№ 401 〉 December 2017

ITNSince 1979 ISRAEL TRAVEL NEWS Israel welcomes its three millionth tourist

Albert Einstein TLV360 Bicycle WTM 2017 Museum to Tours Recap Open in Jerusalem

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Orchid Tel Aviv Renovations WTM 2017 Recap Across rooms and public spaces Overview of the event 6 Aviation New Hotels in Haifa Trans-Israel Trail Approved Air Transat Expands Montreal Three new properties to open New trail to be introduced in Flights Israel Third flight added to summer First Six Senses in Israel schedule Overlooking the Edom Mountains Israel Welcomes its Three Millionth Tourist AtlasGlobal Istanbul Ataturk Fattal Hotels Chain Expands in Eilat Arrived on Wizz Air flight from to Tel Aviv Bucharest Direct flight launched Fourth tower at Herods Palace complex Car Sharing in Israel Brussels Airlines Increases Temporary vehicle services Flight Frequency 18 Spotlight Three weekly flights in summer Alternative Activities Tel Aviv A Day in Rehovot Experiences across the city LATAM Airlines Flights From What to do and where to stay South America Flights to commence from 20 Museums Santiago Cover image: Courtesy of the Israel Museum at Ammunition Hill Ministry of Tourism. Delta Comfort on New York to Opens Tel Aviv Route www.new.goisrael.com. Exhibition on the Six-Day War Credit: Dana Friedlander Passengers can now purchase upgraded ticket Tower of David Museum Launches New Exhibition Allenby at the Gates of Jerusalem 8 Awards & Mentions Since 1979 Lod Mosaic Archaeology 11 Gush Etzion St., 12 Hotels Center Givat Shmuel 5403011, Israel The Vera to Open Tel Aviv Opening in 2019 Tel: 972-3-5251646 New boutique hotel Albert Einstein Museum in Fax: 972-3-5251605 Jerusalem offi[email protected] | www.itn.co.il Additional Hotel Rooms in Founded by: Amos Kinamon (1925-1994) At the Hebrew University Eilat Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Eyal Shmueli Over one thousand rooms to be 23 Tours Managing Director: Tal Shmueli added Editor: Leoni Jesner New Hotel in Mount Gilboa Independence Trail Launching Graphic Designer: Magat From the Olive Hotel chain in 2018 Layout: A.N. Computer Services To mark 70 years of Israel’s Marketing Manager: Yuval Nevo independence Worldwide Circulation TLV360 Launches New Pick-Up Canada 800 Service Europe 4,000 Cycling tours in Tel Aviv Israel 1,300 United Kingdom 650 25 Updates United States 9,800 Rest of World 2,700 Beach Renovations Continue Total 19,250 in Tel Aviv Estimated readership 67,000 : The Vera - a new hotel in Page 12 Work continues on the Digital copies - 35,000 distributed Tel Aviv promenade throughout the world

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Air Transat Expands Montreal Flights LATAM AIRLINES FLIGHTS FROM SOUTH AMERICA

Air Transat, which operated two weekly direct flights from Montreal to Tel Aviv between June and October of this year, Chilean-based airline LATAM Airlines will commence flights is adding a third flight to its summer schedule next year. The between the region and Israel in 2018. Three weekly flights will airline will offer the route from May until the end of summer depart from Santiago to Tel Aviv, with a stopover in Sao Paula, on Mondays and Thursdays, with the third flight launching Brazil. No direct flights currently exists between South America from June 20 on Wednesdays. and Israel.

AtlasGlobal Istanbul Ataturk to Tel Aviv Delta Comfort - New York to Tel Aviv Turkish airline AtlasGlobal has launched a direct flight from Istanbul Ataturk to Tel Aviv, which began with four flights a week and recently increased its frequency with six weekly flights.

Brussels Airlines Increases Flight Frequency

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. The economy class upgrade offers: pre-reserved baggage storage areas above designated seats, larger space Brussels Airlines is adding three weekly flights to its Brussels between seats, an eye mask, noise cancelling earphones and a to Tel Aviv route, commencing July 2018 until September dental kit, as well as meals and drinks. Delta Comfort seats can 2018. The additional service will increase the number of be purchased on Delta’s website, the FlyDelta app, the Delta direct flights between the two countries to 17 weekly. reservations department and through travel agents.

