Culture & Etiquette

Respect local customs and behaviour; people generally feel strongly about their beliefs. In Christian, Jewish and Muslim holy places, visitors should dress modestly. At some significant places, such as the Wailing Wall, male visitors are given a cardboard yarmulke (scull cap) to wear. It is considered a violation of the shabbat (Saturday) to smoke in some restaurants and hotels.

Discussion of Middle East politics, the legitimacy of the state of Israel and the rights of Palestinians can and does raise the ire of many in Israel and the Occupied Territories.

The word shalom, meaning peace, is used for hello and goodbye.