Jerusalem

National Geographic picked in 2009

Country : Israel

Currency : New Israel Shekel

Big Mac Index : 4.94

Travel Safety : Moderate Risk

Jerusalem is one of the oldest and most historic cities in the world with a rich cultural and religious heritage. Located in the heart of the Middle East, Jerusalem is sacred to Jews, Christians and Muslims and is home to some of the most important religious sites in the world. The city is a fascinating blend of ancient and modern with a vibrant atmosphere and a lively cultural scene. Getting to there: Jerusalem is easily accessible by air, road and rail. The closest airport is Ben Gurion International Airport which is located about 40 minutes away from Jerusalem. From the airport, you can take a taxi, a shuttle bus or a train to get to the city. The train station is located at the airport and takes about 30 minutes to reach Jerusalem. Taxis and shuttle buses are also available but can be more expensive. If you are traveling to Jerusalem by road there are several options available. The city is connected to major highways and there are regular buses and taxis that run between Jerusalem and other cities in Israel. There is also a regular train service that connects Jerusalem to Tel Aviv and other cities in Israel. The train station is located in the city center and is easily accessible by bus or taxi. Things to see and do: - The Old City: The Old City of Jerusalem is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the most important religious sites in the world. The city is divided into four quarters – the Jewish Quarter, the Christian Quarter, the Muslim Quarter and the Armenian Quarter – and each has its own unique character and atmosphere. - The Church of the Holy Sepulchre: The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is one of the most important religious sites in Christianity. It is believed to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial and resurrection. - The Dome of the Rock: The Dome of the Rock is one of the most iconic landmarks in Jerusalem. It is located on the Temple Mount which is sacred to both Jews and Muslims. - Yad Vashem: Yad Vashem is Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. The museum and memorial are located on the western slope of Mount Herzl, and provide a sobering reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. - Mahane Yehuda Market: The Mahane Yehuda Market is a bustling open-air market in the heart of Jerusalem. It is a great place to experience the sights, sounds and smells of the city, and to sample some of the local cuisine. - The Israel Museum: The Israel Museum is one of the largest museums in the Middle East and is home to a vast collection of art, artifacts, and historical objects. The museum is divided into several sections, including archaeology, Jewish art and life and modern art. When to visit: The best time to visit Jerusalem is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and comfortable. The summer months can be very hot and humid and the winter months can be cold and rainy. The high season for tourism is from April to June and from September to November so it's important to book accommodations and activities in advance if you plan on visiting during these months. Another important consideration for visiting Jerusalem is religious holidays. The city is particularly busy during major religious holidays such as Passover, Easter, and Ramadan and many sites and businesses may be closed. It's important to plan accordingly and check the dates of religious holidays before booking your trip. Tips: - Be aware of your surroundings when walking around the city, as pickpocketing is a common problem. - Be sure to try the local food, as Jerusalem is known for its delicious Middle Eastern cuisine. - Be aware of the opening hours of the museums and galleries, they may close early or have days off. - Be prepared for the different customs and dress codes when visiting religious places, you may have to cover your head or take off your shoes.

Photo - Unsplash: Raimond Klavins