6 • www.itn.co.il

AWARDS MENTIONS&

TEL AVIV ON… independent.co.uk rd.com An article entitled “How Tel Aviv became the Vegan Capital Tel Aviv has appeared on the digital edition of Reader’s Digest, of the World” appeared on the digital edition of British in an article on the top travel destinations for fall. The piece newspaper The Independent. The piece mentions vegetarian/ includes the city’s Bauhaus buildings, The Eretz Israel Museum vegan eateries Meshek Barzilay, Café Kaymak, Abu Hassan, and Beit Hatfutsot: Museum of the Jewish People, and Nanuchka, Orna and Ella, and Bana. It also cites that, with a properties Rothschild 71 and Cucu Hotel. population of eight million, Israel is the “largest vegan nation, per capita, in the world” and also notes the Israel Ministry of ibtimes.co.uk Tourism’s efforts to promote Israel as a “vegan nation.” The British edition of the International Business Times posted an article outlining “The five best cities for LGBT travellers.” Tel Aviv appeared on the list for its nightlife, Pride week and “… favourite gay hangout Hilton Beach.”

forbes.com Business, lifestyle and technology title Forbes has featured an article on eight trending locations for fall and winter travel. The findings were based on data from American Express’ internal bookings for the fall season, with Tel Aviv appearing second on the list and with a 148 percent increase on bookings from last year. The piece cites the city’s Bauhaus buildings, art galleries, museums, restaurants, local hummus eateries as its “major draw” and also identifies the gay scene as the “best in the Meshek Barzilay Middle East.” Xposé.ie Irish entertainment, lifestyle and beauty title, Xposé, has Lonely Planet’s The Cities Book featured Tel Aviv on its list of the “5 best places to travel as a Lonely Planet’s second edition of ‘The Cities Book’ has included vegan that you might not expect,” mentioning restaurants: Tel Aviv in its “Best for LGBT-friendly” travel section. Anastasia, The Green Cat and Zakaim. Image courtesy of the Israel Ministry of Tourism: Image courtesy of the Israel Ministry Tourism: Guy Yechiely Credit: www.new.goisrael.com. Zakaim Pride Parade in Tel Aviv

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Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards Israeli Cities on 100 Most Toured List Image courtesy of the Israel Ministry of Tourism: Image courtesy of the Israel Ministry Tourism: Noam Chen Credit: www.new.goisrael.com.

Jerusalem has appeared on Condé Nast Traveler’s best cities in Image courtesy of the Israel Ministry Tourism: Guy Yechiely Credit: www.new.goisrael.com. the world list, as voted by readers of the lifestyle magazine, as part of the Reader’s Choice Awards. In addition, the Waldorf In a report published by Euromonitor International, Astoria placed number seven out of the top ten hotels in the Jerusalem placed number 67 and Tel Aviv number 78 out Middle East. of the top 100 most toured cities in the world. The survey is based on tourist arrival numbers who stayed in a city for at least 24 hours. Within the Middle East and Africa Tel Aviv’s Imperial Craft Wins Award category, Jerusalem placed number eight and Tel Aviv Imperial Craft, a cocktail bar located in the Imperial Hotel, ranked ninth place. has been ranked within The World’s 50 Best Bars 2017, an annual list identifying the best international bars voted by over 500 global drinks experts. In addition, Imperial Craft TRAVEL + LEISURE INDIA’S BEST AWARDS 2017 received the “Best Bar in the Middle East” award. Israel has won the Best Heritage Destination award, for the second year running, at Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2017. Results were based upon a five month digital polling.

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THE VERA TO OPEN IN TEL AVIV A new boutique hotel, The Vera, is opening on Tel Aviv’s Dining & Amenities Lilienblum St. in early 2018. The building, previously an office A continental buffet breakfast will be provided, as well as small block from the 1950s that has been abandoned for decades, bites and a selection of wines and cocktails drinks at the bar. underwent a two year renovation to convert the space into a “Guests will have the option of a takeaway breakfast bag, hotel. “The name Vera was inspired from the aloe vera plant, including freshly baked pastries and a selection of fruit,” says which will be featured in each room. It’s one of the few species Tamari. “This will be convenient for business guests with early of plant that improves oxygen levels indoors,” explains the morning starts or those who would rather eat on the go.” The hotel’s owner and general manager, Danny Tamari. restaurant and bar can seat up to 55, with an additional 30 seats in the back yard, which will feature walls of plantation. Rooms “We are aiming to create a secret garden, where our guests The four-story property offers six categories across 38 rooms: can unwind throughout the day and evening.” Standard (15m²); Classic (16-17m²); Superior and Superior Chill (18m²), the latter of which has an in-room bathtub and a The hotel has an upper terrace, serving as a lounge space balcony; Deluxe (25m²), which has a seating area; and Garden for guests, and a rooftop, which will offer a Jacuzzi, spa room (18m²) with an outdoor garden terrace. “We took our treatments and a range of fitness classes, including yoga. “We design inspiration from nearby neighborhoods, such as the also have the Vera Spa, a room containing two treatment beds workshops in Florentin, and incorporated them into locally and the use of specially designed organic skincare products sourced furnishings seen throughout the hotel,” says Tamari. from Israeli cosmetic company Arugot.” “This includes tailor made art work, furniture and specially carved wooden banisters, which create a harmonizing contrast Marketing against a rougher design of brick and exposed walls.” The hotel foresees an incoming market of 85 percent, mainly young professionals and business guests. “We’re working Each room will contain a magazine created by Telavivian, with joint ventures and directly with companies to start the a digital platform serving as a city guide for Tel Aviv. “The sales process for next year, alongside OTAs and executing an magazine will change throughout the year and keep our international PR campaign,” outlines Tamari. “We want to guests informed of the best hotspots in town, the insider create a hotel of interaction, where guests from all over the scoop on trendy places to visit, where to shop the best fashion, globe can meet, network and make new connections.” see the more inspiring architecture and learn what’s cool about Tel Aviv,” explains Tamari.

