Category Archive » Tourism

Tel Aviv Pride

Pack your rainbow flag, glitter, and sunscreen because there’s a whole lot of celebrating going on in these pride-ful cities.

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Respect for Jerusalem’s King David Hotel (Photo: Yoram Ascheeim)

Historic Jerusalem hotel selected by luxury-lifestyle magazine Robb Report as one of world’s leading hotels in Africa and Middle East category along with Tel Aviv’s Hotel Montefiore

American luxury-lifestyle magazine Robb Report, which has a total circulation of 100,000 copies, has selected the King David Hotel in Jerusalem and Hotel Motefiore in Tel Aviv as two of the world’s top 100 hotels in the Africa and Middle East category.

These are the only two Israeli hotels on the prestigious list.

Explaining their reasons for choosing the King David Hotel, the magazine editors wrote: “A magical mix of history and hedonism, this 233-unit, 83-year-old landmark has played host to presidents and prime ministers. The hotel’s top-floor rooms, opened in 2011, are the best options. Outdoors, the vast swimming pool set amid lush gardens strikes a tropical tone.”

The magazine, which was founded more than 30 years ago, publishes the Robb Report 100 Hotels list once a year.

“We take pride in the impressive achievement of the King David Hotel, which has been selected for the most distinguished list alongside the world’s leading hotels and has been chosen as one of the world’s top 100 hotels,” said Rafi Beeri, vice president of marketing and sales at the Dan Hotels.

“We will continue investing in the hotel in the future in order to continue carrying this honorable title while competing against the other excellent hotels in Israel.”

The Jerusalem hotel is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World hospitality consortium and has hosted international leaders throughout the years, including US President Barack Obama, former US Presidents George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Jordan’s late King Hussein, Britain’s Prince Charles, French President Nicolas Sarkozy and Prince Felipe of Spain, as well as Irish musician Bono, British supermodel Naomi Campbell, American television personality Martha Stewart, British actor Roger Moore and many others.

Source: Ynetnews.com

Is there a better place in the world to get together and begin working on a new, innovative online venture than Tel Aviv… probably not. 12 gay leaders from across the globe got together to start working on a little something, involving Israeli youtube sensation, Idan matalon. Even though the project is still on the hush hush… we wanted to know their thoughts about the start up nation.. so we spoke to 4 of them!

1. Stijn Bourlet

From: The Netherlands

Was this your first time in Israel ? If so, was it was you expected?

It was the first time I visited Israel. I heard so many good things about the country and especially about Tel Aviv. A lot of my friends visited the city and really enjoyed it. You can imagine I was very excited finally going there.

What was your favourite spot ?

My favourite spot for breakfast was definitely Benedict. Lovely staff, tasty food and a nice atmosphere. Another place which I really enjoyed was Gordon Beach.

Did the Tel Aviv nightlife live up to its reputation?

I was lucky because I celebrated Independence Day with thousands of other people in Tel Aviv. Dancing and drinking on the streets, on cars… It was amazing. Actually It felt a bit like Queens day in The Netherlands.

The city offers really good parties in awesome venues. Also international parties are given regularly.

How would you describe the Gay Scene in Israel?

In comparison with Amsterdam the gay scene in Tel Aviv is not that different. I noticed people in the city like to party and It’s possible to go out every night.

The only difference is that gay people most of the time only go out to gay places. In Amsterdam we’re all partying together (straight&gay) and occasionally go out to a gay bar or club.

Are there any similarities between Israel and your home country (or Tel Aviv and your home city)?

The similarities that I noticed during my stay were positive energy, friendly (and sexy!) people, good food and like my own city I really felt save in Tel Aviv.

Do you intend on visiting Israel again soon ?

I would love to go back soon!

2. Lucas Ribeiro Gelslöichter (DJ Flamefly)

From: Madrid, Spain (born in Brazil)

Was this your first time in Israel ? If so, was it was you expected ?

Indeed yes, and I had lots of expectations about the country. The security control drains a little energy from you, but once you start feeling the energy of Tel Aviv, it´s worth every step of the way. Despite of my preconceptions, I always try not to idealize a place because you might get disappointed. There isn’t enough time in a week to explore the city a bit deeper (besides the weather wasn´t as good as mr. Idan told me, but it´s ok) but I think I felt so good because all those people around me. It was a once in a life time experience.

