Reposting, didn't tag other post correctly,

I am planning a trip to Israel. Thinking of first part of Oct or maybe waiting till next May. Wondering about weather and holidays. Which would be best?

The volcano in Iceland has me a little concerned,only because of possible flight cancellations here and there. I would have more time to get home if delays came up in May.

Would love your thoughts ... Thank you very much

They are both similar in terms of weather and neither have any holiday issues.
Weather is pretty much ideal in both October and May. My personal preference would probably be October, just because its sooner rather than later!

The weather may be the same but I prefer the spring because the landscape is still green and fresh after the winter rains. April and May are fine but avoid the Passover holiday from April 19-25, 2011. All the autumn holidays are in September (Sukkot ends on the 30th) so October is good.

The High Holidays will be over after October 1, 2010. In May 2011: May 2 Remembrance Day, May 9 Memorial Day, May 10 Independence Day. Depending on what you want to see, what events to participate in or avoid, plan accordingly.

If given a choice of October or May... I am not sure which one I would pick for myself

May is sunnier(and greener), so I would recommend May.