Currency

As in Biblical times, the official currency of Israel is the shekel, which is divided into 100 agorot. The value of the shekel, like all currencies, fluctuates slightly -current exchange rates can be checked at the Currency Converter. Money can be exchanged at the airport, banks, hotels and currency exchanges. All Israeli currency is labeled in English as well as Hebrew and Arabic.

While some visitors prefer using traveler’s checks, major credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are easy to find.

Taxes

A value-added tax (VAT) of 17% is included in the price of anything paid for in shekels. However, VAT is not applicable when hotel bills (including incidental charges) are paid by foreigners in dollars. At most tourist-oriented stores, VAT on single-item purchases of more than $100 will be returned at the airport by providing the proper forms to Customs before departure.

Tipping

At tourist-oriented spots and upscale restaurants, a tip of 10% is normal, unless the menu states that a service charge has been included in prices. In modest restaurants, small change in the 5%-10% range may be left. A moderate tip should also be given to guides, and to both the housekeeping staff and the bellhop at hotels. In private or group taxis, tips are unnecessary unless some special service has been provided.