There's something unique and different about you Oren; but the most important thing is that it's clear how much trouble you go to for your work. Your efforts aren't wasted, your genuineness shines!
As an Israeli, the best tip I can give tourists is to expect Israeli behavior. We are rude, we didn't hear about personal space, we will shout, ask questions that are way too personal, hug strangers, be too friendly too quickly. Basically, we're like a big family in the best and worse sense. Feel at home, don't let the noise distract you, if somebody shouts at you they have nothing against you, this is their normal speaking voice, just shout back. Feel at home, muster all your Jutspah, don't be afraid to ask for help or tips from locals or haggle on prices, yes, the soldiers will gladly take a picture with you. the more you speak with us the better chance you may find yourself invited to a Shabbat dinner. God, we are crazy.
"the more you speak with us the better chance you may find yourself invited to a Shabbat dinner" Yes, that is good advice. Until now it has remained a dream. Maybe on my next visit.
Maybe it's me, but I didn't find all this behavior to be rude. I thought it was friendly and fun. Besides, there are plenty of people in Israel who don't shout, don't ask personal questions, and give you personal space and privacy. So it depends on a person. Israelis like to think of themselves as rude. Thinking this way is some kind of national sport I don't understand.
You said it man, all true but also so dear to the heart. I could not live any other place in the world. Yes we are a bit tough but kind hearted, and yes we are not perfect. You made me laugh re all big family.
I loved Israel for ALL the reasons you mentioned. My best memory was in the outdoor food market. I was eyeing some amazing bread and trying to resist temptation because I'm so fat. Each bread was so pretty to see. The bread guy must have thought I was poor because he spontaneously said something Hebrew and thrust the bread into my hands. When I looked for money he kept saying stuff and refusing. I heard him say "lo". What a dear, sweet soul. It was almost sabat time so I left. I had someone at the hostel translate in a note about how I was hesitating because of my diet. I went back after sabat ended and paid the guy and bought more of his great bread. He was so kind. My Jewish friend said he was doing a mitzvah. I get the word mikvah confused with mitzvah. One is a blessing and one is a ritual immersion in water. I hope some day to go back to Israel but not in the summer.😂
I've come across your wonderful channel since the October 7th massacre. My heart goes out to you and your fellow countrymen. My daughter and niece were scheduled to visit Egypt next week but canceled due to the war between Israel and Hamas....it just occurred to me that you must be suffering a lack of tourists as well. I hope your youtube account is monetized enough to see your family through.
An amazing country with amazing people! I fell in love with Tel Aviv in the first minute. Incredibly wonderful, friendly, creative and interesting people from all over the world live here. Thanks for being so cool❤
Your English is great for tourists from around the world. For those of us who speak Spanish and understand basic English, your pronunciation is ideal. ☺️💖🇨🇱🇮🇱
As a native English speaker who has a good sense of our language - I noticed right away how Oren is very good about his clear pronunciation of each word. He cares very much about his communication. Very impressive.
I recently came to Israel on my honeymoon and absolutely loved being there but this video was so accurate. The driving (as we rented a car) was our biggest issue. Parking was difficult and cost a fortune, the drivers terrified me and the constant horn beeping at all hours of the day and night were difficult issues to get used to. However, that being said, it will never stop me from wanting to return because the country is so beautiful and my Judaism felt more prominent there. Purim in Israel is the best, also.
I learned how to drive in New York City, where I still live, and even so, the Israeli drivers scare me and I’m afraid to rent a car! But the public transport is good, and my Israeli family usually drives me where I want to go, so I’m lucky.
I never drive in Israel. I will take the train, taxi, light rail, or bus. My last two trips were over Purim. Actually, I was in Jerusalem for Shushan Purim. The first time I felt a bit cheated because the weather was bad, and there was no one in the streets celebrating. So I had to go a second time, and this time it was perfect spring weather and I had a lot of fun.
Try driving in Crete I thought Israel is bad but from the moment I picked the car at the airport people were using their hands to show me what they think about me slow driving while I was trying to understand the rented car.
My aircraft carrier did a port call to Haifa. First we did a 1-day tour to the Dead Sea/ Masada. Then we did a 2-day tour to Jerusalem/ Sea of Galilee. I really enjoyed everything and everyone. Two things that struck me were how much history has happened in such a small country and how beautiful the woman were.
One thing that comes to mind for me is that they seem to have more outdoor prison guards per capita than any other country in the world. If you were born a prisoner , what would you do ?
@@valerieadams7001 stop victimizing and justify jihad and the Islamic barbarizem it isn't About you and you definitely don't understand shria jihad and radical Islam
I think your English is GREAT. I can understand every word. Blessings on your programs. I have been to Israel twice (1995 & 2011). I would come back again, but now I am raising my grandkids.
Always excellent feedback both on your political and travel u tubes . Always expressed clearly concisely and excellent points We always learn from you because your feedback is interesting truthful and factual Thank you
4:25. Accommodation DOES need two C's and two M's. A double consonant implies that the vowel in front of consonant is SHORT as opposed to LONG. For example, hoped (long O) sounds different that hopped (short O). Pining (long first I) sounds different than Pinning (short first I).
I’m addicted to your videos, but eventually I’m going to catch up with watching all of them and you won’t be able to keep up with my demand for them. ;)
THANK YOU for such an informative video, and all the others you have produced. I first went to Israel when I was 20 in 1972 and since then I have seen it change dramatically. The strange thing is, even with all its pitfalls (as you so clearly inform us about) Israel has something so special and unique that I always want to keep returning. I honestly don't know what it is, but it draws you in. Some of the best times, and the best people I have met, all happened in Israel. I hope everyone who visits there will have the experience of a lifetime. No place is perfect, and Israel exemplifies that.
