Following the announcement from United Airlines—which resumed flights from Newark (EWR) Airport to Tel Aviv over the weekend—the tourism industry there is hopeful that visitation is starting to rebound. This comes on the heels of El Al confirming its new airlift from Ft. Lauderdale (FLL) to Tel Aviv next month, adding further hope for the return of American tourists to Israel.
Israel is actively rebuilding and welcoming visitors as several attractions have made their debut, reopened or completed extensive renovations. The Israel Ministry of Tourism continues to emphasize that Israel is welcoming visitors.
“With the return of U.S. flights, we remain hopeful that tourism to Israel is showing signs of recovery,” says Eyal Carlin, North American commissioner for the Israel Ministry of Tourism. “Initially, we have seen a significant number of faith based and solidarity trips. With the return of flights from the U.S., new hotels, major attractions and the reopening of key venues, we feel optimistic this will provide tourists the reassurance they can begin to rebook and resume their travel to Israel again.”
New Developments in Israel
At the new 4-acre campus belonging to the National Library of Israel, adjacent to the Knesset in Jerusalem’s National District, tomes and physical works are kept in the central atrium abutting the main automated stacks, where a state-of-the-art robotic system retrieves requested items. The campus features several outdoor spaces, including an amphitheater and art installations.
In Negev, an edible forest and community garden was recently unveiled under the leadership of the Wadi Atir project, whose mission includes promoting sustainable dryland agriculture while leveraging traditional Bedouin values and experiences with contemporary science and technologies. The forest and garden include many biologically diverse plants, fruit trees, vegetables and medicinal herbs.
The Almond Hotel, part of C-Hotels’ portfolio of properties, is a new, adults-only hideaway nestled in the mountains overlooking Jerusalem and the coastal plain. Boasting 60 spacious rooms, a spa with nine treatment rooms including a Turkish hammam, a chic restaurant and a rooftop pool, the Almond Hotel has ushered in a new era of hospitality and luxury.
Renovations & Reopenings
The Tower of David at the Jerusalem Museum opened following an extensive and decade-long renovation. Included is the preservation of the ancient citadel, the minaret restoration, the reimagined archaeological garden, a new sunken multi-level entrance pavilion and the addition of a shop, cafe and infrastructural upgrades. Other enhancements include improved accessibility within the citadel along with the unveiling of a new permanent exhibition in 10 galleries that incorporate innovative technology with interactive displays, archeological findings and ancient artifacts.
Israel’s new Tel Aviv Municipal LGBT Community Center, home to the Tel Aviv-Yafo’s gay community and the surrounding environs, has reopened after extensive renovations. Cradled within a neighborhood brimming with LGBTQ-owned and friendly businesses, the new center offers dozens of programs for all ages and identities.
For more information, visit israel.travel.
Above: Image by drawnhy97 on Freepik
