There is good news for anyone longing to visit the ancient cities of Nazareth and Jerusalem, or float in the stillness of the Dead Sea, or visit the many colored Makhtesh Ramon canyon. After being closed to international travelers during the COVID-19 pandemic, the country will start to allow fully vaccinated travelers to visit from the end of May.

Israel announces it is opening to vaccinated travelers

Israel’s government has announced that the country will be reopening from the end of May this year to fully vaccinated travelers. However, initially numbers allowed to enter will be limited. Only a limited number of groups of travelers will be able to enter from May 23.

However, the number is set to be increased, based on the latest health situation and the progress made with the reopening program. In the second stage of the reopening program, individual travelers will be allowed to enter Israel. However, health considerations will determine when this second stage will happen.

COVID-19 PCR test still required

Despite the fact that travelers have been fully vaccinated, they will still be required to undergo a PCR test prior to boarding their flight to Israel. Travelers will also be required to take a serological test upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport.

The Israeli government says it is investigating the establishment of a vaccine certification validation process that would eliminate the need for the serological test and would streamline travel.

Announcement of the reopening of Israel

Sharon Bershadsky, director of the Israel Tourist Office UK, recently made a statement about the reopening of the country to visitors. She said, “After a long, forced break, we are delighted to take the first step in opening our borders to international visitors.”

“From the beautiful coast of Tel Aviv, the rich history of Jerusalem, the wonder of the Dead Sea, the ample outdoor travel opportunities and the superb culinary scene, there are numerous reasons for travel wishers to visit our country. We look forward to welcoming all visitors to Israel as soon as it is safe to do so,” Bershadsky added.

What does Israel have to offer?

Israel is a unique destination with much to offer, including the beautiful scenery of its hills and valleys, its desert areas, the multi-colored canyon of Makhtesh Ramon and the fascinating stillness of the Dead Sea.

Visitors can also appreciate the ancient pathways and walls of historic Jerusalem and Nazareth and the quiet prayers of Orthodox Jews at the Western Wall. Travelers can also enjoy the bars and beaches of Haifa and Tel Aviv, as well as Galilee with its wineries and delicious food. Galilee is also known for the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus is said to have walked on water. It is also said that Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount at the Mount of Beatitudes, while Mount Arbel features fascinating ancient cave fortifications.

Readers can get more information about visiting Israel on the government’s official tourism website.

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Photos credit: Deposit Photos

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