We've created a helpful list of budget friendly ideas to keep in mind when planning your next Israel vacation:
1) Many of the tourist sites i.e. Masada, parks and beaches in Israel are managed by the National Parks Authority. While the entrance fees are reasonably priced, paying per person begins to add up. It is highly recommended to join one of their money saving ticket plans at the beginning of the summer. After a few visits, it generally pays for itself! Visit the following link to determine which plan makes the most sense for your family. http://www.parks.org.il/BuildaGate5/general2/company_search_tree.php?mc=378~All
2) If you are planning an overnight vacation and are worried about the cost, check out the Society for the Preservation of Nature’s Field School accommodations throughout the country. They are situated along Israel’s most dramatic landscapes and therefore, a perfect base for exciting tiyulim. The accommodations are basic but clean and include private bathrooms and air conditioning. Additionally, kosher breakfasts are included in the price. Find out more from: http://teva.org.il/english/?CategoryID=163. The Israel Youth Hostel Association, is another affordable option that offers guesthouses throughout the country which are slightly higher end and a bit more expensive than the field school accommodations.http://www.iyha.org.il/eng/
3) Hiking is Israel’s favorite pastime, an affordable family activity, and fun for all ages. Particularly enjoyable are water hikes which are the best choice when choosing a trail during the summer months. Many of the best water hikes in the country run along streams or waterfalls. Some of these trails, like Majarsa and Nachal Kibbutzim in the Kinneret and Beit Shean areas, respectively, are hiked completely in the water and can be quite deep at times. Bring water shoes along and if you are hiking with young children, make sure to bring along floaties !
4) Often, it’s the simple plans that are the most enjoyable. There are many beautiful city parks in Israel which can be a great place to spend the day. Some of the parks have boat or bike rentals and often great play equipment. Pack along a picnic lunch, bring along Frisbees and some lawn chairs and set yourself up for a bunch of hours of fun and relaxation!
5) Museums and Visitor’s Centers are a great way to beat the heat. But be realistic about your children’s interests and capabilities. If your children are high energy types, be sure that the museum or factory has interactive and multisensory displays. Also, check if there are age restrictions before you make your reservations, as some have strict requirements. Follow the museum visit with a more physical activity such as biking or swimming for a well-balanced day.
6) There are a number of charming artist villages scattered throughout Israel, such as Ein Hod near Zichron Yaakov and Aniam in the Golan. Many of the artists provide workshops for families in pottery, mosaics and other mediums. Make sure to take a stroll through the villages streets as well which can be an interesting and enriching experience, as there are sculptures and other displays scattered throughout.
In short, though planning an Israel family vacation can be a daunting task, particularly when on a budget, with the proper information and insight an enjoyable and uplifting family trip is well within your reach.
1) Many of the tourist sites i.e. Masada, parks and beaches in Israel are managed by the National Parks Authority. While the entrance fees are reasonably priced, paying per person begins to add up. It is highly recommended to join one of their money saving ticket plans at the beginning of the summer. After a few visits, it generally pays for itself! Visit the following link to determine which plan makes the most sense for your family. http://www.parks.org.il/BuildaGate5/general2/company_search_tree.php?mc=378~All
2) If you are planning an overnight vacation and are worried about the cost, check out the Society for the Preservation of Nature’s Field School accommodations throughout the country. They are situated along Israel’s most dramatic landscapes and therefore, a perfect base for exciting tiyulim. The accommodations are basic but clean and include private bathrooms and air conditioning. Additionally, kosher breakfasts are included in the price. Find out more from: http://teva.org.il/english/?CategoryID=163. The Israel Youth Hostel Association, is another affordable option that offers guesthouses throughout the country which are slightly higher end and a bit more expensive than the field school accommodations.http://www.iyha.org.il/eng/
3) Hiking is Israel’s favorite pastime, an affordable family activity, and fun for all ages. Particularly enjoyable are water hikes which are the best choice when choosing a trail during the summer months. Many of the best water hikes in the country run along streams or waterfalls. Some of these trails, like Majarsa and Nachal Kibbutzim in the Kinneret and Beit Shean areas, respectively, are hiked completely in the water and can be quite deep at times. Bring water shoes along and if you are hiking with young children, make sure to bring along floaties !
4) Often, it’s the simple plans that are the most enjoyable. There are many beautiful city parks in Israel which can be a great place to spend the day. Some of the parks have boat or bike rentals and often great play equipment. Pack along a picnic lunch, bring along Frisbees and some lawn chairs and set yourself up for a bunch of hours of fun and relaxation!
5) Museums and Visitor’s Centers are a great way to beat the heat. But be realistic about your children’s interests and capabilities. If your children are high energy types, be sure that the museum or factory has interactive and multisensory displays. Also, check if there are age restrictions before you make your reservations, as some have strict requirements. Follow the museum visit with a more physical activity such as biking or swimming for a well-balanced day.
6) There are a number of charming artist villages scattered throughout Israel, such as Ein Hod near Zichron Yaakov and Aniam in the Golan. Many of the artists provide workshops for families in pottery, mosaics and other mediums. Make sure to take a stroll through the villages streets as well which can be an interesting and enriching experience, as there are sculptures and other displays scattered throughout.
In short, though planning an Israel family vacation can be a daunting task, particularly when on a budget, with the proper information and insight an enjoyable and uplifting family trip is well within your reach.