Israel

Tipping

• Restaurants: Tipping is customary, usually 10
• 15% if service charge is not included
• Taxis: No obligation to tip, but rounding up the fare is common
• Tour guides: Tipping is appreciated, amounts vary based on the length and quality of the tour
• Hotel staff: Small tips are common for bellhops and housekeepers

Money & Payments

• ATMs are widely available, especially in urban areas
• Credit cards are widely accepted
• It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or markets
• No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

• Dress code: While generally liberal, modest dress is appreciated in religious neighborhoods and sites
• Public behavior: Public displays of affection are generally accepted, but keep noise levels down in residential areas, especially on Shabbat
• Eating customs: In kosher establishments, meat and dairy are not served together
• It's polite to accept offers of food and drink, even if just a small amount

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Israel is considered one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the Middle East. While same-sex marriage is not performed in Israel, same-sex marriages performed abroad are recognized. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited by law.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

• Legal drinking age is 18
• Drug laws are strict; possession, sale, and use of even small amounts of cannabis can result in severe penalties
• Personal use of cannabis has been decriminalized, but public consumption is still illegal

Special Laws

• Observe Shabbat: Many businesses close from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening
• Public transportation is also limited
• Be mindful of religious sites: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered for both men and women)
• Security awareness: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in public places, and cooperate with security checks