The lobby lounge and bar Classic room

12 • www.itn.co.il ST_AdvertA4_FA_ctp.indd 1 1/14/16 9:20 PM HOTELS

ADDITIONAL HOTEL ROOMS IN EILAT New Hotel in Mount Gilboa In line with strategic urban planning in Eilat, a plan has been The Olive Hotel chain is opening a new property - Olive approved for the Dead Sea Pools project, which will add a new Mount Gilboa Hotel, in January, replacing what was quarter to the region, including 1,150 hotel rooms as well as previously a dry slopes ski area. The first stage of the housing units. opening will present 30 rooms (40m²) followed by a further 66 rooms at a later stage, available across categories of The plan, scheduled for completion in 2021, will be located in gallery and villa. Each room is named after a son of King the eastern section of the city next to the international sports Saul and offers a city facing view. Amenities include a campus, currently under construction. The development is guest swimming pool overlooking Harod Valley; an events part of a joint wider plan by the Dead Sea Company, Israel garden, and Kimmel Restaurant run by Chefs Ben Shaham Land Authority and the Engineering Administration of the and Shaul Ben-Aderet. The hotel will also provide a range of Municipality of Eilat, to increase the number of hotel rooms tours in the area. in the city by almost 7,000, in addition to introducing new tourism attractions. Orchid Tel Aviv Renovations 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. Image courtesy of the Israel Ministry of Tourism. Image courtesy of the Israel Ministry Tourism. Dafna Tal Credit: www.new.goisrael.com.

Astral Lite Hotel Astral Hotels, which operates five properties in Eilat, is building a new 400 room, two star hotel, suitable for budget travelers. Avi Horramo, CEO of the Nakash Israel Group and the Orchid The Astral Lite hotel is located opposite the Astral Palma hotel, Hotels chain, said: “Since Tel Aviv is an international business close to both Ice Mall and the Marina. This is first hotel to center with a growing number of business people arriving every be built in Eilat in over 15 years and will offer guests add on day, our main target audience is businessmen from Israel and services for an additional fee, including breakfast, use of the abroad, I have no doubt that we will soon become a leading gym, pool and parking business hotel in Tel Aviv, providing warm and personal service, as found across all Orchid hotels.”

The hotel offers a business lounge, fitness club, and free international calls from rooms and lobby, bicycle use and WiFi.

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Aaaaaaa NEW HOTELS IN HAIFA First Six Senses in Israel The Moshava Gardens hotel, owned by entrepreneur Shalom “ International hotel chain Six Senses is opening its first hotel Shitrit of real estate company Shitrit Ltd., is being built in in Israel, Six Senses Shaharut, at the end of the year on a hill the German Colony of Haifa on Ben Gurion Blvd, opposite overlooking the Edom Mountains, around 60 kilometers north the Baha’i Gardens. The 160 room property will cost 120 ILS of Eilat. A deal was signed between the chain and Arava million (around $34 million) to construct and is expected to Vineyards Ltd to open an ecological hotel within natural desert complete work in 2019. A number of the rooms will be sea terrain. facing suites, and the hotel will offer a spa, conference center and car park with 200 spaces for guests. The property has 58 rooms (some offering a private pool), across junior suites (46m²); one-bedroom villas (100m²); two-bedroom villas (150m² plus outdoor space); and a three bedroom retreat (300m²) with over 300m² of outdoor space including a seating area and private pool.

Additional Properties Furthermore, the company is building two more hotels in the city, adding a total of 500 rooms to the existing 1,400 in Haifa. The Villa Forest Hotel, located on the slopes of Carmel, will account for 84 rooms, whilst a 234 room property, established alongside Haim and Shalom Properties and Maintenance Ltd., will be located within a new 16-story residential compound Dining & Amenities on Yefe Nof St., combined with two commercial and four A restaurant will serve a buffet breakfast and other à la residential floors. carte dining options. The hotel will offer indoor and outdoor swimming pools, separate male and female saunas and Turkish Shalom Shitrit said: “We intend to build something new and Hammams. A gym, yoga studio and wellness spa - with different that will bring a fresh fragrance to the city, and will treatment rooms and the option for guests to receive lifestyle add another 160 rooms that are so needed in the city of Haifa. and nutritional advice – will also be available. In addition the If we want a leapfrog in tourism in the city, it is necessary to site has a camel farm and a desert activities center, offering build large hotels and not just small boutique hotels that have mountain biking, birdwatching, wine tours and more. The been built in recent years.” building is designed to adapt to desert climate and landscape, and will use local recyclable materials.

