Israel did not exactly have an elated 2020, but then the same can be said for the rest of the world. Although, given its penchant to fight difficulties and epidemic using quintessential Jewish panache, Israel was able to come to terms with the dreadful Coronavirus pandemic somewhat. Want to know how? Well, about a week back, it was reported with confirmed news that Israel has, thus far, been able to vaccinate around 58% of its population. But back in 2020, there was terror, chaos and dismay.
So much so that the tiny Middle-Eastern enigma had actually shut down its borders, making entering the country almost a red-zone. In other words, you could call it a strict no-no!
But now in the midst of 2021, change has finally happened and it can be said in no uncertain terms that Israel has changed its policy where it comes to accepting visitors from around the world.
So the key question is- what’s changed this year. Well, staring May, which has already begun, Israel will be accepting visitors once again. But then, there’s a catch. Only those visitors can enter Israel who have already gotten themselves vaccinated.
It’s clear that the change in visitor policy is down the very fact that Israel has been able to curb the spread of infections in the country.
So if you are planning to visit the enigmatic Jewish state then please be sure to be vaccinated.
Here’s what The Indian Express reported on the trending story from the land of ultra-secretive operatives, Black Sea, and the Falafel:
According to a report in The National News, the first 40 tour groups are expected to land in the country on May 23. Individual visitors, however, will have to wait until July 2021 before they can travel to Israel.
Israel’s tourism minister, Orit Farkash-Hacohen, was quoted as saying: “It’s a hopeful day, in my view. I think it is about time that the huge advantage that Israel has as a healthy and vaccinated destination [is harnessed].”
The above being told, the tourism minister also had some inputs on the changed and pro-tourist stand of Israel. He shared that those tourists who are due to arrive in Israel in May shall be joining what’s called “Approved Bus Tours.” This is so because it is easy to monitor groups since they already have in place an organised schedule.
Moreover, the added attraction of visiting Israel is that, at this point in time, not only have the bars and hotels opened but so have other places of public interest. Moreover, there’s also something else that’s being planned in the country.
So what is it?
Israel is also planning to launch advertising campaigns in various destinations, some which include- London, Dubai, and New York (to quote a few). However, at the same time, the health officials are also a bit concerned as larger swarms of tourists could also increase the risk of infection.
That being said, Israel definitely happens to be a charming destination, a historic land, a place that’s been at the heart of the emerge of not one or two but three different religions. Surely, it’s more than worth a visit- wouldn’t you agree?