I love your commentaries and I think you speak really well, not heavily accented at all. I went to Israel in December and it was quite cold, but I loved every minute of it.
Thank you for the video and greetings from Colorado Springs, Colorado. I enjoy your videos and really hope to visit Israel in the future. I am not super religious but I find ancient structures and buildings quite fascinating. Israel seems to have a lot of them.
I have just recently discovered your channel and truly appreciate the information you provide. If my wife and I decide to visit Israel, you will be the first person I try to contact. Please stay safe, my friend.
I was fortunate to visit Tel Aviv on business years ago. I had time for a tour to Jerusalem, which was amazing. I really enjoyed the visit, except it was too short. I love Israel and Israelis. I hope to return some day.
So glad I spent a year in Israel as a student when the country was pleasant, safe, I knew enough Hebrew to get along and by end of year was fluent as I only spoke Hebrew to Israelis. I had the advantage of a place to stay, a centrally heated dorm in Jerusalem near the then-campus of Hebrew U, Givat Ram. Most important, I became fluent in Hebrew by end of year. A lovely time to have been in Israel. And very important, inexpensive for Americans, especially for me, with limited means. I went at the best time, between two wars, a time of peace and happiness.
Since I am coming in October, I have bought your app and your guide booklets! Thank you for putting this all together, I feel much more confident coming on my own now!
So glad I watched your videos, The Nesher shared taxi fills that Friday, Saturday affordable transfer issue. I had a great journey on Friday with some nice Spanish people. 66 Shekels verses 160 dollars for a private taxi is a no brainer.
The freezing air conditioning you mentioned instantly reminds me of Hong Kong, it is the exact situation where it is really hot outside, but indoor spaces are often freezing cold with so much air conditioning, that it actually made me sick with a lot of running nose the first few days there! Definitely would recommend bringing adequate tissues and paper napkins for sure.
Great vid! Very informative and entertaining. And your Eglish is great. I probably will never get to Israel 🇮🇱, I'm pretty old, lol. That's why I enjoy your vids so much, you let me see what I won't otherwise see till after I die.
I've been to Israel twice and LOVED it. I can't wait to go back with my family.... . The first time was on a 2 week tour, in 1994. The second time was to spend the summer, on an archeological dig (my grandfather was an archeologist), a few weeks on a Kibbutz, a month on a church building project near Haifa, and a few weeks traveling around. The items mentioned in this video, I experienced. Another annoyance was, people cutting in line. I am not sure if that still happens (I was almost 30 years ago), but it sure was annoying. But, since then, I lived in China for a few years, and no one seems to care about standing in lines (or "queueing").
Watching this video as an Israely is both interesting and amusing. Most of the things you mentioned are things most Israelies don't like about Israel either :) It's always fun watching Travel Videos! even if it's on your home country. Thanks!
I love your videos and am learning a lot from them. At 3:37 there is a small spelling mistake - spelling is with 2 lls - not sure if you did that on purpose as a joke tho - lol! please do more videos! YOu are the best spokesperson for Israel that i've seen yet! [ and I am a director or dubbing and in the arts in general - so good job!!!!!]
Oren thank you for your open, honest, generous delivery of your content. I love it! Military Essentials Kit, EDC= every day carry or EDE Every day essentials, Good for anyone who wants to hike and or camp. When I visit Israel I plan to use all your essentials from your app!
This was the most informative video I've seen in these practical matters, and I do appreciate the quality and work you put into making this. You were easier for me to understand today. Thank you ! Shalom🇮🇱🙏
You have a great sense of humor, Oren. Thank you for this great information. And you are easy to understand, accent or no. The accent is cool in my books. So there.
Me and my friends loved almost everything about Israel when we visited. The only thing we did not like was the extreme and I mean extreme wait time to get through security at the airport. I mean I understand why they need to do it. But damn, they went through all the dirty underwears LOL and opened and tested all the bottles of lotion my friend bought at dead sea. She had like a dozen bottles. Oh, and the pseduo interrogation we got crossing back to Israel after visiting Petra in Jordan. The guards were nice enough and apologized to us in advance. Then took us all separately to ask us how we know each other, where we went in Jordan, what did we do etc etc. Then they changed and had a different person ask each of us the same questions a 2nd time.
The unreasonably high hotel prices in Israel created a surrealistic situation. For instance, for me, as an Israeli citizen, it is cheaper to spend vacation in Greece or in Crete than in Eilat (Israel's South) although Eilat is much closer to my house.
This applies to certain European nations as well. My Holland, Britain, Scandinavia, Switzerland, etc. Easier to take a flight with the whole family to let’s say Thailand and splurge there or in indeed Greece, Albania, Turkey, Ethiopia etc.
Yes, it’s the same here in Ireland as well. It would be cheaper for me to take my family to Spain for a weeks holiday than to stay here in Ireland for a few days!
@@michellel3348 - Question then is: Who still comes to north-west Europe if all is inflated. Victims of our own architectural and cultural tourist succes.
I have no problems with your accent because my daughter’s husband and his family speak exactly the same, so my ear has grown accustomed! You always have great advice but, since I live in New York City, I never thought Israel was too expensive. The prices are similar, but I suppose it seems expensive to anyone from outside a major city.
@@גליתאנגור-ש1צ I’m sure you are correct, but this video is aimed at tourists, not residents of Israel. As a visitor from New York, I don’t think it’s expensive. But my daughter is a teacher in KS (I don’t want to say the name, but you know the city), and her salary would be considered poverty wages in the States.
