Beersheba: The Heart of the Negev Desert

• Helloשָׁלוֹם
  [Shalom]
• Goodbyeלְהִתְרָאוֹת
  [Lehitraot]
• Yesכֵּן
  [Ken]
• Noלֹא
  [Lo]
• Please/You're welcomeבבקשה
  [Bevakasha]
• Thank youתודה
  [Toda]
• Excuse me/Sorryסְלִיחָה
  [Slicha]
• How are you?אֵיך אַתָה?
  [Eich Ata?]
• Fine. And you?טוֹב. וְאַתְה?
  [Tov. Ve'ata?]
• Do you speak English?האם אתה מדבר אנגלית?
  [Ha'Im 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 Rotze La'rot Et Ha'Ta'amit, 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 Rotze Leshalem, Bevakasha]

• Help!עזרה!
  [Ezrah!]
• Go away!לך לעבור!
  [Lech Le'avor!]
• Call the Police!תקרא למשטרה!
  [Tkara Le'Mishtara!]
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  [Tkara Le'Rofe!]
• I'm lostאני אבוד
  [Ani Avud]
• I'm illאני חולה
  [Ani Choleh]

• I'd like to buy...אני רוצה לקנות...
  [Ani Rotze Liknot...]
• I'm just lookingאני רק מסתכל
  [Ani Rak Mistakel]
• How much is it?כמה זה עולה?
  [Kama Ze Ole?]
• That's too expensiveזה יקר מדי
  [Ze Yakar M'odi]
• Can you lower the price?אפשר להוריד את המחיר?
  [Efshar Lehored Et Ha'Machir?]

• What time is it?מה השעה?
  [Ma Ha'Sha'a?]
• It's one o'clockזה אחת בבוקר
  [Ze Achat Ba'Boker]
• Half past (10)חצי (עשר)
  [Chatzi (Eser)]
• Morningבוקר
  [Boker]
• Afternoonצהריים
  [Tzohorayim]
• Eveningערב
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• Todayהיום
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• 1אחד
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• 4ארבעה
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• 5חמישה
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• 6שישה
  [Shisha]
• 7שבעה
  [Shiv'a]
• 8שמונה
  [Shmoneh]
• 9תשעה
  [Tish'a]
• 10עשרה
  [Eser]

• Where's a/the...?איפה נמצא/ת ה...
  [Eifo Nimtza/Nimtza'a Ha...]
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  [Ata Yachol Lehariot Li (Al Ha'Mapa)?]
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  [Matai Ha'Autobus Ha'Ba?]
• A ticket (to ....)כרטיס (ל...)
  [Kartis (Le...)]

Beersheba, known as 'Be'er Sheva' in Hebrew, has roots that trace back to ancient times. It is mentioned in the Bible as the place where Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob lived. Abraham's well, a landmark in the city, is linked to the covenant between Abraham and Abimelech, marking Beersheba as a site of significant Biblical heritage.

During the First Century BCE and well into the Roman period, Beersheba was a crucial settlement for the Nabateans. They established trade routes across the Negev Desert, and Beersheba served as a key junction on the Incense Route, facilitating the trade of spices and other goods between Petra and the ports of Gaza.

In the Byzantine period, Beersheba evolved into a more structured urban center. Archaeological discoveries, including churches, public buildings, and intricate mosaics, highlight its importance during this era. The city served as a hub for Christian pilgrimage, linking various holy sites across the region.

The Ottoman Empire recognized Beersheba's strategic importance in the late 19th century. They established a more permanent settlement, building administrative and military structures. The construction of the railway in the early 20th century further promoted economic and social development, laying the groundwork for modern Beersheba.

A pivotal moment in Beersheba's history occurred on October 31, 1917, during World War I. The Battle of Beersheba saw the Australian Light Horse Brigade execute a dramatic cavalry charge, leading to the capture of the city from Ottoman forces. This victory was instrumental in the British campaign to secure Palestine.

Following the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, Beersheba became a focal point for development in the Negev Desert. The city absorbed a significant influx of Jewish immigrants, transforming it into a vibrant urban center. Infrastructure development and the founding of Ben-Gurion University in 1969 have solidified its role as an educational and technological hub.

Modern Beersheba is a thriving metropolis that blends historical heritage with contemporary culture. It hosts a variety of cultural festivals, high-tech industries, and educational institutions. The city's unique architecture, including Ottoman-era buildings and modern skyscrapers, reflects its dynamic history and ongoing growth.

Beersheba is located in the southern part of Israel. The nearest international airport is Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, approximately 100 kilometers away. From Tel Aviv, you can take a direct train to Beersheba, which takes around 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Tel Aviv Central Bus Station. Car rentals are also available at the airport for those who prefer to drive.

Beersheba has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and trains. The city is serviced by the Israel Railways network, making it easy to travel to and from other major cities. Local buses operated by the Metropoline and Dan companies cover most areas of the city. Taxis are also readily available, and ride-sharing services like Gett operate in Beersheba. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are available.

The official currency in Israel is the Israeli Shekel (ILS). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout Beersheba, allowing for easy cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit places that do not accept cards.

Beersheba is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The Old City area can be less safe after dark, so it is best to visit during the daytime. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 100 for police assistance, 101 for medical emergencies, and 102 for fire services. The Soroka Medical Center is the largest hospital in Beersheba and provides comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering synagogues. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight nod of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Beersheba like a local, visit the local markets, especially the Bedouin market, which offers a unique shopping experience. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Negev Museum of Art and the Abraham's Well International Visitor Center. For a unique experience, explore the nearby Negev Desert and enjoy activities such as camel riding and stargazing.