What was your favourite spot ?

I reaaaaally enjoyed going to Jerusalem. I´m not religious at all, yet I do have my beliefs. It´s all about energy, and the faith and passion of the people as we have heard before… Can move mountains !

Did the Tel Aviv nightlife live up to its reputation ? 

I´m a DJ and the nightlife catches my attention. Besides, many people from Israel go to Spain on holidays, so when I went into the Forever Tel Aviv party, I honestly felt like I was in one of those parties in Spain, seeing so many familiar faces. Israeli people definitely know how to party… But after all… They all go to Spain looking for more! Hopefully I´ll be returning to Tel Aviv for a gig soon !

How would you describe the Gay Scene in Israel?

I gather that the gay scene is very strong and present on social basis. I wasn´t expecting the support that we are receiving (despite of the magnitude of our project). I can´t say much more because our leisure time was quite limited.

Are there any similarities between Israel and your home country (or Tel Aviv and your home city) ?

I guess no place is like Israel, and it´s quite complicated to make a comparison, also based on the background. Yet I see happy people on the streets, having fun, enjoying football matches on a bar… That´s very similar to Spain.

Do you intend on visiting Israel again soon ?

Definitely yes, there´s much more to see and explore, I cannot wait for my next trip ! And I wanna go to the Dead Sea !!!

3. Rafael Pezott

From: Paris, France

Was this your first time in Israel ? If so, was it was you expected ?

It was my first time visiting the Holy Land.

I expected a lot more but unfortunately time was pretty short and I haven’t seen much of  Tel-Aviv, but what I saw was amazing enough to make me want to come back. Business talking, it surpassed all my expectations.

What was your favourite spot ?

Jerusalem was the greatest thing i’ve seen in years, it was very touching, walking over so much history.

Did the Tel Aviv nightlife live up to its reputation ? 

I think so, there seems to be a great nightlife with lots of options for everyone. One thing must be said, the MUSIC was amazing everywhere we went.

How would you describe the Gay Scene in Israel?

The gay scene is very well represented by it members, sexy, enthusiastic and very enjoyable. The great energy makes gay life in the city so real and respected.

Are there any similarities between Israel and your home country (or Tel Aviv and your home city) ?

Not at all, in Paris life is a bit slower and quite calm, considering we are a big touristic city with people coming in and out non-stop we don’t have a nightlife like in Tel Aviv.

Do you intend on visiting Israel again soon ? 

Absolutely YES, I’ll be back in August during the summer, to guarantee I’ll have a lot more sun to enjoy the beach and explore Tel-Aviv a bit better.

4. Oriol Pamies

From: Barcelona

Was this your first time in Israel ? If so, was it was you expected ?

Yes, it was my first time in Israel, and now that i’m back I keep on asking myself.. Why I haven’t been sooner!
It was absolutely unexpected, Freedom, open-minded, happy, electric and crazy. I really fell in love with the country..

What was your favourite spot ?

I have two favourite spots.

The first: Evita Bar. Really nice place, people were so nice, music was fantastic, the shows were so funny/amazing… Perfect atmosphere. Special thanks to Igal Raanan who was so friendly and made us feel like home
Second: The “Forever Tel Aviv” party. AMAZING. After the party, when all the ambassadors arrived at the Villa, everyone was like WOW, WTF WAS THAT? Perfect music, beautiful people, hard party. Just loved it, can’t wait to go back.
Special thanks to Ohad Heim; Amazing host!

Did the Tel Aviv nightlife live up to its reputation ?

Of course! After those crazy nights in Tel Aviv, I’m just recommending the city to everyone!
People really have to head to the city. I think that I’m not the best PR person for the city in Spain!

How would you describe the Gay Scene in Israel?

Very united. Really friendly and open to the tourism. Serious in terms of organization, and fucking crazy at party time. A positive balance with an awesome energy. An example to follow for the other countries on the Middle East.

Are there any similarities between Israel and your home country (or Tel Aviv and your home city) ?

