director Eldad Levy, (the two are not related), to “unite all through music,” the 700m² project is advancing in its development Read more >

Audio tours have been introduced in the permanent exhibition at the Nachum Gutman Museum, located in Neve Tzedek, Tel Aviv. Read more >

Construction has commenced on the Shelby White and Leon Levy Lod Mosaic Archaeological Center, located in the north-east of Lod, in close proximity to Ben Gurion Airport. Read more >

Armageddon is a popular site for the busloads of tourists visiting the sites of the Holy Land. Read more >

The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) has undertaken a project to bring together and display a collection of two million archaeological objects, including 15,000 Dead Sea Scrolls, in the Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein National Campus for the Archaeology of Israel. Read more >

Located close to the entrance to Beit Shemesh, a short drive from Jerusalem, the Biblical Museum of Natural History opened recently. Read more >

Visitors can experience wine tasting from Israel’s leading wineries in the unique atmosphere of the Art Garden, accompanied by live music. Read more >

The Municipality of Tel Aviv-Yafo, with support from the Israel Ministry of Tourism, will launch the Independence Trail on Rothschild Blvd., next April, to coincide with 70 years of Israel's independence. Read more >

Israel is clearly a great place to visit as airlines expand routes to the Holy Land and to which tourism numbers from last year are testament. Read more >

TLV360 was founded by Ishay Gabinet in 2009, to offer guided cycling tours around Tel Aviv. Read more >

Heavenly International Tours has been operating for over 32 years. The company was founded by Elisha Ben-Yitzhak, an Israeli artist and former employee of the Israeli Ministry of Tourism, who followed his vision to send American tourists to Israel and other destinations. Read more >

Buster's Beverage Company is a family run business located in Beit Shemesh, a region situated around 30km west of Jerusalem. Read more >

Gilad Suffrin, who previously served as a police officer before training to become a tour guide, transitioned into working as a private independent guide in 2000 after completing a course with the Israel Ministry of Tourism. Read more >

Israel By Foot is a unique website offering a wealth of information for tourists in Israel. Read more >

Culinary tourism company Yalla Basta launched in 2012, operating a number of websites dedicated to markets across Israel. Read more >

Video Kayaking Experience in the Upper Galilee

The HaGoshrim Kayaks site, located at Kibbutz HaGoshrim by the Hasbani River, has introduced the SpotOn app, which allows visitors to record their kayaking experience along one of two routes: the 5km family path, and a 6km trail with waterfalls. Read more >

Christian and Jewish travel tour company Kenes Tours, in collaboration with the Center for Jewish Christian Understanding and Cooperation, has launched its “’Women of Valor’ – A Journey in the Footsteps of the Biblical Women” tour, which for the first time brought a group of Christian female pastors and wives of pastors together for a program crafted exclusively for women. Read more >

Boutique fashion tour company TLVstyle, founded by entrepreneur and fashion-content expert Galit Reismann, provides high-end tailor made tours in Tel Aviv. Read more >

An evening presentation entitled “Hallelujah,” depicting the story of the rebuilding of the ancient city, has been launched at the ancient City of David in Jerusalem. Read more >

Established in 1981; Mazada Tours is a travel agency and tour operator for the incoming market to Israel, Jordan and Egypt, offering a range of tour options that includes pre-made, tailor made, luxury and VIP. Read more >

Following the visit of President Donald Trump to Israel last month, Ophir Tours has launched a new package tour for visitors Read more >

The Marie of Nazareth International Center, which, among other attractions, houses an archaeological site, Read more >

Kfar Blum Kayaks, an attraction site that has been operating for 30 years on Kibbutz Kfar Blum in the Upper Galilee, has launched a new sailing route. Read more >

Tailor-made tour company Touring Israel was set up in 2003 by American-born Israeli Joe Yudin, who immigrated to the country 25 years ago. “I believe that a happy tour guide is a happy tourist, and my main goal is not centered on maximizing profits,” says Yudin. Read more >

Israeli Chef Uri Jeremias has launched private guided culinary tours in Acre’s Old City, Read more >

Rediscovering a City with Haifa Street Food Tours

On my last visit to Haifa back in 2014, I spent the day touring the Baha’i Gardens and wandering the streets of the Carmel neighborhood, but I have since discovered that the city has plenty more to offer in its repertoire. Read more >

