Tokyo: a unique experience of tradition and history
The most intriguing destination of 2023 is the capital of Japan.
World-leading cuisine, special landscapes, fascinating culture and advanced technology - these are just some of the things that characterize the land of the rising sun.
What many do not know about Japan is that living there is no longer as expensive as it was in the 90s, and compared to Tel Aviv - it is a destination with low prices.
El Al is expected to start direct flights to Tokyo as early as next month, after postponing the launch of the direct flights, which were supposed to "take off" somewhere in early 2020.
Tradition and progress.
A street in Tokyo, Japan, photo: GettyImages
Shirley Cohen-Orakbi, Vice President of Esht Tours, predicts that demand for Tokyo will jump significantly with the opening of El Al's direct flights: "Already now our organized trips to the cherry blossoms are almost completely full, and there is great enthusiasm among independent travelers as well.
The experience of Japan is unique, one that cannot be found anywhere else, with an amazing combination of tradition and progress, wonderful culture, fascinating history, breathtaking nature and a non-stop urban scene."
Tokyo is the largest city in the country, and the seat of the Emperor of Japan.
Cohen-Orkabi points out that among the main sites in which we can mention the world-famous crosswalk in the Shibuya district, the famous fish market, Akihabara - the city of electronics, the Ginza district full of shopping centers, the Meiji Temple, the famous Tokyo Tower , and the Kanon temple dedicated to the Buddhist goddess of mercy.
The temple is known for the shopping street that leads to its gates (Nakamise Street), where there are many stalls that are built in traditional Japanese style and that offer a wide variety of local products.
You should also come and be impressed by the unique Japanese botany in Ueno Park, which includes various temples and a zoo, and in Harajuku Park, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Shinjuku, Tokyo, Photo: Shimon Yaish
Irit Lahav, who is responsible for the Japan sector at Ayala Geographic, says that during the corona virus, when it was not possible to visit Japan, Tokyo made a significant leap forward: "Architectural buildings with 'flow', aesthetics and beauty were erected there - which I doubt we will ever be able to achieve To such a level. The Shibuya district has undergone a dramatic change: the train station is being enlarged and excellent hotels have been built around it, and impressive office buildings have been built - such as the Scramble building, on the roof of which is a crazy view of the city, or a mall on the roof of which there is a garden that has become an attraction for young people.
"On the other hand, a lack of visitors has caused some places to die: most of the shops in the Tsukiji fish market have closed, and the Akihabara district, which was famous for its neon signs and manga fashion, is already much less attractive. In any case, after three years of Corona, the young people of Tokyo are now washing the streets, and the city is lively , more fashionable and spectacular than ever".
Sicily: "The White Lotus" three hours away
Sicily is still not as well known to Israeli tourists as other destinations in Europe, but this summer two airlines will operate direct flights to it, which will increase awareness of one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe.
Israir is expected to start flying to the Italian island this spring, and Visair also operates direct flights to the destination.
Sicily is known for its excellent Italian cuisine, breathtaking landscapes, spectacular beaches and special Italian culture.
Another advantage of choosing it as a destination for the summer vacation is the distance - the duration of the flight is about three hours, even a little less, which makes it possible to arrive even for a short excursion of a few days.
The fact that Sicily starred in one of the most successful series in the world, "The White Lotus", made the Italian island very popular among tourists from all over the world.
The White Lotus is 3 hours away.
Sicily, photo: Yossi Zeliger
Hila Hermolin-Ronen, Israir's VP of Marketing and Sales, says: "Shortly after the exit from the Corona crisis, we opened the direct flight line to Sicily.
We found that Israelis are looking for new vacation destinations at relatively short distances, where you can combine belly-back vacations and star trips.
During the spring-summer months of 2022 there was a very high demand from families with children, couples, young people and organized trips.
Sicily is a highly recommended tourist destination for those looking for good food and wine, night life, clear sea, good shopping and history, a vacation with a Mediterranean Italian flavor.
"Already in April, during the Passover holiday, we open our flight line to the destination, and offer 'fly and travel' packages and packages that include flight and hotel. Among the prominent attractions in the destination: cable car rides, climbing active volcanoes, nature trips and water parks, and all - at prices suitable for every pocket".
