Eilat: The Jewel of the Red Sea

• Helloשָלוֹם
  [shalom]
• Goodbyeלהתראות
  [lehitraot]
• Yesכֵּן
  [ken]
• Noלֹא
  [lo]
• Please/You're welcomeבבקשה
  [bevakasha]
• Thank youתודה
  [toda]
• Excuse me/Sorryסְלִיחָה
  [slicha]
• How are you?איך אתה?
  [ech ata?]
• Fine. And you?טוב. ואתה?
  [tov. veata?]
• Do you speak English?האם אתה מדבר אנגלית?
  [haem 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 leraot et hatafrid, 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 לעבר!
  [lech leavar!]
• Call the Police!תקשר למשטרה!
  [taksher lemishtara!]
• Call a doctor!תקשר לרופא!
  [taksher larofe!]
• I'm lostאני אבוד
  [ani avud]
• I'm illאני חולה
  [ani hole]

• 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 זה עולה?
  [kama ze ole?]
• That's too expensiveזה יקר מדי
  [ze yakar madi]
• Can you lower the price?אפשר להוריד את המחיר?
  [efshar lehorid et hamehir?]

• What time is it?מה השעה?
  [ma hashaa?]
• It's one o'clockהשעה חד
  [hashaa chad]
• Half past (10)חצי (עשר)
  [chatzi (eser)]
• Morningבוקר
  [boker]
• Afternoonצהריים
  [tzohorayim]
• Eveningערב
  [erev]
• Yesterdayאתמול
  [etmol]
• Todayהיום
  [hayom]
• Tomorrowמחר
  [machar]
• 1אחד
  [echad]
• 2שניים
  [shnayim]
• 3שלושה
  [shlosha]
• 4ארבעה
  [arbaa]
• 5חמישה
  [chamisha]
• 6שישה
  [shisha]
• 7שבעה
  [sheva]
• 8שמונה
  [shmone]
• 9תשעה
  [teshaa]
• 10עשרה
  [eser]

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

Eilat's history dates back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting human settlement as early as the 10th century BCE. The area was known as Elath in ancient texts and served as a key port and trade route for the Kingdom of Edom. The strategic location of Eilat made it an important hub for copper mining and trade, particularly with ancient Egypt.

During the Roman and Byzantine periods, Eilat continued to thrive as a significant port city. The Romans built a substantial fort known as Aila, marking the city's importance in maintaining control over the region. Byzantine influence brought Christianity to the area, resulting in the construction of churches and other religious structures.

The 7th century Islamic conquest saw Eilat come under Muslim rule, which brought new cultural and architectural influences. The city served as a vital link in the trade routes between the Arabian Peninsula and the Mediterranean. During the Crusader period, Eilat changed hands multiple times, reflecting the broader conflicts between Muslim and Christian forces in the region.

Under Ottoman rule from the 16th century onward, Eilat experienced periods of both prosperity and decline. The city's importance waned as regional trade routes shifted, but it remained a small, strategic outpost. Ottoman influence can still be seen in some of the architectural remnants and local traditions.

The modern history of Eilat begins in the 20th century, particularly after the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. Eilat was formally recognized as part of Israel following the 1949 Armistice Agreements. In 1956, during the Sinai Campaign, Israeli forces captured the Egyptian-controlled Straits of Tiran, reestablishing Eilat's vital access to the Red Sea. This event marked the beginning of significant development and investment in the city's infrastructure.

From the 1960s onwards, Eilat transformed into a major tourist destination. The construction of luxury hotels, resorts, and recreational facilities attracted visitors from around the world. Eilat's unique position by the Red Sea, with its beautiful coral reefs and marine life, has made it a hotspot for diving, snorkeling, and eco-tourism. The Eilat International Music Festival and the Red Sea Jazz Festival have further solidified the city's cultural appeal.

A significant milestone in Eilat's recent history is the 1994 peace agreement between Israel and Jordan, known as the Arava Peace Agreement. This historic accord, signed in the Arava Valley near Eilat, has fostered cooperation and collaboration between the two nations. It has also boosted tourism and economic development in the region, with joint projects and initiatives enhancing the city's growth.

Eilat is located at the southernmost tip of Israel, on the Red Sea. The nearest international airport is Ramon Airport (ETM), which is about 20 kilometers north of Eilat. From Ramon Airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or rent a car to reach the city. Alternatively, Eilat is accessible by road from major Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, with bus services provided by companies such as Egged. The journey by bus takes approximately 4-5 hours. For those traveling from neighboring countries, Eilat can be reached via the Taba Border Crossing from Egypt.

Eilat has a well-developed public transportation system. Local buses operated by Egged provide convenient and affordable travel within the city. Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone or app. For a more personal experience, you can rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies. Additionally, Eilat is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike rental shops and dedicated cycling paths. Walking is also a great way to explore the city's compact and pedestrian-friendly areas.

The official currency of Israel is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops throughout Eilat. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals, and many establishments accept foreign currencies, particularly US dollars and euros. However, it is advisable to carry some local currency for small purchases and transactions in markets or smaller shops.

Eilat is generally a very safe destination for tourists. However, standard travel precautions should always be taken. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious in crowded areas. There are no specific neighborhoods in Eilat known for high crime rates targeting tourists, but it is always wise to stay vigilant. The promenade and tourist areas are well-patrolled by local police, making them safe for visitors.

In case of emergency, dial 100 for police, 101 for medical emergencies, and 102 for fire services. Eilat has a well-equipped hospital, Yoseftal Medical Center, for serious medical issues. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health concerns and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For issues related to lost or stolen items, you can contact the local police station.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the hot climate. Swimwear is acceptable at beaches and pools, but more conservative attire is recommended in public places. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While Eilat is relatively liberal, modest dress is appreciated when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do respect other passengers and give up your seat to elderly or disabled individuals. Eating and drinking are generally allowed on buses, but it is polite to clean up after yourself. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Shalom' or 'Hello.' Handshakes are common, but it's best to follow the lead of the person you are greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and seafood. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Eilat like a local, visit the local markets such as the Eilat Farmers Market for fresh produce and handmade goods. Enjoy a stroll along the Eilat Promenade, where you can find local artists and performers. Take advantage of the city's beautiful beaches and try snorkeling or diving in the Coral Beach Nature Reserve. For a unique experience, visit the Underwater Observatory Marine Park. Don't miss out on the local nightlife, with many bars and clubs offering live music and entertainment.