When you mention Israel as a holiday destination, for some, it may induce thoughts of insecurity as far as safety is concerned. I personally could resonate with this. Until I visited! What a fantastic place! A 35 min flight can mean you can be there in no time at all even for a short weekend break or even a day trip! You may want to stay longer though, as there’s so much to do!

Tel Aviv is an extremely modern high tech city, infamous for its’ nightlife. Whereas Haifa would be my choice of base, as it is more picturesque, set on the coastline close to lovely sandy beaches, and the city cascades down the mountain side, offering spectacular views from the hotels on the mountain top.

The Crowne Plaza Hotel Haifa is a perfect choice all round for its mountain top location, value for money and modern services and quirky top floor reception and breakfast room. If you prefer a more luxurious option, The Dan Carmel hotel can offer this, along with the same breath taking views.

The main attraction of Haifa is the ‘Bahai Gardens and Shrine’. A beautiful perfection of gardens tiered down the mountain side from uptown through mid to downtown Haifa. At the bottom, the German colony offers trendy café’s, restaurants and bars and another choice of accommodation, the lovely boutique Colony Hotel.

From Haifa, Tel Aviv is accessible by train at a low cost of around 22 Israeli shekels or approximately 5.50 euros. The distance is 1.5 hours by road and at least half that by train.

Day tours are also available to the infamous towns of Nazareth, Jesus’ hometown, the Sea of Galilee, Jerusalem & Bethlehem, and Acre for a visit of the old, famous Crusader stronghold and medieval fortifications.

The local population of Israel numbers around 8 million and the general public are extremely helpful and friendly with English spoken as their second language, and a tolerance of many different religions. Euros is widely accepted in a lot of places throughout Israel, along with US dollars, credit/debit cards and of course their local currency Israeli Shekel.

Getting to Israel is soon to be made easier! UP airlines, founded by its parent El Al, Israel’s national carrier already fly frequently between Larnaca and Tel Aviv along with Arkia Airlines.

But there is soon to be even more choice and convenience. Tus airways start flying from Larnaca to both Haifa and Tel Aviv as of the 14th February 2016 with flights also due to be scheduled from Paphos. My experience in Israel was hosted by this brand new Cypriot based airline and I was lucky enough to fly in the 34 seater Saab 340 that will be used for most of their routes. What a fabulous experience!

The size of the aircraft meant quick check-ins and a very personal experience offered by all Tus Airways staff. Other routes soon to be offered by this one of a kind airline will be direct flights from Larnaca to 6 greek islands, Eilat, Amman and some Egyptian destinations, all soon to be confirmed. Their Tel Aviv schedule will even allow a day return trip or a 1 night break, so you could even visit for concerts such as Elton John performing in Tel Aviv on the 26^th May 2016!

We will be offering packages for this amazing concert. Please register your interest at info@centurycyprus.com