Before coming to Tel Aviv I was told that it was  similar to Barcelona. IT’S TRUE!
We both have nice beaches, amazing history and monuments, crazy nightlife, hot guys.. etc.
Maybe that’s why I felt like home and why I connected with people here! ^_^

Do you intend on visiting Israel again soon ?

Are you kidding me? In the next few days I’ll be booking a flight to Tel Aviv for the Gay Pride! So I hope to see you guys  during one of the craziest Prides in the world. I’m sure I won’t be disappointed.
Tel Aviv, here I come again!

European low-cost airline to market Israeli metropolis abroad as top destination for young people. Company plans to double number of passengers on Tel Aviv-London route, add flights to Paris, Rome and Berlin

As Israeli airlines clashed with the government over the “open skies” agreement, European low-cost airline easyJet announced plans to conquer Israel’s skies.

The company is launching these days an aggressive marketing campaign in London, aimed at promoting tourism to Tel Aviv among young people and couples without children, under the banner “Go Big in Tel Aviv.”

The activity is part of easyJet’s spring campaign in cooperation with Israel’s Tourism Minister, which includes billboard advertising and ads in leading websites and newspapers.

In the coming days, taxicabs in London will be covered with ads calling on the airline’s passengers to take a vacation in Tel Aviv and enjoy a different experience, stressing the city’s vibrant nightlife.

More weekly flights
“When we started flying to Israel, we never imagined it would be such a success,” says Hugh Aitken, easyJet’s commercial manager in the United Kingdom.

According to Aitken, easyJet’s London-Tel Aviv route is one of the company’s most successful lines, and the airline’s goal is to double the number of passengers using this route. Currently, 66% of the passengers are British, and the company is interested in increasing the number of Israeli travelers.

“Within three years we went from three flights a week on the London route to nine flights, and in a few months we’ll move up to 11 flights, at high occupancy,” says Aitken.

easyJet, the biggest airline in Europe operating flights to Israel from London, Manchester, Basel and Geneva, is eagerly anticipating the implementation of the “open skies” agreement.

Following the agreement’s approval, the company is preparing to offer flights to Israel from Rome, Milan, Paris, Nice, Berlin and every other destination the company is based in and where market research conducted by its commercial department will justify the opening of a new line.

In order to understand the meaning of the company’s “market research,” one must visit the easyJet headquarters at the Luton Airport near London and witness the operation of the nerve center of the company which carries more than 60 million passengers a year.

In the headquarters, located inside a huge hangar which is also used for aircraft maintenance, there are no offices, no separation between employees, and they all work together in harmony in an open space. Even CEO Carolyn McCall doesn’t have an office, and she sits together with all the other workers in the open space.

“Before launching a new destination,” says Aitken, “we conduct a profitability analysis. Even after we open a new destination, we examine it several months later in order to see the growth in traffic on the one hand and the level of income on the other hand. The fact that we can’t recall ever shutting down a route proves that we are doing a good job.”

easyJet’s prices, like all low-cost companies, are based on the following standard: The earlier you book your trip – the cheaper the flight ticket. For example, passengers booking a flight to London for January 2014 will pay $280 for a roundtrip ticket.

Fabulous Israel brings the best of boutique travel to gay men and lesbian women looking to explore Israel.

From personal experience we know that vacationing is complex: cultural experiences, gorgeous men, sunny and serene beaches, a thriving night-life. Most importantly, travelling means comfort, pampering, and someone caring for your every need so you can soak up the sounds, sites, and smells of your destination. Fabulous Israel offers this unique service for the gay traveler who wishes to have only the most boutique and sophisticated stay. As native Israelis, our intimate knowledge of the gay community and Israel’s most distinctive cultural and historical sites makes us perfectly suited to place you in the center of the action. Whether you are looking for the trendiest places to eat, the most culturally authentic spots, or to learn more about the history of this unique country, we can provide it all in the most convenient and fun atmosphere. Our group packages offer unparalleled opportunities to develop friendships and international networks, while our tailor-made individual packages create the perfect getaway for you, your friends, and your family. With years of hosting and planning events, we know just what you’ll want to make your trip unforgettable!