@@wotan10950 Hi.. yes I know K.S. :) and you're right! That's another problem. Unfortunately some work sectors, especially in the periphery of the country, suffer from very low salaries 😕
Hi Oren, I love to watch your videos, as you give us so much honest information about a Israel, it is very helpful for people visiting for the first time. God bless you. Are you a tourist guide as well, pls let me know as I’m visiting Israel alone for the very first time .
Thank you Oren. I am travelling there next year as a pilgrim for religious reasons to soak in the places that Christ walked. Part of that for me is to have a "pilgrim mind" which means be prepared, do not complain, accept the local culture and staying in a Catholic hostel/hotel. I think Galilee region is where I would feel closest to Him.
I agree with you, and I'm an Israeli citiizen. Capernum is awesome. Last year the Italian Embassy put on a celebration of Pier Paolo Passolini's 100th birthday. They did it in Capernum and showed his "Gospel of St. Matthew." It was outdoors and a beautiful evening on the shores of the Kinneret. The crowd was mixed, Jews and Christians. When the movie was over, it got very quiet.
@@tinalettieri Great movie and director, We were there 2months ago in January. Didn't like Tel Aviv or Jerusalem but Galilee region I loved, it is something else.. 25 family members travelled together there and all of us had a profound time.
@@SaintCharbelMiracleworker That's great! I live in Haifa. Did you get to Mt. Carmel and Stella Maris? We had a very hard January this year. Cold and rainy. Unusually so. I lived in Jerusalem the first year I came here. It's important to see the holy sites but to live, not so much. TA is ok in the summer when you can do the beach.
@@tinalettieri We liked Haifa, we got impression of very friendly, diverse cohesive population there. We had lunch at a very nice beach. We spent a day there, visited Stella Maris and Prophet Elijahs cave, took the cablecar, visited the Bahai Gardens and the museum at the university.
Did you end your video by saying "yalla bye"? Hahaha we say that too in Lebanon! I didn't know you say that as well in Israel. The driving and queuing are also similar in my country most of the time. And we also develop this invisibility power hahaha. That one was funny 😂
I thought it was interesting that others mistake your accent as French. My husband and I have also mistaken Hebrew accent as French as well. Your English is excellent, you should be proud. I have the opposite problem as a student of Spanish, I am not very fluid, still think in English, but my accent is nearly perfect, which gets me in trouble with native speakers.
Ha ha ... this is interesting. They think that you know exactly what you want to say and the way how you say it. I did think his accent is French too, but I do not have an other reference.
I think that the apparent similarity between Hebrew and French accents in English is caused by two things: 1. Speakers of these languages spell the letter "R" from deep inside their throat. 2. Both of these languages tend to put a lot of accent to the last letters of the word, which in English sounds as if they were "stepping" on the last syllable (see also the comment above). The second point is important for Hebrew, because signficant information (possesive pronouns, gender suffixes, suffixes for verb tenses etc.) are usually placed in that last syllable.
I was positive that was a German-Alaskan accent you have! Now if we could just get some real heavy New Jersey mixed into your accent nobody would understand you anywhere. You are a fact man and an excellent teacher and I thank the Lord I found and subscribed to your channel. Always a great listen and watch. Too bad I can't travel or I would hop one of your tours in a second. Take care, buddy.
I enjoyed your video. I brought back great memories. I live in Israel for 3 years about 20 some years ago. I love every minute of it. When I arrived I was told when starting a conversation with someone that you didn't know it was polite to ask if they speak English. The number one answer to "do you speak “English" was "Of course", and I realized it was a polite answer and not an arrogant answer. I saw one very loud American assumed it was. The American chided the Israeli for saying "of course" So much for diplomacy. It was an amazing delight. We were driving from Ra'anana to the Sea of Galilee on a winding desert road. We traveled for kilometers through barren desert when we came around a curve and there was a fruit stand selling just one kind of fruit. Cherries! There was nothing else for kilometers. They were amazing cherries in and amazing location. Shalom
Hey travelingIsrael. Thank you for another lesson in Israel touring management. Your videos are jam-packed with vital information needed to navigate 'The Holy Land'. All of God's blessings and protection to you and all those who you love. Thank you.
Oh yeah, you are easily understood. You enunciate every syllable perfectly. Your manner and presentation are quick, precise, and spot-on. Thank you for your videos. God bless you and your work.
Meir Shalev's quote is too funny. His list of published books looks very interesting. Any recommendations for a children's book for grade school girls ? Also another great video. well done.
As an Israeli I have some notes: Public transport on Saturday: Basically what should be remembered is that there is no public transport between November and March between Friday at 16:00 and Saturday at 18:00. And between April and October between Friday at 18:00 and Saturday at 21:00. When there are a lot of exceptions. Especially when it is relevant to tourists. For example, there is a bus service on Saturdays between Haifa and Nazareth and within these cities. Just keep in mind that if you are traveling in PT do not book a flight that lands in Israel after 14:00 on Friday or before 20:00 on Saturday. Regarding Crowded sites. It is very important not to visit during the Jewish holidays of April and September October! because then all the main attractions were over crowded. Other than that if you visit on working days (in Israel is Sunday to Thursday) , the attractions will not be mass at all. As for air conditioners, especially relevant to the European tourist. The Americans freeze much more enclosed spaces than the Israelis.
