Cheap flights to Jerusalem from HK$3,241

Jerusalem is one of the most sacred cities in the world and serves as the Holy Land that gave rise to the three Monotheistic faiths of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Thus, it is no surprise that those travelling there seek out not only the pleasures of a holiday, but also the possibility of some enlightenment on a spiritual plane.

Stepping off the flight in Jerusalem can pose as a culture shock for some – this modern city in ancient Israel is full of people running to catch buses, hail taxis and fight traffic on their way to work, temple and school. But even in this “new” Jerusalem, history is reverent.

Travellers booking flights to Jerusalem inevitably find themselves in the “Old City” – the walled section of this city where most of the sights are situated. Here, holidaymakers can find the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the holiest Christian site in Jerusalem; the Wailing Wall (Western Wall), where Jews come to pray and visitors can leave notes between the cracks of the wall’s stones; and Mt. Zion, the burial place of King David. By night, the city comes alive with concerts, nightclubs and restaurants raging until the wee hours of the morning.

Jerusalem climate

Jerusalem is generally very sunny and has two distinct seasons: winter and summer. Mid-summer highs are in the 30s (Celsius) with low humidity. Winter temperatures drop to the single digits and it can get cold enough to snow.It rarely rains May through September. Even though November through March are rainy, many travellers prefer the cooler temperatures.

Getting around Jerusalem

Jerusalem has extensive bus routes which provide service from 5.30am to around midnight. Service stops half an hour before sunset on Friday and the eve of a religious holiday, then resumes after dark on Saturday. There are discount cards such as the kartissiyah (eleven rides for the price of ten) and hofshi-hodshi (a month of unlimited travel on urban buses).

Taxis can be hailed, called, or picked up at a taxi stand or major hotel. Drivers are required to turn on their meters, but many claim the meters are broken — you need to negotiate a fare or find another taxi. Fares increase 25 per cent at night and on Shabbat.

Shared taxis are minivans or minibuses that seat seven or twelve passengers. Shared taxis usually follow public bus routes, but take alternate routes to avoid traffic. Passengers can get on and off at any point. Both drivers and passengers are impatient with dawdlers, so board quickly.

Bicycling is becoming more popular, and there is ongoing construction of a bike path around Jerusalem. However, finding a rental bike is difficult.

Driving is difficult and finding parking a challenge. Fortunately, between walking, taxis, and buses, you probably won’t need to drive.

What is good to know if travelling to Jerusalem?

• Many of the sites of interest in the city are religious ones and you will always need to dress appropriately. Women should ensure their shoulders (and ideally down to the elbow of their arms) are covered and that skirts or shorts reach below the knee. Men should always wear tops, and will need to wear a skullcap at many Jewish sites. Some places, such as the Western Wall, will provide tourists with extra clothes such as scarves, if they do not have enough on. At others, you will simply be turned away.
• The Mount of Olives is a place of significance for all three religions. It is listed in the Old Testament as the place from which God will begin to redeem the dead on Judgment Day; hence it is the most popular (and most expensive) burial ground for Jews in the world. At its foot is the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus is said to have rested. A secular draw for tourists, however, are the stunning views of the city from the top of the hill. The Mount is separated from the rest of Jerusalem by the Kidron Valley, which runs East of the old city, so it can take some time to walk to the top. Bring plenty of water and take frequent stops if you arrive in the heat of the day.
• The city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, which brings its own problems. If you accept guided tours, camel rides, or take photos of locals with camels, make sure you settle on a price beforehand. Many tourists have been taken in by seemingly friendly locals offering all sorts of assistance, and then becoming extremely angry when large payment isn’t made at the end. However, don’t be constantly suspicious. Firm refusals of unwanted help are all that is needed; never become angry.
• Deciding where to stay in Jerusalem can be a complicated decision. The Old City is unquestionably the most atmospheric, and the part that comes to mind when most travellers think of the city. Accommodation is also cheaper here. However, it is not very safe to walk through these parts at night, especially for women travelling on their own. The New City has a huge array of upmarket hotels and is where much of the nightlife takes place.