16 • www.itn.co.il December 2017

FATTAL HOTELS EXPANDS IN EILAT Fattal Hotels is to build its first new hotel in Eilat in 15 years, The project, run alongside partners Ontrario and Emma Hotels, with its name to be announced. Whilst a date is yet to be will feature a 13-story high rise property containing 182 rooms confirmed for commencement of construction, an investment and public spaces, across 13,000m². The new hotel will also of 140 ILS million (around $40 million) has been allocated to include a conference center and outdoor leisure complex, with build the fourth tower in the Herods Palace complex, alongside a restaurant, attractions and an area for karaoke. Herods Palace Eilat, Herods Vitalis Eilat and Herods Boutique Hotel Eilat. Other News From the Chain The Herods Tel Aviv has completed a round of renovations across the hotel. The majority of rooms have been upgraded to introduce new furniture and color scheme. The lobby lounge has been redesigned with new furniture, lighting and furnishings including a range of art works. The hotel’s Duo Spa has been renovated and expanded with new treatment rooms, a Jacuzzi, parquet flooring and seating areas. In addition, the fitness center has been relocated to a larger space with new equipment. In other news, an NYX Hotel is scheduled to open in Herzliya Simulation of the fourth tower at Herods Palace complex during 2018. ISRAEL

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Israel Travel News • 17 SPOTLIGHT

A DAY IN REHOVOT What To Do Eran Shamir Village Museum in Mazkeret Batya was Ayalon Institute Museum, next to Rehovot Science Park, founded in 1987 as a site portraying the story of the Mazkeret was once a secret ammunition factory concealed as part of Batya region and the architectural heritage of the area. The a kibbutz during the British rule in the 1940s. The factory museum provides a short film, which introduces the stories produced over two million 9mm bullets between 1945 and of the founders, and displays items from the period including 1948, used for Sten submachine guns which were the weapon agricultural tools, toys, children’s books and clothing in order to of Palmach fighters. The factory was restored in the late 1980s showcase life in the village from 1883 onwards. to convert it into a museum for the public, and provides an Advanced tour and group bookings are required. audiovisual show, guided tours, and delegation house halls and rooms, and has space for events for up to 400 guests. Where To Stay Advanced tour and group bookings are required. Hapina Shel Michal Hotel, located in Mazakeret Batya, is a 10 bedroom B&B offering various accommodation types, including family units. The European style property dates back to 1883 when it was owned by the founding family of the village, and was purchased in 2000 when it transferred ownership to Michal Benachar, who runs the boutique hotel alongside her grandmother. The property was restored and renovated in coordination with the Society for Preservation of Israel Heritage Sites.

Clore Garden of Science is an interactive outdoor science museum at the Weizmann Institute of Science, with over 10,000m² of green lawns and around 80 exhibits. Displays present the laws of physics, solar energy, water power and other natural elements, and the EcoSphere, an ecologicaland educational dome shaped facility, showcases the principles of ecology. The site, which has over 60,000 annual visitors, received the 1999 Award for Innovation from the Association of Science Technology Centers, in partnership with BBH Exhibits, Inc.

Guided tours are available. “The hotel is warm and inviting, a very peaceful spot in which Rafael Center is a spa offering a range of treatments including to unwind and enjoy the surroundings,” says Benachar. “I refer massages, such as Swedish, hot stone and Thai; cosmetics to it as romantic country style lodging - a quaint boutique hotel treatments, including facials and anti-cellulite sessions; and with a clean, simple design.” A kosher Israeli style breakfast alternative medicine therapies of nutritional counselling and buffet is provided and special packages are available, including naturopathic treatments. The center also has a Turkish bath for weddings. “We welcome visitors from all over the world and a training center offering fitness classes including yoga, who enjoy the unique experience and atmosphere of the Pilates and Zumba. hotel.”

18 • www.itn.co.il New Medi Terre Boutique Hotel Created for those who value comfort, exclusivity, non-intrusive quiet service and superior quality.