I love Israel, but Israel is rude! I heard a joke from an Israeli. A pollster is asking people around the world about a meat shortage. First an Anerican, he asks, “Excuse me, what do you think about the meat shortage?” The American says, “What’s a ‘shortage’?” Then to a Russian, “Excuse me, what do you think about the meat shortage?” The Russian says, “What’s ‘meat’?’” Last, to an Israeli, “Excuse me, what do think about the meat shortage.” “What’s ‘Excuse me’?” the Israeli asks. 🤣😂🤣
I may never visit but love to find out more about your incredible country. I lived in the ME for many years and feel so much is familiar I know I'd enjoy it. Love to Israel..
I just returned from my first trip to Israel and I actually don’t agree with everything you listed. Maybe growing up in New York set my expectations differently, but I did not find my personal space being invaded, nor find it to be overly expensive, nor was I harassed by any of the vendors in Old Jerusalem (although I did get the expected sly sales tactics..). I visited Jerusalem on a Friday and the streets were all but deserted, as was the Church of the Holy Sepulcher - and this was at maybe 10am. I guess I got very lucky? In any event, although Israel may be small by US standards, it packs a LOT in that space. If you love history, you simply must go. The Western Wall itself - religious significance aside - tells a story of history that I had never appreciated until I visited. Your tips from your videos were most helpful and I thank you for them.
In Tel-Aviv You do have public transportation all the weekend, (Friday and Saturday) Including all the night. This great tourist buses come every 20 minutes, even to some cities out of Tel-Aviv, like Ramat gan, and Herzlia and it is total free (no money).
I used to frequent a place that had a large Israeli population. When they speak Hebrew it always sounded French to me. And I grew up in a Yiddish speaking home.
I'm an Israeli, who has been living abroad for a while. That video is hilarious! Can you do one, traveling/tourist, about Eylat? I wasn't in Eylat for at least 20 years and wanted to take my kids last August. Everyone thought I'm crazy, so I didn't.
Yes, TLV and Jerusalem are expensive, crowded, filled with bad drivers and hucksters. Luckily, most of the rest of the country (north & south) is very nice too, with friendlier people, better drivers and lower prices. Best advise is to spend first day in TLV (to get the vibe), then one day in Jerusalem (to check off those boxes) and then a month outside these 2 hellholes and really experience what Israel is all about.
I’ve been to Israel a few times and we’re getting ready to go again. This video is so accurate. Prices for things like food and toiletries and lodging are crazy expensive but the street food is AMAZING and basically equivalent to high-end restaurants here in America. One thing about rental cars - if you’re a dual American and Israeli citizen, you will pay an extra 17% VAT when renting a car.
There's something unique and different about you Oren; but the most important thing is that it's clear how much trouble you go to for your work. Your efforts aren't wasted, your genuineness shines!
Thank you 🙏
Agreed 100%
Agreed!
Agreed. And Oren, your accent is not heavy. No problem understanding you.
Agreed 👌
As an Israeli, the best tip I can give tourists is to expect Israeli behavior. We are rude, we didn't hear about personal space, we will shout, ask questions that are way too personal, hug strangers, be too friendly too quickly. Basically, we're like a big family in the best and worse sense. Feel at home, don't let the noise distract you, if somebody shouts at you they have nothing against you, this is their normal speaking voice, just shout back. Feel at home, muster all your Jutspah, don't be afraid to ask for help or tips from locals or haggle on prices, yes, the soldiers will gladly take a picture with you. the more you speak with us the better chance you may find yourself invited to a Shabbat dinner.
God, we are crazy.
"the more you speak with us the better chance you may find yourself invited to a Shabbat dinner" Yes, that is good advice. Until now it has remained a dream. Maybe on my next visit.
Lol.. everything is true.. I laughed so much 🤣🤣🤣
Maybe it's me, but I didn't find all this behavior to be rude. I thought it was friendly and fun.
Besides, there are plenty of people in Israel who don't shout, don't ask personal questions, and give you personal space and privacy. So it depends on a person.
Israelis like to think of themselves as rude. Thinking this way is some kind of national sport I don't understand.
You said it man, all true but also so dear to the heart. I could not live any other place in the world. Yes we are a bit tough but kind hearted, and yes we are not perfect. You made me laugh re all big family.
I loved Israel for ALL the reasons you mentioned. My best memory was in the outdoor food market. I was eyeing some amazing bread and trying to resist temptation because I'm so fat. Each bread was so pretty to see. The bread guy must have thought I was poor because he spontaneously said something Hebrew and thrust the bread into my hands. When I looked for money he kept saying stuff and refusing. I heard him say "lo". What a dear, sweet soul. It was almost sabat time so I left. I had someone at the hostel translate in a note about how I was hesitating because of my diet. I went back after sabat ended and paid the guy and bought more of his great bread. He was so kind. My Jewish friend said he was doing a mitzvah. I get the word mikvah confused with mitzvah. One is a blessing and one is a ritual immersion in water. I hope some day to go back to Israel but not in the summer.😂
The best food I ever had in my life was in Israel. I changed the way I made hummus after I visited there.
I've come across your wonderful channel since the October 7th massacre. My heart goes out to you and your fellow countrymen. My daughter and niece were scheduled to visit Egypt next week but canceled due to the war between Israel and Hamas....it just occurred to me that you must be suffering a lack of tourists as well. I hope your youtube account is monetized enough to see your family through.
An amazing country with amazing people! I fell in love with Tel Aviv in the first minute. Incredibly wonderful, friendly, creative and interesting people from all over the world live here. Thanks for being so cool❤
Your English is great for tourists from around the world. For those of us who speak Spanish and understand basic English, your pronunciation is ideal. ☺️💖🇨🇱🇮🇱
As a native English speaker who has a good sense of our language - I noticed right away how Oren is very good about his clear pronunciation of each word.
