Sun, Sea, and Serenity: North Beach, Eilat

• Helloשלום
  [Shalom]
• Goodbyeלהתראות
  [Lehitra'ot]
• Yesכן
  [Ken]
• Noלא
  [Lo]
• Please/You're welcomeבבקשה
  [Bevakasha]
• Thank youתודה
  [Toda]
• Excuse me/Sorryסליחה
  [Slicha]
• How are you?איך אתה?
  [Eich Ata?]
• Fine. And you?טוב. ואת?
  [Tov. Ve'at?]
• 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 Lir'ot 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 לעברך!
  [Lech Le'iv'rech!]
• Call the Police!קרא למשטרה!
  [Kra La'mishtara!]
• Call a doctor!קרא לרופא!
  [Kra La'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 סוקר
  [Ani Rak Soker]
• How much is it?כמה עולה זה?
  [Kama Oleh Ze?]
• That's too expensiveזה יקר מדי
  [Ze Yikar Me'od]
• 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'clockהשעה אחת
  [Ha'sha'a Echat]
• Half past (10)חצי (עשר)
  [Chatzi (Eser)]
• Morningבוקר
  [Boker]
• Afternoonצהריים
  [Tzohorayim]
• Eveningערב
  [Erev]
• Yesterdayאתמול
  [Etmol]
• Todayהיום
  [Ha'yom]
• Tomorrowמחר
  [Mahar]
• 1אחד
  [Echad]
• 2שניים
  [Shnayim]
• 3שלושה
  [Shlosha]
• 4ארבעה
  [Arba'a]
• 5חמישה
  [Chamisha]
• 6שישה
  [Shisha]
• 7שבעה
  [Sheva'a]
• 8שמונה
  [Shmoneh]
• 9תשעה
  [Tish'a]
• 10עשרה
  [Eser]

• Where's a/the...?איפה נמצא...
  [Eifo Nimtza...]
• What's the address?מה הכתובת?
  [Ma Ha'ktovet?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?אתה יכול להראות לי (על המפה)?
  [Ata Yachol Lehariot Li (Al Ha'mapa)?]
• When's the next (bus)?מתי האוטובוס הבא?
  [Matay Ha'otobus Ha'ba?]
• A ticket (to ....)כרטיס (ל....)
  [Kartis (Le....)]

Eilat's history dates back to ancient times, with references in the Bible as a significant port city. North Beach, situated within modern Eilat, is believed to be near the site of the ancient port of Elath, which served as a key trading hub for goods such as copper and spices, connecting Egypt and Arabia. This strategic location contributed to the region's economic wealth and cultural diversity.

During the 2nd century BCE, the Nabateans established trade routes that passed through Eilat, enhancing its role as a commercial center. North Beach likely served as a docking point for caravans and ships. The Nabateans left behind remnants of their sophisticated civilization, including water storage systems and trade networks that shaped the area's development.

In the 16th century, Eilat came under Ottoman rule, leading to changes in local governance and trade practices. The North Beach area became more prominent during this time, facilitating maritime activities and trade with neighboring regions. Ottoman maps from this period reflect the strategic importance of Eilat as a coastal settlement.

From the mid-20th century, following the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, Eilat transformed dramatically. North Beach became a focal point for tourism, driven by its beautiful coastline and warm climate. The development of resorts and recreational facilities has made it a popular destination for both local and international tourists, contributing significantly to Israel's economy.

North Beach reflects the multicultural fabric of Eilat, which has absorbed influences from various groups, including Jews from Europe and North Africa, Bedouins, and Russian immigrants. This diversity is evident in the local cuisine, festivals, and community events that celebrate traditions from different cultures, enhancing the social landscape of the area.

North Beach is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Eilat. If you are arriving from the city center, you can take a local bus or taxi, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes. For those coming from Eilat's central bus station, there's a direct bus service that runs frequently to the beachfront area. Additionally, if you're coming from the Eilat Airport, taxis are readily available and will take approximately 20 minutes to reach North Beach.

North Beach is pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions within walking distance. Local buses frequently run along the main roads, connecting you to other parts of Eilat. Bicycles can be rented from various shops along the beachfront, providing a fun and eco-friendly way to explore. Taxis are also available for longer distances or when you're traveling late at night.

North Beach is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid dimly lit areas at night, particularly near the less frequented parts of the beach. While Eilat has a low crime rate, petty thefts can occur, so it’s wise to keep valuables secure. Areas around the city center are usually more crowded and thus safer, while secluded beach spots may require extra vigilance.

In case of an emergency, dial 100 for police and 101 for an ambulance. Eilat has several medical facilities, including clinics and pharmacies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available along the beachfront, and most staff can communicate in English.

Fashion: Do wear sun protection and light clothing suitable for a beach environment. Don't wear overly revealing swimwear when leaving the beach area. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially during Shabbat, when some establishments may be closed. Public Transport: Do give priority to elderly and disabled passengers. Don't engage in loud conversations or disruptive behavior on buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile; a simple 'Shalom' is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do savor local dishes at beachside restaurants. Don't drink alcohol in public areas outside designated venues.

To experience North Beach like a local, visit the local markets for fresh produce and snacks. Engage with beach vendors who often have unique insights into the best spots to visit. For a relaxing afternoon, find a quiet corner on the beach away from the main crowds. Don't miss the opportunity to join locals for evening gatherings, where you can enjoy sunset views and sample street food offerings.