WalkInnIsrael, a self-guided hiking tour company founded by authorized Tour Guide Alon Galin, offers a portfolio of pre-made walking trails across regions of Israel. Read more >

Foreign tourists spent a record 5.94 million nights at Israeli hotels during the first half of 2018. Read more >

The Israel Ministry of Tourism is expanding its activities at Ben-Gurion Airport and has placed a new welcome desk for incoming tourists. Read more >

Ross Belfer, founder of Xhibition PR and Eager Tourist, recommends checking out Israel's northern Mediterranean coast. Read more >

Tourism stats are spiking ever higher and this means Israel needs to up its game to accommodate the crowds. Read more >

Both possess many years of experience in hotel management. Read more >

Israel performed well on this year’s list, with Jerusalem ranking at #3 and Tel Aviv at #4. Read more >

There's plenty to eat and to buy in Jaffa. But one of the best things to do there is simply wander and take in the contrasts. Read more >

Yael has extensive experience working with government ministries, the Knesset and various authorities. Read more >

Each year, those who work in Israel's tourism industry gather to raise a toast for the Jewish New Year. Read more >

Israel simply doesn't have enough real estate and needs an out-of-the-box solution. Read more >

Ayalon Institute Museum, next to Rehovot Science Park, was once a secret ammunition factory concealed as part of a kibbutz during the British rule in the 1940s. Read more >

This amazing city has become a special destination for those seeking something more than just quiet days at the beach. Read more >

The Annual conference of the Israel Association of Travel Agencies & Consultants (ITTAA) took place on 28 November in the LAGO complex in Rishon LeZion. Read more >

The Ministry of Tourism and the Israel Lands Authority (ILA) have announced the publication of a tender to lease three plots for hotel and commercial purposes in the Ir Yamim neighborhood of Ashkelon. Read more >

Thousands of tourists are expected to visit Israel for next year's contest. Read more >

The Municipality of Tel Aviv has launched a new car sharing service in Tel Aviv, powered by Car2Go, which allows users to temporarily secure a vehicle via a mobile app. Read more >

Sharon Alon has been appointed CEO of the Crowne Plaza Hotels Israel chain, where he will manage its operations. Read more >

Wintery Jerusalem is a unique, warm, cozy and attractive city with lots to do. Read more >

Joining the WTA opens Israel's doors to cooperation in the East and in China in particular. Read more >

There was a 10% increase in tourist entries in August 2018 as compared to 2017. Read more >

Israel has one of the most exciting dining scenes in the world. Read more >

Gonen Usishkin will succeed David Maimon as chief executive officer on February 15th Read more >

70,000 tourists came to Eilat on direct flights last winter. The Tourism Ministry expects 280,000 this winter.

Read more >

The airport is expected to open to the public during the coming winter. Read more >

Jerusalem City Pass holders also get free inner-city public transportation, including buses and light rail, for a whole week. Read more >

The Ministry of Environmental Protected has introduced a new electric car-sharing scheme in Haifa, a project launched alongside the Jewish Nation Fund (KKL-JNF), in collaboration with Car2Go. Read more >

The 24th IMTM (International Mediterranean Tourism Market) on 6-7 February 2018, will take place for the second year in a row in Pavilion #2 at Israel Trade Fairs & Convention Center in Tel Aviv which spans 6,000m². Read more >

Israel marked the arrival of its three millionth tourist to the country this year, on the morning of Tuesday November 7, with a ceremony at Ben Gurion Airport. Read more >

The superstars of the travel industry were recently recognized by the American Society of Travel Advisors. Read more >

The Jerusalem Development Authority is launching a tourist card which will provide benefits to those visiting a selection of sites in Jerusalem, in addition to receiving free public transport in the city. Read more >

The Jerusalem Season of Culture Festival is an innovative art initiative taking place in the Holy City for a month. Read more >

Israeli startup Vortex Energy has developed software to reduce operational costs for hotels by up to 20% Read more >

According to the Central Bureau of Statistics, around 335,900 tourists entered Israel during the month of November. Read more >

Abraham Tours, founded in 2010, was rebranded from its original name of Indie Travelers - a travel and touring company established for FIT travelers. Read more >

The Zman Amiti Bartending School, which has locations across Israel, offers a two-hour class in Tel Aviv, where participants learn how to pour, mix and shake cocktails. Read more >

TEL AVIV ON...

independent.co.uk

An article entitled "How Tel Aviv became the Vegan Capital of the World" appeared on the digital edition of British newspaper The Independent. Read more >

