Israel operators appeal for calm
As the political situation in Israel becomes more and more tense, the travel industry is closely watching the situation and anticipating rapid change.
The Foreign Office in the UK recently told its citizens to defer any unnecessary travel to Israel. Cruise lines are cancelling ports of call in the country.
The Israeli Ministry of Tourism, however, says there are no signs that visitors are cutting their trips short. The tourist board is also offering details on adjustments to travels and traveling within the country during this time at its website.
Israeli specialist Isram Tours’ owner and CEO Ady Gelber issued a statement urging visitors to keep coming.
"As America’s largest and oldest tour operator to Israel, please understand when we say "we’ve been through this before." That’s why we have a long and much-envied record of proficiency in adjusting arrangements and itineraries whenever necessary, and ensuring everyone’s well-being.
"We currently have 784 Americans in Israel – on groups, FIT’s and custom private car tours – and not one of them has decided to curtail his or her vacation. Life in most of Israel goes on as usual – the kids go to school, Mom and Dad go to work, Tel Aviv’s restaurants, clubs and bars are full to the rafters, and tourists are touring, shopping, napping and beaching as tourists customarily do.
"As always in such cases, watching from afar can be harrowing, while being there is very different. The fact is that 2012 is the best year ever for tourism to Israel; there are currently tens of thousands of tourists in Israel; and flights are arriving and departing as normal."
Gretchen Kelly
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