Tel Aviv, Israel Report of what it's like to live there - 07/02/08
Personal Experiences from Tel Aviv, Israel
Background:
1. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
Korea and Germany {with the Military}.
2. How long have you lived here?
1 year.
3. Travel time and best routes to this city from Europe or the US:
From the U.S. 11-14 hours {depending on your lay-overs and connections}.
4. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
I am a FSO Spouse.
Housing, Groceries & Food:
1. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
Housing is very nice.
2. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
Expensive..but isn't it everywhere?
3. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
4. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
All of it!
Daily Life:
1. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
We have APO. It's very good!
2. What is the availability and cost of household help, and what types of help are typically employed by expatriates?
I do not have any information on that except to say that some people do hire domestic help and seem happy with it.
3. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
They are the same as in the U.S.
4. What English-language religious services are available locally?
Yes, all denominations.
5. English-language newspapers and TV available? Cost?
Newspapers-no. TV- AFN is free, and HOT cable is about US$60 a month.
6. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
It always helps to know some.
7. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
Transportation:
1. Do you drive on the right hand side of the road or the left?
Right.
2. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
Taxis- Yes, trains & buses are not allowed for embassy staff and families.
3. What kind of car do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car do you advise not to bring?
Nothing NEW!! Highly recommend you buy here from someone that is leaving.
Phone & Internet:
1. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
Yes, US$10 a month.
2. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
Not very expensive. Many options available.
3. What is the best way to make phone calls back home?
Bezeq international, arranged through the Embassy is very inexpensive for routine calls to the USA.
Pets:
1. Quality pet care available (vets & kennels)?
Wonderful vet service! We have never used a kennel here.
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
No.
2. What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
Semi Formal- Casual. Once in a while you will need to wear suits. Depends on your job but it's recommended you have at least two nice suits.
Health & Safety:
1. Pollution index (Good, Moderate, Unhealthy, or Very Unhealthy)?
Moderate.
2. Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
It's not as bad as it used to be.
3. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
Medical care in this country is very good, and reasonably priced.
4. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
Winter: Rain/storms - Spring: very nice - Summer: very HOT & HUMID!! - Fall: hot until mid-December.
Schools & Children:
1. What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
There is a new American International School, however our children are grown. But I have not heard any complaints.
2. What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
3. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
Expat Life:
1. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
Large.
2. Morale among expats:
Pretty good.
3. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
One formal event a year, and your social life is up to you.
4. Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
Yes for all.
5. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
Yes.
6. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
Not to my knowledge.
7. What are some interesting/fun things to do in the area? Can you recommend any “hidden gems"?
This country is full of history, and has the typical attractions as most cities e.g., Amusement Parks, Museums, Zoo, Theater's- Dramatic, Music, and Movie.
8. Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
Olive wood is big over here.
9. Can you save money?
Sure, it you want to.
Words of Wisdom:
1. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
Yes, but it would not be my first choice, I do not like the HEAT!
2. If you move here, you can leave behind your:
Winter clothes.
3. But don't forget your:
Sense of humor...you'll need it when you drive over here.