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Located on Netanya’s Mediterranean shore, the hotel has been developed in accordance with current world standards to provide you with exquisite accommodation. 60 state-of-the-art guest rooms and suites have been designed with luxury furnishings and amenities to ensure an unforgettable stay. Guests can relax in our lobby lounge, where light refreshments, coffee and drinks are served. In addition, our exclusive Medi Terre Restaurant offers an outstanding menu as well as culinary masterclasses alongside world class chefs. The hotel offers a wide range of services and facilities at the highest level. Amenities available to guests are: free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, concierge services, transportation services, special accommodations for guests, two fully equipped small private offices with high speed Internet and free underground parking. There are also facilities for workshops and small events. Our multilingual staff are at your service. We look forward to welcoming you.

T: +(972)9-9737333 | F: +(972)9-9737381 | E: [email protected] | 20 Sderot Nitsa, Netanya 4226269, Israel www.mediterrehotel.com MUSEUMS

MUSEUM AT AMMUNITION HILL OPENS Tower of David Museum Launches A new museum has inaugurated at Ammunition Hill, New Exhibition Jerusalem, presenting insight from the Six-Day War, Battle of The Tower of David Museum, at Jaffa Gate, Jerusalem, is Jerusalem, in 1967. This includes information about the Israeli opening a new exhibition “A General and a Gentleman – Air Force, the Jerusalem Brigade, the Harel Brigade and the Allenby at the Gates of Jerusalem,” from December 11. The Paratroopers Brigade. The story is depicted through personal, exhibition launch marks exactly one hundred years since national and international accounts from the event across the General Edmund Allenby walked from Jaffa Gate to the Tower museum, which sprawls hundreds of meters. of David Citadel, signifying the return of Christian rule since the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem. Displays include items from the battle, such as illustrations by fighters, the prayer book of Rabbi Goren and other personal objects. The exhibition offers a 22 minute film on Jerusalem before and after the war (in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Russian and Hebrew), and also features around 40 multimedia projector displays, showing animation films, music and a new of performance of the song ‘Jerusalem of Gold.’

Public waiting for Allenby’s entrance to Jerusalem. Image: Matson Photograph Collection. Library of Congress.

The exhibition highlights events which unfolded across three Visitors are guided via an audio-visual presentation by a pre- days on the ninth, tenth and eleventh of December 1917, and reserved tour, which is available in English and Hebrew. In features the white flag of surrender, the original keys to the addition, tours can be booked, in advance, in French, Russian, city of Jerusalem, and a representation of the soldiers’ lives Spanish and Arabic. through travel journals, photo albums and personal objects. Other visuals include movies, a series of photographs, original The site also includes original trenches and bunkers, an objects, certificates, posters and artifacts from the period, some observation point over Jerusalem, an interactive light show, of which are being loaned from international museums for the a memorial site for the 66 Paratroopers Brigade, a ‘Wall of purpose of the exhibition. Honor’ paying tribute to the Jewish soldiers who fought during the war, a banquet hall for events and an auditorium for A General and a Gentleman – Allenby at the Gates of conferences and classes. Jerusalem runs until September 2018.

20 • www.itn.co.il December 2017

Lod Mosaic Archaeology Center ALBERT EINSTEIN MUSEUM IN JERUSALEM A museum and visitors center, dedicated to the memory of Construction has commenced on the Shelby White and Albert Einstein, is to open at the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Leon Levy Lod Mosaic Archaeological Center, located in the at a cost of approximately $5 million, supplied mainly from north-east of Lod, in close proximity to Ben Gurion Airport. donors. The center, which opens in 2019, is a joint collaboration between: donors Leon Levy Foundation and Shelby White, The Einstein Museum, which is to be built in the deserted the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) and the Municipality of planetarium building on the Givat Ram campus, will feature Lod. personal archives of the scientist. The project is an initiative A section of the museum will house the Lod Mosaic, a piece between the university and the Peres Center for Peace, and discovered in 1996 by Miriam Avisar of the IAA from the the location for the museum was chosen due to its accessibility Byzantine era, made from numerous panels measuring 17 by light rail, and location which will integrate into Jerusalem’s meters long and nine meters wide. Originally the floor of a Museum Row. living room in a villa, the mosaic was uncovered during an excavation of archaeological remnants in the area. It depicts illustrations including animals, plants, flowers, boats and other designs. Image credit: Arad Simon Architects and Arad Simon Architects Image credit: Urban Planners

The museum will consist over two floors built from concrete and stone, with work to commence to dig up one of the floors underneath the 500m² building. An eastern facing window will be constructed offering views onto East Jerusalem and the Knesset (Israeli parliament). The other side of the building will have a reading and studying area, and the entrance will house temporary exhibitions for public viewing, a museum shop and Image credit: Niki Davidov, Israel Antiquities Authority Niki Davidov, Image credit: Einstein’s library – a main feature of the lobby comprising a wall The mosaic was left covered until 2009 when a donor of books, to separate the public section from the archives and was found to fund its preservation, and has since been research wing. showcased in museums across cities including New York, Paris, San Francisco and Chicago. This summer, it was The Exhibition unveiled for the first time to public visitors in Israel at the Amongst other offerings, the museum will provide an Israel National Maritime Museum in Haifa, where it will insight into, and milestones of, Einstein’s life, in addition to remain until April 2018. A second mosaic was also found showcasing archives, providing a meeting room, a preservation at the villa, which which too will be showcased in the new and photography room and a conference hall. In addition, the museum. site will utilize technology throughout, including touch screen displays and projections.

