Israel still safe for tourists

THE Israel Ministry of Tourism has released a statement confirming that conditions in major tourist areas including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, Netanya, the Galilee, the Negev, Eilat and the Dead Sea are normal despite recent conflict in Gaza. “The Israeli Defence Force's action to put an end to the firing from Gaza is taking place entirely within what is known as the Gaza Strip. This is an area under Palestinian control that is customarily not visited by visitors to Israel,” the statement said. Shops, restaurants, beaches, clubs, schools and hotels are open throughout Israel and are operating normally. “The current action has no effect on life in most of Israel. More than 70 airlines are operating their normal schedules to and from Israel.” The statement also said that the only possible adjustments would probably be to bypass Beersheba, Ashdod and Ashkelon – destinations not normally a priority for most visitors. Jeanette Phillips (jeanettep@nowmedia.co.za)