Israel global health insurance / Travel Advice

Whilst traveling to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, one must be aware of the societal differences and the issues that might arise when you arrive. The following are some general points to keep in mind while making a visit to Israel:
Please be advised that the information contained on this page is not fully comprehensive and may be liable to change without prior warning; as such you should consult a travel expert or your local embassy prior to departing on your journey.

The Israeli–Palestinian conflict is an ongoing dispute between Israel and the Palestinian State. Britain ruled Palestine as a mandate from 1920 to 1948. When the State of Israel was founded, majority of the Palestinian population became refugees. In the “six day” war of 1967, Israel took over East Jerusalem, the West Bank, Gaza, the Golan Heights and the Sinai Peninsula. In 1993 the Palestinian Authority was set up in the West Bank and Gaza pending final settlement of the Israel-Palestine conflict. As such, please take note of the following travel advice.

Israel travel advice

• You are advised against all travel to Gaza. Following the recent conflict in Gaza, both Hamas and Israel have announced cease-fires. However, these cease-fires are fragile and tensions remain extremely high. Palestinian attacks from within Gaza and Israeli strikes have occurred since the cease-fires.

• Travel to Gaza at this time would be reckless and it is not advisable. The humanitarian conditions are extremely poor, in addition to the risk of violence re-escalating. Terrorist groups continue to maintain the intent and capability to kidnap foreigners. You are advised against all but essential travel to Gaza. Visitors should review the adequacy of their security arrangements and seek professional security advice. The level of consular assistance available in the territory is extremely limited.

• Due to the continuous risk of rocket fire from Gaza, you are advised to be extremely cautious when travelling to areas within 40km of the Gaza perimeter (including Sderot, Netivot, Ashkelon, Ashdod and Be’er Sheva).

• Security in the West Bank has improved. However, travellers should be aware that the situation remains fragile and could deteriorate quickly. You are recommended to consult travel advice regularly if you intend to visit the West Bank.

• You are advised against all travel to the Sheba’a Farms and Ghajar, along the border with Lebanon in the North. There are ongoing tensions on Lebanese border and a heavy military presence in the area.

• There are confirmed human cases and further suspected cases of Swine Flu (H1N1) in Israel and in the Palestinian Territories. Enhancing personal hygiene and wear a face mask can help to protect against Swine Flu. If you have flu symptoms, you are advised to stay home and avoid any travel until fully recovered.

• There is a general threat from terrorism throughout the region. Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

• You are advised to be highly alert when travelling anywhere in Jerusalem and in the West Bank. Travellers are recommended to check local media regularly as the security situation can change rapidly.

• You are recommended to obtain a comprehensive travel and medical insurance policy before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and ensure that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake.

• Israel is a country with a number of religions and cultural mix. People feel strongly about their beliefs and customs, Travellers should be aware of this at all times.

• Visitors should be aware that during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking between sunrise and sunset are forbidden for Muslims. Although alcohol will be available in some hotels and restaurants, drinking alcohol elsewhere may cause an offence. As a courtesy, you may wish to avoid drinking, eating, and smoking in public places during Ramadan.

• Travellers should be sensitive about taking pictures of people in Muslim and Orthodox Jewish areas, and should avoid taking photographs of military or police personnel.

• When travelling around Israel, you are advised to carry some form of identification at all times. A photocopy of your passport should be kept separately from the original when travelling.

• The penalties for smuggling and trafficking in illegal drugs are severe in Israel. Those caught in possession can expect a prison sentence and subsequent deportation.

Israel global health insurance

Global Health Insurance policies offered by Globalsurance can assist you to customize the policy coverage to suit your individual requirements. We offer a variety of insurance plans for individuals, families, teachers and groups to include benefits for inpatient, outpatient, dental, maternity, travel and many others. Whether you are an expat working in or traveling through israel, global health insurance can afford you access to the best healthcare through some of the most comprehensive insurance cover available.

For more information about travel within Israel, global health insurance plans and programs that we can provide there, or to receive a free quote, please contact contact our friendly experts for advice today.