Israel Travel News • 21 TOURS Independence Trail Launching in 2018 The Municipality of Tel Aviv-Jaffa, 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. he permanent attraction will feature 10 designated experience the trail,” explains Mizrachi. The options are: a historical spots connected to the topic of self-guided tour via a mobile app or tablet provided from the Tindependence in the country. information center in the middle of the trail; a classic tour with a guide; or an entertainment tour led by a guide in costume. “Tourists and visitors come to Tel Aviv for the beach, good “There will also be an option to take selfie pictures along the weather, nightlife and cuisine, and we want to extend these route and have them printed on a t-shirt as a souvenir.” offerings with something new and different as part of their visit,” says Director of Tourism at Tel Aviv Global & Tourism, Dr The physical trail will feature a gold track which is lit at night Isaac Mizrachi. “The trail builds a narrative between landmarks and can be followed 24/7 via the mobile app. Circular spots and the history of Tel Aviv and Israel, providing an informative along the trail send a signal to the tablet or mobile app to experience as to the explain the point of interest and surrounding area in further We are already birth of the State.” detail. “We will be starting the tours in English and Hebrew, promoting Independence and will expand to other languages once we have an idea of “ what international markets are interested in the trail,” says Trail as an attraction in our The 10 suggested points of interest on the trail Mizrachi. A map, available in eight languages, will also be 2018/2019 packages, both are: Akiva Aryeh Weiss provided as part of the tour. for FITs and groups. house, Shalom Meir ” Tower, The First Kiosk, Marketing Nahum Gutman Fountain, The Great Synagogue, Hagana The national project will be incorporated into the Israel Ministry Museum, Meir Dizengoff Statue, Independence Hall, Founders of Tourism’s Two Cities One Break campaign via multi-channel Monument and the Bank of Israel’s Visitors Center. advertising. “We are already promoting Independence Trail as an attraction in our 2018/2019 packages, both for FITs and “Visitors will be able select from one of three types of tour, groups.” depending on personal preference of how they wish to Image credits: DISKINPRO Image credits:

22 • www.itn.co.il

TOURS TLV360 Launches New Pick-Up Service TLV360 was founded by Ishay Gabinet in 2009, to offer guided cycling tours around Tel Aviv. “I previously worked in high-tech but decided to pursue my love of bikes and launch my own tour company, offering participants the opportunity to learn about the history, culture and vibe of Tel Aviv,” says Gabinet.

he business is run by Gabinet and his partner, who provide a selection of group and private bike tours routes Tacross the city including: A Hundred Years of Tel-Aviv; Park and Promenade; Tel-Aviv Jaffa Coast; Rabin Square and Promenade; all of which last up to two and half hours, and the All Day Tel Aviv Bike Tour, at four and a half hours. The tours introduce “Tel Aviv in such a way “We provide participants that visitors get to know with a Townie by Electra its in-depth history and USA bike, which is explore its culture and comfortable as it has atmosphere, in a healthy a geometric design and environmentally that allows for riders to friendly way. remain upright,” explains ” Gabinet. “It’s a safe way The tours are currently offered in English and Hebrew and to get around the city and fortunately Tel Aviv is mostly flat, can be tailored for special events and specific subject interest. with over 100km of biking path spread throughout.” “We always adjust to meet the requirements of each group, whether it’s providing children’s bikes and helmets, tandem Pick-Up Service bikes or catering to larger groups,” says Gabinet. “We have TLV360 recently introduced a new pick-up and drop-off service also hosted a few Chinese delegations who have brought their at hotels across the city, whereby a company guide meets own guide for translation. This is certainly an option for all participants (up to four per tour), with a trailer delivering the visitors.” bikes. “This reduces the time and inconvenience of traveling to a meeting point in Tel Aviv, and fits into individual schedules Marketing and requirements,” outlines Gabinet. “It’s the first service of its TLV360 serves a mixed international market and people of all kind in Israel and we’re proud to pioneer the concept.” ages. It also provides an additional website detailing points of interest in Tel Aviv and walking routes for independent Tours are guided along designated bike paths across Tel Aviv, travelers. “We partner with many tourist agencies, which taking visitors to various sites of significance and interest. “The allows us flexibility in sourcing additional bikes for larger tours introduce Tel Aviv in such a way that visitors get to know groups,” explains Gabinet. Bookings can be made via agents, its in-depth history and explore its culture and atmosphere, in through the website or partner organizations. “We are also a healthy and environmentally friendly way.” Pictures are taken working closely with hotels to promote our new pick-up throughout the tour and a personal gallery link is provided to service. We are very hopeful it will become a popular option for each participant to download the images. tourists in Tel Aviv.”