Tel Aviv is one of the 10 cities in Europe whose rate of tourism rose most substantially last year, according to Mastercard. Read more >

The Atarim Corporation, which is 50 percent owned by the Municipality of Tel Aviv-Jaffa, is continuing work on the development of the Tel Aviv promenade. Read more >

An update from Israel Ministry of Tourism CMO Marketing Administration, Hilit Megged Bergbaum, on international campaigns, marketing initiatives and the next phase of promoting Israeli cities abroad. Read more >

The Jerusalem Development Authority (JDA) has collaborated with Thomas Cook to promote Jerusalem as a tourist destination, in a campaign rolled out across Europe. Read more >

In June alone, 310,200 tourists entered Israel - an increase of about 2% compared with June of last year. Read more >

Israel's government has approved the construction of the Trans-Israel Trail, a tourism trail that will span throughout the country. Read more >

A number of organizations in the Israel tourism industry exhibited at the 37th WTM in London, which took place on 6-8 November 2017. The inauguration of the Israel Pavilion, spanning 400m², was attended by Israel Ministry of Tourism Director General, Amir Halevi, Israel's Ambassador to Britain, Mark Regev, and Director of the IGTO, UK & Ireland, Sharon Ehrlich Bershadsky. Read more >

Recent figures published by The Economic Department of the Israel Hotels Association have revealed a rise in the number of average tourist person-nights in Israel. Read more >

Ronen Nissenbaum has been appointed as CEO of Dan Hotels from January, as voted by from the company’s Board of Directors, replacing Rafi Sadeh. Read more >

Israel has changed its visa application process for tourists visiting from India and the subcontinent. Read more >

"The good news is that Tel Aviv is more than halfway to where it needs to be in terms of hotel industry growth." Read more >

Israel's richness transcends beyond its eventful history, with an evolving catalogue of captivating architecture, outstanding culinary, thriving micro-cultures, high tech centers and agricultural wonders. Read more >

Tel Aviv Bars on Standard.co.uk

London's tabloid newspaper Evening Standard has featured an online article entitled "7 of the best bars in Tel Aviv off the beaten track." Read more >

According to the monthly report on Ben Gurion Airport from the Israel Airports Authority, September 2017 recorded over 2.5 million passengers passing through the airport. Read more >

At a ceremony in Athens, World Travel Awards chose the David Intercontinental as the best hotel in Israel. Read more >

Work has commenced to build an elevator on the city's southern promenade, by Island Suites Hotel and Ramada Netanya Hotels & Suites, reaching a height of 33 meters. Read more >

Ein Ofarim, a new nature reserve in the Arava region, is to be constructed spanning approximately 6,900 acres of land and located next to Moshav Idan in Central Arava. Read more >

Israel's official cocktail festival celebrates four years of creativity. Read more >

Recent excavations by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) have revealed, for the first time in 1,700 years, eight preserved stone courses under eight meters of soil at the Northeast corner of the Western Wall. Read more >

Giro d'Italia, the world's second largest bike race after the Tour de France, will commence its 101st race in Jerusalem next year, marking the first time it has started outside of Europe. Read more >

According to the Central Bureau of Statistics, 254,800 tourists entered Israel in August Read more >

A new seafront project in Haifa, initially approved by Israel's National Planning and Building Council last year, has received final approval from the government's Housing Cabinet. Read more >

The Israel Incoming Tour Operators Association (IITOA) has announced an estimated 30 percent increase on the number of tourists entering Israel this year Read more >

This is just one of many indicators that point to growing interest in Israel abroad. Read more >

The new complex is expected to open at the end of 2018 in Terminal 1. Read more >

A project to construct a tourist cable car, connecting the Upper Nazareth to the lower slopes of Tabor, has been approved by the Israeli government Read more >

Israel's new high-speed train between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is expected to cut travel time in half - to just 28 minutes! Read more >

Beit Kandinof, a new space combining art, classes, events and dining, has opened on Hazorfim St. in Jaffa, in a 17th century structure comprising what was once three independent buildings Read more >

Gonen Usishkin has been named as the new incoming CEO of El Al, replacing David Maimon. Read more >

Fattal has appointed Chen Bruner CEO of the Leonardo Plaza Hotel in Jerusalem. Read more >

Rafi Weiner, CEO of the Tamares hotel chain, has announced his resignation. Read more >

