Exploring Israel: Can Couples Travel Solo?

Israel is a modern and open society, and unmarried couples are welcome to visit. While there are religious conservatives in the country, the majority of Israelis are happy to see unmarried couples sharing rooms, as they may have done themselves before marriage. The only exceptions are religious lodgings such as convents, which insist couples are married.

Public displays of affection (PDA) are generally frowned upon, especially in ultra-Orthodox neighbourhoods. However, in very liberal areas such as Tel Aviv, couples can be more affectionate in public.

When visiting holy sites or Orthodox cities/neighbourhoods, it is important to dress modestly and be respectful.

Is it safe for unmarried couples to travel to Israel?

Israel is a modern and open society, and unmarried couples can generally travel and stay together without issue. While there are religious conservatives in the country, most Israelis are happy for unmarried couples to share rooms, and you are unlikely to be asked about your relationship.

However, there are some exceptions. Religious lodgings such as convents and hotels that cater to the ultra-Orthodox community may insist that couples sharing a room are married. In these cases, it may be necessary to claim that you are married or related to avoid any issues. It is also worth noting that public displays of affection (PDAs) may be frowned upon in more conservative, religiously-oriented neighbourhoods.

If you are an unmarried international couple looking to get married in Israel, it is important to note that the State of Israel does not conduct civil marriages. Only religious marriages of recognised religions are permitted, and you must meet the rules of the relevant religious authority.

Overall, Israel is a safe destination for unmarried couples, and you are unlikely to encounter any significant issues during your travels.

PDA in Israel: What's acceptable?

Public displays of affection (PDA) in Israel are generally considered acceptable, and the country is known for its vibrant and diverse culture. However, it is important to be mindful of cultural and religious sensitivities when engaging in PDA. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Tel Aviv, known as the "capital of Mediterranean cool", has a vibrant nightlife scene and is a great place for meeting people. It is generally considered acceptable to engage in PDA in this city, and you will often see couples displaying affection openly.
• Jerusalem, on the other hand, is a more conservative city with a mix of religious and secular populations. While PDA is common among the younger, secular population, it is important to be more discreet in religious areas such as near the Western Wall or in ultra-Orthodox neighbourhoods.
• Israel has a diverse population, including Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities, each with their own cultural and religious norms. It is always a good idea to be respectful of these differences and avoid excessive displays of affection in places of religious significance or more conservative neighbourhoods.
• The beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and it is generally acceptable to wear swimsuits and engage in PDA on most beaches. However, it is important to be mindful of more conservative beaches, such as those in some religious areas, where modest dress and more discreet behaviour may be expected.
• Overall, Israel is a relatively safe country for travellers, and the local culture is generally open and welcoming. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and use your best judgment when engaging in PDA.
• Same-sex marriage is not recognized in Israel, and the country's marriage laws are controlled by the Orthodox Chief Rabbinate, which forbids interfaith and same-sex marriages. This can impact couples visiting the country, especially those who are not legally married or recognized as a couple by the Israeli authorities.
• While there are no specific laws governing PDA in Israel, it is always a good idea to be respectful and mindful of cultural differences. Use common sense and follow the lead of the locals to ensure you are not inadvertently causing offence.

In conclusion, while PDA is generally acceptable in Israel, it is important to be mindful of cultural and religious sensitivities and vary your behaviour depending on the location and context. Use your best judgment, be respectful, and you will be able to enjoy your time in Israel without causing offence.

Transport options for couples in Israel

Israel is a small country, which makes getting around fast and convenient. There are several transport options for couples to choose from when travelling in Israel.

Trains

The national rail service offers a convenient and reasonably priced means of travel to nearly every destination in the country. Trains are the best way to travel between Ben Gurion Airport and Tel Aviv, Haifa, Akko (Acre), and Be'er Sheva, plus more places along the coast. Note that trains do not serve Jerusalem.

Buses

The bus is the most common form of public transportation in Israel. There are a number of companies to choose from, offering convenient and reasonably priced travel to most destinations in the country. Most bus lines do not run on Shabbat (from Friday afternoon to Saturday evening) or on Jewish holidays. Students are entitled to discounts on intercity bus lines.

Shared taxis

These are vans that typically seat ten passengers. They follow the routes of the main bus lines and are a little bit cheaper. They also run on weekends and Jewish holidays as well as between some cities.

Driving

Renting a car is the best way to get around between the main cities and the Negev and Galilee regions. Driving in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is not ideal due to heavy traffic and a lack of parking spaces. The minimum driving age in Israel is 17, and drivers must be over 24 to rent a car. A valid international driver's license and an international credit card are required to rent a car in Israel. Road signs are in Hebrew, English, and Arabic.

Taxis

Taxis are common in Israel for urban and interurban travel and can be flagged down on the street or booked via phone or designated international apps such as GetTaxi.

Accommodation options for unmarried couples in Israel

Israel is a modern and open society, and most Israelis do not care about a couple's marital status. While there are religious conservatives in the country, the majority of Israelis are perfectly happy about unmarried couples sharing rooms, as many Israelis did the same before they were married.

There are no laws in Israel that prohibit unmarried couples from staying together in hotels. However, checking into a hotel as an unmarried couple is ultimately at the discretion of the hotel owners or managers. Some landlords may ask if you are married or request to see a marriage certificate.

In terms of specific accommodation options, Airbnb is a good choice for unmarried couples, as it does not require a marriage certificate for bookings. Airbnb allows singles and couples to find a place to stay without the need for proof of marriage.

Additionally, international unmarried couples visiting Israel can apply for a "partner visa" or "spouse visa", which allows non-Israeli partners of Israelis to legally work and live in Israel together. This visa is available for both married and unmarried couples, including same-sex couples. The process for obtaining this visa can be lengthy and involves periodic interviews and submissions of relationship proofs.

Safety tips for couples travelling to Israel

Israel is a very safe country to travel to overall, but it's important to stay vigilant and keep up to date with travel advice as the security situation can change quickly. Here are some safety tips for couples travelling to Israel:

• Stay informed about the latest travel advice and security situation. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the US Department of State regularly update their websites with travel advice and security alerts.
• Be cautious when visiting areas of conflict, such as Gaza, the West Bank, and the border regions with Lebanon and Syria. Follow the instructions of local authorities and be prepared to take shelter if necessary.
• Avoid travelling to areas that your government advises against, such as Gaza and certain regions near the borders with Lebanon and Syria.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to be located in an emergency.
• Obtain comprehensive travel medical insurance that includes medical evacuation before your trip.
• Be aware of the risk of terrorist attacks and follow local authority advice on staying safe. Avoid crowded places like markets and shopping malls, and stay away from demonstrations and large gatherings.
• Keep your personal belongings secure at all times, especially in crowded areas and on public beaches, where theft is common.
• Be respectful of local laws, customs, and dress codes, especially in conservative areas and during religious events like Ramadan.
• Be cautious when driving, as road accidents are frequent. Avoid driving into ultra-Orthodox Jewish areas of Jerusalem on Shabbat (from sunset on Friday to nightfall on Saturday) as local residents may throw stones at your car.
• Be aware of the risk of stone-throwing attacks and other violent incidents, especially in Jerusalem, the Old City, and the West Bank.
• If you are planning to visit LGBT+ events, be aware of potential security risks and liaise with local authorities in advance.

Frequently asked questions