Why Americans Are Flocking To This Middle Eastern Country In Record Numbers
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American travelers continue to contribute to the travel industry’s epic comeback this year in search of making new memories in exciting places.
One country in the Middle East is experiencing a record amount of American tourists this year, even compared to statistics before the pandemic.
Visitor numbers have increased as much as 27 percent as of last month, with most tourists coming from the United States. And that’s not factoring in the surging cruise industry either.
But who can blame tourists for wanting to see such a beautiful, historic country? If you are thinking of Israel, then you would be right!
Here is why Israel has become so popular for American travelers:
Religious Purposes
@artzabox Jesus walked here in JERUSALEM #israel #christiantiktok #holyland #jerusalem #jesus #loveisrael #church ♬ original sound – artzabox
Israel is, and always will be, known as a highly important site for religious followers. But given Israel is on the other side of the world, not everyone can put aside their day-to-day life to visit.
That’s just one of many reasons Israel is a bucket-list destination. Considering Israel was shut down for years as one of the most closed-off countries during the pandemic, those travelers who wanted to travel here during that time had to wait.
Once Israel slowly started to reopen, there were very strict vaccination requirements. Now that they are fully open for tourism, travelers are checking off their bucket lists.
@oliviaaothmer The coolest place #israel #nazareth ♬ sidewalks and skeletons goth – FYP 🤍🇲🇺
“Between March of 2020 and May of 2022, our country was closed to incoming tourism. Since we reopened and people are traveling in droves, we expect 2023 to be a banner year for Israel, especially from North America.”
– Eyal Carlin, Commissioner of Tourism to North America
Now, popular cities such as Bethlehem, Nazareth and Jerusalem are thriving. Both of these cities give visitors a sense of closeness to their religion, as they are home to significant holy and ancient sites.
Even if you are not a religious traveler, immersing yourself in Israel’s enriching culture and learning its history can still be a fascinating experience.
Tel Aviv Is Enthralling
Set upon Israel’s Mediterranean coastline is the immaculate city of Tel Aviv. It has been an underrated gem, but the secret is out now.
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@maldivosaur Best beaches in Tel Aviv, Israel 🇮🇱 part 1 #telaviv #travel #explore #holiday #beach #beachvibes #holiday #vacation #adventure #bestbeaches ♬ Lovely – Vicline
U.S. travelers have found the next “it” destination and fall in love with the gorgeous beaches that rival their Mediterranean counterparts.
There are interesting museums to explore and many markets to get a sense of Israeli life. Perhaps the most beautiful part of all is the welcoming nature of their culture.
Israel is home to a population with a mix of religions, but everyone goes about their business judgment-free.
@telaviv_city Planning a night out in Tel Aviv? Check this out ✨ #telaviv #tlvnightlife #telavivnightlife #telavivyafo #telavivisrael #israelnightlife #lifeintelaviv #telavivvibes #telavivlife #traveltiktokers #travelbucketlist ♬ Dear Cupid (Short Ver) – Entive
LGBTQ+ travelers have the time of their lives in Tel Aviv with a buzzing nightlife scene where everybody is treated like an equal.
A Wine Lover’s Paradise
Places that were previously unknown in Israel are becoming more popular. Take the Negev Desert Wine Route, for example.
One might ask themselves, why go to the middle of a seemingly endless desert when you can spend your day at a nice beach? Who says you can’t do both?!
@jewishunpacked This one-of-a-kind winery is a hidden oasis in the middle of the desert #maspik #negevdesert #winery ♬ original sound – Unpacked
This hidden gem is a wine lover’s dream. Israel may not be at the top of your list when premium wine comes to mind, but it should be.
Other European destinations, such as France, Greece, and Spain, may have more notoriety for their winemaking, but Israel is no joke as a very underrated destination for wine enthusiasts.
Tours in the Negev Desert are gaining steam and helping Israel make a name for itself in the wine game.
One-Of-A-Kind Experiences
Israel may primarily be known for its ancient sites, but there are some truly unique experiences to be had as well.
@aroundtheworldwithrachel although touristy, it is definitely a must do when visiting Israel ! #fyp #travel #israel #birthright #bucketlist ♬ Beat Goes On – The All Seeing I
Travelers have discovered Israel’s version of glamping. Just like in neighboring Jordan, travelers can spend a night or two under the stars in style at a Bedouin Camp for the ultimate sleepover.
If that’s not what you’re into, how about a once-in-a-lifetime SCUBA diving opportunity to check out archeological sites underwater?
Divers can experience an underwater national park in Caesarea, an old port city, with relics over 2,000 years old.
If going underwater isn’t your style, then maybe floating is more your idea of fun. Travelers love to come to Israel to experience the sensation of weightlessness on the gorgeous Dead Sea.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
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