The new high-speed train connecting Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in 28 minutes has completed its first test run. Read more >

CNN has ranked hummus as the number one food on its roundup of "…20 of our favorite Middle Eastern dishes," as voted by restaurant owners and food experts. Read more >

Ramat Hanadiv is a nature site located between Zikhron Ya'akov and Binyamina, dedicated in memory of Baron Edmond de Rothschild, who played a role in the establishment of the State of Israel. Read more >

The Municipality of Beit Shemesh has announced the final plans for construction of Yarmuth Park, to commence within the year. Stage one, costing a reported ILS 30 million (approximately $8.4 million) Read more >

David Maimon, CEO of El Al since 2014, will step down after an overall successful reign at the helm of Israel's national airline. Read more >

The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), an organization working to prevent light pollution and protecting the night skies, has named the Ramon Crater Nature Reserve as the latest International Dark Sky Park, the first destination to be recognized in the Middle East. Read more >

The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) recently discovered a 1,600-year-old winepress, located in the Negev, unearthed in a stone building dating back to the fourth century, the start of the Byzantine period. According to a press release from the IAA, the region is known for its agricultural conditions and once housed vineyards that produced and exported local wine. Read more >

Tour operator Central Holidays has created a new brochure focusing on the top ten destinations and Israel is included. Read more >

The “Park of Wonders” is expected to have a similar layout to Disney’s Magic Kingdom in Florida, but with Jewish and Israeli themes. Read more >

The Kokia House Visitors Center, located on HaNevi'im Street in central Jerusalem, opened its doors in December of last year. Read more >

Jerusalem is unique in so many ways and clearly tourists have discovered this as well. Read more >

David Bernas has joined the Crowne Plaza Eilat as general manager, moving from the Crowne Plaza Dead Sea where he also served as general manager during the last five years. Read more >

Tel Aviv has been featured on Travel + Leisure's: 'The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2018' list, as voted by travel experts. Read more >

The Israel Central Bureau of Statistics has recorded 271,000 tourist entries during July 2017, a 17 percent increase compared to July last year. Air entries accounted for 246,000 of this figure. Read more >

Israel is one of the safest places to vacation and, slowly, the global tourism industry is beginning to catch on. Hopefully, more articles like this will appear in many more publications. Read more >

The Israel Finance Committee has approved a request by the Israel Ministry of Finance to transfer the 2016 surplus of ILS 164 million (around $46 million) Read more >

In recent years, the Tel Aviv municipality has taken a number of steps to become eco-friendlier. Read more >

Betzavta (Hebrew for 'together') is a new dining concept launched earlies this year by co-founders Niv Saar and Ori Pearl, with a focus on bringing tourists and locals together. Read more >

While Jerusalem is often viewed as a city for sightseeing and important to the three major religions, Condé Nast has taken the initiative and changed the focus to dining in the Holy City. Read more >

An 800 year old tunnel has been discovered in Tiberias by the Israel Antiquities Authority, thought to have once served as an escape route between a Crusader fortress in Tiberias and the Sea of Galilee. Read more >

Tel Aviv doesn’t always make the list of de facto design-forward destinations—which is why the city is guaranteed to surprise you. Read more >

The Israel Airports Authority (IAA) has put forward a tender for the building of a structure which will manage additional numbers of people departing the airport. Read more >

Fattal Hotels has launched a culinary venture entitled: “Fattal Market,” serving an Israeli style market breakfast twice a week in its Eilat hotels Read more >

Listed as well by Lonely Planet as the "vegan nation", Israel has the most number of vegans per capita. And this makes Tel Aviv a "heaven for the herbivores." Read more >

The Hadar Market food fair has opened in Hadar Mall, Jerusalem. Read more >

A growing number of tourists from India have shown interest in coming to Israel and touring its sites and cities. Read more >

The most visited spots include Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, the Dead Sea, Tiberias and the Sea of Galilee area. Read more >

Founded in the 1920s, the Tel Aviv Convention Center has resided at its permanent location on Rokach Blvd., since the 1960s, where it stands surrounded by ornamental gardens Read more >

Tzippor Birdwatching Center has opened in Rosh Tzippor Park in Ganei Yehoshua (Yarkon Park), a natural green

lung of Tel Aviv. Read more >

The popular magazine has included the presidential suite in the David Citadel hotel in Jerusalem among the top 16 in the world. Read more >