24 • www.itn.co.il UPDATES December 2017

Beach Renovations Continue in Tel Aviv 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. Construction has commenced across Banana and Dolphinarium beaches, in southern Tel Aviv, to continue the boardwalk, which was completed earlier this year at Jerusalem Beach. The work is due for completion by summer of 2018, will introduce an accessible promenade, seating areas, vantage points, new beach loungers, chairs, umbrellas and pay stations.

“This will complete the boardwalk project to create a more open accessible beach to the public,” says Strategy Development Director for Atarim, Suzana Kreimer. “We believe the impressive new facilities will provide an enhanced

experience to everyone visiting and residing in Tel Aviv.” Image courtesy of the Israel Ministry Tourism. Kfir Bolotin Credit: www.new.goisrael.com.

Israel Travel News • 25 UPDATES

WTM 2017 RECAP A number of organizations in the Israel tourism industry representatives across 182 countries presented at the fair, exhibited at the 37th WTM in London, which took place on which was attended by over 30,000 professionals and a further 6-8 November 2017. The inauguration of the Israel Pavilion, 3,000 media visitors. spanning 400m², was attended by Israel’s Ambassador to This year’s Israel pavilion, influenced by the Two Cities One Britain, Mark Regev, Israel Ministry of Tourism Director General, Break campaign, was designed in the style of Israeli markets, Amir Halevi, and Director of the IGTO, UK & Ireland, Sharon with a range of Middle Eastern cuisine, served by Chef Eran Ehrlich Bershadsky (pictured above from left to right.) Tibi of Bala Baya, at a street food stall. Meetings were held with Norwegian airline, Thomas Cook, digital tourism agents including lastminute.com and On The Beach, and various campaigns were inaugurated alongside tourist wholesalers. Companies were presented with information as to the commercial potential of tourism to Israel and the opportunities offered by the Israel Ministry of Tourism in bringing tourists into the country.

The inauguration of the Israel Pavilion

This year’s Israel pavilion saw the participation of hoteliers, travel agents, aviation representatives and tourism associations, and offered a range of interactive visual features, a caricature illustrator, three-dimensional virtual glasses with views of The Israel Pavilion at WTM 2017 sites around Israel, and tastes of the country. Over 5000 Trans-Israel Trail Approved Israel’s government has approved the construction of Israel’s Minister of Tourism, Yariv Levin, said: “The decision to the Trans-Israel Trail, a tourism trail that will traverse the construct a tourist trail throughout the length and breadth country. The Israel Ministry of Tourism has allocated 10 ILS of Israel is an important decision given the background of million ($2.85 million) to the project, which will showcase the all-time record breaking figures in incoming tourism, and different landscapes and cultures across Israel. The project the efforts to add tourist attractions that will benefit visitors will be headed by a team including Director General of and tourists who come to Israel. The path will expose tourists the Israel Ministry of Tourism, Amir Halevi, the Ministry for to Israel’s landscapes and sites and will bring hikers to all Development of the Negev and the Galilee, JNF-KKL and the parts of the country, including the periphery, thereby making Nature and Parks Authority. The Israel Ministry of Tourism significant economic contributions to these areas.” will submit a plan within the coming months to recommend the design of the proposed route, how infrastructure will be adapted, and accommodation options.

26 • www.itn.co.il December 2017

ISRAEL WELCOMES ITS THREE MILLIONTH TOURIST We will TARGET your tour Israel marked the arrival of its three millionth tourist to the to meet your needs! country this year, on the morning of Tuesday November 7, with a ceremony at Ben Gurion Airport. Ioana Isac, who arrived on a Wizz Air flight from Bucharest with her partner Mihai Georgescu, was met by Yariv Levin, the Tourism Minister of the Israel Ministry of Tourism, and taken on a vacation experience across Israel, including an upgrade to a hotel suite, limousine ride, helicopter tour, Dead Sea experience, a culinary tour in the Yemenite quarter, a sunset tour of the Tel Aviv promenade and a private dinner prepared by Chef Nir Tzuk at his home. During the period of January – October 2017, 63,000 tourists entered Israel from Romania, reflecting a 57 percent increase on this period in 2016. The Israel Ministry of Tourism estimates the year will end with a total of over 3.5 million tourists arriving in Israel.