He cares very much about his communication.
Very impressive.
Loving your videos! I'm a citizen for almost 13 years and apparently there's still so much to learn!
Your English accent is just fine and you speak very understandable (I wished I could too).
And for sur your channel is one of the best. 💙👍
I recently came to Israel on my honeymoon and absolutely loved being there but this video was so accurate. The driving (as we rented a car) was our biggest issue. Parking was difficult and cost a fortune, the drivers terrified me and the constant horn beeping at all hours of the day and night were difficult issues to get used to. However, that being said, it will never stop me from wanting to return because the country is so beautiful and my Judaism felt more prominent there. Purim in Israel is the best, also.
I learned how to drive in New York City, where I still live, and even so, the Israeli drivers scare me and I’m afraid to rent a car! But the public transport is good, and my Israeli family usually drives me where I want to go, so I’m lucky.
I never drive in Israel. I will take the train, taxi, light rail, or bus.
My last two trips were over Purim. Actually, I was in Jerusalem for Shushan Purim. The first time I felt a bit cheated because the weather was bad, and there was no one in the streets celebrating. So I had to go a second time, and this time it was perfect spring weather and I had a lot of fun.
Try driving in Crete I thought Israel is bad but from the moment I picked the car at the airport people were using their hands to show me what they think about me slow driving while I was trying to understand the rented car.
The worst driving on my last trip, when I was in a taxi, was in Beer Sheba. The city is growing, but the downtown streets are not.
@@wotan10950 Even as an Israeli I am a lil afraid to drive lol
My aircraft carrier did a port call to Haifa. First we did a 1-day tour to the Dead Sea/ Masada. Then we did a 2-day tour to Jerusalem/ Sea of Galilee. I really enjoyed everything and everyone. Two things that struck me were how much history has happened in such a small country and how beautiful the woman were.
One thing that comes to mind for me is that they seem to have more outdoor prison guards per capita than any other country in the world. If you were born a prisoner , what would you do ?
shut up pro hamas brainwashed western privilege
educate yourself before you spam hatful nonsense and lies @@johngawrylash7732
Stop committing crimes.
@@valerieadams7001 stop victimizing and justify jihad and the Islamic barbarizem
it isn't About you
and you definitely don't understand shria jihad and radical Islam
@@valerieadams7001 Amazing what common sense can do.
🙂
I think your English is GREAT. I can understand every word. Blessings on your programs. I have been to Israel twice (1995 & 2011). I would come back again, but now I am raising my grandkids.
Always excellent feedback both on your political and travel u tubes .
Always expressed clearly concisely and excellent points
We always learn from you because your feedback is interesting truthful and factual
Thank you
4:25. Accommodation DOES need two C's and two M's. A double consonant implies that the vowel in front of consonant is SHORT as opposed to LONG.
For example, hoped (long O) sounds different that hopped (short O). Pining (long first I) sounds different than Pinning (short first I).
I’m addicted to your videos, but eventually I’m going to catch up with watching all of them and you won’t be able to keep up with my demand for them. ;)
THANK YOU for such an informative video, and all the others you have produced. I first went to Israel when I was 20 in 1972 and since then I have seen it change dramatically. The strange thing is, even with all its pitfalls (as you so clearly inform us about) Israel has something so special and unique that I always want to keep returning. I honestly don't know what it is, but it draws you in. Some of the best times, and the best people I have met, all happened in Israel. I hope everyone who visits there will have the experience of a lifetime. No place is perfect, and Israel exemplifies that.
You’re so honest about your country. I don’t know if people from other countries would speak so bravely about their country the way you do.
Tsafati was my very young tour guide in 1996! I loved everything Israel... I love your videos and information. I’m 83 years... American...
I love your commentaries and I think you speak really well, not heavily accented at all. I went to Israel in December and it was quite cold, but I loved every minute of it.
I wish you guys success, peace and good times
Thank you for the video and greetings from Colorado Springs, Colorado. I enjoy your videos and really hope to visit Israel in the future. I am not super religious but I find ancient structures and buildings quite fascinating. Israel seems to have a lot of them.
I have just recently discovered your channel and truly appreciate the information you provide. If my wife and I decide to visit Israel, you will be the first person I try to contact. Please stay safe, my friend.
I love the dry humor :-)
And I can assure you, that finding the slowest drivers on the middle lane is a circumstance not limited to Israel
8:20 whoever is selling both "Free Palestine" and pro-Israel "Super Jew" shirts... I respect the hustle.
I love your concept of turning down the air-conditioning everywhere.
I was fortunate to visit Tel Aviv on business years ago. I had time for a tour to Jerusalem, which was amazing. I really enjoyed the visit, except it was too short. I love Israel and Israelis. I hope to return some day.
So glad I spent a year in Israel as a student when the country was pleasant, safe, I knew enough Hebrew to get along and by end of year was fluent as I only spoke Hebrew to Israelis. I had the advantage of a place to stay, a centrally heated dorm in Jerusalem near the then-campus of Hebrew U, Givat Ram. Most important, I became fluent in Hebrew by end of year. A lovely time to have been in Israel. And very important, inexpensive for Americans, especially for me, with limited means. I went at the best time, between two wars, a time of peace and happiness.
“When the country was pleasant, safe … “ It still is. What makes you think that changed? Just returned two weeks ago.
@@sabrinafair35 I'm sure it is.
how do you say 5 dancers in yiddish?