Based on figures by Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics, the month of June 2017 has seen 303,000 visitors entering the country. Read more >

A total of 250 tourism professionals participated at the international business forum in Russia, arranged by the Israel

Ministry of Tourism across two cities – Saint-Petersburg on June 6 and Moscow on June 8. Read more >

Israel expects to welcome 4 million visitors in 2018, and it is growing to meet the demand. Read more >

From the very North to the most southern point of Israel, visitors have a wide selection of accommodation options, some of which hold particular uniqueness to the country: hotels, boutique hotels, B&Bs, hostels, apartment rentals, camping grounds, cabins, kibbutzim (village settlements) and more. Read more >

A number of trends have recently emerged in the shaping and development of Tel Aviv’s catalogue of tourism Read more >

"This a result of the marketing activities and the innovative steps we are taking, together with the incentives for airlines and investment in infrastructure." Read more >

More than 400 participants attended the annual convention of the Incoming Tour Operators Association held at the Tel Aviv Hilton on July 31. Read more >

The Israel Tourism Ministry has announced the launch of #PopUpOasis, a social media competition that offers the winner a custom-made glamping experience in Israel’s Negev desert. Read more >

Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon has signed a declaration designating five new national parks and nature reserves in Israel. Read more >

Experience Jerusalem

The Jerusalem Development Authority (JDA) is launching a new cities break product targeting millennials, from the end of May. “When we say ‘millennials,’ we refer to those born between 1980 and 2000, a younger generation who experienced the developments of new media in its infancy,” says Director of Incoming Tourism & International Relations for the JDA Eli Nahmias. “This segment is what we refer to as a global generation. They are well connected through digital means and seek a different travel experience from their counterparts.” Read more >

Hotels in Israel consistently rank among the top hotels around the world. Read more >

The Agamon Hula Lake Nature Park, which forms part of Israel's eco-tourism network, rests within the Upper Galilee's agricultural region at Hula Valley and is one of the country's most populated bird-watching sites. Read more >

A 300-meter stretch of shoreline located south of Eilat’s pier has transferred ownership from the Eilat Ashkelon Pipeline Company (EAPC) to the Municipality of Eilat. Read more >

Two water parks scheduled for inauguration in Eilat over the next two to four years, are being developed. Read more >

Condé Nast Traveller (UK) Hot List 2017

The UK edition of Condé Nast Traveller has included the Poli House Hotel on its Hot List 2017, announced in June and appearing in the publication’s July/August edition. The list features a number of “top hotel openings” as rated by the magazine. Read more >

Bezalel Hotel in Wallpaper

The Bezalel Hotel, Jerusalem, has been featured in lifestyle magazine Wallpaper, citing that it “…pays homage to the city’s local design and Israel’s artistic past and present.” Read more >

The Knesset (Israel’s Parliament) has approved the construction of a cable car tourism project to the Western Wall Read more >

During May 18-24, the Israel Ministry of Tourism hosted three German-speaking travel trade journalists in Israel Read more >

May has seen an increase of almost 17 percent in the number of tourists visiting Israel compared to the same month last year. Read more >

The first conference of the Israel Association of Travel Agencies & Consultants for Incoming Tourism Read more >

Located northwards of Tiberias in the Upper Galilee, the city is hailed as the center of Kabbalah and offers much to its thousands of annual visitors in terms of ancient sites, spiritual teachings and sprawling nature. Whilst living in Israel, I have heard much chatter of Safed’s holiness, and, like many others, have grown intrigued as to its supposed spiritual offerings. Read more >

A new premium check-in service station has been introduced at Ben Gurion Airport on the ground floor (G) of Terminal 3, for passengers traveling on El Al Arkia, Israir, Turkish Airline and SWISS, with more airlines to be introduced. Read more >

As reported in ITN #384, the Atarim Corporation, which is 50 percent owned by the Municipality of Tel Aviv-Jaffa Read more >

Mishlohof is an on-demand app providing deliveries to Tel Aviv beaches. Upon loading the app, users are asked to select their desired products, register via email or Facebook and pay with credit card, Paypal or cash, and click the “Find Me” button on the final screen, to allow couriers to pinpoint your location. Read more >

Israel’s 70th anniversary of the establishment of the Jewish state begins on April 18 with "70 Hours of Celebrations" Read more >

In the first two months of 2018, approximately 566,000 tourists entered Israel - an increase of 25% compared to the same period last year. Read more >