We also specialize in Event and Congress Management Your Destination Management Service for: Professional Tours Christian Tours, Pilgrimages, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs etc. Pcitured from left to right: Mihai Georgescu, Tourism Minister Yariv Tailor-Made Tours for FITs and Groups Levin, Ioana Isac and Israel Ministry of Tourism Director General Corporate Incentive Programs, Family/Youth Tours Amir Halevi. Credit: Doron Barsky Airport Transfers Halevi said: “With the arrival of the three millionth tourist to Hotel Accommodation Israel, we realize that the new marketing policy led by Tourism Minister Yariv Levin and the marketing activities of the Israel Private Driver Guides Ministry of Tourism over the past two years have brought Israel Transportation to an unprecedented peak in tourism. 2017 breaks the all- Car Rental time record in the entry of tourists into Israel, and the peak in revenues for the country from the tourism industry.” Aside from the Two Cities One Break campaign taking place Contact us today to discuss your next event: Target Conferences Ltd. across Europe, the Israel Ministry of Tourism has also attributed 65 Derech Menachem Begin the increase in numbers to agreements and campaigns with PO Box 51227, Tel Aviv 6713818, Israel Tel: +972 3 5175150, Fax: +972 3 5175155 online travel agents, including TripAdvisor and Expedia; and a [email protected] www.target-conferences.com rise in the number of airlines offering flights to Israel.

Israel Travel News • 27 UPDATES Car Sharing in Israel The Municipality of Tel Aviv has launched a new car sharing service in the city, powered by Car2Go, which allows users to temporarily secure a vehicle via a mobile app. After registration, subscribers are able to source from alongside the Jewish Nation Fund (JNF), in collaboration with one of 220 cars located across the city, and drop off at Car2Go. Over 20 ILS million (around $5.7 million) has been T a choice of hundreds of allocated parking spaces, which invested in the initiative which will initially provide 40 cars, can be found on a map. 300 hundred parking sports, and 30 charging stations. An additional 60 cars will be made available for December and According to the Municipality of Tel Aviv, the service will be January. around 30 – 40 percent cheaper than the cost of taking a taxi. Customers will be charged a monthly fee and an additional Car use is intended for short and medium length trips in Haifa, cost for each minute of use. Once the car is booked, customers with various membership options available depending on can unlock the vehicle via a smart card slot on the designated use. A car cab be booked by hour or day. The service is open windshield or by a code through the app. to customers over the age of 21, with a valid driver’s license and no previous driving offenses, with registration completed In order to use the service, drivers much be at least 21 years online and a smart card issued. The cards is used to unlock of age, with at least two years of driving experience, hold a the designated vehicle, which can be reserved online, via valid driving license and hold no previous driving convictions. mobile app or through the company’s customer service, with An assistance center is available 24 hours a day in English. The no long term commitment. A car can be ordered at any time Municipality of Tel Aviv will reportedly invest around $2.85 throughout the day and up to 15 minutes in advance. The million a year on the service over the next 10 years. model on offer is a five seater Renault Zoe, with a battery life of around 150 kilometers. Haifa Launches Electric Car-Sharing Scheme The Ministry of Environmental Protected has introduced a Netanya is to introduce the scheme in 2018. new electric car-sharing scheme in Haifa, a project launched Image credits: O&A Image credits:

28 • www.itn.co.il Mark

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ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITIES IN TEL AVIV Zman Amiti Bartending School The Cooking Studio Credit: Adi Ben Shushan Credit: The Zman Amiti Bartending School, which has locations across The Cooking Studio offers a range of cooking and baking Israel, offers a two-hour class in Tel Aviv, where participants workshops, led by a team of professional chefs. Private tailored learn how to pour, mix and shake cocktails. Also included are workshops can be booked in English, allowing up to 30 preparation methods and a tasting session. Private lessons participants per class to learn about specific cuisine and the are suitable for groups of at least ten and can be booked for chance to prepare, cook and taste a meal. Classes last three events, birthdays and other celebrations. hours, with kosher ingredients provided.

TLV 2048 Bulthaup Culinary Academy Credit: Anatoly Krinitsky Credit:

The Bulthaup Culinary Academy offers a range of cooking classes, led by sous-chefs, in a professional kitchen, located

Credit: Ilia Kitov Credit: adjacent to the Bulthaup kitchen showroom at the Port of Tel Aviv. Classes are intended to enhance participants’ cooking TLV 2048 is a new physical action game, requiring participants abilities and offer techniques to implement in their kitchens. to complete a number of challenges and tasks as an underground rescue team fighting artificial intelligence. These 2 Break include climbing, crawling and overcoming obstacles in order The rage room provides a space where participants can relieve to accrue the highest number of points. Groups of two to five anger or stress by breaking a series of objects, with a tool. The people are permitted in each one hour game. Protection gear is menu of breakable items includes cups, plates, clocks, printers, provided and participants must be at least 14 years old, with a scanners, telephones and more. Sessions last up to 30 minutes basic level of fitness and no health problems. and are suitable for participants of at least 18 years of age.

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