If you rent a car and go on a sightseeing trip, don't miss a trip to Etnaland, an amusement park with extreme activities, a water park and wave pools, shows and workshops for the whole family.
Sicily.
A dream vacation, photo: Guizio/Hemis. Afar
In the city of Catania, it is recommended to take a Sicilian food tour that lasts about three hours, at a price of 40 euros.
The tour includes a selection of stops for the most Sicilian foods and drinks, and a visit to the famous and rich fishermen's and cheese market located in the center of the city.
Copenhagen: the Scandinavian gem you haven't discovered yet
The Israeli tourists are already familiar with most of the attractive destinations in Europe, but there is one that for various reasons (few direct flights, distance and prices) is still unknown to the Israeli tourist - Copenhagen.
It is known as one of the cleanest, most beautiful and attractive cities in Europe.
Its cuisine is considered one of the best in Europe, with two of the best restaurants in the world - "Noma" (which will close soon) and "Geranium", with three Michelin stars.
A Scandinavian gem.
Copenhagen, photo: I.P
The night life in the city is known to be excellent, along with the fascinating history, the colorful buildings, the church towers that decorate the city, the world famous mermaid statue and quite a few other attractions, which make Copenhagen one of the most intriguing destinations in Europe, unknown to most Israelis.
Ziv Rosen, CEO of Gulliver Group: "Copenhagen offers a beautiful combination of history, atmosphere and culture.
Among the prominent attractions there are the ancient royal palace, the new harbor from which you can cruise the city's canals, the Guinness Book of World Records museum and the Tivoli Gardens - the oldest amusement park in Europe, which is filled with lights and a festive atmosphere in the evening.
"In the summer months, the temperature in Copenhagen is around 20 degrees, which makes it possible to walk around it and admire its beauty, and also to cool down a little from the heavy heat that prevails in the country at that time. Every summer, the city is filled with crowded events, such as the local fashion festival, the jazz festival and the pride parade ".
Porto: not about Lisbon alone
"Sun Dor" company will operate direct flights to Porto, one of the most sought after destinations in Portugal.
This is good news, because until now tourists who came from Israel had to fly to Lisbon, and from there they went on a trip to Porto and back.
The classic route in Portugal is between Porto and Lisbon, and now it will be possible to land in one destination and take off from the other.
Another company that will join the direct flights to Lisbon is Israir.
Can be combined with Lisbon.
Porto, photo: GettyImages
Yoni Waxman, Deputy CEO of Ofir Tours: "The great advantage in Portugal is that you can combine Porto and Lisbon in one trip.
The distance between them is only about three hours' drive, and you can enjoy all the worlds.
In terms of accommodation prices, it is considered a bit more expensive than Lisbon, but very fascinating.
From Porto you can also go on trips in the famous Douro Valley.
It is recommended to sleep in the Riviera district - the old quarter of the city, a lively and young area with restaurants and cafes.
"The destination is suitable for couples looking for a romantic vacation, and of course - also for families. The city has many attractions, such as the Santo Inácio zoo, the water world Sea Life Porto, and more."
Palma de Mallorca: rare beauty in the atmosphere of the good life
Arkia will operate direct flights to Palma de Mallorca, a summer vacation destination in the Balearic Islands.
Palma is considered one of the best summer vacation destinations in Europe, and has excellent weather most seasons of the year.
The night life in the city is excellent, and it is also an attraction that attracts many young people from around the world.
This year Arkia will also operate direct flights to Nice, Berlin and Madrid, along with all the other destinations it flew to last year.
Oz Berlovich, CEO of Arkie International: "At a distance of four and a half hours by direct flight is a magical place, full of sun and beaches, shopping and luxurious hotels.
Palma is a fantastic resort city in the northwest of the Mediterranean, with rare beauty and an atmosphere of the good life, antiquities and masterpiece architecture, museums and fine cuisine.
The atmosphere of the good life.
Palma de Mallorca, photo: GettyImages
"Those who come to visit Palma are invited to the surrounding villages, and even travel on a carriage train with the aroma of the past, sail in authentic boats or hit the golf courses. Palma de Mallorca is ideal for all formations and styles - families, couples and friends - and combines all worlds in one destination. "Palma also offers Vibrant nightlife, which is one of its hallmarks.
