Acre: A Timeless Coastal Gem of Israel

• Helloשָׁלוֹם
  [shalom]
• Goodbyeלְהִתְרָאוֹת
  [lehitraot]
• Yesכֵּן
  [ken]
• Noלֹא
  [lo]
• Please/You're welcomeבבקשה
  [bevakasha]
• Thank youתודה
  [toda]
• Excuse me/Sorryסְלִיחָה
  [slicha]
• How are you?אֵיך אתה?
  [eich atah?]
• Fine. And you?טוֹב. ואת?
  [tov. ve'at?]
• Do you speak English?אתה מדבר אנגלית?
  [ata medaber anglit?]
• I don't understandאני לא מבין
  [ani lo mevin]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseאני רוצה לראות את התפריט, בבקשה
  [ani rotse lir'ot et hataprit, bevakasha]
• I don't eat meatאני לא אוכל בשר
  [ani lo ochel basar]
• Cheers!לחיים!
  [lechayim!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseאני רוצה לשלם, בבקשה
  [ani rotse lishlem, bevakasha]

• Help!עזור!
  [ezor!]
• Go away!לך לך!
  [lech lech!]
• Call the Police!קרא למשטרה!
  [kra lemishtara!]
• Call a doctor!קרא לרופא!
  [kra laro-fe!]
• I'm lostאני אבוד
  [ani avud]
• I'm illאני חולה
  [ani choleh]

• I'd like to buy...אני רוצה לקנות...
  [ani rotse liknot...]
• I'm just lookingאני רק מסתכל
  [ani rak mistakel]
• How much is it?כמה עולה זה?
  [kama ole ze?]
• That's too expensiveזה יקר מדי
  [ze yakar meod]
• Can you lower the price?אתה יכול להוריד את המחיר?
  [ata yachol lehorid et hamachir?]

• What time is it?מה השעה?
  [ma hasha'a?]
• It's one o'clockהשעה האחת
  [hasha'a ha'achat]
• Half past (10)חצי (עשר)
  [chatzi (eser)]
• Morningבוקר
  [boker]
• Afternoonצהריים
  [tsohorayim]
• Eveningערב
  [erev]
• Yesterdayאתמול
  [etmol]
• Todayהיום
  [hayom]
• Tomorrowמחר
  [machar]
• 1אחד
  [echad]
• 2שנים
  [shnayim]
• 3שלוש
  [shalosh]
• 4ארבע
  [arba]
• 5חמש
  [chamesh]
• 6שש
  [shesh]
• 7שבע
  [sheva]
• 8שמונה
  [shmona]
• 9תשע
  [tesha]
• 10עשר
  [eser]

• Where's a/the...?איפה יש...
  [eifo yesh...]
• What's the address?מה הכתובת?
  [ma hakatavat?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?אתה יכול להראות לי (על המפה)?
  [ata yachol leharot li (al hamapa)?]
• When's the next (bus)?מתי האוטובוס הבא?
  [matay haotobus habe?]
• A ticket (to ....)כרטיס (ל...)
  [kartis (le...)]

Acre, also known as Akko, has a history dating back to the Bronze Age, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its strategic location along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea made it a valuable port and trade center for ancient civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans.

In 1104, Acre was captured by the Crusaders during the First Crusade. It became a major stronghold and the capital of the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem. The city was known for its impressive fortifications and served as a key point for the Crusaders until it fell to the Mamluks in 1291.

After the Mamluks conquered Acre, the city experienced a period of decline. However, it was revitalized under Ottoman rule starting in the 16th century. The Ottomans rebuilt the city's walls and infrastructure, turning Acre into a vibrant trade hub once again.

In 1799, Acre was the site of a notable siege by Napoleon Bonaparte during his campaign in the Middle East. Despite his efforts, Napoleon was unable to capture the city, marking one of his rare defeats. The city's successful defense was largely due to the efforts of its Ottoman governor, Jezzar Pasha.

During the British Mandate of Palestine (1920-1948), Acre served as a significant administrative center. In 1948, the city was captured by Israeli forces during the Arab-Israeli War, leading to significant demographic changes. Today, Acre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich cultural heritage and well-preserved historical sites.

Acre is renowned for its diverse cultural landscape, reflecting its long history of various rulers and inhabitants. The city is home to a mix of Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Bahá'í communities. This cultural diversity is evident in Acre's architecture, cuisine, and festivals, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Acre boasts numerous historic landmarks, including the Crusader-era Knights' Halls, the Al-Jazzar Mosque, and the Bahá'í Gardens and Shrine. These sites offer a glimpse into the city's storied past and its architectural grandeur. Each landmark tells a part of Acre's rich tapestry of history.

Acre is located in northern Israel, near the Mediterranean coast. The nearest major airport is Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, approximately 120 kilometers away. From Tel Aviv, you can take a train directly to Acre, which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive, which offers flexibility to explore the region. Buses also run frequently to Acre from major cities such as Haifa and Jerusalem.

Acre is a compact city and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, local buses and taxis are readily available. The city is also well connected by train, with the Acre Railway Station being a key hub. Renting a bicycle can be a fun way to explore the city and its surroundings, especially along the scenic coastline.

The official currency in Israel is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and market purchases. ATMs are plentiful in Acre, so withdrawing cash when needed should not be an issue.

Acre is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any other urban area, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Acre does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, maintaining situational awareness is always advisable.

In case of emergency, dial 100 for police assistance, 101 for medical emergencies, and 102 for fire services. Acre has several medical facilities and pharmacies where you can get assistance. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When entering mosques or other religious sites, dress conservatively and remove your shoes. Public Transport: Do be respectful to other passengers. Don’t talk loudly or play loud music. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Shalom' or 'Salam.' A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Acre like a local, visit the local markets, especially the Old Acre Market, where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional goods. Engage with locals; they are usually friendly and eager to share stories about their city's rich history. Don’t miss the local seafood, as Acre is known for its fresh fish and seafood dishes. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the city's ancient walls and visit the Acre Fortress for stunning views and historical insights.