Holon: The City of Design and Culture

• Helloשָׁלוֹם
  [Shalom]
• Goodbyeלְהֵיתֵר
  [Lehitraot]
• Yesכן
  [Ken]
• Noלא
  [Lo]
• Please/You're welcomeבבקשה
  [Bevakasha]
• Thank youתודה
  [Toda]
• Excuse me/Sorryסְלִיחָה
  [Slicha]
• How are you?איך אתה?
  [Eich ata?]
• Fine. And you?טוב. ואתה?
  [Tov. Veata?]
• Do you speak English?האם אתה מדבר אנגלית?
  [Ha'aim 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 hata'arich, 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!
  [Ezra!]
• Go away!לך הלאה!
  [Lech hala'a!]
• 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 holeh]

• 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 עולה זה?
  [Kama ole ze?]
• That's too expensiveזה יקר מדי
  [Ze yakar midei]
• Can you lower the price?אתה יכול להוריד את המחיר?
  [Ata yachol lehorid et hamachir?]

• What time is it?כמה השעה?
  [Kama hasha'a?]
• It's one o'clockהשעה חד
  [Hasha'a chad]
• Half past (10)חצי (עשר)
  [Chatzi (eser)]
• Morningבֹּקֶר
  [Boker]
• Afternoonצהרים
  [Tzohorayim]
• Eveningעֶרֶב
  [Erev]
• Yesterdayאתמול
  [Etmol]
• Todayהיום
  [Hayom]
• Tomorrowמחר
  [Machar]
• 1אחד
  [Echad]
• 2שניים
  [Shnayim]
• 3שלושה
  [Shlosha]
• 4ארבעה
  [Arba'a]
• 5חמישה
  [Chamisha]
• 6שישה
  [Shisha]
• 7שבעה
  [Shiv'a]
• 8שמונה
  [Shmona]
• 9תשעה
  [Tish'a]
• 10עשרה
  [Esera]

• Where's a/the...?איפה יש...?
  [Eifo yesh...?]
• What's the address?מה הכתובת?
  [Ma hak'tovet?]
• 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 ha'otobus haba?]
• A ticket (to ....)כרטיס (ל....)
  [Kartis (le....)]

Holon was established in 1935 as a small settlement by Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe. It was part of the broader wave of Jewish immigration to Mandatory Palestine during the early 20th century. The name Holon is derived from the Hebrew word 'hol', meaning sand, reflecting the sandy dunes of the area. Initially, the settlement faced numerous challenges, including limited resources and harsh living conditions.

During the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, Holon played a significant role due to its strategic location near Tel Aviv. The city suffered from heavy shelling and attacks by Arab forces, but it managed to withstand the onslaught. The war ultimately led to the establishment of the State of Israel, and Holon became part of the newly formed nation. Post-war, the city saw a significant influx of Jewish refugees from Europe and the Arab world, contributing to its rapid population growth.

The 1950s and 1960s marked a period of significant industrial growth for Holon. The establishment of various factories and industrial zones transformed the city into an important industrial hub. This era also saw the development of essential infrastructure, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, which laid the foundation for Holon's modern urban landscape.

Holon has made substantial investments in cultural development, culminating in the opening of the Design Museum Holon in 2010. Designed by renowned architect Ron Arad, the museum has garnered international acclaim for its unique architecture and innovative exhibitions. It serves as a cultural landmark, showcasing contemporary design and fostering artistic expression within the city.

The Holon Children's Museum, established in 2001, is one of the city's most popular attractions. It offers interactive exhibits and educational programs designed to engage children and families. The museum's innovative approach to learning through play has made it a key cultural and educational institution in Holon.

Founded in 1969, the Holon Institute of Technology (HIT) has become a leading educational institution specializing in science, engineering, and design. HIT has played a crucial role in fostering innovation and technical skills among students, contributing to Holon's reputation as a center for technological advancement and education.

The Holon Adloyada Parade is an annual Purim celebration that has become one of the city's most cherished traditions. Known for its vibrant and colorful floats, costumes, and performances, the parade attracts thousands of visitors each year. It reflects the city's lively spirit and commitment to celebrating cultural heritage.

Holon is located in the southern district of the Tel Aviv Metropolitan Area in Israel. The nearest international airport is Ben Gurion Airport, which is approximately 20 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, train, or bus to Holon. The train ride is quick and convenient, with a transfer at Tel Aviv HaHagana station. Alternatively, several bus lines operate directly from the airport to Holon.

Holon has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trains. The city is well-connected to Tel Aviv and other surrounding areas via the Israel Railways network. City buses operated by Egged and Dan provide extensive coverage within Holon. Taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing services like Gett and Uber operate in the area. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are available at the airport and in the city.

The official currency in Israel is the New Israeli Shekel (ILS). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout Holon, and many offer services in multiple languages. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in markets or smaller establishments.

Holon is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Holon does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 100 for police assistance, 101 for medical emergencies, and 102 for fire services. The local police station and medical facilities are available and well-equipped. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. 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 smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Holon like a local, visit the Design Museum Holon and the Israeli Children's Museum. Engage with locals in cafes and parks to get a sense of the community. Explore the local markets, such as the Holon Market, for fresh produce and traditional Israeli goods. Don't miss the annual Holon Adloyada Purim Parade, which is a vibrant local tradition.