In short, it is suitable for everyone - and now also with direct flights."
Marmaris: when the forest and the sea meet
Turkey has long been more than just Antalya or Istanbul, and the breathtaking beaches in Marmaris reveal to the tourist another side of the country.
Marmaris is on the Turkish Riviera, very close to Rhodes in Greece.
Many tourists from around the world have already discovered the dreamy beaches of the area, and the Israeli traveler is expected to arrive there in higher numbers already this year - in light of the warming of relations with Turkey, the expected flights of Turkish Airlines to Dalman (a short distance from Marmaris) and the favorable prices, which enable a summer vacation on a reasonable budget.
When the forest and the sea meet.
Marmaris, photo: GettyImages
Nir Mazur, VP of Aviation Relations, explains: "Not long ago, like most coastal cities in Turkey, Marmaris was an unknown Turkish village, and from time to time it was visited by visitors who arrived by boat during their travels along the Mediterranean coast.
Only a few years passed - and the place became a thriving resort.
"Marmaris is located at the point where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean Sea and creates a large natural harbor and an amazing bay. The hills roll down to the sea, and wonderful bays add charm to the city. Most of the areas in Marmaris are wooded, creating a unique image of greenery immersed in the mesmerizing sea shores. In the center of the old city stands A castle on top of the hill, with narrow, ancient streets winding down. The old quarters of the city and the colorful markets are also worth a wander. Marmaris is also one of the most important yachting centers in the Mediterranean, and a great place to start sea voyages. It is close to Rhodes, which provides a wonderful opportunity to visit two countries in one trip".
Prabza: Another postcard from Greece
Many Israelis are not familiar with the spectacular beaches of this area in Greece, but the area of Parveza and Lefkada is stunningly beautiful, with an extraordinary stretch of coastline.
The Cypriot airline TUS, which is partially owned by Israel, is expanding its operations in Israel, and will operate direct flights to the intriguing destination as early as next month.
At the same time, it will start operating direct flights from Israel to Rome as well, and will increase the routes to Dusseldorf, Larnaca, Paphos and various Greek destinations.
Ahmed Ali, CEO of TUS, tells about the new destination: "Parbeza is one of the gems of Greece, a perfect destination for those who love the beaches, the turquoise water and the good life.
The magical island of Lefkada is only 25 km from the airport, and is an ideal place for a summer vacation or a fun day trip.
Another postcard from Greece.
Prabza, photo: GettyImages
"If you have already arrived in the area and have time, it is recommended to combine day trips in the nearby picturesque towns of Parga and Sivota. With breathtaking beaches, refined Greek cuisine and amazing scenery, it is not surprising that Parveza and Epirus have become a highly sought-after and ideal destination for summer vacations and holidays for Israelis".
Seoul: a spiritual experience alongside the K-pop culture
This month, direct flights to the magical capital of South Korea began to depart from Israel.
Seoul is one of the most vibrant and intriguing cities in Asia, with great nightlife and a unique culture.
The best times to visit it are in autumn (September to November) and spring (April to May).
The recommended areas for a first visit to the country are Seoul, Busan and Jeju Island, which was previously chosen as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Ofer Reinhardt, CEO of "Meman Aviation" from the Meman Group, Korean Air's representative in Israel in the passenger sector, says: "After about two and a half years, Korean Air is returning to operate the Tel Aviv-Seoul route with three weekly flights.
Already today we are witnessing a great demand, especially among Israeli companies specializing in organized trips to the destination.
There is also interest from businessmen who want to develop their business there, in light of the free trade agreement between the countries.
A temple in Seoul, South Korea, photo: Getty Images
"When visiting South Korea, you can experience opposite sides that exist side by side: on the one hand, visitors go through a spiritual experience in the Buddhist temples in the ancient mountains, such as Bulguksa, and on the other hand, they enjoy the modern skyscrapers of Seoul, such as the Lotte World Tower."
Beyond that, Reinhardt mentions the K-pop culture in South Korea, and the series and movies (K-drama) that have gained worldwide success.
Tourists are also looking to track down the places where the music videos of the boy band BTS were filmed, visit the site where the series "The Squid Game" was filmed, or tour the colorful markets where movies were filmed.
