Israeli Security

Old Feb 3rd, 2012, 09:19 AM
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Israeli Security

I am putting this question out there for those of you that have traveled to Israel..We are supposed to go with a tour in Mid-April. Listening to the discussions on CNN, MSNBC--it sounds as if Israel is contemplating preemptive strikes towards Iran during that time. We have one day to pull out of this tour without losing our whole tour expense. What to do....I realize there is always this kind of talk in Israeli..but the word iran especially scares me. The tour company says they closely monitor what goes on there..Its Smartours, and they would never put anyone in danger. What about once you are there already?
I guess I need you experienced travelers to give me some insight. Thanks so much!
MyBailey is offline  
Old Feb 3rd, 2012, 10:00 AM
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I think CNN & MSNBC sensationalize many news items to hold your interest. That's just my personal opinion. The last time I was in Israel, the day before, Hamas was lobbing missiles at Ashdod, and that where I landed the next day. No sign of VIOLENCE (where I was) and NO FEAR amongst the natives! Your tour company will monitor the situation and keep you out of the fray, if only to cover their behinds (legally)! I would go. I've been there 3 times. The political situation has always been different, but except for not being able to visit the Al-Aqsa Mosque now, no political threats there has ever hindered our plans.
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Old Feb 3rd, 2012, 11:02 AM
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I go to the middle east a fair amount on business and pleasure in troubled times for decades.Nothing over there
currently in Isreal but rhetoric but I always monitor
travel.state.gov and insuremytrip.com stay flexible and have
a backup plan. smartours.com BBB.org A rated you will not go
with any serious issues there. So relax no worries have fun.
qwovadis is offline  
Old Feb 3rd, 2012, 11:36 AM
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If you read the government sites and listen to MSNBC you'll never visit the Middle East.
We were in Israel last May and loved every minute and never felt as though we were in danger.
If there is really a dangerous situation brewing, your tour company will cancel the trip and you won't lose any money.
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Old Feb 3rd, 2012, 12:43 PM
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Regardless where traveling, always purchase Trip Insurance for pre-paid trips.

That said, if it were near as bad as CNN, MSNBC or even FAUX, the Israelis (rather expats, those from the US, Canada, Australia, France, etc. etc.) would be leaving en-mass. They're not.

Even with the recent upheavals in Egypt, though no scud missles or Kadusha rockets, and even the recent kidnapping of two American women (have been released)... those visiting are loving it. Less tourists and as elsewhere in the world... you're always advised to stay clear of public protests/crowds/demonstrations.

Only you can decide, but I wouldn't cancel. And, should something happen that causes tour operator to cancel, they cancel.
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Old Feb 3rd, 2012, 03:01 PM
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Thanks everyone for your replies!
MyBailey is offline  
Old Feb 3rd, 2012, 11:35 PM
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I second the travel insurance -- BUT be careful! Most don't cover you in cases of war (conflict) or terrorism... nor id theft. Also, beware the pre-existing conditions -- not just the medical, but also "conflict".

FWIW I doubt the native Israelis would be fleeing in droves.

Better to keep your eye on what the US Embassy has to say -- if anything they are over-cautious.
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