Voted Out Magazine’s “Gay Capital of the Middle East,” Tel Aviv’s compelling vibes have been a draw for the international gay community for years. With its year-long sunny weather, gorgeous beaches, and even more beautiful men, it is home to one of the most outrageous gay pride events in the world. Coupled with a thriving nightlife, café culture and trendsetting fashion, Tel Aviv is truly a fabulous city. Only an hour away, nestled in the stunning Judean hills, lies one of history’s most important cities, Jerusalem. This multi-faceted city is a melting pot of religions, cultures, aromas, fashions and tastes. One can visit the open-air market and taste fresh hummus and Druze breads to the sounds of merchants selling their wares, or walk down to the modern Mamilla mall and taste gourmet international cuisine in quaint cafes side-by-side high-end boutiques. Yet Israel doesn’t stop there! Travel to the lowest point on Earth, and the world’s most fabulous natural spa, the Dead Sea, or hike through a waterfall amongst the luscious forests of the North. A backbone of civilization since the beginning of time, anything you wish to experience has its place amongst the mosaic of Israeli society.

Fabulous Israel is a one-of-a-kind company which combines decades of experience and a deep understanding of Israel to meet your every need. Whether you’re coming as a group or for a tailor-made individual experience, we know how to give you everything you desire to ensure a truly perfect boutique vacation from the moment you land in Israel.

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Corporate Travel Index puts Israeli metropolis in 24th place out of 100 cities in total cost of accommodation for businesspeople, yet city ranks just 71st in hotel and restaurant food prices

Tel Aviv is the 24th most expensive city in terms of the total cost per night for businesspeople, the 2013 Corporate Travel Index shows,

yet while hotel prices place the Israeli metropolis in the 17th place, in terms of food costs it ranks just 71st out of 100 cities around the world.

The figures, which do not include US cities, reflect the average cost of one hotel room per night, three meals and minor miscellaneous costs. According to the data, it appears that restaurant food is not so expensive in Israel – at least not for tourists.

The figures, compiled by travel management company BCD Travel and New York-based management firm Mercer and published by Business Travel News, consist of the average cost of a four-star hotel room, two taxi fares, a newspaper, a bottle of water and a magazine.

World’s most expensive city

The food costs were calculated according to the January 2013 pricing for a hotel continental breakfast; lunches of a sandwich, salad and a non-alcoholic drink; and dinners of a fish, chicken or beef entrée, salad and a non-alcoholic beverage.

According to this calculation, which does not include US cities, the most expensive city in the world is Tokyo with an average cost of $548 per night – $328 in hotel costs and $220 for three meals.

Geneva ranked second with an average cost of $539 per night – $348 in hotel costs and $191 for three meals. Hong Kong and Oslo ranked third with an average cost of $522 per night, yet in Hong Kong hotel prices are more expensive ($320), while in Oslo food costs more ($220).

Tel Aviv ranked 24th, with the average total cost per night for businesspeople standing at $424 – $299 in hotel costs and $125 for three meals.

Tel Aviv is less expensive than Moscow ($501), London ($494), Paris ($494), Copenhagen ($458), Basel ($457), but more expensive than Amsterdam ($422), Brussels ($413), Frankfurt ($401), Rome ($399), Vienna ($353), Beijing ($350), Toronto ($349), Berlin ($341), Montreal ($335), Dusseldorf ($331), Prague ($308) and Budapest ($269).

Most expensive city in US

The study also includes data about many cities in the United States, although the calculation of food costs there is slightly different, mainly due to the different menus.

According to the figures, the most expensive city in the US is New York with an average cost of $421 per night, followed by Washington DC ($421), San Francisco ($411), Boston ($386) and Chicago ($399).

Combining the two charts, Tel Aviv is in the overall 25th place.

The calculation of the cost of meals in the US include a breakfast of two eggs, meat, toast, orange juice and coffee; a lunch of soup, a hamburger or chicken sandwich, a slice of pie and a soft drink; and a dinner of soup, filet steak, a glass of red wine, dessert, and a cup of coffee. The listed costs do not include tax but do include a 15% gratuity.

Source: Ynetnews.com

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