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Local Information
Visas
Participants from most EU countries and the USA do not need visas to Israel. For participants from other countries, we suggest you check with your travel agent, local Israeli embassy, or consulate.
All visitors to Israel must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date they enter the country. Please contact the conference secretariat if a letter of invitation is needed to assist in applying for a visa. Refer to the Israeli tourism site for information on Israeli visas.
Liability
Participants are advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance coverage. The conference organizers shall not be liable for any loss or damage to property belonging to conference participants nor for personal injuries sustained during or as a result of the SYSTOR 2012 Conference.
Airport Information
Ben Gurion International Airport is the main international gateway to and from Israel. It is situated approximately 50km (31 miles) west of Jerusalem.
Climate and Clothing
It is summer in Israel in June. Average temperatures: 18°C - 28°C (64°F - 82°F). Casual dress is appropriate for all conference occasions. Sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses are essential items throughout the year.
Electricity
The voltage in Israel is 220-240 volt AC.
Shopping
Stores are generally open Sunday through Thursday 09:00-19:00 and Friday 09:00?14:00. Most shopping malls are open also on Saturday from one hour after sundown until 22:00. All "Superpharm" and "Newpharm" stores include a pharmacy.
Banking and Changing Money
Banks are open Sunday through Thursday 08:30-12:00 and on some afternoons. Hours vary by branch. All banks are closed on Fridays and Saturdays.
The New Israeli Shekel (NIS) is the official currency in Israel. Foreign currency of all kinds may be exchanged at the airport, banks, post offices, most hotels or licensed exchange agencies. Most if not all establishments that accept credit cards will honor cards issued outside of Israel. These cards will also work in most ATMs to withdraw NIS or $US.
Distances
Ben-Gurion International Airport - Haifa: 100km/ 62.5 miles
Ben-Gurion International Airport - Tel-Aviv: 15km/9.5 miles
Ben-Gurion International Airport - Jerusalem: 47km/ 29.5 miles
Haifa - Tel Aviv: 95km/59 miles
Haifa - Jerusalem: 145km/91 miles
Tourism Information
- The InIsrael guide to Haifa
- The Yahoo Travel guide to Haifa
- The University of Haifa's guide to area attractions
- The Tour Haifa tourism guide
- Interactive tourism map