"South Korea has built amazing tourist attractions around these issues," says Reinhardt.
China: Just don't talk to them about the corona virus
After almost three years, China is also expected to soon return to the tourism map, now that the authorities have announced that they have lifted the restrictions on entering the country.
Although it was not specified whether all tourists will be allowed to enter, it is undoubtedly a decision that paves the way for a wide opening of China to foreigners as well.
China is one of the most touristic and intriguing countries in the world, with world-renowned destinations, headed by Shanghai and Beijing.
In recent weeks, direct flights to two destinations in China - Shenzhen and Shanghai - have resumed, and it is estimated that there will be more destinations soon.
Shanghai from a bird's eye view, photo: AFP
Ilan Shalu, Vice President of Vacation Lines: "With the opening of China, basically all the countries of the world are removing all restrictions and returning to the pre-corona era.
This is huge news for the Israeli tourist - and for the world in general, that it will once again be one global village, without restrictions, vaccination certificates or conditions of this and that.
China, let's remember, was the leading tourist destination in the East, with flights by Chinese airlines and El Al, which brought tens of thousands of Israelis to the country every year.
Tourism to China from Israel was mainly for the 40-60 year old population, who came mainly on organized trips.
"A visit to China usually includes the Great Wall of China, but also the magnificent shopping malls that have sprung up in modern cities, alongside historical tourist sites that are recommended to be seen at least once in a lifetime, and all this - without talking about the Chinese food that we love so much and the low costs of staying. We believe that the pre-book Corona among Israelis who went to China will be seen as early as 2024, as direct flights increase and as the Israeli public overcomes the fear of flying to this destination."
Dublin: Drink Guinness at the local pub
The capital of Ireland starred this year at the top of the rankings of recommended, safe and friendly tourist cities.
Dublin was very cold in the winter, and El Al's direct flights to it will resume next month - when it will still be cold, but less than in the height of winter.
In March, St. Patrick's Day will be celebrated in the city, just days after the first direct flight there from Israel, and those who arrive will be able to take part in the holiday most associated with Ireland.
Dublin, the country's largest city and one of the most beautiful European capitals, offers the formula for a magical vacation - with spectacular views, a bustling nightlife district and shopping streets, alongside statues and monuments at every corner.
The city is now considered the high-tech capital of the continent, but nevertheless - continues to maintain a local color and unique character.
The Irish Parliament in Dublin, photo: AFP
Most of the sites in Dublin are within walking distance of each other, and wandering the streets of the city is one of the great pleasures in the Irish capital.
Among the recommended sites in the city: the Point of Dublin - the tallest statue in the world, a view of the Penny Bridge, the Temple Bar area full of pubs, the Guinness Brewery visitor center and the promenade at Don Leary Harbour.
Holiday villages in Europe: back to the classic B&Bs
A style of vacation that is gaining sympathy among Israeli tourists, and especially families, is holiday village tourism.
The villages in Europe make it possible to vacation abroad while having a rural experience, which includes nature, bicycle tours and star tours, and less running in big cities. Tali Noi, Vice President of ISTA: "Vacation in holiday villages is characterized by cabins and vacation units in tourist areas, from which you go on star tours - or who simply spend time in the village itself and the attractions it offers.The packages also include flights and a rental car.
"The vacation style is suitable for people who like to travel and want to experience an unusual vacation, for families with children of various ages or without children, for couples and more. It is an experiential and formative trip with a car and at your own pace, close to many tourist destinations such as children's parks and attractions, and at a relatively affordable price."
Ista offers holiday villages in the Netherlands, Italy, the Black Forest (Germany), Austria, France (Alsace), Slovenia and the Tatras (Poland and Slovakia).
"There are villages that are apartment houses or vacation units that will suit every budget," Noy says, "and usually the differences are in the level of equipment, the size of each unit and whether or not there is a garden and an outdoor area. The variety of attractions offered varies from village to village.
"Some important tips: it is recommended to order now to earn pre-season prices, it is mandatory to obtain an international driver's license (can be obtained easily and at a minimal cost), and it is mandatory to have an international credit card for a deposit when picking up the vehicle."
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