May inask you, what you did to learn the hebrew please? Did you train yourself? How? Please give me advise🙏🙏🙏
Since I am coming in October, I have bought your app and your guide booklets! Thank you for putting this all together, I feel much more confident coming on my own now!
Yes i can understand!
This is such an important video for tourists. You are unique and I appreciate your transparency. I know I will never be able to go to Israel.
I bought your booklets ! Will get your app when we go. Love your videos. Thank you!
So glad I watched your videos, The Nesher shared taxi fills that Friday, Saturday affordable transfer issue. I had a great journey on Friday with some nice Spanish people. 66 Shekels verses 160 dollars for a private taxi is a no brainer.
The freezing air conditioning you mentioned instantly reminds me of Hong Kong, it is the exact situation where it is really hot outside, but indoor spaces are often freezing cold with so much air conditioning, that it actually made me sick with a lot of running nose the first few days there! Definitely would recommend bringing adequate tissues and paper napkins for sure.
Great vid! Very informative and entertaining. And your Eglish is great. I probably will never get to Israel 🇮🇱, I'm pretty old, lol. That's why I enjoy your vids so much, you let me see what I won't otherwise see till after I die.
You’ll enjoy it a lot more if you go before
I've been to Israel twice and LOVED it. I can't wait to go back with my family.... . The first time was on a 2 week tour, in 1994. The second time was to spend the summer, on an archeological dig (my grandfather was an archeologist), a few weeks on a Kibbutz, a month on a church building project near Haifa, and a few weeks traveling around. The items mentioned in this video, I experienced. Another annoyance was, people cutting in line. I am not sure if that still happens (I was almost 30 years ago), but it sure was annoying. But, since then, I lived in China for a few years, and no one seems to care about standing in lines (or "queueing").
So correct about both Israel and China.
it definitely still happens. we suck at standing in line properly
No reason to worry about your accent. Your grammar is great, and you are perfectly intelligible.
Watching this video as an Israely is both interesting and amusing.
Most of the things you mentioned are things most Israelies don't like about Israel either :)
It's always fun watching Travel Videos! even if it's on your home country. Thanks!
כן, זה מעניין להבין איך רואים אותנו מבחוץ..
I love your videos and am learning a lot from them. At 3:37 there is a small spelling mistake - spelling is with 2 lls - not sure if you did that on purpose as a joke tho - lol! please do more videos! YOu are the best spokesperson for Israel that i've seen yet! [ and I am a director or dubbing and in the arts in general - so good job!!!!!]
ISRAELIS ARE SO WARM HEARTED AND BEAUTIFUL.
THEY ARE A TOUGH PEOPLE
Oren thank you for your open, honest, generous delivery of your content. I love it! Military Essentials Kit, EDC= every day carry or EDE Every day essentials, Good for anyone who wants to hike and or camp. When I visit Israel I plan to use all your essentials from your app!
This was the most informative video I've seen in these practical matters, and I do appreciate the quality and work you put into making this. You were easier for me to understand today. Thank you ! Shalom🇮🇱🙏
You have a great sense of humor, Oren. Thank you for this great information. And you are easy to understand, accent or no. The accent is cool in my books. So there.
You accent is easy to understand and your English vocabulary is very strong. I immediately liked to listen to your channel.
Thank you for being so informative, open an honest! By the way - I love your accent!
Me and my friends loved almost everything about Israel when we visited. The only thing we did not like was the extreme and I mean extreme wait time to get through security at the airport. I mean I understand why they need to do it. But damn, they went through all the dirty underwears LOL and opened and tested all the bottles of lotion my friend bought at dead sea. She had like a dozen bottles. Oh, and the pseduo interrogation we got crossing back to Israel after visiting Petra in Jordan. The guards were nice enough and apologized to us in advance. Then took us all separately to ask us how we know each other, where we went in Jordan, what did we do etc etc. Then they changed and had a different person ask each of us the same questions a 2nd time.
That's completely understandable considering the history...
Sure wish they would have been that thorough at the border...
Thanks for your handy tips Paul Newman
The unreasonably high hotel prices in Israel created a surrealistic situation. For instance, for me, as an Israeli citizen, it is cheaper to spend vacation in Greece or in Crete than in Eilat (Israel's South) although Eilat is much closer to my house.
This applies to certain European nations as well.
My Holland, Britain, Scandinavia, Switzerland, etc. Easier to take a flight with the whole family to let’s say Thailand and splurge there or in indeed Greece, Albania, Turkey, Ethiopia etc.
Yes, it’s the same here in Ireland as well. It would be cheaper for me to take my family to Spain for a weeks holiday than to stay here in Ireland for a few days!
@@michellel3348 - Question then is: Who still comes to north-west Europe if all is inflated.
Victims of our own architectural and cultural tourist succes.
Excellent as always! I already purchased your booklets, and will definitely get your app when I'm heading to Israel! Shalom!
I visited Israel in 2019 and many things you say is exactly so, but I loved it all& would like to visit again.God bless you
Your English is excellent! I enjoyed your video and look forward to my return trip!
It's so true about lines. The pain is almost physical, especially if you don't speak Hebrew.
Beautiful to walk through yerushalayim at night. Happy Yerushalayim day to everyone
Love your videos my wife and myself will be going to Israel in May of next year!!!!
Your english is perfectly clear and easy to understand.😉
I understand ver well, crystal clear. Thank for all the advice.
I have been there, since June 2018. Visited many historical places. And i miss going back for a visit soon.
