Good to know

I send prices on request, because they depend on the length of the tour, the number of people and whether transport needs to be arranged. Send me your dates and group size and I will reply with a specific figure. The price covers guiding and preparing the route; entrance fees, transport and accommodation are paid separately.

Current travel advice is issued and regularly updated by your own foreign ministry, and it is worth checking before you go. I follow the instructions of the Israeli Home Front Command and adjust the route to the situation. I always recommend taking out travel insurance and checking that it covers the region you are travelling to.

The essential circuit of the Old City fits into one day. If you want to add the Mount of Olives, the Israel Museum and Yad Vashem, allow two to three days. For the whole of Israel, people usually plan seven to ten days.

Shabbat runs from sunset on Friday to nightfall on Saturday. Public transport stops, most shops and restaurants close, and in Jerusalem almost everything comes to a halt. I plan those days differently — and Shabbat is often the most interesting part of a trip, because you see the country in a completely different mode.

Citizens of the EU, the UK, the US and many other countries do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return. Entry rules can change, so check with your foreign ministry before travelling.

Holy sites of all three religions require covered shoulders and knees — for women and men alike. Some places are not entered with a head covering, others only with one. I always tell you in advance so nothing catches you out at the door.

The currency is the Israeli new shekel. Cards work almost everywhere, including small shops; cash is useful at markets and in Bedouin tents. ATMs are common and changing euros or dollars is straightforward.

I help with planning and with choosing. Depending on the itinerary I either arrange transport or recommend what makes most sense — sometimes a rental car, sometimes a driver. Accommodation you normally book yourself, but I am glad to advise on areas.