I have no problems with your accent because my daughter’s husband and his family speak exactly the same, so my ear has grown accustomed! You always have great advice but, since I live in New York City, I never thought Israel was too expensive. The prices are similar, but I suppose it seems expensive to anyone from outside a major city.
The prices are the same but if I'm not mistaken the salary in the US is 4 times the one in Israel
@@גליתאנגור-ש1צ I’m sure you are correct, but this video is aimed at tourists, not residents of Israel. As a visitor from New York, I don’t think it’s expensive. But my daughter is a teacher in KS (I don’t want to say the name, but you know the city), and her salary would be considered poverty wages in the States.
@@wotan10950 Hi.. yes I know K.S. :) and you're right! That's another problem. Unfortunately some work sectors, especially in the periphery of the country, suffer from very low salaries 😕
Hi Oren,
I love to watch your videos, as you give us so much honest information about a Israel, it is very helpful for people visiting for the first time.
God bless you.
Are you a tourist guide as well, pls let me know as I’m visiting Israel alone for the very first time .
Thank you Oren. I am travelling there next year as a pilgrim for religious reasons to soak in the places that Christ walked. Part of that for me is to have a "pilgrim mind" which means be prepared, do not complain, accept the local culture and staying in a Catholic hostel/hotel. I think Galilee region is where I would feel closest to Him.
Right. Making sure it lines up right before I pick up my pivot and take advantage of that first step. Not tryna miss my shot while way out yonder😂
I agree with you, and I'm an Israeli citiizen. Capernum is awesome. Last year the Italian Embassy put on a celebration of Pier Paolo Passolini's 100th birthday. They did it in Capernum and showed his "Gospel of St. Matthew." It was outdoors and a beautiful evening on the shores of the Kinneret. The crowd was mixed, Jews and Christians. When the movie was over, it got very quiet.
@@tinalettieri Great movie and director, We were there 2months ago in January. Didn't like Tel Aviv or Jerusalem but Galilee region I loved, it is something else.. 25 family members travelled together there and all of us had a profound time.
@@SaintCharbelMiracleworker That's great! I live in Haifa. Did you get to Mt. Carmel and Stella Maris? We had a very hard January this year. Cold and rainy. Unusually so. I lived in Jerusalem the first year I came here. It's important to see the holy sites but to live, not so much. TA is ok in the summer when you can do the beach.
@@tinalettieri We liked Haifa, we got impression of very friendly, diverse cohesive population there. We had lunch at a very nice beach. We spent a day there, visited Stella Maris and Prophet Elijahs cave, took the cablecar, visited the Bahai Gardens and the museum at the university.
Did you end your video by saying "yalla bye"? Hahaha we say that too in Lebanon! I didn't know you say that as well in Israel.
The driving and queuing are also similar in my country most of the time. And we also develop this invisibility power hahaha. That one was funny 😂
One of my favorite destination, i hope i could visit it someday. cheers from morocco
You are so much more than a guide. A wonderful ambassador for Israel. I want to go but it will be 4/5 years away.
We love your videos. When we come to Israel, we hope to meet you and thank you.
But we won't interrupt if you are making a video.
I thought it was interesting that others mistake your accent as French. My husband and I have also mistaken Hebrew accent as French as well. Your English is excellent, you should be proud. I have the opposite problem as a student of Spanish, I am not very fluid, still think in English, but my accent is nearly perfect, which gets me in trouble with native speakers.
Ha ha ... this is interesting. They think that you know exactly what you want to say and the way how you say it. I did think his accent is French too, but I do not have an other reference.
I wondered why it sounded French to me (although I could tell it wasn't). I looked it up and found it was because of the uvular rs.
Maybe it's because both Hebrew and French like emphasising words at the last syllabe.
I think that the apparent similarity between Hebrew and French accents in English is caused by two things: 1. Speakers of these languages spell the letter "R" from deep inside their throat. 2. Both of these languages tend to put a lot of accent to the last letters of the word, which in English sounds as if they were "stepping" on the last syllable (see also the comment above). The second point is important for Hebrew, because signficant information (possesive pronouns, gender suffixes, suffixes for verb tenses etc.) are usually placed in that last syllable.
💪✋❤️this channel saved my trip. Thanks for Moovit. Its so easy to buy tickets now. Thank You very much
Don't think tourism would be doing too good in Israel right now. I feel for the tourist operators.
First time viewer. Your English and accent is more than good! Great vid.
I was positive that was a German-Alaskan accent you have! Now if we could just get some real heavy New Jersey mixed into your accent nobody would understand you anywhere. You are a fact man and an excellent teacher and I thank the Lord I found and subscribed to your channel. Always a great listen and watch. Too bad I can't travel or I would hop one of your tours in a second. Take care, buddy.
I have been to Israel three times. I would love to go again. Also it is best to go on a tour the first time so one gets know the country better.
In my opinion going by my ear, your accent is more predominantly German and I hear a little Hebrew. Overall very unique! Oran you are one of a kind! 😁
Thank you very much for your tips !
I enjoyed your video. I brought back great memories. I live in Israel for 3 years about 20 some years ago. I love every minute of it. When I arrived I was told when starting a conversation with someone that you didn't know it was polite to ask if they speak English. The number one answer to "do you speak “English" was "Of course", and I realized it was a polite answer and not an arrogant answer. I saw one very loud American assumed it was. The American chided the Israeli for saying "of course" So much for diplomacy. It was an amazing delight. We were driving from Ra'anana to the Sea of Galilee on a winding desert road. We traveled for kilometers through barren desert when we came around a curve and there was a fruit stand selling just one kind of fruit. Cherries! There was nothing else for kilometers. They were amazing cherries in and amazing location. Shalom
Hey travelingIsrael. Thank you for another lesson in Israel touring management. Your videos are jam-packed with vital information needed to navigate 'The Holy Land'. All of God's blessings and protection to you and all those who you love. Thank you.
Oh yeah, you are easily understood. You enunciate every syllable perfectly. Your manner and presentation are quick, precise, and spot-on. Thank you for your videos. God bless you and your work.
I absolutely just love your videos. The best info on traveling in Israel.
Thanks for the information.. I visited Israel in the 70s. I certainly want to come back..
Your English is simple and easy to understand and your articulation superb 🎉
Meir Shalev's quote is too funny. His list of published books looks very interesting. Any recommendations for a children's book for grade school girls ? Also another great video. well done.
Thanks
Thank you so much!
I love how you misspelt Spelling....lol
I love your video's! Very good.
Your prices don't scare New Yorkers. It's worse here!
As an Israeli I have some notes:
Public transport on Saturday: Basically what should be remembered is that there is no public transport between November and March between Friday at 16:00 and Saturday at 18:00. And between April and October between Friday at 18:00 and Saturday at 21:00. When there are a lot of exceptions. Especially when it is relevant to tourists. For example, there is a bus service on Saturdays between Haifa and Nazareth and within these cities. Just keep in mind that if you are traveling in PT do not book a flight that lands in Israel after 14:00 on Friday or before 20:00 on Saturday.
Regarding Crowded sites. It is very important not to visit during the Jewish holidays of April and September October! because then all the main attractions were over crowded. Other than that if you visit on working days (in Israel is Sunday to Thursday) , the attractions will not be mass at all.
As for air conditioners, especially relevant to the European tourist. The Americans freeze much more enclosed spaces than the Israelis.
כל הכבוד, גאווה ישראלית.
שיהיה לך הרבה בהצלחה
Loved this video!!❤
Yet another great video, Oren. Did you mean to deliberately spell "Spelling" wrongly in the heading to section "3. Speling and Names of places"?
Yes :)
Don’t be so hard on yourself. I think your accent and your English are awesome!
I like your accent Oren, it reminds me of the wonderful warm, friendly and helpful Israeli people I met in Jerusalem just prior to the pandemic.
I love Israel, but Israel is rude! I heard a joke from an Israeli. A pollster is asking people around the world about a meat shortage. First an Anerican, he asks, “Excuse me, what do you think about the meat shortage?” The American says, “What’s a ‘shortage’?” Then to a Russian, “Excuse me, what do you think about the meat shortage?” The Russian says, “What’s ‘meat’?’” Last, to an Israeli, “Excuse me, what do think about the meat shortage.” “What’s ‘Excuse me’?” the Israeli asks. 🤣😂🤣
remember my vacations in 2015 for 2 weeks I really enjoyed it! With to visit again hope it will be possible soon..
I may never visit but love to find out more about your incredible country. I lived in the ME for many years and feel so much is familiar I know I'd enjoy it. Love to Israel..
I just returned from my first trip to Israel and I actually don’t agree with everything you listed. Maybe growing up in New York set my expectations differently, but I did not find my personal space being invaded, nor find it to be overly expensive, nor was I harassed by any of the vendors in Old Jerusalem (although I did get the expected sly sales tactics..). I visited Jerusalem on a Friday and the streets were all but deserted, as was the Church of the Holy Sepulcher - and this was at maybe 10am. I guess I got very lucky?
In any event, although Israel may be small by US standards, it packs a LOT in that space. If you love history, you simply must go. The Western Wall itself - religious significance aside - tells a story of history that I had never appreciated until I visited.
Your tips from your videos were most helpful and I thank you for them.
I am happy to read this!
Intersting
Thank you Joe. This is not a welcome pack really of Israel. Israel is amazing and people here will help you if you are in trouble.
@Blessed I am jewish but respect all religions.
I want to come and visit, but I'm retired and have limited funds. Love your channel while I wait to find a way.
In Tel-Aviv You do have public transportation all the weekend, (Friday and Saturday) Including all the night. This great tourist buses come every 20 minutes, even to some cities out of Tel-Aviv, like Ramat gan, and Herzlia and it is total free (no money).
Thank you for the info. We are going to Israel for the first time in a few months.
I used to frequent a place that had a large Israeli population. When they speak Hebrew it always sounded French to me. And I grew up in a Yiddish speaking home.
I'm an Israeli, who has been living abroad for a while. That video is hilarious! Can you do one, traveling/tourist, about Eylat? I wasn't in Eylat for at least 20 years and wanted to take my kids last August. Everyone thought I'm crazy, so I didn't.
Yes, TLV and Jerusalem are expensive, crowded, filled with bad drivers and hucksters. Luckily, most of the rest of the country (north & south) is very nice too, with friendlier people, better drivers and lower prices. Best advise is to spend first day in TLV (to get the vibe), then one day in Jerusalem (to check off those boxes) and then a month outside these 2 hellholes and really experience what Israel is all about.
Thankyou my friend. Was there and am planning to visit again
Thank you for the videos, very informative and helpful.
All that you say is true but I love Israel all the same. ❤
Love ur channel
Wow! Wonderful! So informative. Thank you
I’ve been to Israel a few times and we’re getting ready to go again. This video is so accurate. Prices for things like food and toiletries and lodging are crazy expensive but the street food is AMAZING and basically equivalent to high-end restaurants here in America. One thing about rental cars - if you’re a dual American and Israeli citizen, you will pay an extra 17% VAT when renting a car.